A most enjoyable visit to Salgados, with clear signs that the lower water levels are increasing the number of visiting birds. Flocks of gulls were seen, extending across both lakes. In one area they were mainly Mediterranean Gulls, some of which were developing their sooty Summer heads. The two shown below retaining Winter plumage. Another part of the lake held a huge flock of Black-headed Gulls among which, a single Common Gull was picked out - an uncommon visitor. Audouin's Gulls were not in any numbers, only one being seen and several Lesser Black-backed Gulls were among the various flocks. The 'white-faced' Crested Lark which has lived here for a few years now, along with its companion, was in its favourite area on the dunes. The wildfowl numbers which must surely be peaking at this time, comprised of Teal, Shoveler and Pintail flocks. Lesser numbers of Mallard and Pochard were counted and surprisingly, no Gadwall were located at all. The presence of visiting raptors occasionally gave flight to all the birds and great views were possible of the duck flocks in flight. A pair of Pintails. Both Marsh Harrier and Osprey circled the wetland during the visit. Here, the Osprey fished for a while before leaving without a catch. Wading birds from the large Flamingo down to the tiny Sanderling and many other species were recorded. The most interesting find today was a Wood Sandpiper which was a little elusive at the side of a reedbed. Following this excellent visit, we returned to the Arade estuary and in particular the fish dock at Portimao.
We were able to see all six Razorbills which have found their way up the river at the moment. One auk in particular provided the most incredible views as it approached the quayside. We watched it dashing about under the water in pursuit of fish. In Britain we don't see Razorbills in their 1st Winter plumage as these birds are showing. They have no sooner fledged than they are jumping off the breeding cliffs and disappearing out to sea. Three birds approached together and two further birds stayed out in the river. Comments are closed.
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