This is a fairly common resident however, it often goes unseen, unless the shrill high-pitched call or song is heard. The treecreeper moves quickly between suitable trees, where it then probes the bark by adopting all positions, including upside down. My venue for the Short-toed Treecreeper was the coniferous woodland around Foz do Almargem. It took a little while in hearing the right call, especially when twittering Serins and 'zi-zi' calls from a couple of Crested Tits were a distraction. Three Short-toed Treecreepers were moving through trees together and I followed them slowly, waiting for them to feed on the 'light' side of the trees. The above image shows the small, white spots on the wingtips which is a good diagnostic check on this species. The Treecreeper woodland at Foz do Almargem. The Lagoon at Foz do Almargem. This lovely site is one of three under consideration for protected status. It is an excellent place for passage birds and a vital habitat for residents alike. Quite a few pairs of Red-crested Pochard were seen here today. Checking the assembled gulls, I was hoping for more views of Slender-billed Gull which I had seen on my last visit. There were none over the midday period but a large count of 102 Audouin's Gulls was the most I have ever seen. A beautiful adult Audouin's Gull. A 2nd winter Audouin's Gull. The 'processionary' caterpillars are out in force now and I'm pleased Ellie the dog has gone home, as these could be lethal to her. The name comes from the fact that they follow each other in line, which can be several feet in length. It seems even Hoopoes won't touch them!
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