'Ellie the dog' is usually the first to tell me what's going on at Cabranosa, but even she is puzzled by the empty sky that confronts us day after day. For at least a week now, judging by my blogs of previous years, we should have been enjoying the spectacle of increasing numbers of vultures. As of today, I have yet to see a Griffon this autumn and, after some spectacular eagles and falcons weeks ago, only the local Kestrels and perhaps a Sparrowhawk keep us on our toes. The situation with the small migrants is much the same and we are assuming adverse weather conditions over parts of Portugal are responsible for the lack of movement of birds, in our part of the country. A noticeable song ringing out all week has belonged to quite a few Woodlarks around Cabranosa. The last time we saw a number of eagles was when three Short-toed Eagles paid us a visit, five days ago! Away from Cabranosa and in the harbour at Sagres, a juvenile Great Black-backed Gull has been there for at least a week. A couple of 'detail' pictures showing head and tail. The very heavy bill almost black, with a mottled brown head. White primary tips and super covert detail. Below, a sooty looking adult Lesser Black-backed Gull now in its winter plumage. Close in the harbour were a juvenile and this adult Gannet. On Atalaia headland, a Spotless Starling showing off its glossy appearance to great effect. While we await the re-appearance of birds at Cabranosa, counting hawkmoth caterpillars has become something of a pastime for some!
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