Yesterday we found no less than seven Garganey on one of the larger islands, four males and three females. I later read that 'fifteen' Garganeys were on the ETAR at Vilamoura. In a short space of time, these small migratory ducks travel from Africa into Northern Europe. There are a huge number of Greater Flamingos here now, several hundred adult and juvenile birds. Yesterday I was lucky to see two Purple Herons drop into the North marsh but no sign of them moving about today. I spent a fair while watching the Audouin's Gulls, five of which were in the afternoon gull roost. The adults are very smart with their red bills and black legs. Here's a 3rd year Audouin's, trying out a new flying technique! The right way up - the 3rd year hasn't the red bill yet, some brown wing plumage is still retained and, a trace of the narrow black tail bar is just visible. Today didn't produce any more Spring arrivals and the Garganeys had left by midday. A calling wader coming at me out of the sun took me by surprise, turning out to be a Ruff. Although quieter than yesterday, there are always great birds to see at this extensive and important wetland.
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