As the skies finally cleared late morning, we worked our way uphill through the town of Monchique, to the summit at Foia. At only 902 metres above sea level, it is still the highest landmark in the Algarve and offers stunning 360 degree views. To the South, Alvor and Portimao can clearly be seen and on the West coast, Aljezur and other smaller towns are visible. North and East, the view stretches for miles over a huge area of unspoilt hilly countryside, as far as the eye can see! What was once a remote hilltop, it has now become home to an array of mobile communications equipment as well as a café, visitor centre and adequate car parking areas. Due to its high, rocky location it is the wintering ground of a small number of both Alpine Accentor and Ring Ouzel. Other favourites often found here (but not in todays' windchill of 6C) are the Rock Bunting and Blue Rock Thrush. Two years ago, I was surprised to find a Ring Ouzel here and today, it was the first bird we saw, flying into a bush yards from the car. A male in excellent plumage! With the temperature and wind being as it was, we stayed in the warmth of the sun on the car and watched a nearby rock face. Within a couple of minutes, I saw an Alpine Accentor - and braved the elements! The images below, show how this quiet little bird, picks its way amongst the crevices in the rocks, in its search for food.
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