I'll begin with a reminder or update for our friends who, for one reason or another couldn't join us this Autumn, sharing the migration spectacle. Carl's pond continues to receive regular maintenance from himself and an almost constant supply of birds are attending. The small pools which provide so much fresh water contain a healthy number of frogs and mammals such as the red fox have been seen here. At the Eastern end of the watchpoint hill, the trig point remains where views as far away as Monchique allow sightings of incoming birds. Lastly of course is the observers' position, scopes trained towards the sky where all the observations are made from and data collected. I am in my sixth week here, the area is litter-free, undisturbed and highly valued by all birders who come to Cabranosa. So today was one of the magical days when Griffon Vultures arrive in huge numbers and whirl about in the sky overhead, before making their way back out from Sagres. A first flock arrived late morning, I counted 208 Griffons. With the flock were 2 Black Storks, a Booted Eagle and a Common Buzzard. They had been gone about an hour when a huge flock moved towards us, numbering around 1000 Griffon Vultures. Standing at the watchpoint, the arrival is quite awesome taking in the sheer number of birds and the amount of sky they soon occupy. As I've explained before, coming to Sagres is a mistake made by the juvenile vultures, Gibraltar being the preferred crossing point to Africa. The decision-making process can be seen in varying stages of success! Movement can look accurate and almost regimental at times. A degree of uncertainty can set in! .....and confusion reigns on a massive scale. Other species were seen with the vultures. Here, one of two Black Storks flying close to a Griffon. Just one of the passing Griffon Vultures which fortunately flew a little lower than most! Finally, the Crossbill irruption is still providing sightings daily. This small flock of six birds was at Cabranosa a few days ago, containing at least one red male. Cabranosa, a wonderful place!
Cheryl
24/10/2021 07:17:06 pm
This post brings back some lovely memories. Hope to return for the migration one day. Thanks Nigel Comments are closed.
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