A short ride out this morning took us to a coastal area, on the West side of the estuary and before the extensive beach of Maia Praia. It was a glorious morning with completely blue sky and great sunshine. The approach down the country lanes revealed the usual Azure-winged Magpies, Corn Buntings and White Storks, circling in the warming air. I always give the old derelict farm buildings a second look, and by the railway line into Lagos, sure enough a Little Owl was standing on the roof . Although he was obviously watching me, he wasn't too concerned and made one flight to the ground and back again while I was there. A Black-shouldered Kite was on a telegraph pole but at some distance. The Kestrel here was more obliging as it went through a preening routine. The tide was dropping in the coastal lagoons and plenty of waders were about. A Little Stint was among the Sanderlings and was my first on this trip. Dunlins and Turnstones were feeding on the near sands and further out, Oystercatchers and a Whimbrel were seen. The largest lagoon had 145 Mediterranean Gulls, in various ages and was the most I have seen anywhere. There must have been many more along the estuary. Part of the Mediterranean Gull flock. One of two Caspian Terns seen flying over the large lagoon. During the visit, I noticed a large number of butterflies particularly these Monarchs which appeared frequently and were quite stunning.
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