randombirder

The first of two visits to the Korketeli Hills and other sites featured in the Gosney Guide for SW Turkey. A little early for species such as White-throated Robin, it was still worth having a look on the outside chance of a keen individual arriving on territory early. What did become apparent was just how out-of-date the guide was. Absolutely no fault of the author, four years is a long time in the development of the road network, particularly the new dual carriageway and connecting routes. The D-635 that leads to the favoured White-throated Robin site is currently closed while road-widening construction takes place. However, a minor road just to the right of where the main carriageway ends winds up the hill to some promising habitat. Parking the car at a random spot, I walked into an area of scattered low pine. There was plenty of bird song and some real interest here. Eastern Black-eared Wheatear were notable, stunning birds as they sang from the treetops. A sin

The rain had cleared and the morning started fresh, clear and sunny. The coming days would bring some welcome warm spring sunshine to momentarily banish the protracted drabness of the British winter. The morning drive took us to the resort town of Side, 50km east of Antalya. The town dates back to the conquests of Alexander the Great and is characterized by the ruins of an old Roman settlement, and features an amphitheater that was well preserved and presented the focal point of the scattered remains. Walking round the site in warm sunshine interspersed by an extremely laid-back lunch overlooking the bay was rather pleasant before commencing on a pedestrian wander around the ruins. A Whimbrel and Sandwich Tern were seen offshore. It was rather quiet birdwise, but an adult Masked Shrike immediately captured my attention with two seen on our walk through the site. A Little Owl sat on top of a remain of the old city wall before flying off as we approached.  A

A first visit to the London WWT since moving to the area in search of early Spring migrants.  It was a dull day across London and didn't feel at all Spring-like.  There was however a few interesting sightings today. Six Siskin flew into Alders within the Wildside but it was generally quiet here but for a chanting Cetti's Warbler , and three Common Redshank from the hide.  It was a little better on the south side, where a Jack Snipe fed out in the open with more no doubt hidden away within the marsh, with a few Common Snipe  that were much more obliging.  A Water Pipit was seen distantly from the Peacock Tower, and my first singing Chiffchaff was in voice on the walk round the southside.