Birding Costa Blanca

 Tuesday, 28th November

Today was one of those slow-burn, quietly memorable birding days the kind that reminds you why getting out early, even on a chilly morning, is always worth it. Jeanett and I hadn’t seen each other since the spring and our encounter with the Eider Duck at Santa Pola Harbour,this Spring, so it was well overdue for a catch-up.

We met at 7:30, stepping out into just 7 degrees  the coldest morning of the autumn so far. Heavy clouds lingered at first, in total contrast to the forecast promising clear skies, no wind, and a balmy 25 degrees. We skirted past the Santa Pola Salinas and headed toward the loop behind La Marina, hoping the light would lift and take the birds with it.

Early birding was slow, but a few Hoopoes broke the silence and kicked off the day list, followed by Kestrel, Black Redstarts, Fan-tailed Warbler, Chaffinch, Robins everywhere, and Tree Sparrows. And of course, fingers firmly crossed for the Great Spotted Eagle.

By the time we reached Catral the sun finally pushed through, and suddenly things began to move. Booted Eagles appeared both dark and light phase and Marsh Harriers drifted through in good numbers.

Vista Bella Hide

Here the pace picked up nicely: Bluethroat, Water Pipit, Chiffchaff, Kingfisher, more Marsh Harriers, Green Sandpiper, and Snipe. Always a rewarding stop.

San Felipe

Completely flooded now, with water levels so high that barely any mud was showing. To add to the challenge, a bus loads of very enthusiastic Scandinavian visitors arrived, loudly enjoying themselves  at one point even breaking into song. One of them asked if the birds overhead were vultures, which gave us a smile.

Still, we logged Marbled Duck, Red-knobbed Coot, Ruff, Snipe, endless Glossy Ibis overhead, and plenty of Black-winged Stilts.

We took lunch at a favourite spot where the Great Spotted Eagle often perches, but no luck today. Instead, we enjoyed at least six Dartford Warblers, a Little Owl, and a Buzzard. The meal itself was made better by a simple pleasure: complete silence. No wind, no traffic. A rare moment of stillness.

Clot de Galvany

The highlight of the day  and a great chance to put the new camera and lens through their paces after last week’s setbacks. The usual residents showed well: Blackcap, Grey Wagtail, Ferruginous Duck, and the regular ducks and grebes. But the moment of the day came when Jeanett picked out a distant Wryneck perched in a dead tree. A cracking bird and a brilliant find.

We ended the day feeling relaxed, refreshed, and glad to have had a pressure-free outing. Sometimes it’s nice not to chase lists just to wander, talk, laugh, and let the birds appear as they will. We’ve already planned to meet up again soon.

Have fun — go birding.

Photos to follow tomorrow.

Cheers,

Bryan