Sometimes it’s nice not to chase lists

 Tuesday, 18th 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.

 Eider Duck at Santa Pola Harbour, last winter and early spring.

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 bright up the dull Birding.

Stonechat

Early birding was slow, but a few Hoopoes 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, Reed Warbler, Kingfisher, more Marsh Harriers, Green Sandpiper, and Snipe. Always a rewarding stop.

Water Pipit

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.

Red-knobbed Coot

Chiffchaff

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.

Little Owl

Clot de Galvany

Ferruginous Duck

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, as well as the regular ducks and grebes.

Pochard

 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.

White headed Duck

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.

Red crested Pochard

Have fun go birding.

Wryneck

Cheers Bryan.