ON THE WAY TO CABO DE GATA VIA THE CLOT - UPDATED

On Tuesday 16th April I collected Bryan in Gran Alacant before our journey south to Cabo de Gata on Wednesday. But first some very profitable minutes spent at Clot de Galveney. In full view was a male Garganey (and a mucky eye) with both Red Crested and Common Pochards easily seen. A Purple Swamphen showed well. Mallards with young, Coot and Moorhen made up the ensemble. Then a first for both this year when we heard a Nightingale sing from somewhere close by. Secretive as usual. A sub-adult Night Heron flew in and perched.

Male Garganey

Female Red Crested Pochard

Male Red Crested Pochard

Sub-Adult Night Heron

Overhead Barn Swallows, Red Rumped Swallows, House Martins and high above a Pallid Swift flew. My first for the year. And then we heard and saw Bee-eaters flying above us.

What a lovely piece of water this is and it was good to see other birders there from Scandinavia and Spain. It is essential that we protect what we have.

In the lowlands and over the Salinas a male Montague’s Harrier flew as we headed towards San Miguel.

In San Miguel House Martins were active in our strong-hold for them. Our Pallid Swifts I have not seen. Now we can look forward to Cabo de Gata tomorrow.