El Hondo Natural Park

On Saturday 22nd 2014 we again visited this controlled marshland site.
My specific target for this morning was to obtain more views of Moustached Warblers (Carricerin Real) with at least two flying fast between the islands of reeds. These birds were identified and were very difficult to get a clear facial view, but a keen eyed fellow watcher did. I will spend more time on this species again next week.

Purple Gallinules (Calamon Comun) showed on the reeds - three in one location - and they could be heard calling all morning. An Osprey (Aguilla Pescadora) sat and later flew for us with Booted Eagles (Aguililla Calzada) and Marsh Harriers (Aguilucho Lagunero Occidental) doing the same. A male harrier showed well and flew around and it was good to see its clear markings easily identifying it from the females. Unfortunately there was no Greater Spotted Eagles (Aguila Moteado) on show. Maybe because they have all gone north.

Returning to warblers. Cetti's (Ruisenor Bastardo)were calling in several locations but damn difficult to see. Two other birds caught my eye and I was able to photograph them. If they are good enough I will ask for confirmation. Fantailed/Zitting Cisticola (Buitron) was heard and flew in two locations. I am sure there were others and I probably missed more than I saw. Butterflies were in short supply with only a few white showing but Mosquitos are now active.

On the elevated hide that looks west we could look out over an expanse of water with Flamingos, Gulls and Terns flying in the distance which was a problem but with water levels rising it could get better. The best thing for me is that they are pumping water in so that last week's dry marsh is now flooded. There were fish slapping about on what was previously dry mud.

Little Egret (Garceta Comun) were all busy and a Great White (Garceta Grande) showed clearly. There were both Grey Heron (Garza Real)and the migratory Blue (Garza Imperial) in attendance. It is always good to see the latter one. Also perched on a reed top was a Woodchat Shrike (Alcaudon Comun) - my first of the year. Strangely there were no Swallows (Golondrina Comun) on view and I have yet to see a Sand Martin (Avion Zapador).

It was good, and it is always beneficial to be with other birders who provide both knowledge and sharp eyes. However the surprise of the day was a Black Kite (Milano Negro) that flew clearly for us and then Michelle saw a male Little Bittern (Avetorillo Comun) cross the road in front of her - that was her one for the day.