El Hondo

El Hondo Saturday 1st November.
A colder morning now with a chill in the breeze and a need for warmer clothing.
We arrived about 8.30 to look around before we were let in. Several hundred Cattle Egrets took off from their roost (we think) spooked by four large raptors. Unfortunately, we could not ID them.
We went through the gate at 8.40 and straight to the small hide overlooking the lagoon. Our first major sighting was the Greater Spotted Eagle perched to our right where it stayed for some time. Under our feet a Little Bittern croaked, Purple Gallinules called and got up and Kingfishers showed several times. I scoped a Wood Sandpiper and watched it. Egrets were all around including several Great Whites. Chiffs fed in the trees, Cetti's called, a Blackcap sang and a Penduline Tit was heard. It is on my list to see, hopefully. There were no Terns and probably not again until next year. Marsh Harriers both a male and female flew around us. There were a large number of White-headed duck in distance with Common Pochard closer. An Osprey perched on the tall pole.

Then two birds flew swiftly and identified as Jack Snipe - another great sighting for me.

We moved on to the bottom hides and decided to try our luck in the hide at water level. It was occupied by four birders watching a tree where they had previously seen the GSE fly into but they had no scopes. It was difficult even then but we could now see two birds - one smaller than the other - and our patience was getting low. Later with Graham's help we saw the smaller eagle fly - and identified it as the Lesser Spotted Eagle. This was my first definite sighting and the larger one was a definite GSE. What lovely people to put us on to two great birds.
I went there to concentrate on the smaller birds without that much luck but Kingfishers were everywhere.
This is the last time for Jim and Mary, but they have had two great Saturday morning before they go to their bird count at Rogerstone. Great birding, great company and I am in again next week. Also thanks once again to Graham for his sharp eyes and knowledge. Please see www.spainbirdwatching.com