Wednesday 31st October started chilly, full sun, but winds of over 40km. We had a storm overnight and we guessed that some of the tracks would be muddy.
We were after a target bird and we visited the SEO site for Dupont’s Lark which is reported to be a resident. We gave this area a good once over with absolutely no sightings at all. The location is on Page 267 and is located off the Retamar Road leading from San José. An easy area to search.
We used Garcia and Paterson Where to Watch Birds in Southern and Western Spain for most of our information. All the facts are easy enough to plan with although not all the information is current. After the past two days and our real lack of success we decided to go further south beyond Almeria. The target area was the Salinas, Punta Entinas and Roquettas de Mar and also Salinas de Carrillo. Stating the obvious Spain is a very large country and the areas that we were searching in are expansive and extensive. We worked hard and checked out everywhere that we could.
We expected to see Ducks, but apart from Mallard and Shelduck that was it. The wind was fierce and most birds were tucked out of the wind. On one of the disused Salinas there was a large number of Gulls, probably exceeding 400, where the greater proportion were Lesser Black Backed Gulls with some Audouin’s, only a few Yellow Legged and and one Med. Gull positively Id’d. Close by were Little Stint, Sanderling, and three Spotted Redshank. Also bobbing on the water were Great Crested Grebes and a juvenile swam close by fighting against the waves being driven by the wind. We saw nothing exceptional and driving through we dodged the water filled holes and had a slow, but circuitous journey. It is a massive area and many things are distant. But who knows what will pop up.
We returned to San José calling again at the Salinas on the coast road to the Light House. The hides along this road are useable and offer closer views than the hide on the other road. The hides are basic with no screens to prevent the wind blowing through. Here we saw two Ravens on the beach side. Our target again was the lighthouse area where we searched diligently for Trumpeter Finches. And again no result. We searched Salinas again and our first good bird of the afternoon was a Grey Plover. Later we had a Black Kite flying over. Our photographer, Bryan, only took one bird shot! That probably sums up our assessment of a birding trip. I am told that the total species seen only stands at 71. But, what the hell, we got away from the normal routine and we did see birds and somewhere different.
There is some fantastic scenery around here, but that is when you ignore all the acres/hectares of plastic. Everything growing is under it. It is ugly. The upside is that is saves energy, grows crops as cheaply as possible, but what does to do the soil and the natural world. Chemicals must have to be used and what does that do to the taste of what they grow. And what about all that bloody plastic!
Make no mistake this a tourist area and the prices do reflect that. It is more expensive than San Miguel de Salinas! However, out of season the accommodation is very reasonably priced and where we stayed was very good.
Wednesday 31 October 2018
Tuesday 30 October 2018
BIRDING COSTA BLANCA CABO DE GATA DAY TWO
On Tuesday 30th we were out at 7am and after yesterday we were targeting two species. Trumpeter Finch and Dupont’s Lark. The day was cloudy with some rain and the wind strong. Not ideal.
We were staying in San José and we retraced our steps of yesterday afternoon to check on The Salinas again. There was less wind this morning and there were birds there. We carried on towards Cabo de Gata, to the lighthouse area and the road beyond. On the way Guardia Civil drove along the beach and as a result about 30 Curlew flew up and settled back down making it the most number of this species we have seen together in Spain.
Before then a Short-Toed Eagle flew up and holding in the wind. We had good views of it as it circled although it was raining and the light was poor. The camera made it a certain ID.
Around the lighthouse we saw easily several Black Wheatears and our tally for the day of this species became at least a dozen. Black Redstart were everywhere, Crested Larks too and Dartford Warblers called and popped up. A Cormorant perched on a rock, Gannets were seen over the water and we had a flypast of Baleárico/Mediterranean Shearwaters.
It was raining steadily as we took the mountain road past the lighthouse. We hoped to get all the way back to San José, but the road was chained off. There are holes to avoid and it is not for the nervous. Yes, we saw birds, but not either of our target birds.
We returned the way we had come and made a thorough search of The Salinas. The problem here is the distance between us and the birds. In the far distance were 7 Spoonbill, two Great White and one Little Egret. A Grey Heron too and also Curlew, but no Whimbrel. Thirty Dunlin flew around, Little Stint, and one Ringed Plover was spotted. The only Ducks were Mallard. This is a very good spot, except for the distance and on another day we could have had a ‘mega’ bird. It's all a matter of luck!
The weather was improving and the decision was made to go inland to the desert area of Tabernas. We had the co-ordinates and we got to the correct spot slap back by the service station just off A92. This is a strange area, but it was cold, rainy, and we had no luck. We looked for the Trumpeters, again with no luck and apart from a Black Wheatear, a Stonechat, two Thekla’s Larks we saw nothing else.
We made the decision to take an alternative route via a mountain road via Turrillas, Lucainena de las Torres. and then through Níjar . Geologically it was interesting and the road is definitely not for the nervous, but we did it. Okay we had more finches and seven Corn Buntings perched in a tree. It could have been much better. We returned to San José, and then it rained with thunder. Who cares it was beer time!
I seldom mention all the birds that we have seen and for this trip I will post Trev’s list and that will cover our days together.
We were staying in San José and we retraced our steps of yesterday afternoon to check on The Salinas again. There was less wind this morning and there were birds there. We carried on towards Cabo de Gata, to the lighthouse area and the road beyond. On the way Guardia Civil drove along the beach and as a result about 30 Curlew flew up and settled back down making it the most number of this species we have seen together in Spain.
Before then a Short-Toed Eagle flew up and holding in the wind. We had good views of it as it circled although it was raining and the light was poor. The camera made it a certain ID.
Around the lighthouse we saw easily several Black Wheatears and our tally for the day of this species became at least a dozen. Black Redstart were everywhere, Crested Larks too and Dartford Warblers called and popped up. A Cormorant perched on a rock, Gannets were seen over the water and we had a flypast of Baleárico/Mediterranean Shearwaters.
It was raining steadily as we took the mountain road past the lighthouse. We hoped to get all the way back to San José, but the road was chained off. There are holes to avoid and it is not for the nervous. Yes, we saw birds, but not either of our target birds.
We returned the way we had come and made a thorough search of The Salinas. The problem here is the distance between us and the birds. In the far distance were 7 Spoonbill, two Great White and one Little Egret. A Grey Heron too and also Curlew, but no Whimbrel. Thirty Dunlin flew around, Little Stint, and one Ringed Plover was spotted. The only Ducks were Mallard. This is a very good spot, except for the distance and on another day we could have had a ‘mega’ bird. It's all a matter of luck!
The weather was improving and the decision was made to go inland to the desert area of Tabernas. We had the co-ordinates and we got to the correct spot slap back by the service station just off A92. This is a strange area, but it was cold, rainy, and we had no luck. We looked for the Trumpeters, again with no luck and apart from a Black Wheatear, a Stonechat, two Thekla’s Larks we saw nothing else.
We made the decision to take an alternative route via a mountain road via Turrillas, Lucainena de las Torres. and then through Níjar . Geologically it was interesting and the road is definitely not for the nervous, but we did it. Okay we had more finches and seven Corn Buntings perched in a tree. It could have been much better. We returned to San José, and then it rained with thunder. Who cares it was beer time!
I seldom mention all the birds that we have seen and for this trip I will post Trev’s list and that will cover our days together.
Monday 29 October 2018
BIRDING COSTA BLANCA BIRDING AROUND CABO DE GATA
Bryans says have you seen the lamp over the bed is a bit low! And that could sum up our day, but it didn't. It was an early start and that is the way we do our birding.
On Monday 29th October the four of us headed for Cabo de Gata with the temperatures absolutely low at 11 degrees and a strong blustery wind. It was not the best time to be there.
However, we always work hard and we did see birds. We checked out the steppes and came across a small flock of Skylarks that settled, flew and then settled away from us. We headed towards the Salinas and everything was distant.
On the Salinas away from the working end we viewed ten different species that included the following:
Lesser Black Backed Gulls.
Slender Billed Gulls
Yellow Legged Gulls
Cormorants
Avocet
Flamingos
Shelduck
Black Necked Grebes
Kentish Plovers
Sandwich Terns
Another flock of small birds were six Greenfinch. We were looking for something more, but that will have to wait for another day. However, unexpectedly at least seventy to a hundred Griffon Vultures were seen circling, but upon reflection we are in a short distance to the snow topped Sierra Nevadas.
Okay it was a disappointing day, but with the wind and the cold what could we expect. I have not listened everything but Stonechats were everywhere and some Black Redstarts. Today is another day.
On Monday 29th October the four of us headed for Cabo de Gata with the temperatures absolutely low at 11 degrees and a strong blustery wind. It was not the best time to be there.
However, we always work hard and we did see birds. We checked out the steppes and came across a small flock of Skylarks that settled, flew and then settled away from us. We headed towards the Salinas and everything was distant.
On the Salinas away from the working end we viewed ten different species that included the following:
Lesser Black Backed Gulls.
Slender Billed Gulls
Yellow Legged Gulls
Cormorants
Avocet
Flamingos
Shelduck
Black Necked Grebes
Kentish Plovers
Sandwich Terns
Another flock of small birds were six Greenfinch. We were looking for something more, but that will have to wait for another day. However, unexpectedly at least seventy to a hundred Griffon Vultures were seen circling, but upon reflection we are in a short distance to the snow topped Sierra Nevadas.
Okay it was a disappointing day, but with the wind and the cold what could we expect. I have not listened everything but Stonechats were everywhere and some Black Redstarts. Today is another day.
Saturday 27 October 2018
BIRDING IN ESTEPAS DE YECLA
There we were at again with a quickly arranged morning out to one of our favourite places, the Estepas de Yecla, as we had two friends visiting. So on Saturday 26th we came in from the Caudette end in poor light, a sky full of cloud and a chill breeze that became stronger as the morning wore on.
It was very quiet with nary a sound so we circumnavigated the valley. On reaching the road between Yecla to Almansa we turned right towards the uncultivated fields that have produced Sandgrouse in the past. But not today. We spotted a Common Buzzard on a wire and eating a kill. While drinking our mugs of tea Bryan saw two large birds over a ridge and in the distance. They circled around and dipped below the ridge line, several times, but clearly they were two Golden Eagles. We stayed in that location for around forty minutes hoping for a closer view which did not come. The ID. was a positive one with one being a sub-adult. By this time the wind had turned cold.
We moved on and across the Yecla road towards the pine ridge. Again it was still and quiet but in the far distance a group of Great Bustards. We tried to get closer to them and even though we circle their location we failed. They are known to winter here, but this is a large area and it can be difficult. This is also a very good area for Sandgrouse, but not even a sound today. Again a Buzzard was located.
We saw flocks of Linnets, Goldfinches, some Chaffinches and Greenfinches and about sixty flying and ground feeding Skylarks . Properly identified by sound and sight. So good to see. Crested Larks were seen, but a fly past of Calandra was really worth watching. We also had a murmuration of Starlings. Little Owl added one more to Trev’s holiday list and so did Chough, Mistle Thrushes, Iberian Green Woodpecker, Black Wheatears and an odd Chiff or two.
However, the bird of the day was a close by flying male Hen Harrier. So clearly seen with those mainly white wings with black tips. It did what harriers often do and flew low and away. But for me those Skylarks were great too. Okay, lots of absentees, but with good company and just being out there was good for me and anything that we see adds to the pleasure.
It was very quiet with nary a sound so we circumnavigated the valley. On reaching the road between Yecla to Almansa we turned right towards the uncultivated fields that have produced Sandgrouse in the past. But not today. We spotted a Common Buzzard on a wire and eating a kill. While drinking our mugs of tea Bryan saw two large birds over a ridge and in the distance. They circled around and dipped below the ridge line, several times, but clearly they were two Golden Eagles. We stayed in that location for around forty minutes hoping for a closer view which did not come. The ID. was a positive one with one being a sub-adult. By this time the wind had turned cold.
We moved on and across the Yecla road towards the pine ridge. Again it was still and quiet but in the far distance a group of Great Bustards. We tried to get closer to them and even though we circle their location we failed. They are known to winter here, but this is a large area and it can be difficult. This is also a very good area for Sandgrouse, but not even a sound today. Again a Buzzard was located.
We saw flocks of Linnets, Goldfinches, some Chaffinches and Greenfinches and about sixty flying and ground feeding Skylarks . Properly identified by sound and sight. So good to see. Crested Larks were seen, but a fly past of Calandra was really worth watching. We also had a murmuration of Starlings. Little Owl added one more to Trev’s holiday list and so did Chough, Mistle Thrushes, Iberian Green Woodpecker, Black Wheatears and an odd Chiff or two.
However, the bird of the day was a close by flying male Hen Harrier. So clearly seen with those mainly white wings with black tips. It did what harriers often do and flew low and away. But for me those Skylarks were great too. Okay, lots of absentees, but with good company and just being out there was good for me and anything that we see adds to the pleasure.
GUADALENTIN VALLEY & SIERRA DE ESPUÑA
On Thursday 25th the main ingredients of ‘The Birding Costa Blanca Birders’ (namely Michelle & John, Bryan & Trev met at 8am at Santamera Services on the Alicante - Murcia border with some specific targets in mind. It was a cool morning with a light breeze and a promise of sun all day. In fact shorts and Tee’s were sufficient for the whole time and this is supposed to be the back-end of Autumn.
The fields of vegetables in the Guadalentin Valley hold some significant species and our major thought was to locate Little Bustards. We have had very good days here and some poor ones. We searched and we saw a lot of activity. People were hunters around, people picking crops, tractors were working the ground and spraying. I comment only to say that we keep putting poison into the soil. In an ‘unused’ field with natural growth we easily locate Spectacled Warblers.
That's no surprise as they are resident here, and okay we saw Stonechats, but to be frank not a lot else. And no bloody Bustards!
Before mid-day we moved on and headed for Sierra de Espuńa hoping to see Ring Ouzels, maybe even a Brambling or two and other birds that could have come south. Would we be too early to see them as this autumn has only just arrived here? We went anyway and on the way we did see Crossbill, Crested Tit, Jay, and Robin and not much else, but always remembering that woodland birds are difficult to see.
We carried on up to the ‘ice-caves’ area which has been good previously. There is normally a water source here, but this was dry and that could be a reason why we saw no birds flying in and around. Okay we had flocks of Goldfinches, Chaffinches and the odd Mistle Thrush and that was it except for a female Black Redstart, and the odd fleeting sight off a Chough. We were about to leave the mountain top when up to and possible more than thirty Griffon Vultures flew high.
Back at the car Ravens called and flew and we headed for home. It was along day with many kilometers travelled and it does take 40 minutes to get down again again. Well, very disappointingly not one target bird seen and Bryan said ‘I am not going to blog about nothing’. Will there be a next time?. Maybe!
After Michelle and I had descended downwards Bryan and Trev stayed on and saw the following:
Short-Toed Eagle
A Golden, but far away
Long-Tailed Tit
Goldcrest
Coal Tit
That's good for Trev as he has travelled over for a week or so.
For the record Michelle and I were wearing our People's Walk for Wildlife Tee's and also I wore my other souvenir of that day saying that ‘I Walked for Wildlife’. Chris Packham will be sent the photos and they will be on this blog too. It was beautiful up there with a blue sky, wonderful scented vegetation under our feet and so peaceful. It's a ‘mind-healer’ and that is what is so good about being outside with like minded people.
Not seeing what we wanted to see is something where we can always say ‘ well there is always another day, but not for some? SkyNews carried the story that a female - yes a female - trophy hunter had been allowed to shoot a goat in Scotland. Why? It is on social media where this US huntress posed with her ‘trophy’ and with other ‘trophies’ and boasted it was ‘such a fun hunt’. A bit one sided I would think, a lethal weapon, against an animal. Isn't that killing because you can.
Dominic Dyer, wildlife advocate, spoke freely against this when interviewed on Sky News. Of course we heard the other side of the story supporting this sort of behavior. There's killing everywhere. It's appalling. The League Against Cruel Sports have responded and I will post their blog next.
Thursday 25 October 2018
League Against Cruel Sports Blog reply to triophy killing
Posted 25th October, 2018
Author: Nick Weston - Head of Campaigns
It’s the old adage isn’t it? Ask a convict what he did wrong, he won’t say he broke the law, he’ll say he got caught.
Well, that seems to be the British Association for Shooting and Conservation’s (BASC) approach to dealing with the recent outrage following professional “huntress” (is that a thing?) Larysa Switlyk’s killing of a goat in Scotland.
When I heard that BASC had condemned this incident, for a brief moment I naively believed that maybe even the shooting industry has a line you shouldn’t cross. Which it turns out is true, after a fashion, just not in the way I briefly hoped.
It is as follows:
“By choosing to use social media to tell the word about her exploits hunting goats and other animals on the small Scottish island of Islay, [Switlyk] has found herself thrust onto the news pages of ... a host of other papers and websites. And it doesn’t make pleasant reading.
“All our hard work and good intentions can be undone in an instant on social media.”
“It has the power to educate and inform. It also has the power to alienate vast swathes of the population, the very people we need to get onside - and keep onside - if shooting is to survive the challenges ahead.”
So just to be clear, the only thing she did wrong is post the picture on social media? Not the unnecessary slaughter of a sentient being? Not revelling in the death of another animal? No, just that she got herself caught.
It tells you everything that you need to know doesn’t it? They haven’t even attempted to defend the killing of animals. Haven’t even bothered to pretend that it has anything to do with wildlife management (it doesn’t). Haven’t attempted to understand why the world is out raged. She did something far worse than kill an animal: she got caught doing it.
And by doing so she exposed the shooting community for what they really are. SHAMELESS KILLERS.
Author: Nick Weston - Head of Campaigns
It’s the old adage isn’t it? Ask a convict what he did wrong, he won’t say he broke the law, he’ll say he got caught.
Well, that seems to be the British Association for Shooting and Conservation’s (BASC) approach to dealing with the recent outrage following professional “huntress” (is that a thing?) Larysa Switlyk’s killing of a goat in Scotland.
When I heard that BASC had condemned this incident, for a brief moment I naively believed that maybe even the shooting industry has a line you shouldn’t cross. Which it turns out is true, after a fashion, just not in the way I briefly hoped.
It is as follows:
“By choosing to use social media to tell the word about her exploits hunting goats and other animals on the small Scottish island of Islay, [Switlyk] has found herself thrust onto the news pages of ... a host of other papers and websites. And it doesn’t make pleasant reading.
“All our hard work and good intentions can be undone in an instant on social media.”
“It has the power to educate and inform. It also has the power to alienate vast swathes of the population, the very people we need to get onside - and keep onside - if shooting is to survive the challenges ahead.”
So just to be clear, the only thing she did wrong is post the picture on social media? Not the unnecessary slaughter of a sentient being? Not revelling in the death of another animal? No, just that she got herself caught.
It tells you everything that you need to know doesn’t it? They haven’t even attempted to defend the killing of animals. Haven’t even bothered to pretend that it has anything to do with wildlife management (it doesn’t). Haven’t attempted to understand why the world is out raged. She did something far worse than kill an animal: she got caught doing it.
And by doing so she exposed the shooting community for what they really are. SHAMELESS KILLERS.
Monday 22 October 2018
CARNAGE BY SHOT GUN & POTENTIAL FURTHER LOSS OF HABITAT
Morning john I just came across this looking at birding site the first on below is about build ing one the salt pans of la Mata the other one is about how many ducks the shoot in El Hondo is photos I used google translate
cheers
Bryan
This past summer the Service of Management of Natural Spaces of the Generalitat Valenciana issued a favourable report for the construction of almost 7,500 homes in the vicinity of the La Mata and Torrevieja lagoons. According to the Association of Friends of the Wetlands of the South of Alicante (AHSA), autonomous Administration, with this administrative act, consummates a shameful process of speculation protected by an environmental legislation, giving free access to a mega-urban project that worsens the environment even more and the hydrological basin of both lagoons and that will have a negative impact on the environmental values of these natural spaces.
Last April the Association of Friends of the Wetlands of the South of Alicante (AHSA) went to the Territorial Management of Alicante of the Ministry of Environment requesting information on the number and species of aquatic birds authorized to be killed in the preserves of hunting of the Natural Park of the Hondo, during the season 2017-18, as well as the censuses in which they have been based for their elaboration. In addition to the number and result of the inspections carried out by the environmental agents, in the hunting grounds of this natural area, for the control of the runs in the 2017-18 season, in compliance with the provisions of the Master Plan for Use and Management (PRUG).
This article also included a photograph of all the 'bodies' laid out in rows. Throphy rows no doubt and it just sickens me. This is just shooting for fun and has very little, if anything, to do with providing food for the table.
Such wonderful people boasting of their tally in a photo and so proud. It is a pity that their faces are obscured on the photo.
cheers
Bryan
This past summer the Service of Management of Natural Spaces of the Generalitat Valenciana issued a favourable report for the construction of almost 7,500 homes in the vicinity of the La Mata and Torrevieja lagoons. According to the Association of Friends of the Wetlands of the South of Alicante (AHSA), autonomous Administration, with this administrative act, consummates a shameful process of speculation protected by an environmental legislation, giving free access to a mega-urban project that worsens the environment even more and the hydrological basin of both lagoons and that will have a negative impact on the environmental values of these natural spaces.
Last April the Association of Friends of the Wetlands of the South of Alicante (AHSA) went to the Territorial Management of Alicante of the Ministry of Environment requesting information on the number and species of aquatic birds authorized to be killed in the preserves of hunting of the Natural Park of the Hondo, during the season 2017-18, as well as the censuses in which they have been based for their elaboration. In addition to the number and result of the inspections carried out by the environmental agents, in the hunting grounds of this natural area, for the control of the runs in the 2017-18 season, in compliance with the provisions of the Master Plan for Use and Management (PRUG).
This article also included a photograph of all the 'bodies' laid out in rows. Throphy rows no doubt and it just sickens me. This is just shooting for fun and has very little, if anything, to do with providing food for the table.
Such wonderful people boasting of their tally in a photo and so proud. It is a pity that their faces are obscured on the photo.
REVIVE & THE SCOTTISH GROUSE MOORS
REVIVE is a coalition of like minded organisations working for grouse moor reform in Scotland.
An exciting new partnership will be launched in Scotland in early November – Revive: the coalition for grouse moor reform.
The Revive coalition is an unusual alliance of campaigners, scientists and policy advocates from the fields of social justice, conservation, animal welfare and environmental protection, coming together to present the case for the reform of Scottish grouse moors.
The coalition includes Common Weal, Friends of the Earth Scotland, The League Against Cruel Sports Scotland, OneKind, and Raptor Persecution UK.
ThTHERE ARE GOOD PEOPLE OUT THERE AND THINGS CAN HAPPEN, BUT IT WILL REQUIRE EFFORT.
An exciting new partnership will be launched in Scotland in early November – Revive: the coalition for grouse moor reform.
The Revive coalition is an unusual alliance of campaigners, scientists and policy advocates from the fields of social justice, conservation, animal welfare and environmental protection, coming together to present the case for the reform of Scottish grouse moors.
The coalition includes Common Weal, Friends of the Earth Scotland, The League Against Cruel Sports Scotland, OneKind, and Raptor Persecution UK.
ThTHERE ARE GOOD PEOPLE OUT THERE AND THINGS CAN HAPPEN, BUT IT WILL REQUIRE EFFORT.
WADER BIRDS IN DECLINE AND THE GOVERNMENTS RESPONSE
Petition
Introduce a moratorium on the hunting of critically declining wading birds
Woodcock, Snipe and Golden Plover are shot in the UK despite serious, ongoing population declines. A moratorium should be imposed to allow the impact of shooting to be established by independent scientific investigation and any necessary regulations introduced to ensure that shooting is sustainable.
More details
BTO, JNCC and RSPB Bird Trends data report a 76% decline in Woodcock in the last 25 years. Although the wintering population is increased by migrants, BTO and GWCT studies of shot birds report that 17% are UK residents. It is Red Listed. In the same period Snipe (Amber listed) have declined by 89%. Between '93 and '13 Golden Plover decreased by 17% in England and 25% in Scotland. Continuing to harvest species in such steep decline is perilous and counterproductive to conservation practices.
THE REPLY
It is unlikely that hunting has had a significant impact on recent population trends for woodcock, snipe and golden plover; trends are likely to be influenced more by the quality and extent of habitat
MY COMMENTS ON THE ABOVE FIVE LINES AND THE USUAL OFFICIAL COMMENTS IN ITALICS:
It seems that only small proportion of people care about what a minority can do. It seems that killing is rife when certain individuals kill wildlife in the name of ‘sport’. Apart from game keepers influenced by wealthy and therefore powerful landowners and many others who lawfully are allowed to carry a gun the killing is allowed. Okay there are restrictions, but why is an ancient practice - often seen as a right - be allowed to continue? There are other reasons why we are losing numbers in species and deliberate killing by shooters we should stop. There are many of us, although relatively small in number if one includes ‘the don't knows’ and those who couldn't care less - who love our wildlife and will support Chris Packhams initiative when he launched his manifesto in September with THE PEOPLES WALK FOR WILDLIFE.
Below is the reply in full.
All wild birds are protected in accordance with the provisions set out in the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, however, some species of birds (as listed in Schedule 2 of the Act) may be killed or taken outside the close season. Woodcock, snipe and golden plover are amongst those species that may be taken. In England and Wales the dates for woodcock are 1 October to 31 January; common snipe 12 August to 31 January; golden plover 1 September to 31 January.
Shooting is a legitimate activity and in addition to providing jobs and investment in some of our most remote areas, it can offer important benefits for wildlife and habitat conservation. The Government’s manifesto commits to protect shooting for the benefits it brings to individuals, the environment and the rural economy.
Recent data shows that the woodcock has a breeding population or around 78,000 pairs; common snipe 76,000 and golden plover between 38,000 and 59,000. Overwintering populations increase their numbers to approximately 1.4 million (woodcock), 1 million (common snipe) and 400,000 (golden plover). The numbers in winter are greatly increased as a result of birds arriving from Scandinavia, the Baltic States and Russia and many of our breeding birds (and their offspring) leave the country in winter.
For all three species, the numbers of birds hunted is small compared with the population present in the country during the open season.
When combined with the fact that many of our breeding birds winter abroad, it is unlikely that hunting pressure in this country has played a significant role in the recent downwards trends in the size and range of GB breeding populations of either woodcock or snipe. There is little evidence that the golden plover is currently in decline in GB as a whole.
The reasons for any declines are complex and include habitat loss as a result of land drainage, the drying out of natural woodlands, declining woodland management, the maturation of new plantations, overgrazing by deer, recreational disturbance and reductions in prey availability. The woodcock is currently red-listed due to breeding range decline in the past 25 years.
Measures have been taken to improve habitats through Environmental Land Management schemes such as the Countryside Stewardship Scheme, where grassland breeding waders have been specifically targeted. The woodcock will have benefited from Woodland Grant Schemes, some of which specifically target management for declining woodland birds.
The Government is not persuaded that the current level of hunting has a significant detrimental impact on the numbers of woodcock, common snipe and golden plover. A number of English estates have already instigated their own voluntary bans on the shooting of woodcock. Any moratorium in the rest of the UK is a matter for the devolved administrations.
Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
Introduce a moratorium on the hunting of critically declining wading birds
Woodcock, Snipe and Golden Plover are shot in the UK despite serious, ongoing population declines. A moratorium should be imposed to allow the impact of shooting to be established by independent scientific investigation and any necessary regulations introduced to ensure that shooting is sustainable.
More details
BTO, JNCC and RSPB Bird Trends data report a 76% decline in Woodcock in the last 25 years. Although the wintering population is increased by migrants, BTO and GWCT studies of shot birds report that 17% are UK residents. It is Red Listed. In the same period Snipe (Amber listed) have declined by 89%. Between '93 and '13 Golden Plover decreased by 17% in England and 25% in Scotland. Continuing to harvest species in such steep decline is perilous and counterproductive to conservation practices.
THE REPLY
It is unlikely that hunting has had a significant impact on recent population trends for woodcock, snipe and golden plover; trends are likely to be influenced more by the quality and extent of habitat
MY COMMENTS ON THE ABOVE FIVE LINES AND THE USUAL OFFICIAL COMMENTS IN ITALICS:
It seems that only small proportion of people care about what a minority can do. It seems that killing is rife when certain individuals kill wildlife in the name of ‘sport’. Apart from game keepers influenced by wealthy and therefore powerful landowners and many others who lawfully are allowed to carry a gun the killing is allowed. Okay there are restrictions, but why is an ancient practice - often seen as a right - be allowed to continue? There are other reasons why we are losing numbers in species and deliberate killing by shooters we should stop. There are many of us, although relatively small in number if one includes ‘the don't knows’ and those who couldn't care less - who love our wildlife and will support Chris Packhams initiative when he launched his manifesto in September with THE PEOPLES WALK FOR WILDLIFE.
Below is the reply in full.
All wild birds are protected in accordance with the provisions set out in the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, however, some species of birds (as listed in Schedule 2 of the Act) may be killed or taken outside the close season. Woodcock, snipe and golden plover are amongst those species that may be taken. In England and Wales the dates for woodcock are 1 October to 31 January; common snipe 12 August to 31 January; golden plover 1 September to 31 January.
Shooting is a legitimate activity and in addition to providing jobs and investment in some of our most remote areas, it can offer important benefits for wildlife and habitat conservation. The Government’s manifesto commits to protect shooting for the benefits it brings to individuals, the environment and the rural economy.
Recent data shows that the woodcock has a breeding population or around 78,000 pairs; common snipe 76,000 and golden plover between 38,000 and 59,000. Overwintering populations increase their numbers to approximately 1.4 million (woodcock), 1 million (common snipe) and 400,000 (golden plover). The numbers in winter are greatly increased as a result of birds arriving from Scandinavia, the Baltic States and Russia and many of our breeding birds (and their offspring) leave the country in winter.
For all three species, the numbers of birds hunted is small compared with the population present in the country during the open season.
When combined with the fact that many of our breeding birds winter abroad, it is unlikely that hunting pressure in this country has played a significant role in the recent downwards trends in the size and range of GB breeding populations of either woodcock or snipe. There is little evidence that the golden plover is currently in decline in GB as a whole.
The reasons for any declines are complex and include habitat loss as a result of land drainage, the drying out of natural woodlands, declining woodland management, the maturation of new plantations, overgrazing by deer, recreational disturbance and reductions in prey availability. The woodcock is currently red-listed due to breeding range decline in the past 25 years.
Measures have been taken to improve habitats through Environmental Land Management schemes such as the Countryside Stewardship Scheme, where grassland breeding waders have been specifically targeted. The woodcock will have benefited from Woodland Grant Schemes, some of which specifically target management for declining woodland birds.
The Government is not persuaded that the current level of hunting has a significant detrimental impact on the numbers of woodcock, common snipe and golden plover. A number of English estates have already instigated their own voluntary bans on the shooting of woodcock. Any moratorium in the rest of the UK is a matter for the devolved administrations.
Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
Saturday 20 October 2018
PARAJE NATURAL DEL CLOT DE GALVANY, GRAN ALACANT.
On Friday 19th in light rain and seventeen degrees I left San Miguel and headed north towards Gran Alacant. There was no doubt in my mind that my target birds were going to be a pair of Ferruginous Ducks. Other birders had seen and photographed this pair, had passed on the information for the benefit of other birders and now I wanted to see them for myself.
Bryan and I sat in the hide and there they were. They did several swim pasts, dived, perched on a stone or log and preened. At one stage they were only meters away. They are smart birds and I enjoyed watching them. We even saw the male throw back his head as he swam past. They were great, but will they over-winter here or go south?
Female Ferruginous Duck
Male Ferruginous Duck
On the water there was an abundance of other ducks. Some Mallard (including hybrids) Common Pochard, Shovellers, Green-winged Teal and one White-headed Duck. Also many Moorhen, Coot and Little Grebe played around on the water. Overhead Swallows were flying over. While all this was going on Cetti's kept calling and Robins were heard, but remained hidden. A Reed Warbler flitted around with a Chiff and then later, the Warbler, perched in full view, quite close, on an horizontal reed just asking to be photographed and it was. A superb view of this bird.
To the right of the hide, between the water’s edge and between the fence a (White-Spot) Blue Throat hopped around, feeding amongst the detritus and natural vegetation. It reappeared several times and was seen by other birders too.
This was a day of close up views of birds behaving naturally in a great environment.
What a privilege to see all this and all from a hide. It's so easy! It is good to be out there seeing beautiful things and in good company.
But on the reverse side and I quote "Bryan is not feeling positive about San Felipe." He has commented on his own blog and you can see that here. https://birdingcostablanca.blogspot.com
Bryan and I sat in the hide and there they were. They did several swim pasts, dived, perched on a stone or log and preened. At one stage they were only meters away. They are smart birds and I enjoyed watching them. We even saw the male throw back his head as he swam past. They were great, but will they over-winter here or go south?
Female Ferruginous Duck
Male Ferruginous DuckOn the water there was an abundance of other ducks. Some Mallard (including hybrids) Common Pochard, Shovellers, Green-winged Teal and one White-headed Duck. Also many Moorhen, Coot and Little Grebe played around on the water. Overhead Swallows were flying over. While all this was going on Cetti's kept calling and Robins were heard, but remained hidden. A Reed Warbler flitted around with a Chiff and then later, the Warbler, perched in full view, quite close, on an horizontal reed just asking to be photographed and it was. A superb view of this bird.
To the right of the hide, between the water’s edge and between the fence a (White-Spot) Blue Throat hopped around, feeding amongst the detritus and natural vegetation. It reappeared several times and was seen by other birders too.
This was a day of close up views of birds behaving naturally in a great environment.
What a privilege to see all this and all from a hide. It's so easy! It is good to be out there seeing beautiful things and in good company.
But on the reverse side and I quote "Bryan is not feeling positive about San Felipe." He has commented on his own blog and you can see that here. https://birdingcostablanca.blogspot.com
Sunday 14 October 2018
HIGUERUELA AND MONTEALEGRE DEL CASTILLO (near ALMANSA)
YES, WE HEADED OUT TO THOSE BIG OPEN SPACES AGAIN
On Friday 12th October we made our second trip since the end of the summer, to Higueruela and it proved to be very good for the first part. Having had another excellent coffee at our usual ‘pit stop’ on the edge of the motorway we turned right towards Higueruela, but we did not go direct towards the pig farm this time and took the second camino on our left. On turning, I spotted a flock of flying birds in the distance that showed white plumage. They were so faraway and they soon dropped from view; but could they have been Little Bustards?
A beautiful female Stonechat perched, very close to me, on a pole. Such wonderful colours.
We are always prepared to work hard with the intention of searching out species. But at the same time content ‘to take what comes’ and this morning was no different. We both hoped to be able to find Little Bustards and maybe a wintering bird or two, like Dotterel, or even a Brambling hiding with Chaffinches. It was not to be. But the search was on and the following paragraphs contain some of what we got up to.
We had seen Great Bustards around the general area previously and we made the decision for an approach from a different direction. It payed off. We firstly encountered a group of up to seventeen as we drove down a track. They seemed oblivious to the tractors towing bulky trailers to and from the pig farm and they only moved slowly away from us as we watched from the car. Each and everyone provided a good view. We followed the track heading towards the railway and on the other side of it there was another group of Bustards - about the same in number.. We checked them out hoping to find a Little Bustard, but they were all of the bigger variety.
We were now at the station corner and to our delight there were around 20 Stone Curlews feeding in the field next to us.
On the sunny grassy bank butterflies were active and Bryan got busy. The photographs should provide the detail.
Clouded Yellow
Long Tailed Blue
Along our new route we encountered flocks of Goldfinches, Serin, and Linnets. This was in a very mixed habitat that included natural verges, vines, corn stubble and ‘resting’ ground. On a post a Great Tit sat. Tree Sparrows were in abundance too and this is new location for them. Spotless Starlings were easily seen and one occasion, on a wire, about eighty of the northern type.
The sound of Calandra Larks surrounded us and we had both excellent views of them flying and on the ground. A Thekla Lark perched long enough to be photographed.
We moved on towards Higueruela to discover that a usually good spot, under the pines, was devoid of species.
Lagunas de Petrola was again disappointing because the usually marshy areas were as dry as a bone and the main water provided little of note. Two Marsh Harriers circled over. On leaving, Bryan spotted seven Yellow Wagtails by the farm buildings. I was hoping to see a blue head on Iberiae, it was not so. Great to be able to see them and they lessened the disappointment slightly.
Heading towards Corral Rubio we saw nothing of interest and again many areas were dry. It has rained, but more rainfall is needed. Now, in the early afternoon we went to Montealegre del Castillo, where we knew we would find water. On earlier visits this was teeming with water birds, but today very little. This may have been due to the day being a ‘Red Day’ and the hunters were around. On our next trip we will make this water our first objective and also research the areas around it.
There is one bird that I sometimes mention and it never poses long enough to be photographed, but with a powerful lens this one was captured!
I have not mentioned every species that we saw, only ones that create more of an interest. It is a vast area with big wide open vistas. I find that it is good to be out there seeing beautiful things and today with the sun and vegetation played host to several species of butterflies we did have beauty. Many kilometers covered and it could have ended much better - that's for next time!
Photographs by Bryan Thomas Copyright 2018
On Friday 12th October we made our second trip since the end of the summer, to Higueruela and it proved to be very good for the first part. Having had another excellent coffee at our usual ‘pit stop’ on the edge of the motorway we turned right towards Higueruela, but we did not go direct towards the pig farm this time and took the second camino on our left. On turning, I spotted a flock of flying birds in the distance that showed white plumage. They were so faraway and they soon dropped from view; but could they have been Little Bustards?
A beautiful female Stonechat perched, very close to me, on a pole. Such wonderful colours.
We are always prepared to work hard with the intention of searching out species. But at the same time content ‘to take what comes’ and this morning was no different. We both hoped to be able to find Little Bustards and maybe a wintering bird or two, like Dotterel, or even a Brambling hiding with Chaffinches. It was not to be. But the search was on and the following paragraphs contain some of what we got up to.
We had seen Great Bustards around the general area previously and we made the decision for an approach from a different direction. It payed off. We firstly encountered a group of up to seventeen as we drove down a track. They seemed oblivious to the tractors towing bulky trailers to and from the pig farm and they only moved slowly away from us as we watched from the car. Each and everyone provided a good view. We followed the track heading towards the railway and on the other side of it there was another group of Bustards - about the same in number.. We checked them out hoping to find a Little Bustard, but they were all of the bigger variety.
We were now at the station corner and to our delight there were around 20 Stone Curlews feeding in the field next to us.
On the sunny grassy bank butterflies were active and Bryan got busy. The photographs should provide the detail.
Clouded Yellow
Long Tailed BlueAlong our new route we encountered flocks of Goldfinches, Serin, and Linnets. This was in a very mixed habitat that included natural verges, vines, corn stubble and ‘resting’ ground. On a post a Great Tit sat. Tree Sparrows were in abundance too and this is new location for them. Spotless Starlings were easily seen and one occasion, on a wire, about eighty of the northern type.
The sound of Calandra Larks surrounded us and we had both excellent views of them flying and on the ground. A Thekla Lark perched long enough to be photographed.
We moved on towards Higueruela to discover that a usually good spot, under the pines, was devoid of species.
Lagunas de Petrola was again disappointing because the usually marshy areas were as dry as a bone and the main water provided little of note. Two Marsh Harriers circled over. On leaving, Bryan spotted seven Yellow Wagtails by the farm buildings. I was hoping to see a blue head on Iberiae, it was not so. Great to be able to see them and they lessened the disappointment slightly.
Heading towards Corral Rubio we saw nothing of interest and again many areas were dry. It has rained, but more rainfall is needed. Now, in the early afternoon we went to Montealegre del Castillo, where we knew we would find water. On earlier visits this was teeming with water birds, but today very little. This may have been due to the day being a ‘Red Day’ and the hunters were around. On our next trip we will make this water our first objective and also research the areas around it.
There is one bird that I sometimes mention and it never poses long enough to be photographed, but with a powerful lens this one was captured!
I have not mentioned every species that we saw, only ones that create more of an interest. It is a vast area with big wide open vistas. I find that it is good to be out there seeing beautiful things and today with the sun and vegetation played host to several species of butterflies we did have beauty. Many kilometers covered and it could have ended much better - that's for next time!
Photographs by Bryan Thomas Copyright 2018
Tuesday 9 October 2018
Donald J Trump and Fear by Bob Woodward and Ultimatum by Frank Gardner
TWO BOOKS: FEAR and ULTIMATUM
FEAR, more specifically heralded as ‘Trump in the White House’ by Bob Woodward.
This man has incredible track record with The Washington Post, and specifically with his reporting of President Nixon with Vietnam and Watergate; It marks him out as a man of note. An investigative journalist who should be feared! The film, The Post, with Tom Hanks and Meryl Streep is a cinema version of his work.
ULTIMATUM by Frank Gardner of ‘war reporting renown’ is a novel where he has used his knowledge of conflict and everything else he has gleaned about the military and ‘spooks’.
I read both books by turning over a few chapters of each and I decided to comment upon each in one piece of writing.
FEAR is a book about the political activities elucidate through numerous interviews that Woodward has made with people who are part of the power set within the White House and the current President, Donald J Trump. Personally, I can't stand the sight of him!
In an interview with Trump on March 31st, 2016 and included on a page of its own these words “Real power is——I don't even want to use the word ——fear.”
The words ‘power’ and ‘fear’ are two words that we should be afraid of. The reported shambles and chaos within the seat of American power is astonishing. And it is current. To add to the ‘fear’ and I quote “ Within the intelligence and military world there exists …….. ‘our deep secrets.’ These are matters so sensitive……., that only a handful of people including the president …..know about them.”
Both books dovetail into each other as they are are involved with intrigue, subterfuge, lies and deceit. Indeed, I needed some escapism after reading tracks from Fear. Being more specific Ultimatum hops from Vauxhall in London to a nasty place in The Middle East. It is a story of spying and the hero Luke Carlton has it all to do. Will he survive and how will that ‘ultimatum’ go? Frank Gardner writes with feeling and the scenes that he creates have that human touch. On a couple of occasions I was able to assume some happenings, but will you be correct? It would be difficult for any potential reader not to know something about Trump, but with Ultimatum I will give nothing more away. The last eighty pages flew by and we had to get to that conclusion. I suppose with any super hero his survival is paramount, but does this one do it?
To emphasize more on 4th October, at a press conference in The Hague it was revealed the intrusive activities of Russia’s GRU. Not just condemnation but revelations of six different hacking operations. There is danger out there, active and real, that can also be exposed by books. But the real ‘fear’ reading more of Woodward's words is China. Frank Gardner’s book is escapism at its best, but can the world escape from Trump’s erraticism?
FEAR, more specifically heralded as ‘Trump in the White House’ by Bob Woodward.
This man has incredible track record with The Washington Post, and specifically with his reporting of President Nixon with Vietnam and Watergate; It marks him out as a man of note. An investigative journalist who should be feared! The film, The Post, with Tom Hanks and Meryl Streep is a cinema version of his work.
ULTIMATUM by Frank Gardner of ‘war reporting renown’ is a novel where he has used his knowledge of conflict and everything else he has gleaned about the military and ‘spooks’.
I read both books by turning over a few chapters of each and I decided to comment upon each in one piece of writing.
FEAR is a book about the political activities elucidate through numerous interviews that Woodward has made with people who are part of the power set within the White House and the current President, Donald J Trump. Personally, I can't stand the sight of him!
In an interview with Trump on March 31st, 2016 and included on a page of its own these words “Real power is——I don't even want to use the word ——fear.”
The words ‘power’ and ‘fear’ are two words that we should be afraid of. The reported shambles and chaos within the seat of American power is astonishing. And it is current. To add to the ‘fear’ and I quote “ Within the intelligence and military world there exists …….. ‘our deep secrets.’ These are matters so sensitive……., that only a handful of people including the president …..know about them.”
Both books dovetail into each other as they are are involved with intrigue, subterfuge, lies and deceit. Indeed, I needed some escapism after reading tracks from Fear. Being more specific Ultimatum hops from Vauxhall in London to a nasty place in The Middle East. It is a story of spying and the hero Luke Carlton has it all to do. Will he survive and how will that ‘ultimatum’ go? Frank Gardner writes with feeling and the scenes that he creates have that human touch. On a couple of occasions I was able to assume some happenings, but will you be correct? It would be difficult for any potential reader not to know something about Trump, but with Ultimatum I will give nothing more away. The last eighty pages flew by and we had to get to that conclusion. I suppose with any super hero his survival is paramount, but does this one do it?
To emphasize more on 4th October, at a press conference in The Hague it was revealed the intrusive activities of Russia’s GRU. Not just condemnation but revelations of six different hacking operations. There is danger out there, active and real, that can also be exposed by books. But the real ‘fear’ reading more of Woodward's words is China. Frank Gardner’s book is escapism at its best, but can the world escape from Trump’s erraticism?
Monday 8 October 2018
Poetry Workshops for Women Only!
LEDBURY POETRY FESTIVAL AND A WOMEN ONLY WORKSHOP
The Women Only Workshop came to my attention via Ledbury Poetry Festival Face Book. I have seen them advertising workshops before where one section of the population is not invited. The question I am going to ask them have they, or even will they offer a men only one? I have emailed.
I am pleased to see any workshop that can promote writing and any form of community activity. It is what makes us bond together.
I am not going to presume that there are 'Men Only Workshops' or that there are not. But are there? I am going to email Ledbury and ask them whether there is the same option for men.
I believe in being equal and that we should all be equal.
I know that the world is not perfect, but if you exclude one half of the population, what can happen? Maybe exclusion will promote prejudice!
You can see below what is on offer and I wish that these opportunities were available, geographically speaking to me, they are not.
I am for equality and will not entertain a restrictive offering unless there is fairness.
Community Poetry Workshops!
Feeling inspired? Feel like to learning to express yourself better? Time to get your poetry muscles flexing at these wonderful events, ALL of them are FREE to attend so that income is no barrier to taking part. EVERYBODY is encouraged to attend. Just drop in – no need to book!
1. Poetry workshops at Herefordshire MIND, 130 Widemarsh St, Hereford, HR4 9HN, as part of Ledbury Poetry Festival’s Community Programme, Wednesdays 10am – 12pm, next one on Wednesday 17 October. FREE. Poetry is powerful, it shows us the world in new ways; it heals, teaches and celebrates. More info Ledbury Poetry Festival 01531-634156, Hfds MIND 01432-372404 Further sessions on 21st Nov. Hear the Festival event podcasts “The Power of Words – 21st Century Mental Health”, and the “Community Showcase” here
2. Women’s Poetry Writing Workshop . FREE. Join this supportive writing atmosphere just for women. Wednesday 10 October 10.30 – 12.30, Church House, St Peter’s Church, St Peter’s Close, Hereford HR1 2DL. Refreshment making facilities are available here. Further sessions on 14th November
3.“Seen and Heard” Poetry Workshops at Grange Court, Leominster, HR6 8NL. FREE. We hope to resume these sessions after the summer break. More info: info@grangecourt.org, 01568 737980, or manager of the Festival – see below.
4. The next Segments workshop is on Wednesday 24 October 10am – 12pm at The Museum Resource and Learning Centre, 58 Friars Street, Hereford HR4 0AS, 5 minutes walk from Hereford Cathedral. Poetry and heritage meet in this treasure trove of art, archaeology, costumes, social history and natural science collections. Explore, be inspired and write poetry in this rich environment with poet Sara Jane Arbury. Further sessions on 28th November
If you have any enquiries about these groups, please contact manager@poetry-festival.co.uk, 01531 636232
Further information on the Festival’s Community Programme can be found here
The Women Only Workshop came to my attention via Ledbury Poetry Festival Face Book. I have seen them advertising workshops before where one section of the population is not invited. The question I am going to ask them have they, or even will they offer a men only one? I have emailed.
I am pleased to see any workshop that can promote writing and any form of community activity. It is what makes us bond together.
I am not going to presume that there are 'Men Only Workshops' or that there are not. But are there? I am going to email Ledbury and ask them whether there is the same option for men.
I believe in being equal and that we should all be equal.
I know that the world is not perfect, but if you exclude one half of the population, what can happen? Maybe exclusion will promote prejudice!
You can see below what is on offer and I wish that these opportunities were available, geographically speaking to me, they are not.
I am for equality and will not entertain a restrictive offering unless there is fairness.
Community Poetry Workshops!
Feeling inspired? Feel like to learning to express yourself better? Time to get your poetry muscles flexing at these wonderful events, ALL of them are FREE to attend so that income is no barrier to taking part. EVERYBODY is encouraged to attend. Just drop in – no need to book!
1. Poetry workshops at Herefordshire MIND, 130 Widemarsh St, Hereford, HR4 9HN, as part of Ledbury Poetry Festival’s Community Programme, Wednesdays 10am – 12pm, next one on Wednesday 17 October. FREE. Poetry is powerful, it shows us the world in new ways; it heals, teaches and celebrates. More info Ledbury Poetry Festival 01531-634156, Hfds MIND 01432-372404 Further sessions on 21st Nov. Hear the Festival event podcasts “The Power of Words – 21st Century Mental Health”, and the “Community Showcase” here
2. Women’s Poetry Writing Workshop . FREE. Join this supportive writing atmosphere just for women. Wednesday 10 October 10.30 – 12.30, Church House, St Peter’s Church, St Peter’s Close, Hereford HR1 2DL. Refreshment making facilities are available here. Further sessions on 14th November
3.“Seen and Heard” Poetry Workshops at Grange Court, Leominster, HR6 8NL. FREE. We hope to resume these sessions after the summer break. More info: info@grangecourt.org, 01568 737980, or manager of the Festival – see below.
4. The next Segments workshop is on Wednesday 24 October 10am – 12pm at The Museum Resource and Learning Centre, 58 Friars Street, Hereford HR4 0AS, 5 minutes walk from Hereford Cathedral. Poetry and heritage meet in this treasure trove of art, archaeology, costumes, social history and natural science collections. Explore, be inspired and write poetry in this rich environment with poet Sara Jane Arbury. Further sessions on 28th November
If you have any enquiries about these groups, please contact manager@poetry-festival.co.uk, 01531 636232
Further information on the Festival’s Community Programme can be found here
ESTEPAS DE YECLA AGAIN
What another terrific morning we had in Estepas de Yecla. It is one of our ‘must-go-to-places’ and we have had some wonderful sightings in that valley. Bryan decided that we should go there again and we did on Saturday 6th October.
The blogger smiling with the weather!
The temperatures have dropped and when we left Gran Alacant it was a mere 16 degrees and it went down to12 degrees in the valley. We arrived at 8am in a mist that was only gradually worn away by the sun and so we stayed to the east of the ridge having entered from Caudette. We were soon bathed in sun and we were surrounded by birds and their songs. Two hundred Wood Pigeons occupied a high wire and a mixed flock of Goldfinches and Linnets flew from off the fields. In one small bush a dozen Goldies perched and we coined the term ‘ a charm in a bush’. Towards the ridge and over the farm buildings Choughs called and flew. Indeed we heard them for most of the morning. Other Corvids flew too with regular sightings of Jackdaws, Crows and Magpies, but no Ravens today.
We were delighted to see passing through swarms of Barn Swallows and they were visible all morning too. Sad to see them go, but that is the way it is. Northern Wheatears posed well and we must have seen over a dozen individual birds.
Somewhere Stonechats called, but remained invisible. You don't always see what you are looking for!
The ubiquitous Created Larks showed well and eventually we had a clear view of a Thekla and were happy with the identification. A male Rock Bunting gave us our first sighting of this species here.
One Corn Bunting, one Meadow Pipit and one Chiff was seen with a large caterpillar in its mouth.
Chiffchaff
Meadow Pipit
Around us were fields of vetches with some being harvested. Two Hoopoes showed well and on an earthen bank were Rock Sparrows. We spent over and hour and half at this Caudette end before moving along our normal route where the mist had begun to clear. Red Legged Partridges ran all over.
Heading towards the Yecla end of the valley we heard Buzzards calling and at one time there were four of them circling on the thermals. However before then Bryan spotted a Golden Eagle in the distance and this obliged us by coming closer and we could see the white rump. We were happy with that ID. We counted at least six individual Little Owls as we passed through and in the ‘wine area’ we had excellent views of both Tree and House Sparrows where the comparison with theq two species could be seen.
Tree Sparrow
Both sorts of Starlings were around too with many White Wagtails feeding.
Moving on towards the ridge with pines a ‘falcon’ was spotted in a field, but in the distance. We were not sure what it could be and we worked our way along the ridge using the trees as cover, but still it was difficult to be really sure of the detail. We eventually came to a conclusion that the bird was a female Lesser Kestrel. However, I saw a white patch on a cheek, a light or yellow bill and dark plumage on the back and on part of the sides. There was no rufus/red or grey as in the case of an adult Red-footed Falcon, but it could have been a juvenile. However the consensus of opinion is that it was probably a female Lesser Kestrel. We never claim that we have seen a species unless we are sure. Anyway, here is hoping that I can identify a Red-footed Falcon as I have now done the research.
A female Lesser also flew and I reassured myself that they still frequent this valley. A little later another Kestrel flew and again the photo proved that it was male Lesser ‘holding in the wind’ and not as perceived - hovering!
We heard Sandgrouse but they stayed out of sight. We noticed some butterflies, but all fast flying and difficult to see in the breeze. They are a Bath White, a Common Blue, and what we originally thought was an Orange Tip, upon examination of a photo, it is a fresh Clouded Yellow.
There were some absentees with Raven, Black Wheatears, and Calandra Larks being the more obvious ones.
What an excellent few hours and the most productive was the early ones as the sun came up and the mist cleared. It is lovely to be out there.
The blogger smiling with the weather!The temperatures have dropped and when we left Gran Alacant it was a mere 16 degrees and it went down to12 degrees in the valley. We arrived at 8am in a mist that was only gradually worn away by the sun and so we stayed to the east of the ridge having entered from Caudette. We were soon bathed in sun and we were surrounded by birds and their songs. Two hundred Wood Pigeons occupied a high wire and a mixed flock of Goldfinches and Linnets flew from off the fields. In one small bush a dozen Goldies perched and we coined the term ‘ a charm in a bush’. Towards the ridge and over the farm buildings Choughs called and flew. Indeed we heard them for most of the morning. Other Corvids flew too with regular sightings of Jackdaws, Crows and Magpies, but no Ravens today.
We were delighted to see passing through swarms of Barn Swallows and they were visible all morning too. Sad to see them go, but that is the way it is. Northern Wheatears posed well and we must have seen over a dozen individual birds.
Somewhere Stonechats called, but remained invisible. You don't always see what you are looking for!
The ubiquitous Created Larks showed well and eventually we had a clear view of a Thekla and were happy with the identification. A male Rock Bunting gave us our first sighting of this species here.
One Corn Bunting, one Meadow Pipit and one Chiff was seen with a large caterpillar in its mouth.
Chiffchaff
Meadow PipitAround us were fields of vetches with some being harvested. Two Hoopoes showed well and on an earthen bank were Rock Sparrows. We spent over and hour and half at this Caudette end before moving along our normal route where the mist had begun to clear. Red Legged Partridges ran all over.
Heading towards the Yecla end of the valley we heard Buzzards calling and at one time there were four of them circling on the thermals. However before then Bryan spotted a Golden Eagle in the distance and this obliged us by coming closer and we could see the white rump. We were happy with that ID. We counted at least six individual Little Owls as we passed through and in the ‘wine area’ we had excellent views of both Tree and House Sparrows where the comparison with theq two species could be seen.
Tree SparrowBoth sorts of Starlings were around too with many White Wagtails feeding.
Moving on towards the ridge with pines a ‘falcon’ was spotted in a field, but in the distance. We were not sure what it could be and we worked our way along the ridge using the trees as cover, but still it was difficult to be really sure of the detail. We eventually came to a conclusion that the bird was a female Lesser Kestrel. However, I saw a white patch on a cheek, a light or yellow bill and dark plumage on the back and on part of the sides. There was no rufus/red or grey as in the case of an adult Red-footed Falcon, but it could have been a juvenile. However the consensus of opinion is that it was probably a female Lesser Kestrel. We never claim that we have seen a species unless we are sure. Anyway, here is hoping that I can identify a Red-footed Falcon as I have now done the research.
A female Lesser also flew and I reassured myself that they still frequent this valley. A little later another Kestrel flew and again the photo proved that it was male Lesser ‘holding in the wind’ and not as perceived - hovering!
We heard Sandgrouse but they stayed out of sight. We noticed some butterflies, but all fast flying and difficult to see in the breeze. They are a Bath White, a Common Blue, and what we originally thought was an Orange Tip, upon examination of a photo, it is a fresh Clouded Yellow.
There were some absentees with Raven, Black Wheatears, and Calandra Larks being the more obvious ones.
What an excellent few hours and the most productive was the early ones as the sun came up and the mist cleared. It is lovely to be out there.
Sunday 7 October 2018
PARQUE REGIONAL de SAN PEDRO
PARQUE REGIONAL de las SALINAS y ARENALES de SAN PEDRO del PINATAR
San Pedro and the Salinas has been very good, but in the past couple of years it has not been great. I was there this morning and although there are some margins the water levels are relatively high and some of the water is a murky green. I do not have a local contact so I can only guess there is some sort of a problem down there.
In the lagoon nearest the beach apart from Yellow Legged Gulls two Lesser Black Backed Gulls sat on an island, but without one wader in sight. I moved on and saw six Black Necked Grebes.
One Redshank fed on its own. In another lagoon one Black Tailed Godwit, a Ruff and a Little Stint. Okay there were some Flamingoes, the usual Black Winged Stilts and a few Avocet. Not a lot really. Sadly not much to see.
San Pedro and the Salinas has been very good, but in the past couple of years it has not been great. I was there this morning and although there are some margins the water levels are relatively high and some of the water is a murky green. I do not have a local contact so I can only guess there is some sort of a problem down there.
In the lagoon nearest the beach apart from Yellow Legged Gulls two Lesser Black Backed Gulls sat on an island, but without one wader in sight. I moved on and saw six Black Necked Grebes.
One Redshank fed on its own. In another lagoon one Black Tailed Godwit, a Ruff and a Little Stint. Okay there were some Flamingoes, the usual Black Winged Stilts and a few Avocet. Not a lot really. Sadly not much to see.
ESTEPAS DE YECLA AGAIN
ESTEPAS DE YECLA AGAIN
What another terrific morning we had in Estepas de Yecla. It is one of our ‘must-go-to-places’ and we have had some wonderful sightings in that valley. Bryan decided that we should go there again and we did on Saturday 6th October.
The temperatures have dropped and when we left Gran Alacant it was a mere 16 degrees and it went down to12 degrees in the valley. We arrived at 8am in a mist that was only gradually worn away by the sun and so we stayed to the east of the ridge having entered from Caudette. We were soon bathed in sun and we were surrounded by birds and their songs. Two hundred Wood Pigeons occupied a high wire and a mixed flock of Goldfinches and Linnets flew from off the fields. In one small bush a dozen Goldies perched and we coined the term ‘ a charm in a bush’. Towards the ridge and over the farm buildings Choughs called and flew. Indeed we heard them for most of the morning. Other Corvids flew too with regular sightings of Jackdaws, Crows and Magpies, but no Ravens today.
We were delighted to see passing through swarms of Barn Swallows and they were visible all morning too. Sad to see them go, but that is the way it is. Northern Wheatears posed well and we must have seen over a dozen individual birds. Somewhere Stonechats called, but remained invisible. You don't always see what you are looking for!
The ubiquitous Created Larks showed well and eventually we had a clear view of a Thekla and were happy with the identification. A male Rock Bunting gave us our first sighting of this species here. One Corn Bunting, one Meadow Pipit and one Chiff was seen with a large caterpillar in its mouth. Around us were fields of vetches with some being harvested. Two Hoopoes showed well and on an earthen bank were Rock Sparrows. We spent over and hour and half at this Caudette end before moving along our normal route where the mist had begun to clear. Red Legged Partridges ran all over.
Heading towards the Yecla end of the valley we heard Buzzards calling and at one time there were four of them circling on the thermals. However before then Bryan spotted a Golden Eagle in the distance and this obliged us by coming closer and we could see the white rump. We were happy with that ID. We counted at least six individual Little Owls as we passed through and in the ‘wine area’ we had excellent views of both Tree and House Sparrows where the comparison with theq two species could be seen. Both sorts of Starlings were around too with many White Wagtails feeding.
Moving on towards the ridge with pines a ‘falcon’ was spotted in a field, in the distance. We knew what we thought it could be, but after 30 minutes and with closer views it had to be a female Lesser Kestrel. We had hoped for something else, but we were happy, again, with the ID. A male Lesser also flew and I reassured myself that they still frequent this valley.
We heard Sandgrouse but they stayed out of sight. We noticed some butterflies, but all fast flying and difficult to see in the breeze. A Bath White, a Common Blue, and an Orange Tip were the butterflies that we noted and confirmed later with the help of photographs.
There were some absentees with Raven, Black Wheatears, and Calandra Larks being the more obvious ones.
What an excellent few hours and the most productive was the early ones as the sun came up and the mist cleared. It is lovely to be out there.
I will edit this blog later and then we can include Bryan’s photos.
What another terrific morning we had in Estepas de Yecla. It is one of our ‘must-go-to-places’ and we have had some wonderful sightings in that valley. Bryan decided that we should go there again and we did on Saturday 6th October.
The temperatures have dropped and when we left Gran Alacant it was a mere 16 degrees and it went down to12 degrees in the valley. We arrived at 8am in a mist that was only gradually worn away by the sun and so we stayed to the east of the ridge having entered from Caudette. We were soon bathed in sun and we were surrounded by birds and their songs. Two hundred Wood Pigeons occupied a high wire and a mixed flock of Goldfinches and Linnets flew from off the fields. In one small bush a dozen Goldies perched and we coined the term ‘ a charm in a bush’. Towards the ridge and over the farm buildings Choughs called and flew. Indeed we heard them for most of the morning. Other Corvids flew too with regular sightings of Jackdaws, Crows and Magpies, but no Ravens today.
We were delighted to see passing through swarms of Barn Swallows and they were visible all morning too. Sad to see them go, but that is the way it is. Northern Wheatears posed well and we must have seen over a dozen individual birds. Somewhere Stonechats called, but remained invisible. You don't always see what you are looking for!
The ubiquitous Created Larks showed well and eventually we had a clear view of a Thekla and were happy with the identification. A male Rock Bunting gave us our first sighting of this species here. One Corn Bunting, one Meadow Pipit and one Chiff was seen with a large caterpillar in its mouth. Around us were fields of vetches with some being harvested. Two Hoopoes showed well and on an earthen bank were Rock Sparrows. We spent over and hour and half at this Caudette end before moving along our normal route where the mist had begun to clear. Red Legged Partridges ran all over.
Heading towards the Yecla end of the valley we heard Buzzards calling and at one time there were four of them circling on the thermals. However before then Bryan spotted a Golden Eagle in the distance and this obliged us by coming closer and we could see the white rump. We were happy with that ID. We counted at least six individual Little Owls as we passed through and in the ‘wine area’ we had excellent views of both Tree and House Sparrows where the comparison with theq two species could be seen. Both sorts of Starlings were around too with many White Wagtails feeding.
Moving on towards the ridge with pines a ‘falcon’ was spotted in a field, in the distance. We knew what we thought it could be, but after 30 minutes and with closer views it had to be a female Lesser Kestrel. We had hoped for something else, but we were happy, again, with the ID. A male Lesser also flew and I reassured myself that they still frequent this valley.
We heard Sandgrouse but they stayed out of sight. We noticed some butterflies, but all fast flying and difficult to see in the breeze. A Bath White, a Common Blue, and an Orange Tip were the butterflies that we noted and confirmed later with the help of photographs.
There were some absentees with Raven, Black Wheatears, and Calandra Larks being the more obvious ones.
What an excellent few hours and the most productive was the early ones as the sun came up and the mist cleared. It is lovely to be out there.
I will edit this blog later and then we can include Bryan’s photos.
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