Wednesday 17th August
It was Monnegre again this morning and another early start as we wanted to be on site before 8am.
The objective being to see whether Camachuela Trompetero - Trumpeter Finches were still in their breeding grounds. They were all around us and our tally for the morning was about a dozen birds. Most of which were juveniles and without a ringed bird among them. Once they have left Monnegre the search will be on as we want to know where they go.
The unreliable weather in April delayed any sightings until 21st May although we did look on 8th April for them. We only saw two or three possible breeding pairs and we are unsure if they could have produced the number of offspring that we are now seeing. It could be that there are other breeding sites close by. And also where else in Europe? The question will be asked of all contactable groups.
We were pleased with our sightings although it did not add much to our knowledge except they flew away in any direction and from any direction. One of our ideas was that they prefer vertical rock faces as part of their habitat. Obviously, as well as a water source and adequate food supplies too. It appears we will be there next week as we want an end date in the breeding area.
Our usual number of species were seen as listed in last week’s blog although Bee-eaters - Abejaruca Comun were no where to be seen or heard. We were not there long enough for raptors - it was getting hot! Hirundines were few but Pallid Swifts - Vencejo Pálido were seen and again I had two good views of Alpine Swifts - Vencejo Alpino.
No mammals, no butterflies, no snakes but one Ocellated Lizard that was photogenic. Another name is ‘jeweled’ and the photographs will show why it can have that name. Maybe when Bryan deals with the photos we can decide on what sex.
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