MY BIRDWATCHING HIGHLIGHTS FOR DECEMBER 2004
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And a few final words for December..... A quiet month. We did not get out much as the weather was poor. The outstanding record was the bee-eaters on the 23rd. Exceptional for two reasons: their migration ends in October; and we have never heard them at night before. As far as we know they always roost overnight and
fly by day. Indeed this is often their downfall as when going to roost they are exceptionally noisy and attract the local hunters like bees to honey pots. Perhaps this flock had been disturbed and had to fly at night, but even so to be here in December has to be truly remarkable. Another exceptional record came from a friend who found what is believed to be a pallas reed bunting at Agia reservoir. He got some very good photographs which the experts are scrutinizing. I cannot help as this is a species I have never seen. If accepted this would be the first for Greece so fingers crossed! The other good news is that the bearded vulture nest now has a chick that is doing well. Until next month, good watching. Paul Smith. |