Species - February

This list focusses on the last week of the month which is when our 2006 visit will be taking place.

The final week of the month is a transitional point. The winter populations are reducing and the spring incoming birds are well in evidence with the first wave of summer migrants. Amongst the earliest to arrive are Lesser Kestrel, Great Spotted Cuckoo, Common Swallow, Pallid Swift, House Martin, Black-winged Stilt.

Crane - migration north is well under way and many thousands of birds have already moved off. The numbers which may still be observed fluctuate between 850 (2003) - 2,500 (2004). During the course of the last week in February the population reduces sharply.

White Stork are occupying their nests, and the breeding rituals are under way.

This is a good time to observe Black-shouldered Kite which by now have moved in to their breeding areas, as have Marsh Harrier. Black Kite usually arrive around the 20th of February.

Griffon Vultures are nesting with clutches already laid. The first of the Egyptian Vulture may be seen also.

Early Bonelli's Eagle are present in their breeding territories.

Male Great Bustard are starting to form groups close to the breeding areas. Little Bustard are still in large winter groups with up to 100-150 individuals.

Hen Harrier are observed in small numbers but with relative ease.

Other species which are frequent include: Azure-winged Magpie, Raven, Black-headed Gull, Lesser Black-backed Gull, Hoopoe (the first birds singing), Great Grey Shrike, Red Avadavat, Kingfisher, Dartford Warbler, Sardinian Warbler, Golden Plover, Calandra Lark, Crested Lark, Thekla Lark, Black-necked Grebe, Pintail, Mallard, Shoveller, Great Cormorant, Teal, Black-tailed Godwit, Snipe, Lapwing