Bird pics from Israel (March April) 2009 desert and semi-desert birds

Fat sand rat - a type of gerbil that lives off (and burrows under) the roots of salt bush.














Black bellied sandgrouse, Arad.












Chukar walking - with attitude - across carpark in Mitze Ramon















Namaqua dove - female and male at Yotvata



























Pale rock martin on nest














Crested lark - numerous and widespread















Desert lark
















Bimaculated lark - record shot of a fantastic bird.














White crowned wheatear - a true desert bird.

























Blackstart















Black-eared wheatear















Isabelline wheatear















Arabian babbler - some individuals are incredibly confiding and approach to within 1 m.














Tristram's grackles - red wing flashes and a distinctive, fluting call
















Raven at Nizzana













Brown-necked raven - a common sight around the Dead Sea
















Fantailed raven (poor pic but inlcuded for completeness)