Winter to Spring

Spent the weekend in Arad. Had a walk down my favourite wadi and found this wheatear among the usual Northern, Mourning and Isabelline. Not an easy ID for me but am happy with Pied, especially as I matched its calls with those of Pied - however, I'm open to suggestions.

Also delighted to find this early Balkan Warbler. First of the year for me. The sunlight highlighted its wings perfectly.

Another first of the year - Masked Shrike. In March they are really common but in February not at all. 16 hours separation makes this notable . . . .

A very early start this morning (1st March) as I wanted to visit Wadi Mishmar to catch up with Cyprus Warbler. First up was this obliging Spectacled Warbler.

A slow walk up the wadi was rewarded with lots of Cyprus Warblers calling from the bushes. Eventually this one put on a show for me. This is a lifer for me so I was very pleased.

I noticed some grasses had already gone to seed (poor winter rains) and, unsurprisingly, a small flock of Striolated Buntings was taking advantage.

A small patch of water in Lot Reservoir held a couple of Ferruginous Duck. The reeds and tamarisk were full of Graceful Prinia and Clamourous Reed Warblers. A couple of Dead Sea Sparrows performing well near Neot Hakikar but unfortunately my camera battery had failed by then so no photos . . .

So good to start seeing the spring birds again!