THE autumn migration did not happen this year. The expected flights of small flocks of Black Kites, Honey Buzzards and various Eagles did not appear. The reason, high winds and weather systems originating in the south and blowing north in Europe made the normal migration routes through the Gibraltar Straits difficult. As a result the majority of migrating birds made their way south by crossing into France and then south through mainland Europe.

The river level was very low this month making observation of the fish and wildlife on the riverbank easy. Friends of mine reported seeing a brown furry animal briefly on the river bank and in the water margins with some controversy of its species, ie. Otter, Mink, Mongoose etc.

On the 16th while walking along the riverbank at twilight the animal passed by immediately below in mid stream allowing the water current to carry it along. I can confirm that the mystery animal was an Otter.

In the last week of the month Egrets began to appear on the flood plane. Easily spotted by their pure white plumage and habit of following the livestock around (in our case sheep). As the week passed more and more appear until up to 20 birds could be seen, however they would disappear at twilight and reappear at first light. They left to roost altogether in the low trees overhanging the river in the village next door to the El Gecko Hotel. Next to the Egret roost the Grey Herons decided to set up shop. So the veranda behind the El Gecko Hotel where both Egrets and Herons circle in at twilight is the place to be.

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Andalucia Birdwatching - November 2009
Monday, 30 November 2009
THE autumn migration did not happen this year. The expected flights of small flocks of Black Kites, Honey Buzzards and various Eagles did not...

© 2012 - Secret Andalucia - Guadiaro Valley, near Ronda

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