High altitude birding in Georgia gave me new birds in the form of Caucasian Snowcock, Caucasian Grouse, Great Rosefinch and Guldenstadts Redstart on and around Mount Kezbeg along with Green Warbler and Caucasian Chiffchaff which depending on your views on taxonomy some count as full species these days. Moved south in to Armenia and have been on the road travelling the full length of the country visiting more outstanding habitat. Due to the changes in altitude the weather has been interesting - from blizzards and freezing to clear sky's and very warm. In Amernia new birds have included Armenian Gull, Eastern Rock Nuthatch, Rufous-tailed Wheatear, Finsch's Wheatear, Upcher's Warbler while the supporting cast of White-throated Robin, Red-fronted Serin, Snowfinch, Blue-cheeked Bee-Eater, Lammergeier, Red-breasted and Semi-collared Flycatcher and many others has put the holiday list well over the 200 mark with a few days to go. Not all plain sailing - failed to find Caspian Snowcock and Mongolian Finch which I needed. The people, friendly and hospitable, food great, vodka ball busting and the ancient monastery's awesome.
POND NEWS - someone found a White-winged Black Tern at draycote today, buddy Dave went to see it and texted me and Steve Seal e-mailed this photo with it sitting with Black Terns - isnt the world small. Luckily I have four records and missed three others so no one is going to meet Vlad the Impailer. Normally a short stayer.
Richard
No comments:
Post a Comment