The Latest on the Start of the Migration

[Stephen]

It´s been a busy old week for me down on The Strait of Gibraltar, even with the soaking wet conditions. Regardless of the rain, the mainly westerly winds assisted the passage of migrants back to Spain, crossing in their thousands into Cadiz province. Barn Swallows have been coming through for the last ten days in huge numbers. They started crossing in ones and twos in January although reports from various areas of Europe had even earlier birds. Nevertheless, the main movement for this species is definitely 'on' !
I had my first Red-rumped Swallow today and heard that one had been seen on Gibraltar last Saturday. A few Sand Martins were also seen this week as were two Little Swifts a week ago near La Janda. Hoopoes are more numerous, White Storks have been joining the thousands of others already in the area, displying, mating and in some cases already on eggs. Griffon Vultures too are returning in big numbers with a few Booted and Short-toed Eagles. Hen Harriers are increasing in numbers as the juv Marsh Harriers thin out and slowly move out of the area.
Stars of 'this weeks incomers show' were the Great Spotted Cuckoos. They have been frantically flying around the dehesa near Benalup, screaming loudly as they do and causing mayhem to the few pairs of Common Magpies that are now breeding in the area. The GS Cuckoos parasitise their nests and tensions are high in that little corner of paradise!
Eurasian Spoonbills, Pied Avocets, Bar-tailed Godwits, Golden Plover, Squacco Herons and Short-eared and Barn Owls too are more common as they pass through our area and quite a few Pintails turned up on La Janda, now returned to its former glory as a massive laguna! Loads of Chiffchaffs, Meadow Pipits, Lapwings, coming across replacing the ones that were here for the last months.
I've put quite a few photos and notes on my blog that may whett your appetites for our next field trip!
Looking forward to it and let's keep our fingers crossed for a dry day!
Stephen