AAnnddaalluuccííaa BBiirrdd SSoocciieettyy www.andaluciabirdsociety.com

NEWSLETTER Volume 1. Edition 1.

Date of issue. 31st March 2009

In this edition: x ”Migration time is here already! P1 & P2 ”Our bird of the moment – Hoopoe or should that be Hoopoo? P1 & P3 ”Editorial P4 ”Starting or joining a local group P5 ”Privilege travel programme P6 ”Rarities report for the first quarter of 2009 P6 & P7 ”Proyecto eremita P7 to P10 ”Member’s day P10 & P11 ”The Desembocadur a del rio Guadalhorce P11 to P13 ”Join us in Morocco

MIGRATION TIME IS HERE OUR BIRD OF THE MOMENT: Hoopoe or should that be Hoopoo? ALREADY…. At around the time of this publication, one of I don’t know about you, but for me at least it seems just a short while ago that I sat near to Tarifa watching the our most familiar birds large exit of raptors from Europe headed towards the the Hoopoe Upupa near shores of North Africa. Every year, around the start epops will have become much more visible as of September, I am either leading groups or making my wintering numbers are own pilgrimages to the Atlantic seaboard of Andalusia in supplemented by large search of the spectacle that is migration. influxes of migrants that

are returning to their The sheer volume of birds involved in the autumn rush to breeding grounds. Migration is in evidence as early as the leave for warmer climes is staggering. For the grand second half of February and these early returning birds spectacle, then the larger migrants perhaps offer the brighten our winter. Not just a beautiful looking bird, if audience the star attraction, but to see thousands of our somewhat strange as well, the Hoopoe also has a few smaller passerines, such as Bee eater Merops apiaster, nasty habits that can be read on page 3………. forming colourful clouds as they leave our shores is, I think, a sight that all should witness at least once in their lifetime.

Of course migration, whether in Spring or Autumn, can bring along the unexpected or very rare migrant. Apart from the now regular autumn visitor Rüppell’s Vulture Gyps rueppellii, last autumn saw African White Backed Cortijo de las Piletas is a country hotel located in the heart of Vulture Gyps africanus taking a bow! It all adds to the Andalucia. Only 12km. from the picturesque town of Ronda, occasion and acts as a magnet for birdwatchers the in the Natural Park of Grazalema, the Cortijo allows visitors to explore a great variety of natural environments, both on the world over. property grounds as well as the surrounding areas.

So we can count our Beautiful patios and gardens surround the house offering blessings, that we are cozy nooks for our guests to relax in harmony with nature. very fortunate to live so Centenarian trees and a variety of aromatic plants provide close to areas where we cool shade, colours and aromas while we take walks, swim or can bear witness to one sunbathe. In the evening, in the gardens near the threshing of the natural wonders floor, we can enjoy spectacular sunsets beyond Grazalema. of our world. It is almost These are just a few of the special moments awaiting you impossible to absorb during your stay at Cortijo de las Piletas. the spectacle of this We look forward to welcoming you for an unforgettable stay number of birds, either leaving for or arriving from Africa, with us ... without being curious about why and how it is all made possible? Ph: +34 605 080295 - Fax: +34 951 230603 - e-mail: Continued on Page 2………….. [email protected] Website: www.cotijolaspiletas.com

1 MIGRATION TIME IS HERE ALREADY….

We are so very privileged to live in the southern reaches of the Iberian Peninsular. Here we are able to witness firsthand the incredible spectacle that is bird migration. Enormous populations of birds from the northern reaches of Europe become concentrated during the late summer and autumn as they approach the short sea crossing over the Straits of Gibraltar.

Larger birds, such as Eagles, migrate during the daytime when they are able to take advantage of rising thermals and up-draughts, whilst many small birds migrate at night and take their direction from the position of the setting sun. As well as seeing the sun go down, small birds also seem to see the plane of polarized light caused by it, which calibrates their compass. Travelling at night also provides other benefits. Predators are avoided and with the danger of dehydration, due to flying for long periods in warm, sunlit skies, is also reduced. An added benefit to night migration is also apparent when the air structure is cool and smooth and conducive to sustained, stable flight.

Flight gives birds the power to fly in any direction for as long as they have the energy to keep going. They have lightweight, hollow bones, navigation systems that simply defy belief, and an ingenious heat-conserving design that concentrates all blood circulation beneath layers of warm, waterproof plumage leaving them fit to face life in extreme climates.

Bird migration occurs in each natural region of the world, each country, each county and even each parish, where birds will come and go with the seasons. Many make vast journeys to reach their wintering grounds. Swallows, for example, may breed and spend the summer in one place, but it spends most of the rest of the year travelling back and forth to its wintering grounds in Southern Africa.

Bird migration evolved as a way for birds to exploit resources that are seasonally abundant and, equally important, to go elsewhere when the resources become scarce or harsh weather arrives. Many species can tolerate cold temperatures if food is plentiful, but if food is not available they must migrate. I guess the secrets of bird migration will remain as curious as any of life’s other unsolved mysteries. Sadly, some never complete their journeys, but I always look forward to the spring and the return of those who have survived.

For all the complexities of migration I consider myself lucky to live in ‘The Magic Corridor’ that is for many European birds the main flyway for autumn and spring passage.

Some viewing areas to watch both spring (March/May) and autumn (August/October) migration:

Tarifa area: Strategic observatories can be found both east and west of Tarifa and these are Algarrobo, Cabrito, Cazalla, Santuario, La Peña, Puerto de Bolonia and Puerto de Facinas.

Other areas: Serranía de Ronda and Sierra de Grazalema: Puerto de las Palomas, Sierra de Libar, Acinipo, Casares.

Photo 1. Rüppell’s Vulture Gyps rueppellii by George Reszeter Photo 2. White-backed Vulture Gyps africanus by Markus Varesvuo Photo 3. Knot Calidris canutus plus friends by Pieter Verheij

2

OUR BIRD OF THE MOMENT: Hoopoe or should that be Hoopoo?

Hoopoe Upupa epops (Abubilla)

I guess the first impressions you get from seeing a Hoopoe for the first time is a mixture of the comical as well as the beautiful! With its striking colours and very distinct black and white wing pattern the Hoopoe is a favourite among even the most casual observer. The Hoopoe is a one-off polytypic species¹ and is distributed widely throughout the Western Paleartic, but is only a resident in southern Spain, northern Africa, Egypt and the Lebanon. It is one of those birds whose presence during the winter months can more than make-up for the cooler temperatures.

In Andalusia we are fortunate to see these beautiful birds all year round and of course during times of bird migration the local birds are joined by those passing through on their way to northern and central Europe. Although a bird essentially of level or gently undulating terrain that has good areas of bare surface i.e. silt, rock and sandy soils, they have taken to the grassed golf courses of the Costa’s and are a common sight in coastal areas. They can be seen at varying altitudes within the province ranging from sea level to well over 1400m above. Here Mole- crickets and beetle larvae form the bulk of their diet, although they show a great liking for both larvae and pupae of butterflies and moths. So mostly their diet is insects and almost entirely animal, they are also known to take lizards, frogs, toads and very rarely bird eggs! It has a long and thin bill which suits probing soft ground and under leaf litter where I have seen it take millipedes and centipedes, but once I saw it grapple with a small scorpion and this makes the bird a friend of mine!!

Hoopoes nest most commonly in the holes of trees, but are also known to use buildings and ground holes. Normally between 5 and 7 eggs are laid and incubation can range from 14 to 20 days. The young, which take anywhere from 26 to 29 days to fledge, are at first brooded almost continuously by the female and are fed by the female until almost ready to fledge when the male, although always the provider in the earlier stages, will also directly help feed the chicks. It is when the young are over 6 days old that they are able to largely prevent unwanted attentions from predators and of course yours truly. When disturbed they can exude an evil and intolerable smelling fluid from enlarged and modified oil glands and if this wasn’t enough they acquire the dubious ability to forcibly squirt a hatful of liquid faeces and gut contents accurately over a distance of 25 to 30cm. It is as good a reason as any for telling people to pronounce the name Hoopoe as ‘Hoopoo’!!

¹ Most of the west Palearctic range occupied by the nominate race epops, showing little variation. U. e. major from Nile delta (Egypt) south to northern part of Sudanese Nile valley similar, but colours slightly duller, belly more streaked, tail-band narrower, and less white in secondaries; size larger, especially bill. U. e. senegalensis from Ahaggar (southern Algeria) distinctly smaller.

Photo 1 and 2. Hoopoe Upupa epops (Abubilla) by Pieter Verheij

3 Editorial

Well at last, after so many trials and tribulations, we are now firmly on the road to establishing ‘our’ brand new, all shinning bird society for Andalusia. The initial work has been nothing short of miraculous. Filing the necessary forms here to register the society took an eternity, but I guess, and we are still waiting, that to receive the actual registration and official number will take infinitely longer! The wheels of the Junta move ever more slowly. The things, both great and small, necessary to get everything working before our official launch on January 1st 2009 was daunting to say the least. For the largest part, our efforts tended to be focused towards the construction of the web site and our Forum. Both of these ‘shop windows’ for the society still need work, with the greatest need now to include Peter sharing yet another joke in India! more useful and meaningful content.

At the moment we have two projects to be undertaken by the society and of course you can expect this list to grow over time. The first is developing an education programme for children under the age of 12 and with this project we are collaborating with Audubon Society (New York). The second is to try and assist the beautiful Lesser Kestrel Falco naumanni by purchasing and erecting purpose made nest boxes. I am hopeful I can offer you further news on both these projects by the time I get around to writing the next editorial in June of this year. Of course, if you have any ideas for more projects then do let us know.

For the first year of its existence the society is progressing with unelected and, even worse, self appointed officers, of course a necessity in our premiere year. Hopefully over a period of time and before June 2010 we will have individuals willing to help with the running of the society. Certainly I would welcome any kind of help at the moment and ahead of next year’s annual elections! Another problem, or at least drawback, to our first year, will be the impossibility of producing an Annual Bird Report by the end of the year. To help compensate for this, I am currently working hard to produce a booklet on the Birds of Andalucia and hope to include sites of interest for each of our eight provinces and a systematic list (including status) for the region. The book/booklet will be available free for members this year and for sale by the society to non-members. We are looking to finance the publication through advertising and sponsorship so if you know anyone who might contribute please let us know.

I am hoping to make the systematic list for the birds of Andalusia available on our web site, but I need to work on finding a format that is easy to read and also downloadable for members. For those of you who plan to go, or who have already been, to do some birdwatching in Morocco, then I am also compiling a tick-list or more properly a checklist for that country. Once these things are done, then hopefully they can be downloaded from the member’s area of the web site. Other things in my ‘to do list’ is making available downloadable reporting forms for rarities and also annual returns (your observations for the year), the later being in Microsoft Excel format. Most likely these developments will appear first on our Forum.

We began our monthly outings in March (see report latter in this newsletter) and hope to be able to offer some interesting days out for members in the future. Hopefully other professional guides or experienced birders will offer their services for these meetings. We already have knowledgeable members who are very capable of perhaps suggesting their own day for members. Let’s hope they step forward and help us fill our event’s calendar. Also now available for members and their friends is a planned holiday to Morocco this coming September. Anyone with an interest to come along on this tour, please get in touch.

Well, with the formation of this society and all that this has entailed in addition to birding in such exotic places as Morocco, India and Costa Rica, the last six months has been particularly hectic for me. It has been an enormous pleasure and very satisfying in all respects, so it is going to be hard to repeat during the next six months. Having said that, at the time of writing this editorial, I am off again to Morocco and the Sahara, so things and certainly birding are looking good!

Thank you all for your support and don’t forget to try and submit an article that might interest other members for the next newsletter. I am sure you would all prefer to read something which wasn’t only my diatribe!

Peter Jones

All correspondence and submissions please to: abcandalusia’AT’gmail.com

4 Andalucia Bird Society – Joining or Starting a Local Group

ABS local groups are a great way to meet friendly, like-minded people in your area, while learning more about birds and wildlife.

Run by volunteers you can be as involved as you like with your local group. Whether you just take part in the extensive events programme that each group organises or get more involved with the everyday running of the group organising talks, walks, fundraising, or looking after the group's finances etc, you will be helping to make a real difference to conservation in your local area and Andalucia.

Q&A The most common questions we are asked about our local groups.

Do I have to be an ABS member to join a local group? You don't have to be a member to join in, and turning up to a meeting doesn't commit you.

Does it cost anything to come to a local group meeting? This differs from group to group. Some have an on-the-door entry fee and others have a silver collection. Most groups also have their own membership fee should you eventually decide to join the group.

How often do local groups meet? Groups hold an outdoor meeting/walk once a month. The number of indoor meetings varies with each group.

What can I expect at a local group meeting? A warm, friendly welcome and an opportunity to meet like minded people who share your enthusiasm for and interest in wild birds and the environment. Any of our local groups would be delighted to welcome you along to one of their events where you can find out more.

What do local groups do? Groups organise their own program of events throughout the year, covering a wide range of topics and activities. There is something for everyone from talks and slide shows, coach outings, guided walks, and helping run a stall at a local fair, through to weekends away, getting dirty helping with scrub clearance on your local reserve or winding down at the Summer barbecue.

What types of people belong to local groups? Local groups are open to all, from those with a keen interest in birds to people who want to learn more about conservation and wildlife. Everyone is welcome.

How do local groups support the ABS? Local groups promote and represent the ABS in the local community by running events, fundraising for the ABS, and offering conservation help in the local area.

Are there local groups for children? Yes. All our local groups welcome families.

There is no local group near me. Can I start one? Please contact us if you are interested in starting a local group.

Note: If you already run a walking or nature group, why not join us at Andalucia Bird Society by affiliating your group and enjoy the benefits of widening your circle of both friends and like-minded people.

5 Privilege Travel Programme 2009

Organised by Andalucia Bird Society and Spanish Nature

Our selected bird tours are designed to provide members and sympathizers of Andalucia Bird Society the possibility of observing birds in privileged surroundings whilst enjoying the pleasant company of other like-minded people, partners and friends.

Our Privilege Travel Programme is a wonderful opportunity to move closer to the fascinating world of birds and find those specialist birds in the areas we visit. Identification and general assistance is provided by our tour leaders and expert ornithologists. Wherever possible and in line with the Sustainable and Responsible Tourism policy of our partners Spanish Nature, we will use ‘local’ guides to supplement our resident tour experts.

Organisation of our tours is conducted in collaboration with Spanish Nature, whose experience and professionalism is well proven and serves as your quality assurance.

The programme includes a variety of ornithological itineraries across Spain and also includes some exotic destinations such as Costa Rica (February 2010), Ecuador (August 2009 & 2010), Galapagos (September 2009 & 2010), India (November 2009), Kenya (August 2009) and nearer to home Morocco (September 2009).

‘All’ money raised from our tours goes directly towards protecting and enhancing wildlife, and helping people of all ages to enjoy and learn more about it. If we do not raise the funds, the conservation does not get done. Choosing a holiday and bird tour with us helps to ensure that together we can build a sustainable future.

Note: As a registered charity, the ABS relies on the generosity of individuals and organisations to carry out its work. We put money straight into priority work, holding the bare minimum of financial reserves.

If you are interested to participate in any of the tours to the above destinations please contact us on the following email address abcandalusia’AT’gmail.com

RARITIES REPORT for the first quarter of 2009

Canada Goose Branta canadensis Huelva On 31.1 one was seen at Doñana Pale-bellied Brent Goose Branta bernicla hrota Cádiz. The bird found on 18.12.2008 at Salina Nuestra Señora de los Dolores, San Fernando, Cádiz was still there on 11.1.2009 Presumed Hybrid Western Reef x Little Egret Egretta gularis x garzetta Cádiz. The dark bird present in the Cadiz bay the last years was seen again and photographed on 20.1 Greater Spotted Eagle Aquila clanga Cádiz. An adult/subadult was at La Janda area on 25.1 Baltic Gull Larus fuscus fuscus Málaga 10-11.1.2009 This bird had been ringed at Tampere dump, Finland (61.54N, 23,9E) as probably female >2cy by Risto Juvaste Laughing Gull Larus atricilla Málaga On 8.2 an adult was seen at river Vélez mouth, Málaga Iceland Gull Larus glaucoides Huelva. One adult was seen at Odiel marshes coast, Huelva on 6.2 Huelva. On 11.2 a 1w was at Isla del Moral fishing harbour,Ayamonte, Huelva Málaga. A 1w was found at Caleta de Vélez, Málaga on 15.2 Kumlien's Iceland Gull Larus glaucoides kumlieni Huelva. On 3.2 an adult was found at Odiel marshes, Huelva Glaucous Gull Larus hyperboreus Cádiz. A 1w was found exhausted at Los Lances beach, Tarifa, Cádiz, on 6.2. The bird died at the recovery center. Cádiz. A 2w was seen also at Los Lances beach, Cádiz, on 7.2 Ceuta. A bird was seen on 1.1 flying over playa del Chorrillo, Ceuta, already within the Mediterranean sea Huelva. One 1w was seen at Odiel marshes coast, Huelva on 7.2 Huelva. One adult was seen at Odiel marshes Natural Park coast, Huelva on 5.2 with a 1w Iceland Huelva. A different adult was seen and photographed at Odiel marshes Natural Park coast, Huelva on 6.2 with and 3 Iceland Gulls. Either this or bird other was seen on 9.1 and seen on 12.2 Cádiz. On 9.2 a 1w was at Levante beach, La Línea de la Concepción, Cádiz close to the Gibraltar frontier Ceuta. A 2w bird was seen on 11.1 on a rock at Playa de Benzú, Ceuta

6

RARITIES REPORT for the first quarter of 2009 continued…………………

x Little Swift Apus affinis xx Cádiz There were five at Guadalquivir river mouth, Cádiz, on 14.2

Cádiz There were also 11 individuals at the same site on 18.2

Sociable Plover Vanellus gregarious

Sevilla On 19.2 a bird was found at PN Brazo del Este, Sevilla

Richard’s Pipit Anthus richardi

Ronda On 20.2 a bird was found at Indiana, Rio Guadiaro, Serranía de Ronda. Not a true rarity, but scarce enough to mention!

Little Shearwater Puffinus [assimilis] baroli

Cádiz A bird was found exhausted at Vejer de la Frontera, Cadiz, on 3.3. It was later brought to Centro de

Recuperación de Especies Amenazadas "Dunas de San Antón" and identified as a Little Shearwater (Rafael

García Costales). The bird died a few days later.

Presumed Hybrid Western Reef x Little Egret Egretta gularis x garzetta

Cádiz. The 'usual' bird from Cádiz bay Natural Park was seen again on 5.3 at Salina de Puerto Real (Rafael García

Costales).

Lesser Flamingo Phoenicopterus minor

Málaga On 7.3 four birds were seen at Fuentedepiedra lagoon, Málaga, having been present there since mid- february (Andy Paterson). It is interesting to note that on 23.2 two were recorded at Castro Marim, SE Portugal

(Nelson Fonseca y Luis Campina) and that, despite search, no bird was seen at Ebro delta those days

(R.Gutiérrez). 7 birds 28.3 Fuente de Piedra (P.Jones et al).

Iceland Gull Larus glaucoides

Cádiz. There was a 1w (2nd calendar year) at Salinas de la Tapa, El Puerto de Santa María, Cadiz on 9.3 (Rafael

García Costales, Paco Chiclana).

Kumlien's Iceland Gull Larus glaucoides kumlieni FOURTH FOR SPAIN

Huelva. The adult bird found on 3.2 remained at Odiel marshes, Huelva, on 12.3 (Paco Chiclana, Goyo Para, Juan

Matute, Javi, Jorge Garzón,Carmen, Mario Martín y Fernando del Valle).

Little Swift Apus affinis

Cádiz There were five at Guadalquivir river mouth, Cádiz, on 21.3 (Paco Chiclana)

Cádiz On 20.3 there were four at a coastal cave at Sierra de la Plata, Cádiz (Ernest F.J.García)

Moroccan White Wagtail Motacilla alba subpersonata SECOND FOR SPAIN

Málaga There was an euring 5 bird at Málaga harbour on 20.3 ( Manuel Moreno Aráujo, Antonio Tamayo, Israel

Lozano, Samuel Peregrina). First record was on 24.3.2007 at Cádiz. Sighting already reported to CR/SEO-BirdLife

Marabou Leptoptilos crumeniferus D CATEGORY SPECIES

Sevilla Presumed escape. A bird with a yellow PVC ring 'RD o RB', perhaps the same seen at Ojuelos, Marchena,

Sevilla on 18.10.2008, and of unknown origin, was seen at Brazo del Este, Puebla del Río, Sevilla on 28.3 (Paco Chiclana,Manolo Villaécija y Jesús Martín).

Proyecto Eremita

Miguel A. Quevedo and Iñigo Sánchez, ZooBotánico Jerez, Spain

The “Proyecto Eremita”, is a study of different releasing techniques of Northern Bald Ibis (Geronticus eremita) in the region of La Janda (Cádiz, South-Western Spain) starting in 2003. From 2004 to 2007 a total of 109 birds from the EEP population have been released in this area, where 18 of them survive as a free flying group. In May 2008 a single pair built a nest in a nearby cliff and the first reproduction in the wild took place. One chick was reared by their parents and joined the free flying group. The project was planned to finish in 2008 although in the light of experience and good results it would be possible to continue with the release study for the next two years.

The Northern Bald Ibis, Hermit Ibis, or Waldrapp (Geronticus eremita), a bird widespread in the Mediterranean Region in historical times is at present globally categorised ‘Critically Endangered’, (IUCN 2008) with an estimated wild population of about 420. Just over 100 breeding pairs now remain at two sites in Morocco whilst two further wild pairs remain in Syria. A small semicaptive population remain in Turkey. Outside the breeding season the Moroccan population concentrate at one site with upwards of 300 individuals (75% of the wild population) roosting on one small section of the sea cliff. On the other hand, a large captive population persist in zoos, which have a

7 Moroccan founder population. At present the estimate EEP (European Endangered species Programme) population size is about 900 birds.

In 1999 an international advisory group for the northern bald ibis (IAGNBI) was created during the workshop held in Agadir (Morocco) in order to coordinate efforts, provide scientific advice and bring together the teams working on the wild birds with those in the zoo community. One of the conclusions of the meeting noted the necessity of performing studies on releasing techniques to attain a non-migratory and viable population of this species in another area.

“Proyecto Eremita”

Due to appropriate habitat and climate conditions in the south of Spain and the willingness of Zoobotánico Jerez in performing studies of releasing techniques this project was presented to our regional environmental administration. “Proyecto Eremita” started in 2003, as a joint project between Zoobotánico de Jerez and Consejería de Medio Ambiente de la Junta de Andalucía with the scientific advisor of Estación Biológica de Doñana, the main institution for the study of vertebrates in Spain. An area in Cádiz province, South-Western Spain was chosen, with conditions quite similar to those found in the current Moroccan distribution: good climate with mild winters and hot, dry summers, abundant foraging areas of pastures and agriculture fields allowing the birds to feed all the year around and coastal cliffs within a protected area (Parque Natural Pinar de la Breña y Acantilados de Barbate).

The first year was devoted to the habitat assessment, food availability and potential hazard studies to know if the selected area was able to hold a self-sustaining population. At the meeting of the IAGNBI held in Innsbruck (Austria) in July 2003 the project was presented along with the preliminary results of the field study. The planned release methodology was revised in view of the outcome of the meeting. One constraint in the release plan was the proximity of southern Spain to the Moroccan population. The recommendation was to enclose the juveniles in the aviary during the dispersion period (August to November).

At the beginning of 2004 an aviary was built at Sierra del Retín, a military area where the access is restricted giving some level of protection to the birds. This enclosure is divided into several parts, not only for release but also to maintain a captive breeding colony as an additional attraction to the free-flying group. During this year an educational program was developed directed to different collectives of the release area to raise public awareness on the species. Basic information on the biology and conservation status of the species was provided to schools, ONG´s, hunters and farmers associations and general public. In the summer of 2004 we started to release birds and it was planned to continue until 2008.

Birds used in this study come from the EEP, mainly from ZooBotanico Jerez. Other EEP institutions that have kindly collaborated with the project providing birds for release and breeding are: Amersfoort, Budapest, Chester, Doue, Innsbruck and Jersey.

Release techniques used:

Group of hand reared chicks by characterized foster parents wearing black shirts and Ibis shaped helmets. The chicks follow and approach only these “parents” and can be handled and caught whereas they avoid contact with other humans (74 birds).

Group of hand reared Ibis together with Cattle egrets (Bubulcus ibis), a common species in the area with similar habitat and food needs (17 birds, only in 2004 and 2005).

Group of parent reared chicks incorporated into the hand reared group when the birds are kept in the aviary during the dispersal period. Those birds are release in November. (12 birds in 2004, 2005 and 2006).

Group of adults, previously kept in the aviary for at least 2 years and incorporated with the hand reared chicks before November release. (6 birds in 2006).

All the birds are individually marked using standard aluminium and plastic colour rings with an alphanumeric code. Also terrestrial radio-transmitters are set to monitorize the movement of the birds. The veterinary procedures are 8 based on the Veterinary Protocol in the Reintroduction of Northern Bald Ibis. In case of mortality a thorough post- mortem study is performed.

Preliminary results

During these 4 years of study (2004 – 2007) a total of 110 birds (103 juveniles + 7 adults) have been released. There has been a high juvenile mortality rate (minimum 52 out of 103) and probably most of the strayed birds could have died. At present the free-flying group is formed by 19 birds: 3 hand reared from 2004, 1 hand reared from 2005, 2 from 2006 (1 parent reared and 1 adult), 12 hand reared from 2007 and 1 hatched in the wild in 2008. In 2008 the estimated number of birds to be released would be: 20 hand reared juveniles (half kept in during the dispersion period and half outside of the aviary), 28 parent reared juveniles and one adult. Up to this point we have had better success using the hand reared technique; 16 out of the 19 remaining birds, than with parent reared chicks; 1 out of 19 or adults; 1 out of 19. A general view of the total data is showed in fig.1.

Of the109 released, 55 died (see the attached figure 2 for causes of mortality) and 36 went missing from the release site. Of those missing birds little or scarce information has been received. Two birds were observed in Morocco (Afennourir Lake in 2005 and Larache 2007) and two birds were observed in Western Spain (2007). We assume that most of them could have died as no further observation occurred. The causes of mortality have been natural or accidental but the surviving birds are well adapted to the area and they have enough food all year around. There is a public awareness about the species with the local people finding the birds and the experiment interesting.

In May 2008 the first breeding pair succeeded in building a nest in a nearby coastal cliff and reared a chick. The cliff was located 5 km from the release site. This breeding pair was formed by birds hatched at Jerez zoo in 2004 and hand reared by characterized foster parents. The female laid 3 eggs although only one chick fledged and joined the free flying group.

The future

Although originally the project was planned to finish by 2008, an extension till 2010 was suggested in the last IAGNBI meeting organised in 2006 in Vejer, Spain, close to the release area.

At the end of 2008 a total of 159 EEP birds will have been set free, a good number to achieve a preliminary conclusion of this experimental study in southern Spain. If the project continues until 2010 the number of released birds will increase as well as the potential breeding pairs, thus creating a probably non-migratory, self-sustaining population at the release site. Then this methodology could be used for future reintroduction programmes (between a 5 and 7 year period) in those regions where the sedentary population has become extinct. From a conservation point of view, considering the former widespread distribution of the species around the Mediterranean, and the recent demonstration of the historic presence of this species in Spain, the reintroduction in the area could be considered as another option.

Table 1: RELEASE SCHEDULE until end of 2008

REMAIN TOTAL HAND PARENT RELEASED STRAYED YEAR DEAD in release RELEASED REARED REARED ADULTS site 2004 23 21 2 0 13 7 3 2005 24 17 7 0 18 5 1 2006 34 25 3 6 13 19 2 2007 28 28 0 0 11 5 12 2008 1 50 20 29 1 - - planned wild born TOTAL 159 111 41 7 55 36 19

9 Table 2: CAUSES OF MORTALITY

CAUSE of MORTALITY Nº COMMENTS Electrocution 6 Perching on badly isolated electric poles Predators 19 10 Eagle owl, 3 Bonelli´s eagle, 6 other ( probably foxes) Foreign bodies ingestion (pieces of wires) in the first year. Another Perforative peritonitis 4 9 birds recovered after successful surgery. 3 power lines, 2 hit by car, 1 windmill, 3 badly broken beak and Trauma 16 euthanasia, 6 unknown. Gunshot 1 Flew away from release area into an unprotected zone. Aspiration pneumonia 1 During the hand rearing process Juvenile. Nest material ingested, accumulated in stomach in large Asphyxia 1 amount, regurgitated as large pellet pressing trachea. Drowning 1 Probably exhausted fell into the sea. Only the corpse or the transmitter was found. No possible post- Unknown cause 7 mortem study. TOTAL 56

Our thanks to Miguel A. Quevedo and Iñigo Sánchez, ZooBotánico Jerez, Spain. All photographs used in this article by Pieter Verheij.

Member’s Day 3rd March 2009

A day touring the area known as Sierra de Libar within the boundaries of the Parque Natural Sierra de Grazalema.

At last a day to put faces to names and a chance for some of our members to combine meeting others and sharing a morning’s birdwatching together. The weather could have been better, but the opportunity to see some of our scarcer birds helped keep spirits high.

Our day began by meeting at the Bar Stop café at Benaojan Estacion. Here coffees, a few breakfasts and teas went down well and got the morning off to a good start with people having the chance to get to know eachother before the serious business of birding commenced.

After the short journey from Benaojan to the track behind Montejaque, we were soon admiring views of Rock Bunting, Blue Rock Thrush, Lesser Kestrel and good numbers of Griffon Vulture, the later were also seen feeding close to a nearby farmstead. Crag Martins, Barn Swallows and Black Redstarts with their constant movement kept everyone on their toes and soon we were to hear Alpine Accentor, but despite so many pairs of eyes, telescopes and binoculars we could not locate the singing male!

We wound our way ever upwards along the track and stopped to admire Black Wheatears, Linnet, Goldfinch and Stonechats. Griffon Vultures and Black Redstart seemed to accompany us on our route. A feature of the day was the profuse and beautiful Broad-Leafed Iris that painted large areas with its variable shades of Blue. The keen eyes of Sue and Clive spotted distant, but unnamed, species of Narcissus in bloom and added to the interest of the day. Journeying into a spectacular basin with its different and cultivated terrain, we soon spotted Rock Sparrow, Thekla Lark, White Wagtail, Chaffinch and Mistle Thrush. Both Rock Sparrow and Thekla Lark were appreciated by all and particularly by a few who had not seen these species before in Spain.

We ventured higher, through Oak woodlands and arrived to the area where a large open high meadow is framed by magnificent limestone mountains. By now the weather started to close-in and rain began to dampen our day. From 10 hereon the birds took their cue from the wind and rains to find cover and disappear from our eager watchful gaze. We did manage Peregrine Falcon, Southern Grey Shrike and I heard Woodlark, of course Black Redstart and some Thekla Larks stopped our spirits from becoming too dampened by conditions. On our way back to a scheduled lunch stop at Montejaque, we managed Meadow Pipit, Serin, Chiffchaff and Sardinian Warbler.

Considering the poor weather we had a reasonable selection of birds and for me the day was made very pleasant by the good company and very good turnout of 16 members. I hope members will watch the Calendar Event section of our Forum for future trips and look forward to welcoming you at our next scheduled Member’s Day on the 3rd of May 2009. Note: The next member’s day will meet at the Bar Stop café/venta opposite the platform of Benaojan Station at 09:30 am 3rd May 2009. For further details then read the post on our Forum by following this link: http://www.andalusiabirdsociety.org/forum/index.php?topic=97.0

The Desembocadura del río Guadalhorce Andy Paterson

The Parque Natural de la Desembocadura del río Guadalhorce is, for obvious reasons, usually reduced to the expression the Guada. or the ponds. The site is, at a first glance, perhaps not exactly everyone’s idea of a good bird reserve, sandwiched as it is on three sides by the motorway (which actually splits the reserve), the Guadalmar urbanisation on the west side and the ever- increasing urban sprawl of Málaga on the east. Fortunately, it also enjoys just over 1.3 kms of coast.

Originally it was used for gravel extraction and dumping of demolished housing in about equal quantities and was an extremely undesirable, if not dangerous, place to visit with ‘hunters’ who shot at everything that moved, even butterflies, gangs of wild dogs and equally wild humans in about equal quantities and I myself was robbed there twice, one at knife point. However, civilisation has gradually taken over since it was taken over by the Consejería de Medio Ambiente (Dept.of the Environment) of the Andalusian regional government, although one still has to watch out for lunatic cyclists and occasionally illegal quads.

Its situation, more or less in the corner of Málaga Bay where the coastline changes direction and with the only standing fresh water of any note between Palmones, down near Gibraltar, occasionally that of the río Veléz but more often the disused salinas at Roquetas and Cabo de Gata, makes it of major importance. It means, for example, that in recent years the White-headed Duck has become a regular breeder with at least a quarter of the total Andalusian breeding population! Yet the changes that have taken place in the ponds have meant that whilst we have gained the White-headed Ducks as breeders, numbers of wintering Wigeon and Pintail have fallen greatly in the past twenty years, although how much of this may be due to the natural changes in winter distribution is open to question. We see occasional Marbled Teal and even more rarely Ferruginous Ducks, although Teal are common, as are Shoveler and Pochard, this last also breeding along with the ubiquitous Mallards. On the sea there are occasionally small numbers of Common Scoters, although back in the 1980s it was a common wintering species with flocks of up to 150 birds, such a number being unthinkable nowadays

Personally, I rather like waders, even the hysterical Black-winged Stilts which breed very well, as do the Little Ringed Plovers. Kentish Plovers are very restricted to within the fenced off areas as this is one of the very few areas where this once common shore species bred. Wader numbers depend much upon the water levels and the presence or not of a muddy shore, and if the water levels are high, wader numbers are not. Spring migration, particularly the period from mid April to end May, is usually the best and it is not impossible to see 16 or 17 species of waders in a day, including the stunning Curlew Sandpipers in breeding plumage, tiny Little Stints, Sanderlings which exchange the winter shore for fresh water in the spring, and occasional rarities such as Terek and Marsh Sandpipers, plus Lesser Yellowlegs on two occasions. Guadalhorce Seawatch Point

11 There are large wintering populations of Great Cormorant and Grey Heron, whilst the Purple Heron is only a passage migrant in both spring and autumn. Squacco Herons and Little Bitterns skulk amongst the reeds, as do the Purple Swamphen (alias Purple Gallinule or Purple Boghen) and at the lowest level Water Rails and other rails, but try seeing them!

Surprising for many, is the number of raptors that can be seen. There is, of course, the ubiquitous Kestrel, but an Osprey is resident during the winter months and often may be seen fishing for its breakfast/lunch/dinner, and there may be as many as 12 Booted Eagles, but their abundance is strictly related to the supply of rabbits. There is often a wintering Buzzard and a few Marsh Harriers, whilst it is not uncommon for the presence of a Peregrine to upset every bird in sight. Less common is the occasional fly-over presence of an autumn Eleonora’s Falcon, a cause for celebration!

As for passerines, the list is long and obviously they are most common during the migration periods. There are resident Zitting Cisticolas (a.k.a. Fan-tailed Warblers) and also a recent increase in Corn Buntings, plus the ubiquitous Stonechats and hordes of Greenfinches, Goldfinches and Serins. The summer months also see a small number of resident Woodchat Shrikes whilst there is often a wintering Southern Grey Shrike (this is meridionalis, not the Great Grey). One of our rarest passerines was also a shrike, an Isabelline Shrike a couple of years since (photo).

In the spring, in fact from early February onwards, and during autumn also, there are commonly all five species of hirundines to be seen at once – Red-rumped breed nearby as does a large colony of House Martins - and whilst Common and Pallid Swifts are common and occasionally abundant, Alpine Swifts do fly over and there have been records of the white-rumped swifts. Migrant wheatears, both Northern and Black-eared are often found in the wired-off beach areas, as are Pratincoles, although these do not tend to hang around!

Last but far from least there is the sea to look at, with our very own seawatch mirador (lookout). There are hordes of Yellow-legged, Lesser Black-backed and Black-headed Gulls, but at the right times there are also plenty of Mediterranean Gulls, adults of these in breeding plumage being one of the smartest gulls around, and also Audouin’s Gulls. Last year we had huge (by previous standards) numbers of Slender-billed Gulls and there are few records of Little Gull and occasional nearctic gulls. On the sea, apart from the now scarce Common Scoters, the main attractions must be the Balearic and Cory’s Shearwaters, these approaching close in shore at times. Terns are represented by Sandwich, Common and Little, and migrant Gull-billed on their way to Fuente de Piedra where they breed, with an occasional Lesser Crested or even a Royal or Caspian to raise the blood pressure. Migratory marsh terns also appear with regular records of passage Whiskered Terns and also Black, but White- winged Black is very scarce and irregular.

In sum, there is usually something for everybody and Isabelline Shrike very often something of real interest as well as an map, which leaves us with how get in there.

Access Come off the motorway where marked for San Julian and Guadalmar and head down in to Guadalmar. Easiest parking is to turn left at the little roundabout where it says ‘Guadalmar’ in silver-edged blue letters and then park by the church. From there, walk along eastwards towards Málaga for a few hundred metres, up the ramp, turn left and then go in across the bridge which you can sea. Alternatively, one can go right down to near to the sea and park 12 there near the kiddies’ playground, go up the ramp, look across the river and go in across the sandbar (always provided that the river is not in flood!).

Please do not go in where it is wired off as Kentish and also occasional Little Ringed Plovers breed in that area, along with Iberian race Yellow Wagtails, but walk along the beach about 200m and there is a track through and in and stick to the tracks shown on the maps. Avoid Sunday mornings if possible, when the masses emerge and cyclist provide a real hazard, although there is a small group of us who meet, talk and enjoy our birding. Make yourself known if you think you can identify me!

There is more information on the place in Where to watch birds in southern and western Spain, by Ernest García and myself (Helm, London), and my blog http://birding-the-costa.blogspot.com (copy and paste to get in to it and read the latest drivel) usually contains details of what has been seen recently. Little-ringed Plover chick

Our thanks to Andy Paterson Malaga, Spain. All photographs used in this article by Andy Paterson.

Why not join us on our Moroccan Autumn Migration Special? 16th to 25th September 2009

A wonderful opportunity to enjoy both the migrating and rare breeding birds in Morocco. This tour has been especially tailored to take in some of the rarest birds in Morocco, whilst also timed to allow our fellow travellers to view autumn migration where ‘anything’ might turn- up. We also visit one of the largest breeding colonies in the world for Eleonora’s Falcon!

From the fabulous old city of Marrakech to the Atlantic coast we will journey into the Anti Atlas Mountains and also stay in the southern deserts. The scenery alone is worth joining the tour for. Our usual high standard for accommodation applies and we have carefully selected restaurants and transport. Our journey allows us to take our time and we have selected some of our hotels specifically, not only for their comfort, but also their location. At 3 of these hotels we will spend 2 consecutive nights giving time for relaxation and enjoying their superb locations, these longer stays also give opportunities for individuals to miss touring with the group and do their own thing.

We most strongly recommend booking early for this tour. Those who follow our tours will know how popular our tours to Morocco have become and early bookings are advised in order to avoid disappointment.

It goes without saying that all our accommodation is of the usual very high standard as all Spanish Nature tours. This tour is relaxed and recommended if comfort and easy pace is required.

All guests have regular options, either join-in with group birding or opt-out and enjoy your own company. As an ABS member you have choices unlike with so many other group tours!

For further details please contact us by email at abcandalusia’AT’gmail.com or phone +34 616 891 359.

13 Join the Andalucia Bird Society…… For details on how to become a member of the Andalucia Bird Society please visit the Join ABS page. It is the many and varied birding interests of the membership that gives the ABS its strength and continuity, so everyone, beginner or expert, are most welcome to join. Whether you are a newcomer to birdwatching, an expert, or somewhere in between - if you have an interest in the birds of Andalucia, we can help you further your knowledge and enjoyment.

Who are we? The Andalucia Bird Society was formed in 2008 to promote the recording, study, conservation and enjoyment of birds in Andalucia. What do we do? Provide information on birds in Andalucia and bird watching outings in the area for new and experienced birders. Encourage our members to keep records of birds seen in Andalucia. Maintain a province database of bird records and advise and comment on bird conservation in Andalucia. Membership entitles you to... Quarterly Newsletters with news of recent sightings, articles by members and forthcoming events to keep everyone in touch, plus... The Andalucia Bird Report... A free copy of the Society's annual Bird Report with a full list of birds seen in Andalucia, plus... Annual Meetings... The chance to attend our AGM in June where members have the opportunity to meet and hear details of the Society's current work and to enjoy talks by local and national experts, plus... Field Outings... Join in field outings led by expert bird watchers visiting various parts of Andalucia, plus nearby provinces. These outings help both the beginner and the expert to improve their birdwatching skills, plus... Conservation Days... Assist with our conservation working parties providing practical help for important bird habitats in Andalucia, plus... Records and Surveys... An opportunity to take part in province and national surveys, and to have your own bird records incorporated into our annual Bird Report. Reports and Newsletter... All members receive a free copy of the quarterly newsletter and the annual Andalucia Bird Report except for joint membership, where both members must both live at the same address and will receive one copy between them.

Join Now a step by step guide......

Important: Unlike the majority of societies, who normally work on subscriptions running only for the calendar year regardless of when subscriptions are received, we have now decided that any new member paying their membership fees will enjoy 365 days membership from the date of payment. Of course those who have already paid their subscriptions for 2009 will also share the same benefits being applied. We believe this to be the correct and fairest way to treat our members. We hope this good news will further encourage interested and potential members to join our progressive society. 1. First of all you need to join the open Forum (free) and you will find the 'register' tag at the top of the Forum board (the furthest right tag). Click on this tag to register for your free Forum membership. Note: Shortly after you have registered you should receive an email approving your Forum membership. No action can be taken by you until your Forum membership is approved. 2. Once you have received your approval you can subscribe to full membership of the Society. To do this you will need to login on the Forum with your user name and chosen password. 3. Once you have logged-in to the Forum click-on the tag 'profile' at the top of the Forum board third tag from the right. You will then see a summary of your personal profile and also see a menu to the left of the screen. Under the menu title 'Actions' click-on Paid Subscriptions. 4. Clicking on Paid Subscription will take you to the membership Subscription Menu. Choose the membership applicable to you and click on the 'Order' button. 5. Once you have clicked the 'Order' button then a 'Confirm Payment' screen appears and reconfirms the amount of subscription you have chosen to pay. If the amount is correct then click the button 'Order with PayPal'. You will be directed to the PayPal site for payment. 6. The PayPal screen will be displayed and can be in Spanish! If this is the case you will see a heading Pais and in the box to the right Espana. To the right of Espana there is a scroll arrow to go through various language options. If, for example, you want the screen in English, simply scroll down to Reino Unido and select. The screen will appear in your chosen language and you can then complete the payment process. Please remember to have your credit card to hand. 7. If you successfully navigated through points 1 to 6 you are now a full member of Andalucia Bird Society. Thank you and Welcome!

Current rates for 2009 are as follows...

Ordinary membership €25.00 pa Joint ordinary membership €30.00 pa Student membership (age 18-20) €15.00 pa Under 18 membership (age 13-17) €10.00 pa Life membership €300 Joint life membership €400

14