Report of a Birding Trip to Georgia from 30Th April to 11Th May 2016

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Report of a Birding Trip to Georgia from 30th April to 11th May 2016

By Jildert Hijlkema

Birding in Georgia | 30 April – 11 May 2016

Participants:

André Geelhoed Jildert Hijlkema Jasper Hooymans Joep Hooymans Rens Huizinga

Cover photo The Gergeti Trinity Church sits high on a mountaintop overshadowed by Mount Kazbek (5.047 m / 16.558 ft) in a dramatic landscape. (Jasper Hooymans, 02-05-2016) ©

Birding in Georgia | 30 April – 11 May 2016

Introduction

In the middle of 2015 we started philosophizing about a birding trip to Georgia, mainly fueled by some mind blowing Caucasian species known as the “Big Five”: Caucasian Snowcock, Caucasian Black Grouse, Great Rosefinch, Güldenstädt’s Redstart and Caucasian Chiffchaff. All species which do appeal to birders’ imagination and which occur in the High Caucasus only or have a limited distribution. After gathering information, reading articles (among other things from Dutch Birding) and asking people who have been there for birding, we scheduled our trip end of that year for the next spring. As timing is probably one of the most essential variables in order to see the target species, we decided to plan our trip from 30th of April till 11th of May, travel days excluded.

By planning a trip just less than two weeks we were able to visit the main birding areas in the inland of Georgia, as the county is only twice the size of the Netherlands. Although some good species can be found in the coastal region (Mediterranean Shearwater, Gray-headed Swamphen and White-backed Woodpecker) we deliberately ignored Batumi and the Chorokhi Delta because of our time-restricted schedule. By this choice we had enough time to visit and enjoy a great variety of habitats with each their own specific species and characteristics. More practical information, our schedule and species can be found further in this report. Hopefully this report can be useful by designing your schedule for a birding trip to this beautiful country.

Jildert Hijlkema

On behalf of the rest of the group: André Geelgoed, Jasper Hooymans, Joep Hooymans and Rens Huizinga.

Birding in Georgia | 30 April – 11 May 2016

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. The Practical Guide ...... 5 1.1 Flights and getting there ...... 5 1.2 Visas and travel advice ...... 5 1.3 Money ...... 5 1.4 Language ...... 5 1.5 Time and telephone ...... 6 1.6 Car rental ...... 6 1.7 Driving and petrol ...... 6 1.8 Accommodations ...... 6 2. The Site Guide ...... 9 2.1 Itinerary ...... 9 2.2 Kazbegi (Stepantsminda) ...... 10 2.2.1 The Russo-Georgian Friendship Monument ...... 10 2.2.2 Jvari Pass ...... 10 2.2.3 Ioane Natlismcemeli Orthodox Church ...... 10 2.2.4 Gergeti Trinity Church ...... 13 2.2.5 Sno ...... 13 2.2.6 Coordinates ...... 13 2.3 Alazani River Valley ...... 15 2.4 Chachuna Managed Reserve ...... 15 2.5 Kapatadze Lake / Sakhare Lake ...... 18 2.6 David Gareji Monastery ...... 18 2.7 Jandara Reservoir ...... 21 2.8 Javakheti Plateau ...... 21 2.9 Vardzia ...... 23 2.10 Borjomi-Kharagauli NP ...... 25 2.11 Kumisi Reservoir ...... 25 3. Review ...... 28 3.1 Conclusion ...... 28 3.2 Recordings ...... 28 3.2 Missed species ...... 28 3.3 Considerations ...... 29 4. Appendix ...... 30 4.1 Species list ...... 30 4.1.1 Birds ...... 30

Birding in Georgia | 30 April – 11 May 2016

4.1.2 Butterflies ...... 38 4.1.3 Others ...... 38 4.2 Literature ...... 39

Birding in Georgia | 30 April – 11 May 2016

1. The Practical Guide

1.1 Flights and getting there Travelling directly from western Europe or North America, you have little choice to fly; however, almost all the schedules are pretty inconvenient and there are no longer direct flights from Amsterdam or London. The most obvious route is to go via Istanbul, and Turkish Airlines (THY; www.thy.com) gives the most options.

The airport Tbilisi is located 17 km (11 mi) southeast of the actual capital. At the airport even at night many taxis are available. We had both during our outward from (AMS Amsterdam) and return with Turkish Airlines a transfer at Istanbul, although at different airports (see flight schedule below). The costs of our flight standard economy class where less than €300 per person.

1.2 Visas and travel advice To enter Georgia a passport is required, which is valid for a period of at least six months from the start of your trip. For EU citizen no visa is needed for stays with at most 90 days in a period of 180 days.

At the moment of departure the Dutch government recommended not to travel to the regions Abkhazia and South Osetia. Safety risks at the border region between Georgia and Russia were also mentioned. Birders from the Netherlands can look at https://www.rijksoverheid.nl/onderwerpen/reisadviezen/inhoud/georgie for a more recent travel advice.

1.3 Money The unit of currency is the lari (GEL), which is divided into 100 tetri. The GEL is tied to the European euro (EUR or €) at a fixed rate of GEL 1 = € 0.37. We experienced most shops and petrol stations do accept euros and dollars, but from a local we heard it is cheaper to pay with the Georgian currency.

ATMs / cash machines can now be found in all cities and larger towns (not necessarily at the actual bank offices), and in many small rural towns; they are safe and reliable and the obvious way to fund your travel. At most ATMs you can use your MasterCard / Maestro. After arriving the country the cash machine at the airport gives you a first possibility to withdraw money (GEL).

1.4 Language The official language in Georgia is Georgian. Naturally, Russian is still used as the lingua franca of the area; virtually everyone over 30 in Georgia is bilingual, and few have any hang-ups about using the colonisers’ language. However, Russian is being replaced by English as the second language in schools. English is spoken, but I wouldn’t say widely. It is mainly spoken by people aged in their 20s and younger, more so if they’re in a big city and more so depending on their level of education.

Birding in Georgia | 30 April – 11 May 2016

1.5 Time and telephone The time zone for Georgia is four hours ahead of GMT. Clocks are not adjusted for summer time.

Georgia’s country code is 995, and the code for Tbilisi is 32, so from most countries you will dial 0099532, followed by the seven-digit number. All other places have six-digit numbers; other codes are 422 for Batumi, 431 for Kutaisi, 493 for Poti and 350 for Telavi. Within the same town, just dial the number; otherwise dial 0 then the code and number. Mobile numbers begin with 5 and two digits, the a six-digit number; you’ll need to prefix this with +995 (rather than 00995). Practical knowledge to charge your mobile: electric power is supplied in theory at 220v 50hz, using European-standard two-pin plugs, it’s subject to surges, and in winter there may be power cuts.

1.6 Car rental Car rental is the easiest way of visiting the various birding locations. However numerous rental offices abound in the larger towns, it is strongly recommended to pre-arrange collection at the airport on arrival or just pick up a pre-booked car in the capital. We picked up a Mitsubishi Pajero IO (4WD) at CARS 4 RENT in Tbilisi, after spending the night near the car rental. Four-wheel drive rental cars are relatively inexpensive, with prices ranging from € 39-54 per day; depending on the number of days.

 Cars 4 Rent, tel: +(995 32) 230 60 95 (11am-6pm), e-mail: [email protected], info: http://www.cars4rent.ge 24a Shalva Dadiani St, Tbilisi +(955) 557 17 11 44

1.7 Driving and petrol Driving is on the right. Speed limits range from 50km/h in cities to 90km/h on highways, although these are universally ignored. However fuel prices have increased enormously over the past few years, petrol is still cheap by European standards; costing around GEL 2 (€ 0.74) a litre normal, GEL 2.20 (€ 0.81) for super and GEL 2-2.20 (€ 0.74-0.81) for diesel; fuel is now widely available throughout Georgia. However, it is prudent to keep the fuel tank topped-up in more remote areas, as occasionally there can be more than 100 kilometers between stations.

1.8 Accommodations Tourist accommodation in Georgia ranges from extremely luxurious hotels to very simple guest houses. During our stay we made use of simple and expedient guest houses, which were sufficient for us as birders. The intention here is to provide contact details for guest houses we have visited and give a short review. Be aware of the fact prices may possibly change, vary according the season and may be negotiable. Equally breakfast may or may not be included. All stays can be reserved by using the application Booking.com or through visiting the corresponding website http://www.booking.com, for which you will both need a credit card. At most guest houses and public facilities free Wi-Fi is available; useful to plan your next stay and share / upload recent observations. Here a list of the guest houses we have been, provided with a short review:

 Saint George Hostel, tel: +995 322 93 64 49, info: http://sg-hostel.com Galaktion Tabidze Street 24, 0105 Tbilisi City, Georgia Available Available Price: € 19 (based on a double room)

Birding in Georgia | 30 April – 11 May 2016

Review: simple, but effective accommodation situated near two car rentals and near the center of Tbilisi. The beds were not very comfortable.

 Soul Kazbegi Guest House, tel: +995 551 90 10 85 Al. Kazbegi Street 4, 4700 Kazbegi, Georgia Available Available Price: € 20 (based on a four person room) € 4 for breakfast Review: pleasant guest house runned by two enthousiastic youngster, who are speaking English very well. For cooking you can use a shared kitchen. In the vicinity some restaurants are present, with local food at the neighbors and more modern food at the Rooms Hotel more east. For birding this accommodation is situated perfectly, at short distance from the prior sites. Service is very flexible; at one day we did some early birding (5-6 PM) in order to see some target species. One of the owners stood up early to prepare breakfast for us: fantastic service.

 Guest House Monshishi Al. Kazbegi Street 4, 4700 Kazbegi, Georgia Available Available Price: € 17 (based on a two person room) € 3 for breakfast

Review: very basis guest house in a more touristic village, with some good restaurants nearby. Great view from the sun terrace in the morning. Miserably Wi-Fi did not work.

 Rangers Lodge 41.221°N, 45.972°E Not available Available Price: - Review: very primitive shelter, without any luxury, managed by two rangers. There is an aggregate available, from which you can gain electricity. Great location nearby top birding sites and great view over the area from the tower next to the ranger lodges. At the Chachuna Managed Reserve Administration in Dedoplitskaro, located 50 km away from the reserve itself, you can make a reservation and get permit to the reserve. At Google it is also known as the Administration of Vashlovani Protected Areas, which you can find at 41.463°N, 46.104°E. Another alternative are the more luxury (and expensive) hunting lodges.

 Maya Guest House Stminda George Street 7, 4200 Sighnaghi, Georgia Available Available Price: € 13 (based on two person room)

Birding in Georgia | 30 April – 11 May 2016

Review: beds where not very comfortable, shared badroom and slow Wi-Fi. Good breakfast, can be enjoyed in a shared room.

 Guest House Tirebi 41.410°N, 43.327°E Not available Available Price: € 25 Review: very primitive stay, bad food and we had a power cut. Not very good ingredients for a comfortable stay, although the Tsundi Lake and river Koera as garden are impressive. Next day we actually needed a strong breakfast at the modern Vardzia Resort (recommended).

Birding in Georgia | 30 April – 11 May 2016

2. The Site Guide

2.1 Itinerary

By planning a trip just less than two weeks we were able to visit the main birding areas in the inland of Georgia. Although some good species can be found in the coastal region (Mediterranean Shearwater, Gray-headed Swamphen and White-backed Woodpecker) we deliberately ignored Batumi and the Chorokhi Delta because of our time-restricted schedule. By this choice we managed to visit a great variety of habitats with each their own specific species and characteristics.

In this report some unknown toponyms are mentioned, which can cause confusion. Most of these places are between or around the main birding areas as shown on the map below. Precise coordinates of notable species seen at these more random places are included in each final paragraph. Almost every single observation is exported to the free accessible database of Observado via www.observado.org (specific for Georgia: https://georgia.observadion.org).

In the next paragraphs a short summary per birding area is given, mentioning the (most typical) species we have seen or which we have not seen. Be aware that there are most likely a lot of other - probably still unkown - places where classic target species can be encountered. Hopefully this report will provide useful information for birders planning a trip to this beautiful country.

Map with the main birding areas we have visited. (Bing Maps)

Birding in Georgia | 30 April – 11 May 2016

Map of the Stepantsminda / Kazbegi area with the main birding hot spots and target species. (Bing Maps)

2.2 Kazbegi (Stepantsminda)

Key species: Alpine Accentor, Bearded Vulture, Caucasian Grouse, Caucasian Snowcock, Cinereous Vulture, Güldenstädt’s Redstart, Mountain Chiffchaff, Red-fronted Serin, Wallcreeper

2.2.1 The Russo-Georgian Friendship Monument Before arriving at Kazbegi (earlier known as Stepantsminda) via the Military Highway the Russo-Georgian Friendship Monument gives birders a unique viewpoint in the heart of the High Caucasus. It gave us a preview what can be expected of migrating raptors in front of (fast) weather chances. Although Batumi is pretty sure the best place to observe raptor migration in Georgia, virtually anywhere in the country and especially near (mountain)pass this phenomenon can be experienced. A short visit to the monument resulted almost immediately in a group of Steppe Buzzards, a pair of Black Kites and a single European Honey Buzzard. We also managed to see the first Bearded Vultures (also known as Lammergeyer), which are living year-round in the High Caucasus. Further we had some Alpine Swifts and Water Pipits (ssp. coutelli), which for sure is one of the most common species in the mountain area.

2.2.2 Jvari Pass Further towards Kazbegi you come across the Jvari Pass; a slope where we have seen Caucasian Horned Larks, Turkish Twites (a potential split) and a pair of Alpine Accentors. This site is also known as one of the better places to see White-winged Snowfinch. In the past this species has been seen here by multiple birders. Although spending a lot of time during several attempt searching for this species, it did not work out for us.

2.2.3 Ioane Natlismcemeli Orthodox Church The High Caucasus range forms the northern border of Georgia. Georgia does have three peaks over 5.000m (Shkara, 5.068m; Janga, 5.059m and Kazbeg, 5.047m) and ten more over 4.000m. The Caucasus is, like the

Birding in Georgia | 30 April – 11 May 2016

Himalayas, a very young and dynamic range; it was formed just 25 million years ago, and linked about 15 million years ago to the Iranian Massif. The area is also known as the destination of one of Georgia’s finest hikes.

At our first full day around Kazbegi we started birding early east above the village (see letter ‘B’ at the map on the previous page), a nearly flat area, which gives a great view on the rocky and partially with Rhododendrons vegetated slopes. This site was close to our stay at the Soul Guest House (see letter ‘A’ at the map on the previous page). Immediate after entering the site impressive calls of Caucasian Snowcocks echoed through the mountain range. Then it took us a while to localize the couple of birds near the peak of the mountain range. In the meanwhile we noticed some displaying males of Caucasian Black Grouse, which are more easy to find. Other species present at this site were: Common Cuckoo, Ring Ouzel (ssp. amicorum) and Northern Wheatear. In the little pine forest we did not find the much expected Mountain Chiffchaff. Some species we have seen here: Common Chiffchaff, Red-breasted Flycatcher, Eurasian Jay (ssp. Krynicki), Marsh Tit, Mistle Thrush and Willow Warbler.

In the afternoon we made a visit to the slopes and the lower parts southeast of the village. After nearly an hour we encountered a flock of Güldenstädt’s Redstarts feeding at the berries of Sea-buckthorns. The river valley of the Térek is also known as a good location for this species. After cruising through the Sea-buckthorns vegetation we flushed two restless Red-fronted Serins. We also discovered a much camouflaged Wallcreeper, which showed very well at close range. Other species we noticed: Dunnock, Black Redstart (ssp. ochruros), European Greenfinch, Common Whitethroat, Tree Pipit, Northern Raven and European Goldfinch. A short climb resulted in a perfect overview on the river valley, where a single Cinereous Vulture was present between the Griffon Vultures and Hooded Crows. Some Red-billed Choughs flew over and we added another Caucasian Grouse, again it was a male. Back down again we encountered one of our main target soecues: Great Rosefinch. Expected earlier as a week before us arrival a Belgian birder counted an exceptional number of 30 birds of this species here!

The Russo-Georgian Friendship Monument, by the Military Highway, is a unique viewpoint in the heart of the High Caucasus. (Jildert Hijlkema, 30-04-2016) ©

Birding in Georgia | 30 April – 11 May 2016

View from the birding site near the Ioane Natlismcemeli building; probably the best place to see Caucasian Snowcock. (Jasper Hooymans, 01-05-2016) ©

Güldenstädt's Redstart feeding on berries of Sea-buckthorns. (Rens Huizinga, 01-05-2016) ©

Birding in Georgia | 30 April – 11 May 2016

Suddenly in the nearness some Güldenstädt’s Redstarts again did show well. Both species are known of moving along the snow line, so temperature and snow can have a massive impact on their occurrence. Towards the evening the first (fast) signs of chancing weather became more visible by high numbers of migrating raptors. Within half an hour we counted a single Black Kite, 300 European Honey Buzzards, 10 Steppe Buzzards, 1 Western Marsh Harrier and most notable 15 Levant Sparrowhawks; who flew over in front of the rain.

2.2.4 Gergeti Trinity Church Although we managed to see practically all the target species at our first effective day of birding, we decided to stay another day to experience the dramatic landscape around the Gergeti Trinity Church (see letter ‘C’ on the map at p. 10). For the ride from Kazbegi above you definitely need a 4WD. Our start was not that good, because of the thawing in the early morning our car got stuck in the mud on the grassy (half frozen) area nearby the church. It is strongly recommended to park at the beginning of the grassy area.

By leaving the car a Red-throated Pipit was noticed as a new trip species. Further more common species at this site: Alpine Swift, Red-billed Chough, Steppe Buzzard, European Honey Buzzard, Alpine Chough, Water Pipit (ssp. coutelli), Turkish Twite and Ring Ouzel (ssp. amicorum). After a short walk / climb upwards we founded a pair of Great Rosefinches and a medium flock of Red-fronted Serins. By adding a singing Mountain Chiffchaff we completed the list with target species around the Kazbegi area. Further upwards we encountered another couple of Great Rosefinches, which were easy approachable (see photo at the next page). At this place also another Bearded Vulture was seen as well as a singing Whinchat in the snow. On our way back to the car we found numeral Mountain Chiffchaffs.

2.2.5 Sno The next day we decided to take the exit in the direction of Sno before leaving the Kazbegi area. Along the straightened canal, probably constructed for draining meltwater, we added some new trip species such as Grey Wagtail, White-throated Dipper and Common Sandpiper. In the few shrubs we saw the first Lesser Grey Shrike of the trip and in the mainly agricultural surroundings we founded an expected Rock Bunting. During a short break at the car wash (along the Military Highway) we added with some luck Golden Eagle and Golden Oriole to our list.

2.2.6 Coordinates

Name Coordinate No. Area

Alpine Accentor 42.519°N 44.462°E 2 Jvari Pass

Bearded Vulture 42.489°N 44.457°E 2 The Russo-Georgian Friendship M.

42.664°N 44.597°E 1 Gergeti Trinity Church

Caucasian Grouse 42.660°N 44.663°E 3 m Ioane Natlismcemeli

42.649°N 44.658°E 1 m SE Kazbegi

Caucasian Snowcock 42.659°N 44.666°E 2 Ioane Natlismcemeli

Cinereous Vulture 42.649°N 44.637°E 1 Térek River

Güldenstädt’s Redstart 42.647°N 44.648°E 14 SE Kazbegi

42.651°N 44.654°E 3 SE Kazbegi

Mountain Chiffchaff 42.664°N 44.604°E 1 Gergeti Trinity Church

Birding in Georgia | 30 April – 11 May 2016

42.665°N 44.612°E 1 Gergeti Trinity Church

42.668°N 44.614°E 3 Gergeti Trinity Church

Red-fronted Serin 42.647°N 44.649°E 2 SE Kabegi

42.648°N 44.658°E 1 SE Kazbegi

42.664°N 44.607°E 15 Gergeti Trinity Church

42.560°N 44.512°E 8 Ukhati

Wallcreeper 42.645°N 44.648°E 1 SE Kazbegi

42.592°N 44.543°E 1 Térek River

We had great views of two foraging Great Rosefinches near the Gergeti Trinity Church. (André Geelhoed, 02-05-2016) ©

Birding in Georgia | 30 April – 11 May 2016

2.3 Alazani River Valley

Key species: Steppe Eagle

During our ride from Kazbegi through Sighnaghi to the Chachuna Managed Reserve we made a not planned stop at the Alazani River Valley. This area contained species like Common Nightingale, Golden Oriole, European Bee-eater, Red-backed Shrike, Eurasian Hoopoe and Little Ringed Plover. The fish farm at the south side of the river was even more spectacular with species like Great Reed Warbler, Black-headed Bunting, Purple Heron, Gull-billed Tern, White-tailed Eagle and Pygmy Cormorant. The presence of a Steppe Eagle led to much enthusiasm.

Name Coordinate No. Area

Steppe Eagle 41.668°N 46.072°E 1 Alazani River Valley

2.4 Chachuna Managed Reserve

Key species: Black Francolin, Chukar Partridge, Cinereous Vulture, Eastern Rufous-tailed Scrub Robin, Green Warbler, Lesser Kestrel, Menetries’s Warbler

On our way from Dedoplistsqaro to the Chachuna Managed Reserve we counted many Black-headed Buntings, Crested Larks, Calandra Larks, Isabelline Wheatears and Lesser Grey Shrikes. Birders have to be aware of the poor condition of this road, in particular when it is raining. For this part a 4WD is recommended. We arrived late at the Chachuna Reserve, but at first we could not find the Rangers Lodges. After we asked for directions at the Hunting Lodges we quickly found our stay (see letter ‘A’ at the map on the next page). In the meanwhile we found two European Nightjar in the headlights of the car at the road. You have to arrange your stay at the Rangers Lodge in advance at the Chachuna Managed Reserve Administration in Dedoplistsqaro.

The next day we woke up early with the amazing sounds of singing Common Nightingales and Golden Orioles. Soon we noticed an European Roller. On our way to the Dalis Mta Reservoir we encountered a Eastern Rufous- tailed Scrub Robin. Just after arriving at the shrubby areas below the dam we heard a few Black Francolins calling, but far away, so we decided to explore these areas by foot (see letter ‘B’ at the map on the next page). Soon we briefly seen our first Menetries’s Warbler. Many different birds of prey were present above the reedbeds or higher, such as Marsh Harrier, Black Kite, White-tailed Eagle and Griffon Vulture. After a while we accidentally flushed a pair of Black Francolins. Back at the dam we founded a small breeding colony of Lesser Kestrels around an old building. While observing some territorial Common House Martins under the bridge, suddenly a Cinnereous Vulture flew over.

Near the small valley at the southern side of the dam we added both Pied Wheatear and the more common Eastern Black-Eared Wheatear (see letter ‘C’ at the map on the next page). We also founded some nestling European Bee-eaters and a Little Owl. Further notable species seen at the steppes are Long-legged Buzzard, Greater Short-toed Lark, Ortolan Bunting, Tawny Pipit, Chukar Partridge, European Turtle Dove, Common Quail, Siberian Stonechat and Pallid Harrier.

During the return we came along Dedoplistsqaro to tick Green Warbler, which did work out very well. One bird was present in the park near the Culture House.

Birding in Georgia | 30 April – 11 May 2016

Name Coordinate No. Area

Black Francolin 41.278°N 45.891°E 3 Dalis Mta Reservoir

41.274°N 45.893°E 2 Dalis Mta Reservoir

Chukar Partridge 41.260°N 45.982°E 1 Chachuna Managed Reserve

Cinereous Vulture 41.283°N 45.900°E 1 Dalis Mta Reservoir

41.274°N 45.927°E 1 Chachuna Managed Reserve

Eastern Rufous-tailed 41.255°N 45.980°E 1 Chachuna Managed Reserve Scrub Robin 41.273°N 45.892°E 1 Dalis Mta Reservoir

Green Warbler 41.464°N 46.107°E 1 Dedoplistsqaro

Lesser Kestrel 41.274°N 45.926°E 1 Chachuna Managed Reserve

41.277°N 45.885°E 1 Dalis Mta Reservoir

Menetries’s Warbler 41.280°N 45.897°E 1 Dalis Mta Reservoir

Map of the Chachuna Management Reserve with the Dalis Mta Reservoir as one of the main top birdwatching sites and target species. (Bing Maps)

Birding in Georgia | 30 April – 11 May 2016

View from the dam at the edge of the Dalis Mta Reservoir; good site to hear Black Francolins. (Jildert Hijlkema, 05-05-2016) ©

The canyon at the southern side of the dam is a pretty good birding site. (Jildert Hijlkema, 05-05-2016) ©

Birding in Georgia | 30 April – 11 May 2016

2.5 Kapatadze Lake / Sakhare Lake

Key species: Cinereous Vulture, Demoiselle Crane, Eastern Rufous-tailed Scrub Robin, Lesser Spotted-Eagle

On our way from Sighnaghi to David Gareji Monasteri near the border with Azerbaijan we had a notable stop at the Kapatadze Lake and the Sakhare Lake; separated by the a172. Many Western Yellow Wagtails (ssp. feldegg) used the dried banks and a Eastern Rufous-tailed Scrub Robin was found in the reed. Some of us had good views of waders like Ruff, Wood Sandpiper and Common Ringed Plover. An English birding group attended us at two flying over Demoiselle Cranes and we attended them on a Lesser Spotted Eagle. Further we noticed our fourth Cinereous Vulture of the trip.

Name Coordinate No. Area

Cinereous Vulture 41.574°N 45.321°E 1 Karpatadze Lake / Sakhare Lake

Demoiselle Crane 41.574°N 45.321°E 2 Karpatadze Lake / Sakhare Lake

Eastern Rufous-tailed 41.576°N 45.318°E 1 Karpatadze Lake / Sakhare Lake Scrub Robin

Lesser Spotted Eagle 41.574°N 45.321°E 1 Karpatadze Lake / Sakhare Lake

2.6 David Gareji Monastery

Key species: Chukar Partridge, Eastern Orphean Warbler, Egyptian Vulture, Golden Eagle, Green Warbler, Rock Sparrow, Western Rock Nuthatch

David Gareja is a rock-hewn Georgian Orthodox monastery complex located in the Kakheti region of Eastern Georgia, on the half-desert slopes of Mount Gareja. The complex included hundreds of cells, churches, chapels, reflectories and living quarters hollowed out of the rock face. The building and surroundings are without doubt worth visiting.

Immediately after arriving a Golden Eagle flew over and it would not be the last time during this day we would see this species. The appearance of a single Rock Sparrow was a welcome surprise. A colorful Blue Rock-thrush was feeding a juvenile and a Western Rock Nutchatch was foraging at the complex. The location proved from the start as a really good birding site! After a short climb we noticed our first Egyptian Vulture of the trip. At times we did not know where to look; Pied Wheatear and Eastern Black-Eared Wheatears on the rocky slopes and many different birds of prey above us or at eye level. In addition the views from the top on Azerbaijan are impressive: the setting seems like a sort of moon landscape, very different from which we have seen in this southern region of Georgia. In the low shrubs at the rocky slopes some of us had a short glimpse of a skulky Eastern Orphean Warbler. Further we managed to see a large diversity of species: European Barred Warbler, Short-toed Snake Eagle, Chukar Partridge, Rock Dove, Red-breasted Flycatcher, Rock Bunting and Green Warbler. By planning a birding trip to Georgia be sure you will visit the David Gareja monastery complex.

Birding in Georgia | 30 April – 11 May 2016

Map of the David Gareja Monastery complex and surroundings and target species. (Google Maps)

Name Coordinate No. Area

Chukar Partridge 41.444°N 45.377°E 1 David Gareja

Eastern Orphean 41.444°N 45.377°E 1 David Gareja Warbler

Egyptian Vulture 41.448°N 45.376°E 1 David Gareja

41.444°N 45.377°E 2 David Gareja

Golden Eagle 41.444°N 45.377°E 2 David Gareja

Green Warbler 41.444°N 45.377°E 4 David Gareja

41.448°N 45.376°E 1 David Gareja

Rock Sparrow 41.447°N 45.377°E 1 David Gareja

Western Rock 41.447°N 45.377°E 1 David Gareja Nutchatch

Birding in Georgia | 30 April – 11 May 2016

The David Gareja Monastery complex. (Jildert Hijlkema, 06-05-2016) ©

The surroundings of David Gareji have some similarities with the 'Hobbit-landscape'. (Jasper Hooymans, 06-05-2016) ©

Birding in Georgia | 30 April – 11 May 2016

2.7 Jandara Reservoir

Key species: Armenian Gull, Slender-billed Gull

An hour driving from David Gareja we encountered the Jandari Reservoir, a lake on Georgia-Azerbaijan border, located in south-east Georgia and north-west Azerbaijan. The lake has proven as a good place for Armenian Gull. Between the estimated 150 of them we picked up an unexpected Slender-billed Gull. We experienced this site was particularly good for marsh species, such as Marsh Harrier, White-winged Terns and even more Whiskered Terns. Because of the distance only a part of us noticed Black-crowned Night Heron and Squacco Heron; species which are probably often present at the shores of this lake.

Name Coordinate No. Area

Armenian Gull 41.453°N 45.205°E 150 Jandara Reservoir

Slender-billed Gull 41.446°N 45.203°E 1 Jandara Reservoir

2.8 Javakheti Plateau

Key species: Armenian Gull, Dalmatian Pelican, Great White Pelican

In a sharp contrast with the High Caucasus, the Chachuna Mangement Reserve and the David Gareja monastery we visited the chilly Javakheti Range. Range are mainly covered with alpine meadows and grasslands. There are a number of small-sized lakes in and around the Javakheti Range, at which we added good numbers of new trip species.

At a small lake nearby the large Madatapa Lake we found the species we were aiming for: a mixed group of Dalmatian Pelicanes and Great White Pelicanes. At the Madatapa Lake, covering an area of 885 hectares (2.190 acres) at an altitude of 2.108 m (6.916 ft.), we found thousands of Armenian Gulls. Other notable species around this birding site were: Red-necked Grebe, Citrine Wagtail, Common Crane and Temminck’s Stint; all species we know quite well from home.

Name Coordinate No. Area

Armenian Gull 41.208°N 43.773°E 3000 Madatapa Lake

41.306°N 43.760°E 1 Saghamo Lake

41.417°N 43.833°E 8 Paravani Lake

Dalmatian Pelicane 41.189°N 43.742°E 9 Kochki River

Great White Pelicane 41.201°N 43.714°E 2 S Gorelovka

41.189°N 43.742°E 5 Kochki River

41.200°N 43.760°E 80 Madatapa Lake

Birding in Georgia | 30 April – 11 May 2016

Panorama of a part of the cold and windy Javakheti Range: Madatape Lake. (Jildert Hijlkema, 07-05-2016) ©

A flock of Great White Pelicans and some Armenian Gulls nearby the Madatapa Lake. (Jasper Hooymans, 07-05-2016) ©

Birding in Georgia | 30 April – 11 May 2016

2.9 Vardzia

Key species: Armenian Gull, Bearded Vulture, Chukar Partridge, Egyptian Vulture, Levant Sparrowhawk, Red- fronted Serin, Western Rock Nuthatch

We added Vardzia to our schedule because it seems to be a good site for seeing Eastern Rock Nuthatch. Furthermore, the successful previous days made worth it a try. Near Pia a pair of Bearded Vultures drew our attention. It was not the first time during this trip we had good views of this species. Another flock of Levant Sparrowhawk ended up again on the daylist.

Near our stay on the edge of the Tsundi Lake we visited some semi-agricultural valleys and rocky slopes, with a great diversity of species such as Blue Rock-thrush, Common Hoopoe, European Bee-eater and Rock Bunting. Despite frantic efforts, we did not found the species we came for. On the other hand we again managed to see Chukar Partridge (flushed from rocky slope), Egyptian Vulture, Red-fronted Serin and Western Rock Nuthatch. Not only fixated on birds, we had welcome views of other species groups like butterflies and reptiles: such as Aegean Skipper, Eastern Orange-tip, Green-underside Blue, Pontic Blue and Dice Snake. Beside we were surprised by the calls of Cetti’s Warbler in the rocky valleys. Although we did not find a Eastern Rock Nuthatch, this place is without doubt worth a visit.

Name Coordinate No. Area

Armenian Gull 41.381°N 43.297°E 2 Vardzia Resort / Koera

Bearded Vulture 41.431°N 43.319°E 2 S Pia

Chukar Partridge 41.365°N 43.248°E 2 W Vardzia

41.366°N 43.249°E 2 W Vardzia

Egyptian Vulture 41.376°N 43.275°E 1 W Vardzia

41.392°N 43.318°E 1 NE Vardzia

Levant Sparrowhawk 41.431°N 43.319°E 30 S Pia

Red-fronted Serin 41.366°N 43.247°E 1 W Vardzia

Western Rock 41.410°N 43.338°E 2 S Nakalakevi Nuthatch 41.366°N 43.249°E 1 W Vardzia

41.367°N 43.252°E 1 W Vardzia

41.408°N 43.335°E 2 S Nakalakevi

Birding in Georgia | 30 April – 11 May 2016

The semi-cultural managed rocky slopes are surprisingly rich in terms of number of species. (Jildert Hijlkema, 07-05-2016) © Striking deep blue colors of a male Pontic Blue. (Jildert Hijlkema, 07-05-2016) ©

Birding in Georgia | 30 April – 11 May 2016

2.10 Borjomi-Kharagauli NP

Key species: Caucasian Grouse, Golden Eagle, Green Warbler, Krüper’s Nuthatch, Red-fronted Serin

After opening the fences we entered the Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park. A 4WD proved his value, but after an approximately 15 km a glacier blocked the road. In the meanwhile we noticed Red-fronted Serin, Common Rosefinch and Ortolan Buntung. After a short walk we found two males Caucasian Grouse displaying between the Rhododendrons. Green Warbler proved to be quite regular around this site and Alpine Chough accompanied us during our further climb. We were aiming for Caspian Snowcock; even in Georgia not really regular, but this species has been recorded here several times. After scanning the rocky slopes for hours, our moral was not that high anymore. Instantly a Caucasian Brown Bear with two young cubs, playing in the snow, walked into our view. Fantastic! One of us was able to make a short film of them by digiscoping (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TeAKYoj0S-o).

After this show we left the National Park to search for a much wanted Krüper’s Nuthatch. Near Abastumani it took a while to find an individual after using playback. Also a Red-breasted Flycatcher was present here.

Name Coordinate No. Area

Caucasian Grouse 41.841°N 42.818°E 2 m Borjomi-Kharagauli NP

Golden Eagle 41.845°N 42.813°E 1 Borjomi-Kharagauli NP

Green Warbler 41.846°N 42.809°E 2 Borjomi-Kharagauli NP

41.845°N 42.815°E 1 Borjomi-Kharagauli NP

Krüper’s Nuthatch 41.758°N 42.815°E 1 N Abastumani

Red-fronted Serin 41.822°N 42.852°E 1 Borjomi-Kharagauli NP

41.840°N 42.818°E 10 Borjomi-Kharagauli NP

2.11 Kumisi Reservoir

Key species: Eastern Imperial Eagle, Lesser Spotted Eagle, Levant Sparrowhawk

Well on schedule we decided to make a visit to the Lake Kumisi, in the shadow of the capital Tbilisi where we soon had to catch our flight. The agricultural surroundings are good for species like Eurasian Hoopie, Eurasian Golden Oriole, Lesser Grey Shrike, Corn Bunting and Calandra Lark. Surprisingly good number of Lesser Spotted Eagle were patrolling around the lake. The visit to this site resulted in some new species for the trip or species we had seen only once or twice: Glossy Ibis, Common Pochard, Common Tern, Little Bittern, Eurasian Scops Owl (calling during the day), Eurasian Penduline Tit and one of us had good views of a Spotted Crake. During our pause at the pier we added our second Eastern Imperial Eagle to the list, which flew over. We ended our stay at this birding site with good views of different hunting Levant Sparrow Hawks.

The next day we decided to stay in Tbilisi, in the nearness of the airport. Not much notable birding here, although we two Laughing Doves. During our previous short stay in the capital we already noticed this specie.

Birding in Georgia | 30 April – 11 May 2016

Name Coordinate No. Area

Eastern Imperial Eagle 41.580°N 44.824°E 1 E Kumisi Reservoir

Lesser Spotted Eagle 41.598°N 44.789°E 1 NE Kumisi Reservoir

41.591°N 44.800°E 3 NE Kumisi Reservoir

41.588°N 44.806°E 1 NE Kumisi Reservoir

Levant Sparrowhawk 41.603°N 44.787°E 2 S Kumisi

Birding in Georgia | 30 April – 11 May 2016

3. Review

3.1 Conclusion

Georgia proved to be a great birding country with specialties such as Caucasian Grouse, Caucasian Snowcock, Güldenstädt’s Redstart and Caucasian Great Rosefinch; and other much sought-after species as Bearded Vulture, Wallcreeper, Red-fronted Serin and Mountain Chiffchaff. In addition, a number of WP species are represented here by subspecies differing so much in plumage that they are easily recognized like, for instance, Caucasian Horned Lark, Caucasian Wren, Caucasian Ring Ouzel and Turkish Twite (Van den Berg 2005).

Although the visit to the High Caucasus near Kazbegi can be pointed as the absolute highlight, make sure you will add the Chachuna Managed Reserve and David Gareja Monatery to your travel schedule, both in the south of Georgia. Georgia is almost twice the size of the Netherlands, so distances can be barely seen as a problem.

We managed to see a number of 204 different bird species in 10 days effective birding. The country consists a surprisingly variety of landscapes from steep slopes around Kazbegi, steppes and swamps in and around the Chachuna Managed Reserve, to grassy plains at the Javakheti Range.

3.2 Recordings

Almost every single observation, and therefore all sites visited, can be seen in detail on www.observado.org (GPS, some photographs, numbers and/or sexes recorded and behavior). We recorded birds, mammals, dragonflies, reptiles, butterflies and some plants by using specialized country lists on iObs (for iPhone) and Obsmapp (for Android); both free applications. Our sightings can be individually queried by date, species and family. Alternatively go to http://georgia.observation.org/index_map.php to see all Georgia records entered at this website. http://georgia.observation.org/user/view/73866 André Geelhoed http://georgia.observation.org/user/view/75867 Jildert Hijlkema http://georgia.observation.org/user/view/44091 Jasper Hooymans http://georgia.observation.org/user/view/9009 Joep Hooymans http://georgia.observation.org/user/view/66261 Rens Huizinga

3.2 Missed species

Although we had a very successful birding trip, we have not found every single species we searched for. The following species can be considered as species we dipped or difficult species we hoped for. In parentheses the locations were we searched for the species.

- Blue-cheeked Bee-eater; rare in the period we visited Georgia. - Caspian Snowcock (Bordzjomi-Kharagauli NP); not seen, although some recordings are know from the Bordzjomi NP. - Eastern Olivaceous Warbler; we have not particularly searched for this species. - Eastern Rock Nuthatch (Akhalkalaki / Aspindza); a lot of efforts did not succeed. - Moustached Warbler; not that common in April and May, searched for this species around Lake Kumisi. - Semicollared Flycatcher (Dusheti / Zhinvali Reservoir); much time is spent, but without success. During our trip we met some Dutch birders which did manage to see/hear this species at the named site.

Birding in Georgia | 30 April – 11 May 2016

- White-winged Snowfinch (Jvari Pass); we visited the Javi Pass three times, mainly for this species.

Be aware of the fact some birds of prey such as Booted Eagle, Crested Honey Buzzard, Greater Spotted Eagle almost never appear during this period in Georgia.

3.3 Considerations

When designing your trip to Georgia, you can consider to visit Batumi and its inlands forests (Mitrale NP) in addition for mainly White-back Woodpacker. For the additional long range drive to Batummi in the west a visit of minimal two weeks is recommended.

It seems also logical to arrange a combined trip with neighbouring country Armenia, mainly for additional species such as Caspian Snowcock, Sombre Tit, Eastern Rock Nuthatch, White-throated Robin, Finch’s Wheatear, Radde’s Accentor, Asian Crimson-winged Finch and Grey-necked Bunting. Because of logistic difficulties we soon decided to drop this option. It is not allowed to pass borders with rental cars. At www.cloudbirders.com some reports of combined trips can be found.

Birding in Georgia | 30 April – 11 May 2016

4. Appendix

4.1 Species list

4.1.1 Birds

1. Common Shelduck / Bergeend - Tadorna grassy slopes by our walk south of the tadorna Dalis Mta Reservoir.

2. Ruddy Shelduck / Casarca - Tadorna 11. Common Quail / Kwartel - Coturnix ferruginea coturnix

3. Gadwell / Krakeend - Mareca strepera 12. Common Pheasant / Fazant - Phasianus colchicus ssp. colchius 4. Mallard / Wilde Eend - Anas We were surprised hearing this species at platyrhynchos Signagi. In Georgia both wild as well released Pheasants occur. As we only 5. Northern Shoveler / Slobeend - Spatula heard an individual, we will never know if clypeata it is wild.

6. Common Pochard / Tafeleend - Aythya 13. Little Grebe / Dodaars - Tachybaptus ferina ruficollis

7. Caucasian Grouse / Kaukasisch Korhoen - 14. Red-knecked Grebe / Roodhalsfuut - Lyrurus mlokosiewiczi Podiceps grisegena Easy nearby Ioane Natlismcemeli Seen three birds at the Madatapa Lake. (orthodox church), east of Kazbegi. Also seen two males at the Borjomi-Kharagauli 15. Great Creasted Grebe / Fuut - Podiceps NP. cristatus

8. Caucasian Snowcock / Kaspisch Berghoen 16. Black Stork / Zwarte Ooievaar - Black - Tetraogallus caucasicus Stork Heard and seen two individuals east of Only seen once at agriculture fields west Kazbegi. of the Alazani River.

9. Chukar Partridge / Aziatische Steenpatrijs 17. White Stork / Ooievaar - Ciconia ciconia - Alectoris chukar ssp. chukar Very common in Ninotsminda, breeding at Flushed numerous individuals at rocky most roofs. slopes near Vardzia. Earlier seen some birds at the Chachuna Managed Reserve 18. Glossy Ibis / Zwarte Ibis - Plegadis and David Gareji Monastery. falcinellus Seen one bird around the Kumisi 10. Black Francolin / Zwarte Frankolijn - Reservoir. Francolinus francolinus At some birds from the swamps we heard 19. Eurasian Bittern / Roerdomp - Botaurus only from standing at the Dalis Mta Dam. stellaris Later flushed a couple of birds from the

Birding in Georgia | 30 April – 11 May 2016

20. Little Bittern / Woudaap - Ixobrychus minutus 32. Black Kite / Zwarte Wouw - Milvus One bird fishing could be found at the end migrans of the Tsundi Lake, high up in the mountains. Another bird was flushed out 33. White-tailed Eagle / Zeearend - of the reed beds by fishermen at Lake Haliaeetus albicilla Kumisi. One individual was found at the fishing ponds in the Alazani River Valley. Another 21. Black-crowned Night-Heron / Kwak - bird was present at the Dalis Mta Nycticorax nycticorax Reservoir. Some of us managed to see a small group flying over the Jandara Reservoir. 34. Beard Vulture / Lammergier - Gypaetus barbatus 22. Squacco Heron / Ralreiger - Ardeola We were surprised by encountering this ralloides target species at numerous sites. Kazbegi Seen also at the Jandara Reservoir. is probably the best site to encounter this species. We had also good views of this 23. Grey heron / Blauwe Reiger - Ardea species near Aspindza. cinerea 35. Egyptian Vulture / Aasgier - Neophron 24. Purple Herin / Purperreiger - Ardea percnopterus purpurea Also seen at different occasions, among which David Gareji Monastery gave us the 25. Great Egret / Grote Zilverreiger - Ardea best views. alba 36. Griffon Vulture / Vale Gier - Gyps fulvus 26. Little Egret / Kleine Zilverreiger - Egretta egretta 37. Cinereous Vulture / Monniksgier - Aegypius monachus 27. Great White Pelican / Roze Pelikaan - Founded an indivual at a small island in Pelecnus onocrotalus the Terek river, surrounded by good Common around Ninotsminda / Madatapa numbers of Griffon Vultures. Also seen Lake. We had the best views at small lakes two birds standing at the Dalis Mta dam. / ponds around this area. 38. Short-toed Snake Eagle / Slangenarend - 28. Dalmatian Pelican / Kroeskoppelikaan - Circaetus gallicus Pelecanus crispus Also seen around Ninotsminda, in small 39. Western Marsh Harrier / Bruine numbers. Kiekendief - Circus aeruginosus

29. Pygmy Cormorant / Dwergaalscholver - 40. Pallid Harrier / Steppekiekendief - Microcarbo pygmeus Circus macrourus Surprised by seeing this species at the fishing pons in the Alazani River Valley. 41. Montagu’s Harrier / Grauwe Kiekendief - Circus pygargus 30. Great Cormorant / Aalscholver - Phalacrocorax carbo 42. Levant Sparrowhawk / Balkansperwer - Accipiter brevipes 31. European Honey Buzzard / Wespendief - Seen some small migrating groups. We Pernis apivorus

Birding in Georgia | 30 April – 11 May 2016

had our best views of a hunting male at the agricultural area around Lake Kumisi. 55. Common Crane / Kraanvogel - Grus grus A foraging bird at the Madatapa Lake. 43. Eurasian Sparrowhawk / Sperwer - Accipiter nisus 56. Demoiselle Crane / Jufferkraanvogel - Grus virgo 44. Northern Goshawk / Havik - Accipiter Most of us had pointed by an English gentilis birder miserable views of two (far) flying birds around Kapatadze Lake. 45. Common Buzzard / Steppebuizerd - Buteo buteo ssp. vulpinus 57. Common Ringed Plover / Bontbekplevier Probably the most common bird of prey, - Charadrius hiaticula together with Black Kite. 58. Little Ringed Plover / Kleine Plevier - 46. Long-legged Buzzard / Arendbuizerd - Charadrius dubius Buteo rufinus 59. Common Snipe / Watersnip - Gallinago 47. Lesser Spotted Eagle / Schreeuwarend - gallinago Clanga pomarina Mainly seen some individuals around Lake 60. Common Redshank / Tureluur - Tringa Kumisi. totanus

48. Steppe Eagle / Steppearend - Aquila 61. Green Sandpiper / Witgat - Tringa nipalensis ochropus Only seen once around the fishing ponds near the Alazani River. 62. Wood Sandpiper / Bosruiter - Tringa glareola 49. Eastern Imperial Eagle / Keizerarend - Aquila heliacal 63. Common Sandpiper / Oeverloper - Actitis Only seen twice. hypoleucos

50. Golden Eagle / Steenarend - Aquila 64. Temminck’s Sting / Temmincks chrysaetos Strandloper - Calidris temminckii Seen at different sites across the country. We had excellent views of an individual, 65. Ruff / Kemphaan - Calidris pgnax which has been chased by Common Raven around David Gareji Monastery. 66. Slender-billed Gull / Dunbekmeeuw - Chroicocephalus genei 51. Water Rail / Waterral - Rallus aquaticus We picked up a single individual between hundreds of other gulls at the Jandara 52. Spotted Crake / Porseleinhoen - Porzana Reservoir. porzana One of us had short quick views of a 67. Black-headed Gull / Kokmeeuw - skulky bird in the reed beds at the Kumisi Chroicocephalus ridibundus Reservoir. 68. Armenian Gull / Armeense Meeuw - 53. Common Moorhen / Waterhoen - Larus armenicus Gallinula chloropus Common across the country, with good numbers at Jandara Reservoir and 54. Eurasian Coot / Meerkoet - Fulica atra Madatapa Lake.

Birding in Georgia | 30 April – 11 May 2016

calling from a tree row during the day 69. Lesser Black-backed Gull / Baltische around Lake Kumisi. Mantelmeeuw - Larus fuscus ssp. fuscus 82. Tawny Owl / Bosuil - Strix aluco 70. Gull-billed Tern / Lachstern - Gelochelidon nilotica 83. Little Owl / Steenuil – Athene noctua ssp. Seen four birds at the fishing ponds, near lilith the Alazani River. 84. European Nightjar / Nachtzwaluw - 71. Common Tern / Visdief - Sterna hirundo Caprimulgus europaeus

72. Whiskered Tern / Witwangstern - 85. Common Swift / Gierzwalw - Apus apus Chlidonias hybrid Good numbers foraging at the Jandara 86. Alpine Swift / Alpengierzwaluw - Reservoir. Tachymarptis melba

73. White-winged Stern / Witvleugelstern - 87. European Roller / Scharrelaar - Coracias Chlidonias leucopterus garrulous Small numbers around the Jandara Mainly seen around Chachuna Managed Reservoir. Reserve.

74. Rock Dove / Rotsduif - Columba livia 88. Common Kingfisher / IJsvogel - Alcedo We ensured us of only one pure bird, seen atthis around David Gareji Monastery. 89. European Bee-eater / Bijeneter - Merops 75. Stock Dove / Holenduif - Columba oenas apiaster Very common across the country. 76. Common Wood Pidgeon / Houtduif - Columba palumbus 90. Eurasian Hoopoe / Hop - Upupa epops

77. European Turtle Dove / Zomertortel - 91. Lesser Spotted Woodpecker / Kleine Streptopelia turtur Bonte Specht - Dryobated minor We were actually shocked only seeing one individual. 92. Great Spotted Woodpecker / Grote Bonte Specht - Dendocopos major 78. Eurasian Collared Dove / Turkse Tortel - Streptopelia decaocto 93. Black Woodpecker / Zwarte Specht - Dryocopus martius 79. Laughing Dove / Palmtortel - Spilopelia senegalensis 94. European Green Woodpecker / Groene Only seen some birds in Tbilisi. Specht - Picus viridus

80. Common Cuckoo / Koekoek - Cuculus 95. Lesser Kestrel / Kleine Torenvalk - Falco canorus naumanni Small territorial numbers around a 81. Eurasian Scops Owl / Dwergooruil - Otus building at the Dalis Mta dam. scops We noticed two calling birds: the first at 96. Common Kestrel / Torenvalk - Falco some distance in Signagi, another bird was tinnunculus

Birding in Georgia | 30 April – 11 May 2016

97. Eurasian Hobby / Boomvalk - Falco 110. Western Jackdaw / Kauw - Coloeus subbuteo monedula ssp. soemmerringii

98. Peregrine Falcon / Slechtvalk - Falco 111. Marsh Tit / Glanskop - Poecile palustris peregrinus 112. Coal Tit / Zwarte Mees - Periparus ater 99. Red-backed Shrike / Grauwe Klauwier - Lanius collurio 113. Great Tit / Koolmees - Parus major Very common. 114. Eurasian Blue Tit / Pimpelmees - 100. Lesser Grey Shrike / Kleine Klapekster - Cyanistes caeruleus Lanius minor Very common in south(east) parts of the 115. Eurasian Penduline Tit / Buidelmees - country. Remiz pendulinus Seen and heard once from the banks of a 101. Woodchat Shrike / Roodkopklauwier - small pons near the Alazani River. A the Lanius senator end of our trip we encountered a small Fairly common around the Chachuna flock at the marshes around Lake Kumisi. Managed Reserve. 116. Calandra Lark / Kalanderleeuwerik - 102. Eurasian Golden Oriole / Wielewaal - Melanocorypha calandra Oriolus oriolus Fairly common at the steppes of the We noticed good numbers and concerts Chachuna Management Reserve. around the Alazani River Valley. 117. Greater Short-toed Lark / 103. Eurasian Jay / Gaai – Garrulus glandarius Kortteenleeuwerik - Calandrella ssp. krynicki brachydactyla Less common than Calandra Lark. 104. Eurasian Magpie / Ekster - Pica pica 118. Crested Lark / Kuifleeuwerik - Galerida 105. Red-billed Chough / Alpenkraai - cristata Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax We have seen numerous small groups 119. Woodlark / Boomleeuwerik - Lullula around Kazbegi. arborea

106. Alpine Chough / Alpenkauw - 120. Eurasian Skylark / Veldleeuwerik - Pyrrhocorax graculus Alauda arvensis Comparable to Red-billed Chough we have seen different groups of this species 121. Horned Lark / Strandleeuwerik – around Kazbegi. Also seen two birds at Eremophila alpestris ssp. penicillata Borjomi-Kharagauli NP. We have seen one or more individuals during different visits to the Jvari Pass. 107. Rook / Roek - Corvus frugilegus 122. Sand Martin / Oeverzwaluw - Riparia 108. Hooded Crow / Bonte Kraai - Corvus riparia cornix Very common in the mountain areas. 123. Barn Swallow / Boerenzwaluw - Hirundo rustica 109. Northern Raven / Raaf - Corvus corax

Birding in Georgia | 30 April – 11 May 2016

124. Eurasian Crag Martin / Rotszwaluw - 137. Eurasian Blackcap / Zwartkop - Sylvia Ptyonoprogne rupestris atricapilla Actually present in fairly all mountain areas across the country. 138. Garden Warbler / Tuinfluiter - Sylvia borin 125. Common House Martin / Huiszwaluw - Delichon urbicum 139. Barred Warbler / Sperwergrasmus - Sylvia nisoria 126. Cetti’s Warbler / Cetti’s Zanger - Cettia One skulky bird around David Gareji cettia Monasteri. Surprised by hearing this species in the mountains around Aspindza and Alkhalaki. 140. Lesser Whitethroat / Braamsluiper - Sylvia curruca 127. Long-tailed Tit / Staartmees - Aegithalos caudatus 141. Eastern Orphean Warbler / Oostelijke Orpheusgrasmus - Sylvia crassirostris 128. Common Chiffchaff / Tjiftjaf - Some of us were lucky to see a skulky bird Phylloscopus collybita in the dense vegetation around David Gareji Monastery. 129. Willow Warbler / Fitis - Phylloscopus trochilus 142. Common Whitethroat / Grasmus - Sylvia communis 130. Mountain Chiffchaff / Bergtjiftjaf - Phylloscopus sindianus 143. Menetries’s Warbler / Ménétriés Founded several birds in the mountain Zwartkop - Sylvia mystacea range east from Kazbegi. One or more birds around the Dalis Mta Reservoir. 131. Green Warbler / Groene Fitis - Phylloscopus nitidus 144. Goldcrest / Goudhaan - Regulus regulus We encountered our first individual at the park of Dedoplistsqaro. After that we 145. Eurasian Wren / Winterkoning - counted several birds near David Gareji Troglodytes troglodytes Monastery and Borjomi-Kharagauli NP. 146. Eurasian Nuthatch / Boomklever - Sitta 132. Great Reed Warbler / Grote Karekiet - europaea Acrocephalus arundinaceus 147. Krüper’s Nuthatch / Turkse Boomklever - 133. Sedge Warbler / Rietzanger - Sitta krueperi Acrocephalus schoenobaenus We were glad to find just one bird at Adigeni, part of Borjomi-Kharagauli NP. 134. Eurasian Reed Warbler / Kleine Karekiet - Acrocephalus scirpaceus 148. Western Rock Nuthatch / Rotsklever - Sitta neumayer 135. Marsh Warbler / Bosrietzanger - Multiple birds around Aspindza. Acrocephalus palustris 149. Wallcreeper / Rotskruiper - Tichodroma 136. Common Grasshopper Warbler / muraria Sprinkhaanzanger - Locustella naevia Two birds at different sites around Kazbegi.

Birding in Georgia | 30 April – 11 May 2016

150. Short-toed Treecreeper / Boomkruiper - Certhia brachydactyla 165. Northern Wheatear / Tapuit - Oenanthe oenanthe 151. Common Starling / Spreeuw - Sturnus vulgaris 166. Pied Wheatear / Bonte Tapuit - Oenanthe pleschanka 152. Rosy Starling / Roze Spreeuw - Pastor We found a couple of birds south of the roseus Dalis Mta Dam, some of us had an We have seen large flocks at three additional bird at the mountains high different sites across the country. above David Gareji Monastery.

153. Ring Ouzel / Beflijster - Turdus torquatus 167. Common Rock Thrush / Rode Rotslijster - ssp. amicorum Monticola saxatilis This subspecies is very common in the A pair of territorial birds south of Kazbegi. mountains around Kazbegi. 168. Blue Rock Thrush / Blauwe Rotslijster - 154. Common Blackbird / Merel - Turdus Monticola solitaries merula Seems to be quite common around Aspindza. Earlier we had fantasic views of 155. Song Thrush / Zanglijster - Turdus a couple feeding a young bird at David philomelos Gareji Monastery.

156. MIstle Trush / Grote Lijster - Turdus 169. Spotted Flycatcher / Grauwe viscivorus Vliegenvanger - Muscicapa striata

157. European Robin / Roodborst - Erithacus 170. European Pied Flycatcher / Bonte rubecula Vliegenvanger - Ficedula hypoleuca

158. Common Nightingale / Nachtegaal - 171. Red-breasted Flycatcher / Kleine Luscinia megarhynchis Vliegenvanger - Ficedula parva

159. Black Redstart / Zwarte Roodstaart - 172. Rufous-tailed Srcub Robin / Rosse Phoenicurus ochruros ssp. ochruros Waaierstaart - Cercotrichas galactotes ssp. syriaca 160. Common Redstart / Gekraagde One skulky bird in the reed at Sakhara Roodstaart - Phoenicurus phoenicurus ssp. Lake proved to be this species. More samamisicus common and easy in the Chachuna Managed Reserve. 161. Whinchat / Paapje - Saxicola rubetra 173. Black-eared Wheatear / Oostelijke Blond 162. European Stonechat / Roodborsttapuit - Tapuit - Oenanthe hispanica ssp. Saxicola rubicola melanoleuca Very common in Chachuna Managed 163. Siberian Stonechat / Aziatische Reserve. Roodborsttapuit - Saxicola maurus 174. Güldenstädt’s Redstart / 164. Isabelline Wheatear / Izabeltapuit - Witkruindroodstaart - Phoenicurus Oenanthe isabellina erythrogastrys Very common at the steppes on our way One of the big five! Proved to be not that to the Chachuna Management Reserve. easy, but with some effort we

Birding in Georgia | 30 April – 11 May 2016

encountered a large group foraging at 188. Red-throated Pipit / Roodkeelpieper - berries of Sea-buckthorns. At the end of Anthus cervinus the day we added some birds on our walk back to Kazbegi. Be aware of the fact this 189. Water Pipit / Waterpieper - Anthus species moves along the snow line. spinoletta ssp. coutellii Probably the most common bird in 175. White-throated Dipper / Waterspreeuw mountain areas. - Cinclus cinclus 190. Common Chaffinch / Vink - Fringilla 176. House Sparrow / Huismus - Passer coelebs domesticus 191. Red-fronted Serin / 177. Eurasian Tree Sparrow / Ringmus - Roodvoorhoofdkanarie - Serinus pusillus Passer montanus Quite common around Kazbegi and Borjomi-Kharagauli NP, but always 178. Rock Sparrow / Rotsmus - Petronia restless. Breeding at steep cliffs, were it petronia appears to be safe for predators. Two single birds at different sites around David Gareji Monastery. 192. European Greenfinch / Groenling - Chloris chloris 179. Alpine Accentor / Alpenheggenmus - Prunella collaris 193. Eurasian Siskin / Sijs - Spinus spinus Only one territorial couple at the grassy slopes around the Jvari Pass. 194. European Goldfinch / Goudvink - Carduelis carduelis 180. Dunnock / Heggenmus - Prunella modularis 195. Twite / Frater - Linaria flavirostris ssp. brevirostris 181. Western Yellow Wagtail / Gele Jvari Pass is probably the best place Kwikstaart en Balkankwikstaart - around Kazbegi for this species. Motacilla flava ssp. Bema / feldegg 196. Common Linnet / Kneu - Linaria 182. Citrine Wagtail / Citroenkwikstaart - cannabina Motacilla citreola 197. Common Rosefinch / Roodmus - 183. Grey Wagtail / Grote Gele Kwikstaart - Carpodacus erythrinus Motacilla cinerea 198. Red Crossbill / Kruisbek - Loxia 184. White Wagtail / Witte Kwikstaart - curvirostra Motacilla alba 199. Eurasian Bullfinch / Goudvink - Pyrrhula 185. Tawny Pipit / Duinpieper - Anthus pyrrhula ssp. rossikowi campestris 200. Great Rosefinch / Grote Roodmus - 186. Meadow Pipit / Graspieper - Anthus Carpodacus rubicilla pratensis As one of the cracks one of the main target species. Seen only in low numbers 187. Tree Pipit / Boompieper - Anthus trivialis during three different moment around Kazbegi, from which we had extraordinary

Birding in Georgia | 30 April – 11 May 2016

views of a male near the Gergeti Trinity Church. 203. Ortolan Bunting / Ortolaan - Emberiza hortulana 201. Corn Bunting / Grauwe Gors - Emberiza calandra 204. Black-headed Bunting / Zwartkopgors - Emberiza melanocephala 202. Rock Bunting / Grijze Gors - Emberiza cia Very common. Proved to be common in most mountain areas.

4.1.2 Butterflies

1. Aegean Skipper / Levantspikkeldikkopje - Pyrgus melotis 2. Dingy Skipper / Bruin dikkopje - Erynnis tages 3. Orange-tip / Oranjetipje - Antocharis cardamines 4. Eastern Orange-tip / Oostelijk oranjetipje - Antocharis damone 5. Eastern Bath White / Oostelijk resedawitje - Pontia edusa 6. Clouded Yellow / Oranje luzernevlinder - Colias croceus 7. Small Copper / Kleine vuurvlinder - Lycaena phlaeas 8. Large Copper / Grote vuurvlinder - Lycaena dispar ssp. rutila 9. Green Hairstreak / Groentje - Callophrys rubi 10. Green-underside Blue / Bloemenblauwtje - Glaucopsyche alexis 11. Brown Argus / Bruin blauwtje - Aricia agestis 12. Pontic Blue / Kobaltblauwtje - Polyommatus coelestinus 13. Common Blue / Icarusblauwtje - Polyommatus Icarus 14. Silver-washed Fritillary / Keizermantel - Argynnis paphia 15. Queen of Spain Fritillary / Kleine parelmoervlinder - Issoria lathonia 16. Painted Lady / Distelvlinder - Vanessa cardui 17. Small Tortoiseshell / Kleine vos - Aglais urticae 18. Camberwell Beauty / Rouwmantel - Nymphalis antiopa 19. Speckled Wood / Bont zandoogje - Pararge aegeria 20. Large Wall Brown / Rotsvlinder - Lasiommata maera 21. Small Heath / Hooibeestje - Coenonympha pamphilus

4.1.3 Others

- Golden Jackal / Gewone Jackhals - Canis aureus - Red Fox / Vos - Vulpes vulpes - Caucasian Brown Bear / Kaukasische Bruine Beer - Ursus arctos ssp. meridionalis - East Caucasian Tur / Oost-Kaukasische Steenbok - Capra cylindricornis - Caucasian Squirrel / Kaukasuseekhoorn - Sciurus anomalus - European Pond Terrapin / Europese Moerassschildpad - Emys orbicularis - Greek Tortoise / Moorse Landschildpad - Testudo graeca - Caspian Pond Turtle / Kaspische Beekschildpad - Mauremys caspica - Caucasian Agama / Kaukasische agaam - Laudakia caucasia - Caspian Green Lizard - Lacerta strigata - Dice Snake / Dobbelsteenslang - Natrix tessellata - Red Chaser / Rode korenbout - Libellula pontica

Birding in Georgia | 30 April – 11 May 2016

4.2 Literature

High Birding at Kazbegi, Georgia In: Dutch Birding volume 27 (2005) no. 4 Berg, A van den

De Bergen achter Sotsji (2014) Documentary (Dutch): http://www.documentairenet.nl/tags/de-bergen-achter-sotsji-serie/ Brandt Corstius, J.

Georgia the Bradt Travel Guide (2015) Burford, T

Flight Identification of the Raptors of Europa, North Africa and the Middle East Forsman, D

A birdwatching guide to Georgia Gavashelishvili, L, Gokhelashvili, R, Javakhishvili, Z & Tarkhnishvili, D

Veldgids Roofvogels Gensbol, B

ANWB Vogelgids van Europa Svensson, L http://georgia.observation.org/index_map.php