Weeks ago, we said goodbye to the House Martins and in the last few days of September, the Swifts and Swallows have followed them. The Bee-eaters will be next, any day now the few remaining pockets travel south to Africa. Yesterday we still had a group of 15 flying over the house, chirruping with their loud and distinctive calls.
Even though we are always sad to see the summer migrants go, it's a joy to see the winter crowd arrive. For me, I can't wait to see newly arrived Bluethroats and Warblers, along with the wonderful waders; Snipe, Godwits and Sandpipers. The first sightings of Green-winged Teal and Pintail ducks are coming in excitedly.
The other family we see travel off to warmer climes are the Terns - Common, Caspian, Gull-billed, Black and Little all move on until March/April next year.
Whiskered Terns filling up on bugs, some hang around and don't go. Many Terns species are making the most of the insects at El Hondo in preparation, I counted four species last weekend, all giving excellent close views.
Squacco Herons also disappear, I haven't seen one for two weeks, so they have probably gone already. They are small Herons with white wings and brown bodies, that blend in with the wetland reeds. I think they are real characters, such fun to watch.
Look at this one perching on the wooden handrail above the water. Their long plumes, that grow from the back of their heads throughout their lifetime, add to their distinctive look.
Farewell to those birds travelling, fly safely. Don't do what the weather has done to many North American Warblers, get blown to Ireland and the UK!
Who are you expecting and looking forward to seeing on your patch? Tell me to share the excitement.
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