
And what a cracking day it was. Lots of Azure-winged Magpies along the picturesque road between Zafarraya and Loja. Then after a welcome cup of coffee with Mick we scoured the fields around his village, Huetor Tajar. Before long I had a lifer, a pair of Jack Snipe which we put up from an irrigation ditch, along with a few Common Snipe and a Green Sandpiper. A Bluethroat as well made it a very good start and an omen of things to come. These birds were too quick for us to get any decent shots though.

Corn Buntings were out in force in the sunny weather, and Blackcaps were adding their delightful song to a pleasant day. As we moved further out of the village a lone Little Bustard could be seen wandering across a green field, however we were in two minds whether to follow the bustard on our right, or try to get closer to the Great Spotted Cuckoo that had flown into the trees to our left. Hobson´s choice! |



Birds of the day must go to the pair of Great Spotted Cuckoos that flew into a tree close to our car giving good photo opportunities. We were also treated to them calling loudly, a sound Mick described as being like a "demented Green Woodpecker". Now anyone who has heard both would agree that´s a perfect description.

Butterflies seen include Provence Hairstreak, Cleopatra, Small Tortoiseshell, Western Dappled White, Swallowtail and Bath White , plus the usual Small & Large Whites.