My first Lychnismoth of the year in my Moth Box this morning.
It was wet last night and obviously well into the morning as I awoke to a very damp garden. Last night, before retiring to bed, a quick check of the Moth Box was a bit of a task as the whole garden seemed to be littered with snails and slugs going about their business on the very wet patio! This morning, I had my highest count of Moths for the year and a few ‘year-ticks’ into the bargain as well. To cap it off, my first UK Yellow Wagtail flew high over the house heading north!
My Moth Box:
This Bloxworth Snout was found later in the morning by my Moth Box.
A good count of 14 moths of 7 species were recorded this morning and a further check when I got home from my first shift at Pembroke Road, another moth species was added; my first Bloxworth Snout of the year resting on my bike cover beside the Box. There were three more Moths that were new for the year that included a Lychnis, Brimstone Moth and the micro moths, Sulphur Tubic (Esperia sulphurella) and Ruddy Streak (Tachystola acroxantha).
New for the year were the moths Sulphur Tubic (above) and Brimstone Moth (below).
MACRO MOTHS
MICRO MOTHS
Lychnis * x1
Light Brown Apple Moth x7
Common Quaker x1
Common Plume x1
Brimstone Moth * x1
Sulphur Tubic * x1
Bloxworth Snout * x1
Ruddy Streak * x2
The Moth Box always seems to attract other insects and this morning was no exception with up to four Chequered Hoverflies (Melanostoma scalare) and a Common Wasp on the egg trays within the Box.
Above, two of the four Chequered Hoverflies present this morning and below, a Common Wasp also took refuge in my Moth Box overnight.
Overhead, I heard my first Yellow Wagtail in the UK (saw many in Turkey last week) fly high north over the house and a Mediterranean Gull was heard again in the distance.
Pembroke Road, Old Portsmouth:
This is the garden in Pembroke Close, close to where I stand in Pembroke Road. The lawn itself was a haven for plants with the likes of Spanish Bluebells, Three-cornered Leek, Bulbous Buttercups and a few other flowering plants inhabiting the garden. The leaves on the trees have the potential of hiding a possible migrant, so I shall keep a close eye on this garden over the coming months.
There was a bit of a mixture of weather today and on my first shift at Pembroke Road, it was very overcast, but mild with a breezy south-westerly wind blowing across the road. Again, after my Yellow Wagtail sighting earlier this morning, I was banking on a Hirundine flying over, but the wait for one goes on. This afternoon, the weather turned worse with persistent rain throughout my second shift, but my 13 bird species this morning on my first shift were added by one more species this afternoon - a Magpie!
A Robin was seen singing close to where I stood on the corner of Pembroke Road and Pembroke Close; so pleasant to hear over the noise of the passing cars. There were no migrants seen at all here today and it was left to the more common birds to add to the species count. A Carrion Crow perched on a rooftop nearby was being harassed by around 6 Herring Gulls; but the Crow stood its ground as the Gulls tried in vain to bombard the Corvid. I have a suspicion that one of the Gulls could be nesting up there?
It was very tempting to take a quick walk this morning into Highland Road Cemetery, especially with a singing Chiffchaff within there. What else could be there?
Earlier today, my dogs had their usual walk past Highland Road Cemetery (it's so tempting to have a walk round, but I simply have not got the time) and a Chiffchaff was heard singing somewhere within the Cemy and I was pretty sure I heard a Swift overhead, but failed to locate the bird.
Evening update: I found my first Small Dusty Wave moth of the year in my garden tonight, but it was too dark and not easy to get a photo of the Moth. Hurrumph!
In Hampshire today:
A singing Common Whitethroat seen and photographed recently by Rob Porter.
The long-staying American Golden Plover was still present today at Bunny Meadows, Warsash, still (I could be tempted to go for the bird on Saturday should it still be present) and Winchester College Water Meadows held 3 ‘reeling’ Grasshopper Warblers along with a Mandarin and a selection of Warblers and Hirundines present. Off Hill Head this morning, an Arctic Skua, 6 Kittiwakes and 3 Gannets went past and the Velvet Scoter was off Brownwich still. A White Stork flew over Fishlake Meadows again (another likely candidate site for this Saturday).
The stunning Red-spotted Bluethroat at Swineham Gravel Pits, Dorset. Photo by Emma Parkes.
The Royal Garrison Church at the back of Governor's Green. No Wheatears bouncing on the Green yet!
A fine day here at Pembroke Road today, with a lot of sunshine around, but there was a bit of cloud first thing which produced a little bit of rain, but that soon disappeared, leaving behind sunshine for those on their way to work, including myself. I have been watching the Lazee Birders Whatsapp sightings coming through for those lucky enough to be retired or simply taking the day off and Fishlake Meadows was producing a vast array of migrants today. I didn't have my Moth Box on last night as I wanted yesterday’s Moths to move on before switching the Box on again.
Pembroke Road, Old Portsmouth:
Canal Moat early this morning. Who is the mystery shadow by the Moat?
I was hoping for my first UK Swallow or Swift this morning, seeing it was a bit cloudy with a southerly wind blowing; the chances of one or two arriving was promising, but there were none seen here today. However, a Little Egret heading west over Governor’s Green was a nice surprise as it headed towards Portsmouth Harbour.
On arrival, I was a tad early to start work and so took a walk over to Curtain Moat to see if anything unusual was occurring. All the usual birds were noted including lots of Starlings and Feral Pigeons by the Moat itself and an Oystercatcher was first heard then seen flying east low over the Solent. I had my spare binoculars with me, but I could not find anything of note over the Solent. I shall be doing a bit of sea-watching very shortly, but I need to find a place to look from due to all the building work going on to protect the sea defences.
Curtain Moat with the Solent in the background.
Back in Pembroke Road, all the usual birds were noted as 14 bird species were recorded from my two shifts here today. A Goldfinch flew in and landed on one of the tall trees near the footpath on the opposite side of the road from where I stood and was joined by a pair of Starlings until both flew off. A pair of Blue Tits were giving off their alarm call, but I could see no raptor coming through which was disappointing. There were plenty of House Sparrows calling in the hedgerow by the Bowling Green and at least two male Blackbirds seen during my time there. The Bowling Green is being used now by the Bowling Club and so parking in the afternoons is going to be more difficult than usual.
In Hampshire today:
One of the Curlew Sandpipers at Keyhaven Marshes. Photo by Steve Laycock.
Once again, a lot of migrant birds were reported today (via both Hants Going Birding site and the ‘Lazee’s’ Whatsapp) and pick of the bunch included the following: 3 Arctic Terns past Hill Head early this morning, male Redstart at Woolmer Pond, Velvet Scoter, Common Tern and 3 Swallows at Brownwich, 2 Curlew Sandpipers and a Little Ringed Plover at Keyhaven Marshes, a White Stork flying over Blashford Lakes plus a Little Ringed Plover, 2 Garden Warblers and up to 300+ Sand Martins by the Goosander Hide.
Singing Sedge Warbler at Fishlake Meadows today. Photo by Andy Tew.
This Angle Shades Moth was by my Moth Box this morning. This was my second one of this species this year.
It was back to work this morning and Pembroke Road beckoned to do my first shift after the Easter Break. Last night, I put the Moth Box on within my garden and hoped for the best and was pleasantly surprised with a few Moths present. However, the working week didn't start off that well as some idiot's car alarm was going off in the very early hours of the morning. Grrrrr! The weather today looked promising but a few rogue heavy showers were encountered today around midday as temperatures climbed to around 12 degrees with a very light south-westerley wind.
My Moth Box:
My first Pale Mottled Willow of the year.
There were 7 moths of 5 species this morning and among them was my first Pale Mottled Willow of the year and a striking individual it was too. Other ‘macro’ Moths included a Common Quaker, an Angle Shades and two Double-striped Pugs. Two Light Brown Apple Moths were the only ‘micro’ moths recorded today.
A Chequered Hoverfly was also within the Moth Box this morning.
Also within the Moth Box, a Chequered Hoverfly (Melanostoma scalare) was present, perched on the inside wall of the Moth Box. Overhead, a Linnet and Goldfinch flew over and I also could hear a Mediterranean Gull calling somewhere in the distance.
Pembroke Road, Old Portsmouth:
A sunny start to the week in Pembroke Road.
Yes, it was back to work here in Old Portsmouth and thankfully, it was pleasant and dry during both my shifts here. A reasonable total of 16 bird species were recorded today and pick of the bunch was actually a Collared Dove! This species is rarely recorded here for one reason or another and it was the first one I have seen here this year. Three species of Gull were seen that included Black-headed Gull (2), Herring Gull and Great Black-backed Gull (2). Sadly, nothing else that exciting today here I'm afraid.
The plants in the garden have grown considerably since I was here two weeks ago.
In Hampshire today:
Though not in Hampshire, this superb Red-spotted Bluethroat was seen in Dorset yesterday. Photo by Emma Parkes.
A good variety of migrant birds recorded throughout Hampshire including Whitethroats, Reed and Garden Warblers, Sand Martins, Tree Pipits, Wheatears, Redstarts and Common Terns to name but a few. A Blue-headed Wagtail was found on Farlington Marshes this morning, but no further sign of yesterday's Bonaparte’s Gull on Fishlake Meadows.
The Bonaparte's Gull on Fishlake Meadows yesterday. Photo by Andy Tew.
This Chiffchaff, which lacked most of its tail, was singing occasionally in the small trees.
So it was back to earth this morning when I took the dogs for their morning walk around Highland Road Cemetery. No Bee-eaters, Hoopoe’s or unusual Warblers present this morning, but after a bit of rain very early on this morning, it was dry and bright as we slowly made our way around my local patch. When I was in Turkey, I caught up with all the migrants seen back in Hampshire via various Whatsapp posts and even today, birding pals Emma and Matt Parkes saw their first Swift of the year over their house and also went off to see both a Bluethroat and a Hoopoe (though both birds were in Dorset!).
Above, the only Green Alkanet plant growing in the Cemy was now flowering and below, Herb Robert is now flowering too.
Above, several Robins were seen today and below, this Horse Chestnut tree towering over the Mausoleum was now in full leaf.
Above, one of a pair of Dunnocks seen this morning near the Mausoleum and below, Meadow Foxtail growing on the grass in the centre of the Cemy. A variety of grasses grow within my local patch.
Back in Highland Road Cemetery, it seems that the Council have left the grass to grow a lot longer than normal, which so benefits the local wildlife and a lot of common plants and weeds were all in bloom and showing well in the bright Spring sunshine. As for the birds, at least three Chiffchaffs were present and one was in song now and then. Also, a male Blackcap was in song, but tucked in far too deep within vegetation to actually get a view or photograph of the bird.
Above, one of the Robins by one of the footpaths and below, a Chiffchaff by one of the main paths.
Above, there were a few clumps of Bulbous Buttercups growing in the Cemy and below, a preening Wood Pigeon.
Above, looking north from the footpath at the southern end of the Cemy. I was hoping for an early Pied Flycatcher here. Wouldn't that be amazing? Below, the Spanish variety of Bluebells looking stunning in the sunshine.
Overhead, there was a steady stream of Gulls going over; mostly Black-headedand Herring Gulls, but I did hear a Mediterranean Gull calling, but failed to find the bird. I was scanning the sky now and then, hoping for my first ‘UK’ Swallow or Swift of the year, but not this morning.A lot of the usual birds were present and correct and that included a pair of Dunnocks (not a species I often come across here) that were chasing one another within the bushes near the Mausoleum. Sadly, no other migrants were on show, but I shall be coming over here more frequently now that the evenings are getting longer with my dogs.
Above, my first Holly Blue butterfly of the year in my back garden this afternoon. Below, there were a number of Drone Flies around as well as the Holly Blue (also, a Small White flew through briefly) including this individual.
I encountered at least one Hoopoe within the grounds of the Hotel, but listening to them sing was a 'first' for me.
Today was the start of a ten day holiday to Lara Beach, near Antalya, Southern Turkey for a very relaxing break with my wife Becky. We stayed at the exclusive Barut Hotel, which is, incidentally, our 3rd stay at this beautiful location, though it was the first time we had been in the Spring and boy, did it produce the birding goods! The only thing was that you could not guarantee the weather as we experienced rain, wind, thunderstorm but plenty of warm sunshine between.
Above, Laughing Doves were abundant throughout the Hotel gardens as well as (below) White-eyed Bulbuls.
We had stayed overnight at a Gatwick Hotel before our early morning flight to Antalya Airport and the four hour flight had us in Turkey around 2pm Turkey time (they were two hours in front of UK time). The first bird I saw from the plane window was a probable Yellow-legged Gull flying over the runway, but after unloading the luggage, Becky and I spent a very relaxing afternoon around the Hotel grounds.
Above, a pair of Collared Flycatchers frequenting the main path on the west side of the Hotel Grounds and below, a Woodchat Shrike was seen on two separate occasions during the time I was there.
Over the course of this week, I intend to put a daily report of what was seen and photographed as I took well over 500+ photos for me to sift through and sharpen up. A superb total of 71 species were recorded during my 10 day stay there of which three were ‘Lifers’ (Ruppell’s Warbler, Eastern Bonelli’s Warbler &Laughing Dove) and a host of superb species that were rarities in the UK. Butterflies, Dragonflies and Moths were in very short supply of which I have encountered a lot more when we have come here in the Autumn months and the temperatures were a lot hotter.
Above, Western Subalpine Warblers were seen several times, mostly along the west side of the Hotel grounds and below, having seen a few Night Herons by the small pool on the outskirts of the Hotel, this big flock 15 birds took off, circled and then landed out of view near the pool again.
So, as mentioned, I shall be adding more to this entry as the week goes on as I get back to normal back here in the UK. Some of the photos I took I was really pleased with as the light on most days was very good when the sun was out. I did not take my new Nikon camera because I fancied my Panasonic Bridge Camera instead due to the fact it was much lighter. I did take two Memory Cards and was so glad I did. Just scroll down every day and enjoy.
Wednesday 1st April 2026.
As Becky and I got out of the Airport at Antalya, we looked for our coach to take us to the Hotel. On the way there, right by my feet were a pair ofLaughing Doves. This was actually a ‘Lifer’ for me (a totally new species for my Life List) as I quickly took several photos of the birds with my mobile. It turned out that they were a very common species here in Antalya and there were plenty around the Hotel grounds including one that was nesting right outside our apartment. I can understand why they are called Laughing Doves due to their repeated ascending call.
Above, from our apartment balcony, we could see this small lake just to the west of the Hotel grounds. This was a great source for birdlife as I found a good variety of birds using the pool to either feed or rest. Every day, the Hirundines could be see hunting insects over the pool or resting in the small area of reedbed on the east side of the pool. I also found roosting Night Herons one morning here in the trees bordering the lake. A lot of building work was being carried out behind the pool and to the south of the lake, a large area of scrubland was still present. Below, on of many White Wagtails present in the Hotel grounds. Note how trimmed the grass was; for the gardeners here were meticulous with what they were doing and friendly too!
Obviously, once in a new Country, I am looking all over the place for anything of note and was not surprised to find good numbers of both Collared Doves and House Sparrows present in the Coach Park and a few Hooded Crows flew over also. The journey from the Airport to the Berut Hotel only took 20 minutes and just one other couple got off a packed Coach at the Hotel. The weather was warm and sunny on arrival with little breeze and just a few clouds drifting over and approximately around 17 degrees centigrade.
Moths were far and few within the Hotel grounds, unlike when I have been here before in August / September time where there were hundreds to be seen. I did find these two one morning; a probable Pallid Grey micro moth (above) and (below) a Rush Veneer one morning perched on the same wall.
As expected, White-eyed Bulbuls were all over the place and very vocal too, while overhead, Hirundines were everywhere. Swallows, Red-rumped Swallows and House Martins were abundant, with sometimes large flocks going over. I knew it was Spring and therefore today and throughout our stay, there was a strong movement of Hirundines migrating across the Hotel grounds and it was most enjoyable watching them passing over the beach and sea. The Red-rumped Swallows drifting slowly between the Hotel grounds from our balcony was stunning in this sunlight, but they did prove quite difficult to photograph using my dated camera.
Above, this female Laughing Dove was incubating her eggs just outside our apartment as we took great pains not to disturb her. The male was nearby, calling frequently. Below, the humble House Sparrow. These were present in extremely large numbers; especially on the beach and were a good source of amusement for my wife who was feeding them dried buscuit, then a flock of 40+ would descend by her feet hoping for a crumb or two!
White Wagtails, the Continental race of the UK’s Pied Wagtail, were also abundant and seen every day; mostly in pairs especially at the top of the buildings and occasionally searching for food on the manicured fresh grass outside the apartments. A male Greenfinch was seen singing high up on one of the very tall ornamental Conifers and again, one was seen on most days here.
Above, Hooded Crows were abundant throughout the Hotel grounds and neighbouring area. Becky and I, while having lunch in the Sandals Restaurant within the Hotel grounds, witnessed a big fight between six Hooded Crows. One particular fight went on for around ten minutes with both birds being pinned down and feathers being plucked out! It really was quite graphic! Below, the Taurus Mountain surrounded Antalya and some of the taller Mountains had snow on their summits!
Late in the afternoon, it clouded over and rain actually fell throughout the rest of the day and into the evening. As mentioned earlier, Becky and I have been here twice before, but in the hot Summer / early Autumn months, where there was no rain whatsoever. However, despite the rain, it wasn't too heavy and it certainly didn't put off the local birdlife including the Hirundines.
Thursday 2nd April 2026.
A female Collared Flycatcher within the Hotel grounds by the Cattery.
There was heavy rain for most of the night which led to a big fall of migrant birds in and around the Hotel grounds. How big I was not sure at first as it was overcast and breezy when I took my walk down to the beach and then back up to the grounds by the Cattery at the northern end of the Hotel. I was to discover that the ‘fall’ of migrants was huge and varied too with a good selection of migrants passing through. The sun finally arrived around 10am and though sunny and bright for the remainder of the day, the wind was quite strong coming in off the sea.
Above, this was the only Willow Warbler that was seen on our trip and below, two of around four Whinchats that had dropped into the bushes in the north of the Hotel grounds.
Around 10am, after we had breakfast, we made our way to the beach and fortunately for us, there was a vehicle especially put on for the guests to climb on board as a driver then took us about a third of a mile down to the Beach Bar! Luxury! As we made our way there, I caught sight of a stunning male Collared Flycatcher flitting about in the trees; however, I did not have my camera with me and so I had to take some record photos using my Mobile Phone and of course, they were awful. All was not lost as I saw this particular bird throughout the week as well as a few female birds.
This female Collared Flycatcher showed very well at times. A view of the grounds at the Cattery site in the northern half of Hotel Berut.
The Hooded Crows, White-eyed Bulbuls, Collared and Laughing Doves were all in good numbers again and showing well in the bright sunshine. House Sparrows were literally everywhere, especially by the Beach Bar where they literally walked about by your feet! Suddenly, two Wheatears caught my eye, both sitting on the sunbeds. One was most definitely a male Wheatear (see film footage that was taken using my mobile), but the second was a superb Eastern Black-eared Wheatear! I have only ever seen one of this species before and that was many years ago on the heathland in Dorset. The latter bird flew off before I could get a decent photo, but the former bird stayed around for a while.
Above, a breezy beach at the Hotel Berut and below, the male Wheatear on the sunbeds.
The wind was quite blustery over the beach and the waves were quite high that were crashing on the sandy shoreline. A red flag was up so nobody could go swimming; but I did bring my binoculars along with me and saw a big flock of ‘Commic’ Terns flying east low over the waves; but too distant to get an accurate ID of the birds. Several Yellow-legged Gulls also flew through, but I had to be careful where I was looking with my binoculars as there were a lot of people sunbathing (???) on the deckchairs in front of us. However, two dark looking birds were flying west low over the sea and I realised immediately I was looking at two pale-phased Arctic Skua’s! Incredible stuff. I was hoping for the well-mentioned Yelkouen Shearwaters that can be seen off this beach during windy conditions; but no such luck.
This male Redstart was one of two seen this afternoon.
We decided to walk back to the Hotel to have lunch and I heard a Nightingale singing over on the west side of the Hotel grounds. Sadly, no sighting of the bird, but it was the first of this species I have heard this year. Both Swallows and Red-rumped Swallows were sailing overhead in good numbers and as we walked over the damp, but neatly lawned grass, several Diamond-back Moths flew up from our footfall. Lunch beckoned and then a siesta for the afternoon.
Above, the Hoopoe near the Cattery had caught something interesting and below, another photo of the vocal male Redstart.
I must admit, I was too excited to simply get some kip and so walking up to the balcony overlooking the northern half of the Hotel grounds, a quick scan over the Pool produced sightings of both Little Grebe and a Moorhen swimming on the water with more and more Hirundines seen flying over the reed-fringed Pool. I then took a walk north on the edge of the Hotel grounds to the Cattery and along the way, I then realised just how big a ‘fall’ of birds had taken place. The whole area was alive with birds and that included a couple of male Redstarts, a Willow Warbler, 2 Whinchats, a female Pied Flycatchers and a female Collared Flycatcher,Great Tit, Goldfinch, a very showy Hoopoe searching for food on the lawn and a pair of Blackcaps along with several Lesser Whitethroats. All the usual birds mentioned earlier were seen in good numbers. Overhead, a Crested Lark was seen in full song and nearby, behind the car park, both Cetti’s Warbler and Reed Warbler were heard singing.
The Hoopoe was showing well by the Cattery.
Back at the Balcony, I was simply watching the birds going over the Hotel grounds and also the countryside to the north. A large raptor caught my eye, but it really was a ‘scope job’ as it sat on the top of a tree in the distance. However, when it finally took off, I could clearly see it was a Long-legged Buzzard, judging by the plumage details and also the long wings. More Hirundines were now over the Pool and this included several House Martins among them to round off a superb day here.
Friday 3rd April 2026.
A flock of 20 Glossy Ibis flew in from the sea and headed north.
Again, I was up early this morning and up and dressed by 7.45am as I then made my way down the west side of the Hotel Grounds to the beach and then back again and up to the northern end by the Cattery. The weather was overcast, though light winds and a few spots of rain mixed in also. Later in the evening, the rain was still falling and there was a superb lightning storm over the Mediterranean before we retired to bed.
Above, dawn over the beach and below, one of the Red-rumped Swallows over the Hotel grounds.
The female Laughing Dove was still in her tiny nest by our apartment as I then made my way to the Balcony for a quick check over the Hotel grounds and beyond. The House Sparrows and Hooded Crows were all on show as were several White Wagtails on the rooftops and the usual Hirundines were hawking over the pool. As I walked south down the main footpath to the beach, I came across my first Robin of the trip, though it was a skulking individual and not easy to see. Half way down the footpath, a large flock of 20 Glossy Ibis flew over in a V-shape heading north over the Hotel grounds. A good start to the day, I think!
One of many male Blackcaps seen this morning and below, a juvenile Yellow-legged Gull flying over the sea.
The sea was rather calm and apart from some distant Gulls loafing on the sea, all was quiet here, so I retraced my steps and took a stroll where there were a few Basketball Courts and other function areas that were surrounded by trees and bushes that included Blue-leaved Wattle Bushes that held small yellow ball-like flowers. The Bushes were alive with Warblers, especially Blackcaps and Lesser Whitethroats and then I found a male Western Subalpine Warbler. I have not seen one of these for many a year and so enjoyed watching the bird skulking about the bushes in search of insects. I did find a Common Whitethroat also among the Warblers, but its cousin the Lesser Whitethroats were far more numerous. A Great Tit joined the throng of Warblers; though to be honest, I really didn't know where to look due to the sheer number of birds in this patch of the Hotel Grounds.
Above, Becky was feeding the local Collared Doves and House Sparrows by the Beach Bar and below, a pair of Red-rumped Swallows flying near our balcony.
Overhead, Red-rumped Swallows gracefully glided over while Swallows and House Martins flew more purposefully in various sized flocks. A lone Common Swift flew high overhead and headed west and probably a lot more went over before I saw this particular bird. As mentioned, the area was alive with birds that included good numbers of the vocal White-eyed Bulbuls. A pair of Starlings, my first of the trip here, were seen singing high up in one of the tall Palm trees and a small flock of three Yellow-legged Gulls headed northbound. Deep in the vegetation, at least two Nightingales were heard singing their delightful song, but were invisible to me. A Chiffchaff flitted within the Sueda Bushes and a pair of Hoopoes gave chase to one another through the treetops.
Above, the Blue-leaved Wattle Bushes, with their lovely yellow ball-like flowers,proved favourable for the many Warblers present including the Western Subalpine Warblers (below).
As I made my way to the Cattery area, I heard a Cetti’s Warbler singing behind the car park and several more Blackcaps were seen by the main footpath. A male Greenfinch was singing high up in one of the Palm Trees and a Goldfinch, my first of the trip, flew high over and calling as it headed off east. This evening, while sitting out on our balcony, the Red-rumped Swallows were gracefully flying around the Hotel Blocks and offering great views despite the rain. A raptor grabbed my attention, which turned out to be a male Kestrel gliding around the tallest building nearby. To round the day off, it was lovely to hear the male Laughing Dove calling to its mate nearby.
As dusk fell, the Taurus Mountains beyond Antalya were prominent.
Saturday 4th April 2026
I was lucky to find this Nightingale in a bird bath at the northern end of the Hotel grounds.
Today was a bit of a wet one with a few breaks in the rain, but that didn't dampen my spirit (excuse my pun!) as I had the opportunity to take an early morning walk down to the beach, walking along the usual path on the west side of the Hotel grounds. Between 7am and 8.30am, there were a variety of birds on show and a few nice surprises too that included a ‘Lifer’. Again, all the usual birds were seen including House Sparrow, Hooded Crow, White-eyed Bulbul, Collared and Laughing Doves and several White Wagtails.
Above, a Lesser Whitethroat and a female Blackcap sharing the same bush below our apartment.
April isn't the best time for looking for moths, but I did find one along my walk to the beach; a Geranium Wave moth, which was perched between two climbing plants on a white wall. A male Kestrel flew over the buildings and drifted off north and a distant Cetti’s Warbler could be heard in the distance.
Above, the Geranium Wave moth and below, one of three PALLAS'S GULLS passing offshore.
From the Balcony, I was chuffed to bits when I found at least three Night Herons perched in the trees beside the small pool, which included two adults and a juvenile bird. It has been a few years since I have seen this species as I ‘dipped’ on the adult bird last year at Titchfield Haven; so though distant, I was pleased to get a record shot of this species. The expected Hirundines were in good numbers hawking over the pool and the wasteland surrounding it and many were resting on the reed stems within the edges of the pool. A Moorhen was seen walking along the muddy edges.
Above, hundreds of Swallows were passing by over the sea and beach and below, one of two Starlings by the beach.
The walk to the beach produced many more Red-rumped Swallows and Swallows; these, I noticed, were not hanging around either and no doubt were migrant birds that had come in off the sea. The scolding ‘tick’ of Lesser Whitethroats were heard every so often as I walked down the footpath and some were actually seen quite well too. As I neared the beach, the calm sea produced several Yellow-legged Gulls passing over and then I noticed some dark-hooded Gulls passing east low over the sea. On closer inspection late that morning on my camera, I realised that three birds were actually adult Pallas’s Gulls! I didn't realise they got them here, but according to Google, they do pass this way on migration. This was a ‘Lifer’ for me and I was so pleased, but a little later, I was to get a second ‘Lifer’ this morning! The sea also produced a few Lesser Black-backed Gulls going through and I also saw a distant Dolphin heading east, but really too distant to ascertain what species it was. It was now dawning on me that this place is starting to really heat up with some great sightings.
Above, a singing Great Tit by the main footpath and below, the beach looking east.
After the beach, I headed back up the footpath and watched a pair of Starlings high up in Palm trees. I couldn't believe how many Swallows were passing through both over the beach and the sea; literally hundreds! A Greenfinch flew overhead as did several flocks of House Martins and even a small flock of 4 calling Tree Pipits passed overhead. A calling Warbler stopped me in my tracks and on closer inspection, while I watched it flitter about in the Sueda, it was a Bonell's Warbler species. But which one? I have heard Western Bonelli’s before in the UK, but this call was unfamiliar. It was when I checked on YouTube that I realised I had seen my first ever Eastern Bonelli’s Warbler! My third ‘Lifer’ since I have been here. Incredible! Oh, it was going to get better too!
Above and below, the distant Long-legged Buzzard. Also below, the flock of Glossy Ibis out in the nearby fields plus a lot of Swallows and Red-rumped Swallows passing through.
As I made my way northbound along the footpath, at least two Nightingales were singing in the undergrowth and another bird was seen well sat on a bird bath between the Hotel buildings. A Crested Lark was singing high overhead and then descended distantly onto the waste ground near the Pond. 8.30am was fast approaching and so I made my back to Becky and headed off for breakfast. Sadly, the rain got heavier and it wasn't till midday that I decided to check out the birdlife from the balcony again.
Several (probable) Barrel Jellyfish were washed up on the beach after the recent stormy weather.
At midday, from the Balcony, looking north towards the sheep fields behind the main road, I found a large flock of at least 40+ Glossy Ibis feeding in one of the fields. That was until the owner of the sheep, along with his two dogs, flushed the entire flock as they flew off east. However, I did find an interesting large raptor perched on a tree and though it was still very distant through binoculars, when it took off, I realised it was a Long-legged Buzzard; a species that is familiar to Antalya and only my second one ever after seeing a couple in Cyprus many years ago.
The rest of the afternoon was rained off, but what a great variety of birds today that included two 'Lifers!'
Things got even better when I saw a Roller flying south-east high over the buildings; only my second ever sighting of this species (my last was actually in Hampshire about a decade ago!). A Black Kite was also seen drifting over waste ground to the north and a flock of around 8+ Swifts were also seen soaring over the building rooftops. Three more Tree Pipits flew west and at last, my first Yellow Wagtail flew west low over the buildings; but too distant to tell which type of Yellow Wagtail it was. They do get a variety of sub-species here as I have seen in the past in Autumn! The weather was poor in the afternoon as Becky and I simply relaxed all day with a good book for company and also plenty to eat and drink. The Efes lager was gorgeous and the Honey Jack Daniels measures were incredible. Hic!
Sunday 5th April 2026.
The Woodchat Shrike by the road adjacent to the main footpath.
It was bright and sunny between the hours of 7am to 8.30am when I took my usual stroll down the west side of the Hotel grounds to the beach, but the easterly wind blowing made temperatures very chilly. I was so glad I had packed a fleece with me, which turned out to be a Godsend throughout my trip here to Southern Turkey. Trust me, yes it was cold first thing in the morning, but the temperatures did climb up considerably as most days were in the 70’s!
Above, the footpath leading to the beach on the west side of the Hotel grounds. Below, a surprise sighting of a Wryneck on the road shortly after the Woodchat sighting. Wow"
From the balcony at the back of our building, a quick check of the pool on the waste ground produced a Moorhen swimming on the water, but apart from the usual Hirundines, nothing out of the ordinary there this morning. Overhead, Red-rumped Swallows entertained as they slowly drifted high over the main footpath leading to the beach. A White Wagtail showed very well, searching for food on the short grass by some of the apartments adjacent to the footpath and then I came across my first Blackbird of the trip. A male bird was singing high up on the top of a tree behind the perimeter fence and subsequently flew over the main footpath onto the Hotel grounds.
Above, the Woodchat Shrike by the small road and below, a male Redstart near the Cattery.
As I was walking south down towards the beach, a largish moth caught my eye and following it, it flew over the main footpath and I thought it was going to land on the bough of a tree, but out of the blue, a male Collared Flycatcher flew out of hiding and caught the moth in mid flight and flew off with the Moth! I wasn't expecting that! There was a large movement of Tree Pipits flying over with at least 20 birds noted in various sized flocks. It seems where there are Pipits, Wagtails were sure to follow and sure enough, three Yellow Wagtails flew over and a little later, another 3 Yellow Wagtails flew west over the beach.
Above, the male Collared Flycatcher that snatched my Moth! Below, a Chiffchaff in the hedge near the Cattery.
Things started to get very interesting when I checked out the road adjacent to the main footpath. Not only was there a spectacular view of the distant Taurus Mountains to the west with their snow capped peaks, but I found a superb Woodchat Shrike. I was checking out the trees to the north of the road, trying to identify the warblers present in the small trees there (Blackcaps and Lesser Whitethroats), when I stumbled across this Woodchat Shrike perched quietly in one of the trees and it remained there for the duration I was watching the area. Something else caught my eye and below the bird, resting on the pavement, was a Wryneck! Two quality birds in the space of a few minutes and despite the bird being quite distant, I managed to reel off some nice photos of the bird.
Above, the male Redstart checking out the sky and below, one of the Tree Pipits actually landed near the Cattery.
Getting over that bit of excitement was not easy, but I had to drag myself away to check the sea. A male Greenfinch flew over and a ‘truck load’ of more Swallows passed overhead along with smaller flocks of House Martins. A Starling flew over and a pair of Great Tits were flitting about in the Palm Trees by the beach. A Carrion Crow flew east, my first one of the trip and over the sea, two distant Terns flew east low over the sea and judging by the shape of them, I concluded they were probably Sandwich Terns.
The flock of Glossy Ibis coming in off the sea.
The walk back was a bit more quieter, though the Woodchat Shrike was still present in the same place from where I first saw it. Up by the Cattery, to the north of Hotel grounds, I found a calling male Redstart that showed very well by the perimeter fence. A Chiffchaff joined the bird along with a Robin to round off my morning walk. That was some walk!!!
One of many Lesser Whitethroats seen along the footpath.
After breakfast, Becky and I decided to spend some time by the Beach Bar (not to get pissed by the way, just having a good read of a good book, honest!). Luckily, I had packed both my binoculars and camera with me and a flock of 20 Glossy Ibis suddenly flew low over the sea and then headed off north over the Hotel grounds. Two Sandwich Terns flew east over the sea and a Lesser Black-backed Gull followed the Terns.
Above, the flock of Grey Herons flying over the Hotel Grounds this afternoon and below, the male Kestrel perched high up on one of the Hotel buildings.
At lunchtime (around 1pm), we had our lunch in the Sandals Restaurant and a very showy White Wagtail sat on the table by us and was also seen walking about on our feet as well! A couple of Tree Pipits flew over as we made our way back to the room, but not before a flock of four Grey Herons flew over. I quickly grabbed my camera to confirm they were actually ‘Greys’, which caused quite a stir with other holidaymakers here as my wife explained what I was doing! Just before getting into our room, a male Kestrel was seen circling around the buildings to round off a superb day's sightings.
Monday 6th April 2026.
Night Herons flying towards the small Pond adjacent to the Hotel grounds. I have never encountered a flock of this species before and something I will never forget.
It was a much brighter and sunnier day today as I got up at my usual time to go for my early morning walk between 7am to 8.30am. Apart from the usual birds (I am trying not to dismiss them for they are superb to watch; the Bulbuls and Hooded Crows etc.), the day held another excellent selection of birds and yet another ‘Lifer’ was seen this morning.
Above, the female Collared Flycatcher and below, one of the Great Tits. Both were seen along the footpath.
As I walked south down the usual pathway to the west of the Hotel grounds, two singing Nightingales could be heard hidden within the vegetation and the Lesser Whitethroat numbers seemed to double overnight with at least a dozen or more either seen or heard close to the footpath. Swallows, Red-rumped Swallows and House Martins were abundant in numbers overhead and a pair of Great Tits and a Greenfinch were also seen flying over.
Above and below, the male Ruppell's Warbler showed very well this morning.
A female Collared Flycatcher showed very well by the footpath, seen perched on the perimeter fence and showed long enough to grab a few photos of this delightful passerine. It got even better when I finally saw my first ever RUPPELL'S WARBLER! I seemed to of failed to see this species of Warbler the last few times Becky and I have been to Southern Turkey, but today, I was in luck as this beautiful little Warbler was seen skulking out in the open by some brambles and it even sang briefly too (it was a male!). I have always wanted to see this attractive Warbler and at last, here it was.
Above, a male Blackcap was one of many this morning as was this Lesser Whitethroat (below).
Above, a very distant Great Crested Grebe swimming on a very calm Mediterranean Sea.
Nearby, as I got closer to the beach, three Starlings flew past and at least 6Blackcaps were seen in the bushes nearby, while a Yellow Wagtail flew high over and headed north. The sea was very calm again and carefully checking out the sea, I found a Great Crested Grebe swimming distantly offshore. A pair of small ducks were also seen flying low west over the sea, but too distant to ascertain their ID and could have quite possibly been Garganey? I rejoined the area where I saw the Ruppell’s Warbler and came across a pair of Western Subalpine Warblers in the brambles and a pair of Hoopoe’s were accidentally flushed from the sandy ground and flew up in a tree only to have a bit of ‘argy bargy’ between the birds until they flew off in different directions!
Above, the flock of Glossy Ibis going overhead.
Above and below, the Reed Warbler near the Cattery.
Above, yet another male Blackcap flying around the bushes.
Back at the Cattery area, a Cetti’s Warbler heard singing and an odd Warbler caught my eye skulking around the base of a hedgerow. At first, I thought it was a female Whitethroat and so I sent some photos to some friends of mine and all agreed it was a Reed Warbler. Doh! I should of seen that and on closer inspection of the photos, it sure was. A flock of 10 Glossy Ibis flew low overhead and headed off north as I made my way back to the apartment. Back at the apartment, from the balcony overlooking the north of the Hotel grounds, another flock of 20 Glossy Ibis flew over and better still, a flock of 14 Night Herons flew from the Pond and flew quite close to where I was watching until flying back towards the Pond again, to round off yet another memorable spot of birding.
Above, the 20 Glossy Ibis seen flying east.
Above and below, a couple of photos of the Night Herons.
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