Our Turkish Holiday.

 Wednesday 1st April to Saturday 11th April 2026.

Hotel Barut, Antalya, Southern Turkey.

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 of Laughing 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 6 Blackcaps 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.

Tuesday 7th April 2026

The male Ruppell's Warbler down in the usual spot near the beach. It had flown from the bushes down to near my feet and searched the ground for any insects on offer.

Today was a bright and sunny first thing this morning as I took my usual walk down the west hand side of the Hotel Grounds to the beach. A quick look north from the balcony, I picked out a pair of distant Glossy Ibis heading west and also listening to the sound of the Laughing Doves calling. Both Swallows and Red-rumped Swallows drifted over the buildings and a few Yellow-legged Gulls flew overhead while the White-eyed Bulbuls chased one another. You cannot say there were no birds about! A quick look at the pool revealed just a Moorhen swimming upon the water.

Above, a Red-rumped Swallow flying away from me and below, a Lesser Whitethroat searching for insects.

Above, a pair of Hooded Crows high up in one of the Palm Trees. below, a House Martin flying high over the main footpath.

Above, we came across a few Lizards in the midday sun including this individual on the Hotel wall.

As I made my way south, the male Blackbird was heard singing again beyond the perimeter fence and at least four Lesser Whitethroats were ‘tacking’ in the vegetation close by. When I reached the beach, the sea was very calm again and among the Yellow-legged Gulls, I could see a very distant Egret species heading west over the sea, but too distant to tell if it was either a Little or Cattle Egret.

Above, a Lesser Whitethroat searching for food in the tall bushes and below, the Moon seen from the Turkish side of the world!

Above, a singing White-eyed Bulbul and below, the main footpath on the west side of the Hotel grounds looking south.

Above, a distant raft of Gulls on the very calm early morning sea.

Retracing my steps, I went to the area in the south-west corner where I felt a lot of bird action took place. Today was no exception with a pair of Hoopoes showing well briefly. I did notice that they have a low rasping call when they are together; a sound I have never heard before from Hoopoes. A flock of 7 House Martins flew overhead and a pair of Starlings were again seen up one of the Palm Trees. The male Ruppell’s Warbler was back again and showed very well in the scrub and bushes and literally minutes later, my first Wood Pigeon of the trip was seen flying over the neighbouring buildings. A pair of Western Subalpine Warblers joined the warbler brigade and showed well in the early morning sunshine.

Above, a female Blackcap and below, a male Blackcap.

Above, the male Ruppell's Warbler having a scratch and below, the male Western Subalpine Warbler preening in the early morning sunshine.

Above, I finally got to see a perched Red-rumped Swallow. This individual stopped to have a preen. A House Sparrow shared the same tree.

Making my way back, I heard the alarm call of several birds and a male Sparrowhawk flew low over the grounds and headed off low west. Yet another raptor seen on my trip here. A lone Yellow Wagtail species flew high north, but it didn't give the usual call our UK Yellow Wagtails make and so potentially one of the other sub-species? On reaching the Cattery, a Nightingale showed very well and a Cetti’s Warbler was heard calling again somewhere around the car park.

Above, one of the two Hoopoe's present this morning and below, another photo of the preening Red-rumped Swallow.

Above, the female Sparrowhawk being mobbed by a Hooded Crow. 

As the temperature climbed up to 21 degrees, Becky and I had a swim and simply chilled out for the rest of the day. But I cannot simply ignore the birds as I saw a Kestrel soaring around the buildings and a pair of Hoopoes flying around the Palm trees near one of the swimming pools. Another chilled out day with some excellent birds. While waiting for the taxi to take us to the beach, I saw a female Sparrowhawk soaring high overhead and being mobbed by one of the Hooded Crows. 

Wednesday 8th April 2026.

One of two female Blackcaps seen near the Cattery.

Another bright and clear start to the day, but it has to be said, I was so glad I had brought my fleece with me to Turkey as the mornings are quite fresh with the wind blowing down the footpath. Temperatures were around 11 degrees, but felt much colder in the wind. From my balcony in the apartment, all the usual bird species could be heard and some seen including the Red-rumped Swallows and while watching one, a small wader caught my eye but it was very high up and flying north. The only thing I could think it could have been was a Greenshank, but it was too distant and I could not rule out a Marsh Sandpiper?

One of many Hooded Crows showing nicely in the early morning sunshine and below, a Lesser Whitethroat flitting through the trees by the main footpath.

The male Blackbird was heard singing again on the opposite side of the perimeter fence and the call of a Raven had me searching the sky and I luckily saw the bird as it came into view between the trees on each side of the footpath; but far too quick for a photo. A female Blackcap was a lot more obliging as it flitted about in the vegetation along with a few Lesser Whitethroats present and a singing Great Tit.

Above, one of many Collared Doves present in the Hotel grounds and below, the view from the main balcony looking north. I scanned the area daily and came up with some very good sightings throughout the ten days here.

Nearing the beach, the Starlings were on show again and a flock of House Martins flew over and headed east over the beach. The calm sea held a Sandwich Tern fishing well offshore and a White Wagtail was searching for insects on the sand close to the shoreline. Walking back to the trees and bushes in the south-west corner of the Hotel grounds, there was a lot of bird activity going on with two male Ruppell’s Warblers, a pair of Subalpine Warblers, several Blackcaps and Lesser Whitethroats and a singing Hoopoe perched on a distant Conifer. A Nightingale was heard singing deep within the trees and bushes and best of all, I found a Wryneck searching for insects low down on some rocks, but played hide and seek for a while until flying off deeper into the vegetation. This was one cracking area to watch a variety of birds.

Above, a pair of Yellow-legged Gulls flying over the Hotel and below, my Becky waiting patiently for the Beach taxi to arrive.

As I walked back, reluctantly by the way, a male Sparrowhawk flew over the footpath and headed off west and a Cormorant (my first of the trip) flew over and also headed west. A male Greenfinch was in full song on top of a Palm Tree as I neared the Cattery area, but all I could find there was a Crested Lark singing high overhead and a Cetti’s Warbler singing from the car park area. The rest of the day was spent with my wife relaxing throughout the day and it was around 4.45pm, while checking the birds from the main balcony, a flock of four Little Egrets took off from the small pool and headed off eastbound.

The small flock of 4 Little Egrets seen flying east from the main balcony.

Thursday 9th April 2026

A stream of Alpine Swifts arrived this afternoon just before the rain came.

There was a very impressive lightning storm (strangely, no thunder) over the Mediterranean and I watched for around 15 minutes from our balcony last night. I do love a storm. Today, a weather front came in within the afternoon and light rain arrived and remained for the rest of the day; but the birds seen today were stunning. First off, I did my early morning walk down the usual path leading to the beach and again, there was a cracking array of birds to be seen.

Above, dawn over Antalya from the balcony at the back of the building. Below, a 1st winter Yellow-legged Gull flying over the Hotel grounds.

Above, the beach early in  the morning with a couple of Hooded Crows flying in front of the mountains and a Passenger Jet arriving towards the airport. Below, the Woodchat Shrike seen by the same road as last Sunday.

As per usual, all the usual birds were seen well (White-eyed Bulbul, Collared & Laughing Dove, House Sparrows, Hooded Crows and the Red-rumped Swallows and the more common Swallows) and as a few Yellow-legged Gulls flew over, I kept a sharp eye out on anything that virtually moved! Incredibly, a small flock of 3 Spoonbills flew high overhead heading north and a small flock of Short-toed Larks went low over my head, also heading north. Both Robin and White Wagtails were seen along the path, but I didn't expect a pair of Peregrines flying over and heading off west towards the scrubland!

Above, another photo of the Woodchat Shrike this morning. Below, a female Pied Flycatcher showed well today.

Above, a lot of lighting up this photo on my computer to ID this bird as a Woodchat Shrike. Most likely the one I had seen earlier this morning. Below, after seeing a solitary Glossy Ibis flying over, this large flock of Glossy Ibis soon followed.

Though it was bright and sunny, the cold wind blowing down the path was not pleasant at all and I was so glad I had my fleece on (having shorts on didn't help either!). A Nightingale flew across the path and two more were heard singing deep within cover to the west. Looking west at the road adjacent to the Hotel grounds, the Woodchat Shrike (or a completely different bird) was present again and showed well on the opposite side of the road from where I saw it last Sunday. Still, a superb sighting nonetheless.

Above, the Glossy Ibis flew off northbound and below, a female Blackcap and a Lesser Whitethroat sharing the same bush. The Bushes held numerous Warblers here this morning.

Above, a Lesser Whitethroat just about to fly off and below, I came across my second Wryneck of the trip which showed relatively well.

The beach and sea was fairly quiet, but a single Glossy Ibis flew high west and a few minutes later, a flock of 40 birds flew north over the Hotel grounds. Walking up to my usual favourite spot just north of the beach to the west of the path, there was a wealth of birdlife. From here, a Chiffchaff was seen flitting about in the trees and a pair of Pied Flycatchers showed very well, especially the female bird that sat on a rock long enough for me to grab some photos. Great Tit was calling nearby and a Starling flew over my head as did a male Blackbird. Lesser Whitethroats and Blackcaps seemed to be everywhere in the bushes and a pair of Hoopoes showed well briefly. Though I saw some excellent birds, I think the Wryneck was the icing on the cake as the bird was seen on the same rock as before and I got some nice photos too.

Above and below, the Wryneck showed well at times, but flew off into the bushes and not seen subsequently.

Above and below, the male Pied Flycatcher was seen along the path.

The morning’s birding ended when I finished the walk off by the Cattery again. The area produced a female Blackcap and a male Western Subalpine Warbler as well as a flock of 7 House Martins. A superb morning. When I got back to the apartment, my wife said there was a spider on the curtains (she does not like spiders whatsoever) and when I found it, it was a small species of Jumping Spider. I grabbed a glass to scoop it in, but the bugger jumped out and wasn't seen again till the afternoon, where I was a bit more successful with a taller glass!

Above and below, Alpine Swifts flew in during the afternoon before the rain came in. I had to lighten the photographs up on my laptop as it was getting quite dark overhead.

After breakfast and lunch, we retired to the lounge bar where we sat outside and watched the clouds gather. I was reading my book at the time and then something caught my eye. Alpine Swifts! Not one, or a few, but a steady stream of the birds for at least 45 minutes!!! There was even a huge flock of them spiralling over the wasteground to the west of the Hotel grounds, although very distant, but so impressive nonetheless. While watching the Alpine Swifts (also a lot of other Hirundines passing over too), incredibly, a Bee-eater flew over heading east but too quick for me to grab a photo. So, while enjoying a couple of Honey Jack Daniels and coke, I was salivating over Alpine Swifts and a Bee-eater into the mix! Now that is luxury birding! The afternoon was rounded off with the male Kestrel flying around the buildings.

One of my favourite birds, the Alpine Swift. I was so pleased to see these birds flying over the Hotel grounds today. I did get a bit of a telling off from my wife with the bad language I was giving off, but I was so excited to see them!

After we had our early evening dinner, we retired back to the apartment (the female Laughing Dove was still sitting on her nest outside our apartment), but I wanted to check out the Balcony looking north over the Hotel grounds and beyond. As well as the usual Hirundines flying around the Pool and over the Hotel grounds, including my first Sand Martins of the trip, there was a Moorhen and a Little Grebe on the pool. However, the day was rounded off when I saw a distant male Pallid Harrier flying over the fields and houses north of the Hotel. Stunning!

Friday 10th April 2026.

A pair of Hooded Crows on the lawn.

It was our penultimate day here in Southern Turkey and the weather was yet again clear and bright first thing when I went for my early morning walk again. It was only 10 degrees though and in that wind, it certainly felt like I was back in England! The only saving grace was that it was sunny, but it did warm up later in the day.

Above, the Common Tern flying west along the shoreline. Below, a flock of Yellow Wagtails flying west high over the beach.

The walk south down the pathway produced a couple of high flying Swifts going over and a ‘ticking’ Robin was somewhere in the scrub to the west of the path. Lesser Whitethroats were also ‘ticking’ deep within the trees and bushes with only the two birds seen on my walk down to the beach. The male Collared Flycatcher put in another appearance again and showed well briefly before flying off over the perimeter fence. As I neared the beach, flocks of Tree Pipits were going over and an unusual looking Pipit grabbed my attention. The bird was perched high up in a tree and so I took a few photos to try to ID the bird later on. When I got back to the apartment, I zoomed in on the playback and it was my first ever RED-THROATED PIPIT! I know they do get them around here and nearby Cypress and so I was very pleased to grab my 3rd ‘Lifer’ of the trip.

Above, a singing Hoopoe caught my attention; something I have never heard before. Below, one of many Swallows flying over my head.

As I neared the beach, I could see a Hoopoe perched distantly in a Conifer and it was actually singing! That was a ‘first’ for me too! On reaching the beach, a large flock of 20+ Yellow Wagtails flew over and I also saw a Common Tern fishing offshore as it made its way westbound. A White Wagtail was on the beach, searching for insects on the sand and shells. Back at the area where I saw the Wryneck yesterday, there was a repeat performance as I found the bird in exactly the same place, though it did not linger long. A flock of Sand Martins flew over and a pair of Blackcaps and a male Greenfinch were seen in the nearby bushes.

Above, the RED-THROATED PIPIT perched high up in a dead tree and below, a distant Hoopoe singing.

Above, the three Purple Herons seen towards the end of the day.

By 10am, Becky and I spent a couple of hours by the Beach Bar and from here, two Lesser Black-backed Gulls flew over the sea and two Yellow Wagtails flew overhead, having come in off the sea. A flock of 36 Glossy Ibis flew low over the sea heading west and as we left, I actually saw my first Dragonfly of the trip speeding off low over the grounds. The rest of the day was a lazy one as we simply relaxed with a good book and plenty of drink on hand. I have got to make one thing clear, the Hotel itself is arguably one of the best I have ever stayed in. The food is excellent and the service is simply fantastic.

Above, a flock of 13 Bee-eaters closed the day's birding. I did wonder if I would see these magnificent birds again before we left tomorrow.

At 6.45pm, it was to be my last time that I would check the balcony at the back of our Hotel to check for birds and it paid off with a small flock of three distant Purple Herons flew east and then a flock of 13 Bee-eaters came into view. They first flew towards the Pond area and then turned and flew straight towards me and over my Hotel building! What an end to an excellent day, despite the rain. 

A beautiful sunset to end the day.

Saturday 11th April 2026.

One of the male Western Subalpine Warblers.

So it was our last day today and our flight was at 6.20pm Turkish time. Though overcast, it was fairly bright first thing this morning and roughly around 13 degrees. We had to check out of our room by midday today, which gave us plenty of time to both pack and have breakfast and although I didn’t take my usual walk down to the beach and back, all the usual birds were seen from the Hotel apartment including a flock of 8 Swifts soaring over the buildings to the north and good numbers of Red-rumped Swallows among them.

The Hoopoe searching for insects near the Cattery.

Our Laughing Dove was still sitting on her nest outside our apartment and so Becky did not get to see if she had any chicks or not. After a long breakfast and handing our suitcases in to be looked after by the Hotel Staff, we retired to the Lounge Bar and sat outside to read our books. A male Kestrel flew over and headed off west and a small flock of three House Martins drifted north. I did have my binoculars to hand and when something large caught my eye heading north, it turned out to be an adult Purple Heron that went lazily over the Hotel and beyond.

Above, how could I forget how obliging the local House Sparrows were, especially by the Beach Bar. Below, another dawn on the beach.

By 3.20pm, we boarded the coach to take us to the Airport where we went through THREE security checks! So there rounded off our fantastic trip to Hotel Berut on Lara Beach and a magnificent time we both had. Becky was totally relaxed (though her feet were playing her up!) and I was in a very good frame of mind. It only took me nearly two weeks to write up this Holiday birding exploits, but it was so worth it. Something to look back on in the future. Will we return here again………Oh yes!

Goodbye Antalya and thank you.