Started off with 3 Short-toed Eagles over the village, then 2 Black Kites also probably moving on North.
Into the valley lots of Blackcaps singing and the ubiquitous Sardinian Warblers scratching away. Many Serins displaying. Lower down both Western Bonelli's and Iberian Chiffchaff singing. A Great-spotted Woodpecker flew off, and a splendid male Golden Oriole soon followed after calling close by. Wrens were very vocal. Great, Blue and Crested Tits were all seen, and Chaffinch and Greenfinch with Goldfinches also busy with displays and nesting.
A couple of Ravens went by one being chased by a Kestrel. A Jay disappeared into the forest. Swallows and House Martins were hawking insects above and along the river, Swifts were higher up. About a dozen Nightingales sang from deep cover, only one seen, briefly. A lone Cetti's Warbler called. 4 (two pairs) of Cirl Buntings. Some Bee-eaters were actually nest-building by the path! The local Griffon Vultures were all heading south, but soon all returned and I counted over 70 above the village. A Booted Eagle went off carrying food for it's young. Crag Martins swooped around the canal. A pair of Blue Rock Thrushes were nest building. (second brood?) A pair of Short-toed Treecreepers chased up a large cork oak. A Firecrest called and then showed. Spotless Starlings were very busy collecting food for their nests of presumably well developed young. A Wryneck was heard but not seen. Only one White Wagtail. A lone Lesser Kestrel seen high above the castle. At least 6 Golden Orioles were seen, others heard.
A very satisfying walk, topped off with coffee then lunch at a local cafe.
Back to the painting now!
Jon