The Ria Formosa Natural Park covers an area of 170 square km. It comprises a system of barrier islands with outlets to the open sea. In the spring and autumn, this area is a significant stopping-off area for migrating birds, with hundreds of species seen. We usually make an extended visit, but it will be a few days this year and earlier than usual. The migrators will have yet to arrive, as it is still early in the year, so we shall see what is about this Winter.
The weather is cold, with the wind coming from the north and localised showers.
We visit the salt pans and the Lugo farm area near Faro airport. We see a good number of Black-tailed Godwits.
Always lovely to see Greenshank, and the numbers are an unexpected bonus.
At Cabanas, more Greenshank
From Cabanas, you can walk along the coast to Cacela Velha, which is a lovely walk.
Winding itself up the prickly pear, this strange-looking plant, Birthwort (Aristolochia basilica).
Zitting Cisticola (Fan Tailed Warbler) enjoying the sunshine.
Another Zitting Cisticola resting before flying up high to deliver his song.
Whimbrels, with their trilling calls, stalk the water edges.
On the mud flats, resident Kentish plovers.
Little Ringed plover hunting for food with the Kentish plovers.
Many Redshank.
Chiffchaffs find their food in the ornamental gardens on the coast below Quinta de Lago.
Chiffchaff (small leaf Warbler) so delicately feeds from the stamen.
Whoops! I have watched the Chiffchaffs for a long time, so Linda has nearly disappeared.
At least I can spot her on this beautiful, desolate beach.
Happy Days!
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