Summary of sightings in October 2009

Whiskered Tern (Chlidonias hybrida)

October proved to be an exceptional month, with the presence of two national rarities on the island.

An American Golden Plover (Pluvialis dominica) was discovered in an empty irrigation basin, where it remained for several days (19-24/10).

In the evening of 26/10, a Long-billed Dowitcher (Limnodromus scolopaceus) was observed and photographed in poor light conditions. The bird was feeding in the shallow water and mud in the bottom of an almost empty basin. Unfortunately, this rare vagrant had flown on by the following morning.

A Spotted Crake (Porzana porzana) was present throughout the month, and a group of three juvenile Whiskered Terns (Chlidonias hybrida) spent about one week at another basin (13-22/10).

On 24/10, a juvenile Osprey (Pandion haliaetus) was observed and photgraphed by Xabier Remirez, who also saw the American Golden Plover in flight.

In the case of Pluvialis dominica and Limnodromus scolopaceus, the corresponding forms have been submitted to the Spanish Rarities Committee for homologation.

All photographs copyright R. Burton unless otherwise stated