25. Some early Autumn sightings

( N.B. Remember to click on the image to increase the size).


The months of August and September saw the start of the autumn migration for many European bird species that are making their way down to Africa for our winter months. Many species seem to pass right over Cyprus without stopping, but others will stay here for a short while for a short rest and chance to feed before making the last stage of their Mediterranean crossing. 

One of the earliest indicators that the autumn migration is underway is the distinctive fluting call of the European Bee-eater. This year seems to have been exceptionally good for the numbers of birds passing south, indicating a very successful breeding season in Europe (and perhaps Covid  restrictions has reduced hunting efficiency?). Bee-eaters generally travel in quite large flocks, often feeding at high altitudes and are consequently often heard without ever being seen. When you are lucky enough to see them you may notice that the colours of the birds are more muted than during the northerly spring migration, and this is because the autumn flocks comprise large numbers of juvenile birds - which are less vividly coloured than the adult spring birds in full breeding plumage.



European Bee-Eater, making for South Africa


In early August I was lucky enough to see and photograph a White-winged Tern flying over the shoreline fields at Mandria. This is a summer migrant to Europe (wintering in Africa) and was a new species to me. Two days later I saw another individual at Secret Valley ponds. The two birds had markedly different colouring and were probably first winter juveniles  showing varying amounts of grey and black - somewhat belying the species name!  



White-winged Tern, pictured at Mandria, August 2021



Juvenile White-winged Tern, pictured at Secret Valley two days later


September has seen a considerable influx of Shrikes. I have seen lots of Red-backed Shrikes at Ayia Varvara, Mandria, Anarita and at Akrotiri. They perch in very prominent positions but it is quite hard to get close to them. This species has become virtually extinct in England so it is good to see so many here in Cyprus.  There have also been good numbers of Lesser Grey Shrikes, Woodchat Shrikes and occasional Masked Shrikes during the last couple of months. 



Juvenile Red-backed Shrike





Juvenile Masked Shrike




Adult Woodchat Shrike



Lesser Grey Shrike

Another species frequently seen in September at Secret Valley and Anarita is the Spotted Flycatcher. This is readily identified by its distinctive behaviour - consistently perching in a bush or tree and then making short flights out to catch flying insects before returning to its perch. I am not sure why it is named a 'Spotted' Flycatcher as the breast plumage is rather more streaked than spotted, but it may be because the juveniles have pale spots across their back. These marks disappear during their first winter in Africa.



Spotted Flycatcher, perched and waiting on Prickly Pear





All text and Photographs by Trevor Fordham                        6th October 2021



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