Austro-Hungarian Tour

So that is another tour successfully completed! This time we were in Austria, the Alps and Seewinkel region, and Hungary, the Hansag. We recorded 150 species despite some poor, rainy, weather. Highlights included a mix of some great upland and lowland birds, like White-backed and Syrian Woodpeckers, Western Bonelli's Warbler, Alpine Chough, Ring Ouzel, Firecrest, Water Pipit, White-tailed, Imperial and Golden Eagles, Montagu's Harrier, Great Bustard and many waders and wildfowl.

And another tour done!

No rest for the wicked they say. Yes, another successful birding tour around Hungary under my belt. All the usual suspects found and watched, including this Honey Buzzard. 

Great Tour !

Yes, just finished a great tour around Hungary! Great Bustard, Eagle and Ural Owls, Saker, Red-footed Falcon, White-tailed, Imperial and Lesser Spotted Eagles, Black and White Storks, Lesser Grey Shrike, Bee-eater, Golden Oriole, a host of woodpeckers and warblers, Penduline and Bearded Tits (look at this stunner), etc etc etc. And off again tomorrow !!!

Spring birding season underway

The spring birding season is looking good. Lots of guests to guide, and lots of birds around to show them ! 

Eastern Hungary

Checked out a few places in eastern Hungary at the weekend. Very successful with water and wetland birds abundant on the plains. In the hills found some White-backed Woodpeckers and Ural Owls and on route a few Eastern Imperial Eagles and Saker. Looks like it is going to be a birdy spring.

Hungary Clip

Here is a nice little video clip of a visit to Hungary last spring by Steve Menzie from Liverpool... enjoy!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Oas1407Ge0&feature=youtu.be

Bare-legged Owl

The Bare-legged Owl Gymnoglaux lawrencii (also known as Cuban Screech Owl) is another endemic species of Cuba. Our excellent local guides knew sites for several individuals, including this one in a tree cavity.