Wryneck

Just finished a very successful tour along the Black Sea coast of Bulgaria. The main focus was on seeing the masses of migrating birds - storks, raptors, waders, pelicans, songbirds - as well as some of the special residents found there. There were many, many, highlights, and here is one... a Eurasian Wryneck Jynx torquilla that after being trapped and ringed (banded) in a camp near Bourgas was safely released.    

Lesser Spotted Woodpecker

Lesser Spotted Woodpecker Dryobates minor is the smallest woodpecker in Europe. Absent from Ireland, rare in the UK, it is however quite common in many places we visit in Central and Eastern Europe. Here is one from a recent tour in Hungary.

European Bee-eater

Now these colourful beauties are always popular! European Bee-eater Merops apiaster from the Kiskunsag region, Hungary.

White Wagtail

The White Wagtail Motacilla alba is common and widespread across Central and Eastern Europe. Nevertheless, it is a cracking little bird. Here is one from Austria.

Citril Finch

Here is a Citril Finch Carduelis citrinella from a tour in the Alps in Austria last week. This little finch is often a main target for our clients and this was one of several that obliged!

Great Grey Owl

Great Grey Owl Strix nebulosa. This magnificent bird was one of the main highlights of a recent trip in Belarus. Don't worry, we watched and photographed the bird on its nest high in the canopy from a safe distance and the bird was not disturbed.

Tawny Owl

Owls are always popular with birders. Here is a Tawny Owl in the woods of the Buda Hills, just above the city. It is a common owl in the region, often in urban environments, too, besides in forests proper.