Birding trips often require patience, a keen eye, and sometimes just the right timing. My today's visit to Embalse del Fresnillo in the Sierra de Grazalema, Cadiz, provided a perfect example of this delicate balance. Although I didn't arrive as early as I had hoped, the day turned out to be a rewarding one, filled with some remarkable encounters.
A late start in the heat
My arrival at Embalse del Fresnillo was later than planned, and the day had already begun to warm up significantly. The summer heat in the Sierra de Grazalema can be intense, and by the time I set out, temperatures were soaring. Despite the heat, the allure of the birds and the beauty of the surroundings made it worth enduring the rising temperatures.
On a previous visit, I had heard the calls of several interesting species but had only seen a few of them. This time, I was determined to be more patient, and that patience was quickly rewarded.
Great Spotted Woodpeckers: a reward for patience
The undeniable highlight of the day was my encounter with two Great Spotted Woodpeckers. These striking birds, with their distinctive black, white and red plumage, are always a treat to observe. As I quietly moved through the forested areas near the reservoir, I caught sight of these woodpeckers busy at work, drumming on tree trunks in search of insects.
Their rhythmic pecking echoed through the trees, creating a natural symphony that I had missed during my previous visit. This time, however, I was not only able to hear them but also to watch them for an extended period. Their energetic movements and the vibrant flash of red on both males made for an unforgettable moment, proving that patience in birding often leads to the most rewarding experiences.
Females lack the red patch on the head. In the picture below you can see two males, the one on the left is a juvenile with a red patch on the top of its head, while the bird on the right is an adult, having a red nape.
Although I didn't catch a glimpse of it, I also heard a third woodpecker, which may have been the female.
Capturing the elusive songbirds
While the woodpeckers stole the show, the little songbirds that darted between the trees also captivated my attention. Embalse del Fresnillo is home to a variety of these small, often elusive birds, and on this trip, I was fortunate enough to photograph several of them. Their delicate songs filled the air, providing a melodious backdrop to the rugged beauty of the Sierra de Grazalema. Photographing these tiny birds is always a challenge, as they move quickly and blend seamlessly into their surroundings.
But with patience and a bit of luck, I managed to capture some lovely shots. It was only the second time that I was able to photograph the Nuthatch. The bird I caught on camera was busy caching food, a behaviour that is also typical of Jays. Speaking of Jays, I heard and saw one, but the photo I took didn't have enough quality to be published here.
The breathtaking scenery of the Sierra de Grazalema
Birding in Cadiz isn’t just about the birds; it’s also about the stunning landscapes that frame these avian encounters. The sight of the clear waters of the reservoir against the backdrop of the rugged mountains of the Sierra de Grazalema was absolutely breathtaking. The stillness of the water mirrored the surrounding peaks and sky, creating a serene, almost surreal atmosphere. This picturesque scene provided a perfect contrast to the vibrant activity of the birds, reminding me of the peaceful yet dynamic nature of this region.
Griffon Vultures: majestic soaring above the valleys
As the morning progressed, I began to notice a large number of Griffon Vultures circling above. These magnificent birds are a common sight in the Sierra de Grazalema, but their presence never fails to awe. Some flew low, providing an impressive view of their massive wingspans, while others descended gracefully onto a rock ledge in one of the nearby valleys.
Watching these vultures soar so effortlessly against the mountainous backdrop was an incredible sight, highlighting the wild and untamed nature of this region. Their presence added a dramatic contrast to the smaller songbirds I had seen earlier, underscoring the diversity of birdlife that can be found in this part of Cadiz.
Witnessing the summer migration: a spectacle of Bee-eaters
Just as the heat began to make it difficult to stay much longer, I witnessed another extraordinary sight: the summer migration of Bee-eaters. Over a hundred of these colourful birds were flying southward, returning to Africa after their breeding season in Europe.
They moved in groups of 20 to 30 birds, their vibrant green, blue, yellow, and brown plumage standing out brilliantly against the clear sky. Watching these graceful birds as they journeyed across the sky was another highlight of the day, capturing the essence of summer migration in Cadiz.
I had secretly hoped to see a few rarer species on their migratory journey, but the season has only just started.
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