Monday morning was spent trying to navigate Wadi Darbat. We had fun? We followed the eBird PIN and ended up at a well developed tourist area that didn't feel "right". We did get some more great views of Camels...
I tried Plan B which meant a trip up and over the North Ridge...
Google Maps was still with us and indicated we could drop down into the Wadi. We discussed this option and went for it. It was hairy but once again the Jeep coped admirably. Unfortunately by this time it was late morning and once again rather warm! The Key Species here is Arabian Grosbeak which comes to some Stalactites to drink. We couldn't find the exact spot and were almost certainly too late in the day anyway. I had some screenshots in my File but it wasn't clear to me. We did at least find some water but nothing was seen. Never mind.
We wondered if there was another way out as the descent was steep. I noticed a couple of chaps on the Southside so we drove over. Again, fortunately they spoke English and one of them kindly drove his Landcruiser to the start of the road out. We were glad to get out to be honest!!
I'd arranged to meet Hatem around Noon as we hadn't paid him for Saturday, as he only took cash. On the way down to Mirbat we came across some Raptors circling above us. It was bright, very bright (there's a shock) so viewing the Birds was challenging...
Happy we were looking at IMPERIAL EAGLES, 2 Immatures...
...and an Adult...on a Lamp Post...
After straightening up with him we had lunch and headed back up to Jabal Samhan to try again for the Verreaux's Eagle. It was clearer today which raised our hopes but it wasn't to be despite another 3 hour vigil. Have to say...VERY disappointed. This was my last chance.
Here's what we could have won...
They were seen the day before AND the day after our visit!?
We did have great views of another Arabian Wheatear...
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