Cyprus 26 - Day 2

*As promised, I've added some pics to yesterdays post*

Back to Mandria first this morning on news from Colin Richardson of a Greater Sand Plover by the Picnic Area. Maybe I missed it yesterday!? Sure enough, there it was...

As I went around "Larks Corner" I noticed a Warbler in a single bush. At first I thought Sardinian, the default black headed type here. However...

I positioned the car in a favourable position...and waited. I could see the Bird from time to time through the branches but couldn't get a clear view. It was interacting with a Chiffchaff...

...which as you cab see was showing MUCH better! I decided to try the other side of the Bush. This proved to be a good decision...

Ruppell's Warbler

A couple of the most wanted in the bag before 9. I drove down the road where the NAMAQUA DOVE was present yesterday but no luck. A few Birders were "in situ" but it wasn't seen by 1pm so looks like it's unfortunately moved on. I was lucky...this time!

I decided to have a run up to Anarita Park but as I entered the approach road I received a message informing me of an Isabelline Shrike sp on the Headland. Another potential Cyprus Tick...I had to try for it. Luckily the reporter has given coordinates which when entered gave me a much better idea of the specific area ( it's a big place).

After some initial access issues I parked and walked along the path towards the Lighthouse. I found a bench and scanned through the fence. Not ideal but it saved me a long walk. I soon picked up a Blue Rock Thrush through the haze...

and a Caspian Stonechat type.  I could see Birders on the ridge looking down into the area but it was difficult to see exactly where they were viewing. Rather frustrating but never mind I had an hour before lunch. Then, I had it, only briefly but conclusively. I had my second Tick in 2 days, my luck was in.

There was a wall some 80 yards away with a couple of bushes by it. I was looking into the sun but the jizz looked good for a Rock Thrush...it turned out to be...

I was having quite a morning, especially with when the Shrike appeared again and this time showed well on a snag. Alas, too quick for a pic BUT I had my Tick.

After lunch we headed to Anarita Park for our first visit. It was quiet BUT this beauty made it worthwhile...

Eastern Black-eared Wheatear