Velez de Benaudalla

 Friday 23 September    

Before it got too hot, Jenny and I went for a long morning walk around the surrounds of Velez de Benaudalla to explore the other side of the Rio Guadalfeo and return, after crossing the swinging, no holds barred, narrow suspension bridge over the river near the picnic area and up the very steep and twisty lane back into the village.  And still recovering, nevermind the very welcome beers, once back in the village.

House Sparrows and Spotless Starlings as we left the village and crossing over the river at the treatment works we saw a departing Grey Wagtail and once on the other side no less than six White Wagtails.  A Grey Heron was seen overhead and as we made our way up the wooded lane a couple of Cetti's Warblers heard,  On the river eleven Mallards and most humorous to see them swept downstream when they entered the fast-flowing stream.

White Wagtail Motacilla alba

Reaching the road up to the road we took a slight diversion to take a look over the charming, narrow humped-back bridge, Obviously some sport of weir beneath the bridge as the water was absolutely gushing out downstream in a bubbling white froth.  Upstream not only fast-flowing but as we looked a Turtle Dove rose from below us and moved off over the neighbouring plastic houses and away downstream.

Turtle Dove Streptopelia turtur

A flock of Rock Doves was next up and then the sound of a calling Hoopoe.  Once in the picnic area a good number of both Chaffinches and House Sparrows followed by a couple of Collared Doves.

With our imminent departure from the village and Spain, Jenny leaves next Monday, lovely to take this beautiful walk of 6 kms and get to see the Turtle Dove, one of my favourites summer visitors.

Birds seen:

Mallard, Heron, Rock Dove, Collared Dove, Turtle Dove, Hoopoe, Grey Wagtail, White Wagtail, Cetti's Warbler, Spotless Starling, House Sparrow, Chaffinch.

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