When we use the phrase “Spring Migration” around here we usually think about the period between mid Feb- mid May. During this period we use to see the big numbers of migrants of all sorts and species going through this wonderful area. Last week we had very wet (in Eilat standards) weekend which was followed by nice and dry 2-3 days and today again, floods throughout the Southern Arava and the IBRCE park, yet again has lost its main road for the 3rd time this winter…
Since last Thursday we had 2 visiting birders from Denmark,Silas Olofsonand Turkey,Emin Yoğurtcuoğluwho were eager to see all the area specialities and rare migrants.Unnaturallyfor them, the Storm of last weekend have made many changes and it was hard to relocate both the long staying Dunn’s Larkand trio Buff-bellied Pipits, but their lenses have caught a great variety of species which our area is blessed with and also few early migrants which are already on the move like Pallid Swifts, Steppe Eagles.Undoubtedlythe stars were a very big surprise to all – 5 very earlyEgyptian Nightjars which are usually seen around only from late February. Below is a small collection from Silas and Emin 5 days in the region.
Itai Shanni
Itai Shanni is the coordinator of the Eilat Birding Blog, which is jointly written by the Israeli Ornithological Centre (IOC) and the International Birding and Research Centre Eilat (IBRCE). Itai is working to promote bird and wildlife conservation throughout this area. As an Israeli A licensed ringer, he also gives support for the IBRCE staff when needed. Itai has also developed a real passion for Odonata watching and spends many hot hours chasing also Dragonflies and Damselflies.
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