Day 5 part 2

A prompt 9am departure gave opportunity for several stops on our way back to Ipsilou one of the highest points on the island at 684m, a result of un-erupted lava forcing its way to the surface and the resultant erosion of the overlying materials.

As one of the dominant features on a migration route there are times when it can be literally dripping with migrant birds... but not today.

The first stop was at the Kalloni Salt Pans, where GULL BILLED TERN was added to the trip list

Gull-billed Tern

.

Before reaching Ipsilou we stopped off at a known location of MIDDLE SPOTTED WOODPECKER nest site, from a very safe distance we enjoyed great views.

Middle-spotted Woodpecker

Ipsilou had very few birds but SOMBRE TIT was new for the trip. I also found a single MEDITERRANEAN CHEQUERED SCORPION.

Mediterranean Chequered Scorpion

We set off towards Vatousa where we found ROCK SPARROW and a single CRAG MARTIN.

Rock Sparrow

A look for Eastern Bonellis Warbler drew a blank, so we will have to return again before the end of the trip.

Photos are from previous trips.