Menorca

A week with friends in sunny Menorca was a nice break for us, though not a birding or photographic trip,its pretty well understood that I will sneak off with my camera to see what I can find. My trusty 100-400 lens is always with me anyway, and I managed to stowaway  the macro lens as well .I researched a few sites before going and planned a day on my own to try and see the Egyptian Vultures ( the only 'lifer' I was likely to get ).I did see a few good species including Audouin's Gulls, Blue Rock Thrush, Tawny Pipit,Thekla Larks,Booted Eagle and those Vultures among others and some nice Dragonflies and other insects.An enjoyable week, with a few photos thrown in.

Audouin's Gull-pretty common around Mahon harbour .One I've not photographed before.

Yellow Legged Gull- Seen daily,common.

Turtle Dove at Es Grau.

Egyptian Vulture.A new bird for me,fairly easy to see at Algender Gorge, but never close enough for a decent photo.

Thekla Lark-Seen in suitale habitat, this one feeding young at Alcalfar.Another bird not photographed before.

Male Blue Rock Thrush.(Or as our friend Maggie described it " A blue velvety bundle of loveliness."!On the rocks behind our flat in Mahon.

Clouded Yellow at Algender Gorge.

Cicada. Thier unique sound is constantly around you.

Red Veined Darter taken at Albufera reserve.

Male Black Tailed Skimmer, again at Albufera.

Egyptian Grasshopper, A large critter that never fails to startle you as it flies up at you feet.

Female Black Tailed Skimmer at Albufera.