The nights and the mornings are getting really cold, with temperatures dropping well below 10 degrees. Fortunately, after the sun has been out for a while, it becomes milder during the day. I decided to have a look around Chapin in Jerez de la Frontera this morning, while Celia was working out on the new running track.
Although this place is in the city, you can spot quite a lot of birds here. Surprisingly even some species that you might find hard to spot in the countryside are residents here.
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| The spectacular Hoopoe |
It is always a nice surprise to see a Hoopoe. The one I saw today was not afraid of people at all. Some runners ran by at barely five metres and the bird was not impressed whatsoever.In my opinion the Hoopoe is one of the most beautiful European birds.We are in autumn now, but judging by the singing of the many Chiffchaffs it seemed spring.
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| A singing Chiffchaff |
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| Another Chiffchaff against a clear blue autumn sky |
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| A Black Redstart finding food |
Somewhere in the grass I found a puddle where different types of birds took turns to drink and bath, a really beautiful moment.
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| White Wagtails bathing |
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| and a male House Sparrow doing the same |
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| Things get a little tense when both species get close |
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| Robin |
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| European Serin |
During my short walk a lot of people showed interest in what I was doing and even asked me questions. I hope every little bit helps to make people aware of the feathered beauty that we have around us, and very often at our doorstep.
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Celia running a few laps while I was taking photos
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Cheers,
Henry
More information about this birding place here.
