On Monday I made my first visit to Tuti Island since arriving back from my summer vacation. It was good to see that the Lesser and Greater Blue-eared Starlings were back, as they had not yet returned when I left in June. I didn't see any adult Lesser's, but there were several young birds in their distinctive juvenile plumage.
Juvenile Lesser Blue-eared Starling, Tuti 20th August 2012
One bird that I have not previously seen on Tuti is the Abyssinian Roller, though it has been reported here by others. I was therefore pleased to see my first today. Surprisingly, I had also seen one while driving through downtown Khartoum to get to the island this morning.
Abyssinian Roller, Tuti 20th August 2012
There were a few migrants already present including a few waders, a Lesser Grey Shrike, and some Hoopoes, plus many of the usual resident species.
Lesser Grey Shrike, Tuti 20th August 2012
Red-billed Hornbill and African Mourning Dove, Tuti 20th August 2012
Hi Tom
ReplyDeleteGreat to see your blog resumed after your holiday. Interesting to note Palearctic migrants already appearing: I've only had Common Sandpipers and Common Swifts here in Juba. If you manage to get photos of Greater Blue-eared Starling I'd be very interested as that species has proved hard to confirm down here. Bronze-tailed and Lesser Blue-eared are the most frequent glossy starlings of similar structure.
Mark
Hi Mark
ReplyDeleteI will try and get some photos of Greaters tomorrow. I have been trying for a while now to get some good comparison shots of Greaters and Lessers together, but without much success.
Tom
Hi – Will you please post a link to your Blog at The Birding Community ay vorts.com? Our members will love it.
ReplyDeleteIt's easy just cut and paste the link and it automatically links back to your website… it’s a win win. You can also add Photos and Videos and join Birding discussions if you like.
Email me if you need any help or would like me to do it for you.
The Birding Community: http://www.vorts.com/birding/
Thanks,
James Kaufman, Editor