Young Mediterranean Gull among the gulls of Blåvandshuk

You might simply be looking at the gulls on the beach at Blåvandshuk when, suddenly, one stands out as not quite belonging: a young Mediterranean Gull (Ichthyaetus melanocephalus) amidst the familiar grey and brown birds. Such a sighting is particularly interesting in early August. At this time of year, the gatherings of gulls at the… Continue reading Young Mediterranean Gull among the gulls of Blåvandshuk

An Ornithological Excursion to Boltenhagen at the Baltic Sea in Winter

I arrive early. The wind is cold, blowing in from the sea, and my first glance across the bay reveals exactly what I expect. The long sandy beach of the spa town of Boltenhagen on the Baltic coast is bustling with tourism, even in winter. Nevertheless, I’m confident I have a good chance of spotting… Continue reading An Ornithological Excursion to Boltenhagen at the Baltic Sea in Winter

AZERBAIJAN – a birding trip in late migration time

INTRODUCTION The goal was to use 4 days off and a public holiday to go on another birding trip to a distant country after the corona pandemic had ended. This was also a reconnaissance trip to investigate birding destinations in western Asia. We didn’t want to linger long with stopovers at any airport. So the… Continue reading AZERBAIJAN – a birding trip in late migration time