Our second visit to Turkey, on this occasion fitting in with October half-term dates. We booked a week's holiday with a small package company, with convenient flights from Gatwick, staying at Dalyan, in a lovely family run hotel on the edge of the town with a river frontage and adjacent scrub and overgrown orchards. This meant that we could bird from our balcony! We hired a car for the whole week, which gave us the flexibility to regularly visit some of the local hotspots, as well as doing longer excursions to the mountains and the Menderes delta. We also managed a good balance of birding mixed with visits to some of the numerous ancient archaeological sites.
Daily Itinerary
Saturday 22nd October 2005
Despite the early flight from Gatwick, the length of flight and the change in time zones we did manage an afternoons birding around Dalyan. A stroll along the river from the hotel produced a pair of Griffon Vultures thermalling above the mountains across the river (this was to be our only sighting) as well as most of the common species such as Red-backed Shrike, Black Redstart, Cettis Warbler, Kingfisher and Jay. We left the river along an obvious path between cotton fields towards a rocky outcrop between Dalyan and Koycegiz Golu which produced two pairs of Rock Nuthatch and a Blue Rock Thrush. From the viewpoint overlooking the reed beds at the southern end of the lake we counted 13 Little Egret and one Great Egret, whilst a Marsh Harrier quartered over the area.
Sunday 23rd October 2005
Prior to departure on an early morning excursion to the turtle beach at Iztuzu, we added Great Reed Warbler to our tally of local species. On the way we stopped to observe a post- roost dispersal of about 100 Crag Martins from cliffs to the east of the road. On entering the pine woods we saw our first probable Levant's Sparrowhawk determinedly heading south. On reaching the beach we had exceptional views of another, particularly pale well-marked male, below Radar Hill. On the lake behind the beach was a group of 11 Great Egrets. On the way back we stopped to explore the pine woods, as suggested in Gosney, where we soon found Kruper's Nuthatch which proved rather elusive, but the Rock Nuthatch were more obliging. On wasteland close to the town of Dalyan, we encountered our first Crested Lark.
During the welcome address by Alison, our very helpful holiday rep, we were temporarily distracted by an Eastern Orphean Warbler and Spotted Flycatcher in the trees around the bar!
In the afternoon we made our first visit to the highly productive area of Hamitkoy on the northern shore of Koycegiz Golu. On the way we had three Common Buzzard soaring above the low-lying pine woods. From the 'promenade' at Koycegiz we had our first views of the amazing White-breasted Kingfisher perched in lakeside phragmites. Also seen on the muddy margins were two Dunlin.
At Hamitkoy, around the cow pastures intersected by dykes and ditches, we saw Zitting Cisticola, Whinchat, Stonechat, Lesser Whitethroat, Barred Warbler, Spanish Sparrow. Overhead a mixed hirundine flock of Barn Swallow, Sand Martin and a single Red-rumped Swallow. At the river bridge, west of the village mentioned in Gosney, there were no large kingfisher species but we did have our first views of Syrian Woodpecker.
Monday 24th October 2005
An early morning walk from the hotel produced more of the common species, including Blackcap, Robin and Hooded Crow. After breakfast we took the rowing boat ferry across the river to visit the ancient settlement and rock tombs of Kaunos. On the walk there we saw at least seven Black Redstart, Raven and a female Goshawk. Amongst the ruins were three pairs of Sardinian Warbler, two large tortoises, several lizard species and a Red Squirrel. In the pines in the cemetery on the walk back to the boat we saw a Coal Tit.
A trip to the uplands around Ula produced a limited range of common mountain species. We returned via Hamitkoy, providing improved views of White-breasted Kingfisher, and returning to Koycegiz Golu, a single first winter Mediterranean Gull was with the regular flock of Black-headed Gulls. On the nearby river bed a pre roost gathering of in excess of 100 White Wagtails.
Tuesday 25th October 2005
An early morning start saw the group travelling up to the mountain plateau around Sogut, via Kemer, on the N350. The first stop was the old road at the pass of Karamel. A short walk into the pine woods produced Cirl Bunting, Mistle Thrush and 7 Wood Lark. Our route then took us towards the village of Seki where the surrounding cultivated areas held large mixed finch flocks which included Goldfinch, Linnet, Serin and our only Brambling. A small orchard, surrounded by poplar trees, produced a further Syrian Woodpecker and a small flock of Tree Sparrows. We then passed the village of Seki and climbed up to the pass at 1830 metre. Here the alpine pastures produced a splendid pair of Finsch's Wheatear, Sombre Tit, Rock Bunting and Ring Ouzel.
On the road east of Sogut, at the fist water trough opposite a cemetary, we had our only Northern Wheatear and more views of Syrian Woodpecker. Nearby, excellent views of a Long-legged Buzzard sitting in a field, subsequently joined by a second bird. Along a tree lined water course a single Snipe and a Dipper under a road bridge. The roadside canyon at the 22km mark produced another Sombre Tit. To the west of Sogut, at Comack Gek summit, we had distant views of seven Chukar and another pair of Rock Bunting. At Bolmepinar we had our third Long-legged Buzzard of the day. Then followed the long drive home!
Wednesday 26th October 2005
The early morning walk around the hotel produced all the usual species and additionally, a Yellow-legged Gull overhead. After breakfast, a return visit to Hamitkoy proved to be our most productive in terms of both numbers and variety. Walking north from the bridge produced a number of additional species including four Teal, Meadow Pipit, Sedge Warbler, Water Rail, Wryneck and five Black Stork. By the bridge, skulking in the juncus, was a superb Bluethroat. Also new for the trip were Reed Bunting and Penduline Tit.
In the afternoon we explored the mountain tracks up to Radar Hill and the area towards the Dalaman delta. Beyond Dalaman airport is an interesting wetland area immediately adjacent to the perimeter fence. (Please beware that this is a military as well as civil airport so is a sensitive site!). Here we saw Redshank, Yellow Wagtail, Spur-winged Plover, Spotted Redshank, Black-winged Stilt, Black Tern and a possible Whiskered Tern and Black-headed Bunting. In the evening we ate at Ley Ley restaurant, on the approach road to Dalyan, where they introduced us to their resident recovering White Storks.
Thursday 27th October 2005
Another early start to visit the Menedres delta, Bafa Golu and the archaelogical site of Euromos and Milet. On the outskirts of Dalyan we saw a Little Owl on the roof of a local house. In the town of Yatagan, Jackdaws were seen. At Euromos we saw our first Blue Tit and Song Thrush in the olive groves. A brief stop on the shores of Bafu Gola produced Great Crested Grebes, Common Sandpiper, Pochard and Tufted Duck within the large Coot flock. The southern delta of the Menderes produced Kentish Plover, Sanderling, Spoonbill, Red-throated Pipit, Dalmatian Pelican, Slender-billed Gull, Little Stint, Greater Flamingo and Grey Plover.
We then visited the spectacular site of Milet. Crossing the delta to reach the northern sites we saw a large Aquila sp.- from profile, colouration and habitat we considered it to be Spotted Eagle. The northern shore between Karin and Juzburgazi produced Mallard, Curlew, Common Tern and three Greenshank. Around the fishermen's hut, on the shores of Bafu Golu, we recorded Ruff and five Green Sandpiper. This was followed by another very long journey home.
Friday 28th October 2005
Our last full day. We hired a boat in the morning to explore up river around the southern shores of Koycegiz Golu. Within minutes of departure we had spectacular views of a perched, Spotted Eagle - later seen well in flight. Kingfisher sightings were numerous and there were plenty of the usual water birds. In the afternoon we stopped off at the deciduous woods at Teperasi. Here we saw two pairs of Lesser-spotted Woodpecker, Long-tailed Tit and Green Woodpecker.
We continued to beyond Hamitkoy to the northwest corner of Koycegiz Golu on the road towards the mud baths. Good views of the northern end of the lake produced a single female Red-crested Pochard in amongst the Coot and brief views of a probable Pied Kingfisher. Our last visit to Hamitkoy produced all the usual species plus Starling.
Saturday 29th October 2005
Local birding at Hamitkoy and Dalaman produced no new species but overall, a weeks birding that surpassed all expectations!
For photos and more information click here.
Little Grebe | Tachybaptus ruficollis
Most common and conspicuous water bird of the week, present on all suitable stretches of water. Notable counts were 50+ on Koycegiz Golu off the promenade at Koycegiz on the 22nd. 50 + were seen at Bafa Golu on the 27th. Whilst on a boat trip on Koycegiz Golu on the 28th., it was noted that Little Grebes were spread thinly singularly and in pairs across the whole extent of the lake. Consequently both here and on Bafa Golu large numbers were present.
50+ birds were also counted at the north west corner of Koycegiz Golu on the 29th.
Great Crested Grebe | Podiceps cristatus
Present in moderate numbers on the large water bodies. 25+ on Bafa Golu 25th and 12 on Koycegiz Golu 26th were the only sightings.
Cormorant | Phalacrocorax carbo
Small parties seen regularly at Dalyan flying along the river between Koycegiz and the beach. Other notable records are 23 birds on the southern side of the Menderes Delta and 200+ on the Delta viewed from Karine 27th. Also 50 + were seen on and around Koycegiz Golu whilst on our boat trip 28th.
Dalmation Pelican | Pelecanus crispus
Three birds on the outer sand banks on the south of the Menderes Delta with a further three on the Delta viewed from Karine 27th.
Little Egret | Egretta garzetta
Present throughout the week in suitable wetlands. 13 seen in reed beds to the north of Dalyan 22nd. Seven were seen in pool behind Turtle Beach, one at Koycegiz and five at Hamitkoy 23rd. 11 were seen roosting in trees and around the reed fringes of the lake at the Roman site of Kaunos 24th.
One was at the wetland site at Dalaman airport, five were seen roosting in trees behind the rubbish tip at Koycegiz and two were at Hamitkoy on the 26th.
One was seen at Dalyan, one was on the shore of Bafa Golu, two were seen from the southern side of the Menderes Delta with a further 30 birds on the Delta viewed from Karine 27th. Five were seen on Koycegiz Golu whilst on a boat trip, another bird was seen on the lake from the promenade at Koyceiz and three birds were fishing in the nearly dry river bed also at Koycegiz 28th. A further eight were seen along the river at Dalyan 29th.
Great Egret | Egretta alba
Observed on most days. A single bird was seen amongst Little Egret in reed beds to the north of Dalyan 22nd. 11 birds were seen in the pools behind Turtle Beach and three were at Hamitkoy 23rd. One was amongst Little Egrets at the lake at Kaunos Roman site 24th. Five were seen flying along the river at Dalyan on the 26th. 100+ birds were on the Menderes Delta 27th. Two were seen on Koycegiz Golu whilst on our boat trip 28th.
Grey Heron | Ardea cinerea
One was seen in the pools behind Turtle Beach and two were at Hamitkoy 23rd. Three were in the lake at Kaunos Roman site 24th. One was seen at Hamitkoy and three at Dalaman airport site 26th. 40+ birds were counted from the north of the Menderes Delta at Karine and seven were at Bafa Golu fisherman’s hut 27th. Two were seen at Koycegiz Golu and two at Hamitkoy 28th. One was seen at the airport site at Dalaman 29th.
Black Stork | Ciconia nigra
Five late migrants watched thermalling in the early morning over Hamitkoy 26th.
White Stork | Ciconia ciconia
Three injured/feral birds remained at the Ley Ley restaurant refuge, Dalyan observed, prior to dinner, on the 26th.
Spoonbill | Platalea leucorodia
Two together on salt flats on the southern Menderes Delta.27th.
Greater Flamingo | Phoenicopterus ruber
250+ birds on southern Menderes Delta with several hundred assembled at Bafa Golu at dusk on 27th.
Mallard | Anas platyrhynchos
Small numbers around Koycegiz Golu and 35 offshore Karine 27th.
Teal | Anas acuta
Group of four over Hamitkoy and nine at the airport wetland both on 26th were the only records.
Red-Crested Pochard | Netta rufina
Single female present with Coot in north west corner of Koycegiz Golu, present 28th and 29th.
Pochard | Aythya ferina
Small numbers in vast Coot flocks on Bafa Golu 27th.
Tufted Duck | Aythya fuligula
Present in small numbers in large Coot flocks on Bafa Golu 27th.
Griffon Vulture | Gyps fulvus
Two birds watched soaring over hills west of Dalyan 22nd was the only sighting.
Marsh Harrier | Circus aeruginosus
Seen on most days. First record was a single bird noted on the drive from Dalaman airport to our hotel in Dalyan. This was followed by a bird quartering reed beds to the North of Dalyan 22nd. Single bird was seen from the hotel at Dalyan and at Hamitkoy 23rd. A single bird was seen at Kaunos Roman site 24th. Birds were seen at Dalyan, Hamitkoy and the wetland site at Dalaman airport 26th.Two were at Bafa Golu at the fisherman’s hut 27th. Eight birds were seen around the Koycegiz Golu area 28th comprising two from a boat trip on the lake, two at Koycegiz and four at Hamitkoy.
Spotted Eagle | Aquila clanga
Single observed being mobbed by Hooded Crows over the Menderes Delta on 27th. was considered to be this species, over all colouration, profile and habitat contributed to its identification. Another individual seen at close quarters perched and in flight from the river at Dalyan was a near-adult of this species on 28th. Good photographic records were obtained.
Goshawk | Accipiter gentilis
Female observed above the ruins at Kaunos on 24th.
Sparrowhawk | Accipiter nisus
A frequently observed bird of prey. One at Dalyan 22rd, one Koycegiz Golu 23rd. Three at Hamitkoy and one at Dalaman airport 26th, one at Miletus 27th, five all around the Koycegiz Golu area 28th and one at Dalaman airport 29th.
Levant’s Sparrowhawk | Accipiter brevipes
Three migrating birds, including a well marked and particularly pale male observed flying south across the Dalyan delta 23rd. A further female was seen whilst on boat trip on river from Dalyan 28th.
Common Buzzard | Buteo buteo
Three birds seen on route from Dalyan to Koycegiz and a single bird over the hills at Hamitkoy 23rd.. A further three birds at Hamitkoy on the 26th. Two birds seen between Yatagan and Euromos and two birds over the Menderes Delta 27th. Four birds over the hills around Koycegiz Golu, whilst on boat trip 28th.
Finally, a single bird at the airport at Dalaman 29th.
Long-legged Buzzard | Buteo rufinus
Two different birds seen on Sogut plateau and a further bird at Bolmepinar all on 25th . A single bird over the hills behind Koycegiz Golu on 26th. Another single bird perched in trees at Hamitkoy on 29th.
Kestrel | Falco tinnunculus
All sightings were from the coastal area around Dalyan and Koycegiz.
A male was hunting around a rocky outcrop to the north of Dalyan 22nd. A single bird was at Hamitkoy 23rd. Two were seen on an early morning walk from the hotel at Dalyan 24th. One was at Hamitkoy and one was seen at Radar Hill 26th. Final sighting was a bird at Koycegiz 29th.
Chukar | Alectoris chukar
Covey of seven birds watched on the hillside west of Sogut 25th.
Water Rail | Rallus aquaticus
Heard calling from suitable habitat around the shores of Koycegiz Golu and Bafa Golu. Two were at Hamitkoy 26th. Five were at Bafu Golu fisherman’s hut 27th. Four were noted at Hamitkoy 28th. One was at the north west corner of Koycegiz Golu 29th.
Moorhen | Gallinula chloropus
Two at Dalyan 22nd, one at Hamitkoy 23rd /24th and four on the 26th, one at the Menderes Delta 27th. Four from boat trip on Koycegiz Golu 28th and six at Hamitkoy 28th.
Coot | Fulica atra
Flock of 200+ Koycegiz Golu 24th. Large flock of 5000+ on Bafa Golu 27th.
c350 from boat trip out of Dalyan onto Koycegiz Gola 28th. Elsewhere in much smaller numbers.
Black-winged Stilt | Himantopus himantopus
Up to five birds present on pools south of Dalyan airport on 26th and 29th.
Kentish Plover | Charadrius alexandrinus
Six on salt flats on southern Menderes delta 27th and six on the beach behind Dalyan airport 29th.
Spur-winged Lapwing | Vanellus spinosus
Two birds present on muddy pools south of Dalyan airport 26th and 29th.
Sanderling | Calidris alba
10+ along water channels on southern Menderes delta, all birds in winter
plumage 27th.
Little Stint | Calidris minuta
Adult in full winter plumage on the southern Menderes Delta 27th.
Dunlin | Calidris alpina
Two birds on northern shore of Koycegiz Golu 23rd and four on the Menderes delta 27th.
Ruff | Philomachus pugnax
Single adult in winter plumage at the fisherman’s hut, Bafa Golu on 27th was the only sighting.
Snipe | Gallinago gallinago
A flock of 24 birds flew over at Hamitkoy 23rd. A single bird was flushed from a stream high up on the Sogut plateau 25th. One flew over the pools at Dalaman airport 26th. A single bird was flushed at Bafa Golu fisherman’s hut 27th. Three birds flew over Hamitkoy 28th.
Curlew | Numenius arquata
c200 on Menderes delta at the northern end 27th.
Spotted Redshank | Tringa erythropus
Single in winter plumage on muddy pool south of Dalaman airport on 26th.
Redshank | Tringa totanus
Eight on the pools near to Dalaman airport 26th. 10 on the Menderes delta and two from Bafa Golu fisherman’s hut 27th.
Greenshank | Tringa nebularia
Three together on the Menderes delta close to Juzburgazi 27th.
Green Sandpiper | Tringa ochropus
Up to five birds on creeks near fisherman’s hut, Bafa Golu 27th.
Common Sandpiper | Tringa hypoleucos
Two at Bafa Golu and one on the beach at Karine 27th.
Mediterranean Gull | Larus melanocephalus
First winter bird observed in flock of Black-headed Gulls alon the promenade at Koycegiz 24th was our only record.
Black-headed Gull | Larus ridibundus
The most common gull species seen during the week, Small numbers regularly on Koycegiz Golu, 30 on 24th. ,and at Menderes delta 20+ and Bafa Golu 50+ on 27th.
Slender-billed Gull | Larus genei
Single, in winter plumage, close offshore near the fisherman’s hut at Menderes delta 27th.
Yellow-legged Gull | Larus michahellis
Single bird observed flying to Koycegiz Golu on the morning of 24th. Small number on Bafa Golu 27th and 100+ on Menderes delta 27th.
Sandwich Tern | Sterna sandvicensis
Two birds fishing offshore from Karine 27th were probably this species.
Common Tern | Sterna hirundo
Several perched on poles by the fishermans huts on the Menderes delta on 27th.
Whiskered Tern | Chlidonias hybridus
Single with Black Tern on pools south of Dalaman airport 26t.h was probably this species, but difficult viewing conditions prevented positive identification.
Black Tern | Chlidonias niger
Single adult winter bird observed on pools south of Dalaman airport on 26th and 29th.
Feral Pigeon | Columba livia
Frequently in small numbers around human habitation.
Collared Dove | Streptopelia decaocto
Frequent and occasionally large numbers these included 60+ at Hamitkoy 26th , 30 at Koycegiz 28th and 100+ noted en route between Dalyan and Koycegiz 29th.
Little Owl | Athene noctua
Single on house roof early morning at Dalyan on 25th was the only record of this species.
Common Kingfisher | Alcedo atthis
Highly visible, vocal and in large numbers in all suitable wetland habitat.
One at Dalyan 23rd. Six at Dalyan and nine at Hamitkoy 23rd. One at Dalyan and three at Hamitkoy 24th. One at Dalyan, 10 at Hamitkoy and one at Dalaman airport wetland site 26th. One at the Menderes delta and 10 at Bafu Golu 27th. 17 during boat trip from Dalyan on to Koycegiz Golu, two additional birds in the north west corner of Koycegiz Golu and 11 at Hamitkoy all on the 28th. One again in the north west corner of Koycegiz Golu and one at Dalaman airport site 29th.
White-breasted Kingfisher | Halcyon smyrnensis
Seen around Koycegiz Golu on 23rd. 24th. 26th and 28th, with possibly up to three birds present.
Pied Kingfisher | Ceryle rudis
Brief views of a single bird flying across the river near Hamitkoy 28th was probably this species.
Green Woodpecker | Picus viridis
Heard in woods around Teperasi 28th.
Syrian Woodpecker | Dendrocopos syriacus
Single birds observed on the river near Hamitkoy 23rd. around Seki on the Sogut plateau 25th. and in the woods near Teperasi 28th.
Lesser Spotted Woodpecker | Dendrocopos minor
Up to four birds present in the deciduous woods at Teperasi 28th, one observed and photographed excavating a tree.
Crested Lark | Galerida cristata
Three birds seen in field south of Dalyan and a single bird on the road in Koycegiz 23rd. Three birds at Hamitkoy 24th. In the mountains six birds were seen around Seki, three at Bekiler, 10 on the Sogut plateau and eight in the Bolmepinar area all on the 25th. One at Dalyan and nine at Hamitkoy 26th. Three at the Menderes delta and four at Miletus 27th. Six at Hamitkoy 28th and two on walk from the hotel in Dalyan 29th.
Woodlark | Lullula arborea
Seven seen from the Kemer to Sogut road 25th.
Sand Martin | Riparia riparia
Singles observed with migrating Swallows over Hamitkoy 23rd and 24th.
Crag Martin | Hirundo rupestris
Large post-roost dispersal flock of c100 birds close to the cliffs south of Dalyan 23rd. Also one around the tombs at Dalyan 24th. Six en route to Radar Hill 26th.
Barn Swallow | Hirundo rustica
Small numbers of migrating birds seen most days around Hamitkoy 11 on the 23rd being the highest total.
Red-rumped Swallow | Hirundo daurica
Two individuals picked out amongst groups of migrating Swallows above Hamitkoy on 23rd and 26th.
Meadow Pipit | Anthus pratensis
Small numbers in the fields around Hamitkoy 26th and 27th and on Menderes delta 28th.
Red-throated Pipit | Anthus cervinus
Bird heard overhead on the Menderes delta, then a colourful individual was observed feeding on the salt marsh, close to the fisherman’s huts, on the southern Menderes delta 27th.
Yellow Wagtail | Motacilla flava
Single on pool south of Dalaman airport on the 26th. Two at the Menderes delta on the 27th and one at Hamitkoy 28th.
Grey Wagtail | Motacilla cinerea
Seen most days along inland and coastal waterways. Three to the north of Dalyan 22nd. One at Dalyan and one at Hamitkoy 23rd. One at Kaunos Roman site and one at Hamitkoy 24th. One at Dalyan 25th. , three at Hamitkoy 26th., three on the beach at Karine 27th. One in woods at Temperasi and one at Hamitkoy 28th. One again at Dalyan 29th.
White Wagtail | Motacilla alba
Numerous throughout the week, peak count was of a 100+ at a pre roost gathering in the dry river bed adjacent to Koycegiz Golu at the end of the promenade at Koycegiz.
Dipper | Cinclus cinclus
Single on stream high on the Sogut Plateau on the 25th was an unexpected record.
Wren | Troglodytes troglodytes
Present in small numbers recorded at Kaunos on the 24th, at the pass of Karamel 25th at Dalyan 26th and from boat on Koycegiz Gola 27th.
Robin | Erithacus rubecula
Seen regularly around Dalyan with further records, all of single birds, near Sogat 25th, Hamitkoy 26th and 28th at the Temple of Euromos and the Menderes delta 27th and in the woods at Teperasi 28th.
Bluethroat | Luscinia svecica
An individual of the cyanecula race (White Spot), seen feeding around juncus marsh at Hamitkoy on 26th.
Black Redstart | Phoenicurus ochruros
Common throughout at all altitudes, recorded as follows; one at Dalyan 22nd, one at Dalyan, one at Hamitkoy 23rd . , five at Kaunos Roman site 24th. One in the mountains around Seki 25th. Eight at Radar Hill and one at Hamitkoy 26th. one at Euromos temple and one at Miletus man site 27th. One at Dalyan, one at Koycegiz and one at Hamitkoy 28th. One at Koycegiz and one at Dalaman airport 29th.
Whinchat | Saxicola rubetra
Seen at several locations. Two Hamitkoy 23rd and one on 26th.. One at Seki and one at the pass of Karamel 25th and one at the ruins at Miletus 27th.
Stonechat | Saxicola torquata
See on every day of the trip in various habitats. Two at Dalyan 22nd, one at Hamitkoy 23rd. One at Kaunos Roman site and one in the vicinity of the cliff tombs, both on 24th. One at Seki 26th. One at Dalyan , eight at Hamitkoy and one at Dalaman airport 26th. One at Dalyan, one at Menderes delta, one at Miletus on the 27th. Two at Dalyan, two at Hamitkoy, two at Koycegiz on the 28th. Finally one at Hamitkoy and 11 at Dalaman airport 29th.
Northern Wheatear | Oenanthe oenanthe
A single adult autumn male close to the drinking trough east of Sogut on 25th was the only record.
Finsch’s Wheatear | Oenanthe finschii
A pair at the pass of Gugu Beli (1830 m) above Seki 25th provided excellent views and photo opportunities.
Blue Rock Thrush | Monticola solitarius
Singles observed around rocky outcrop north of Dalyan on 22nd and at Kaunos 24th on the pass above Seki on 25th and at the ruins at Miletus on 27th.
Ring Ouzel | Turdus torquatus
Single female in tree, calling, at the pass above Seki on 25th.
Blackbird | Turdus merula
Regular but in small numbers. Two at Dalyan 22nd. One at Dalyan and one at Kaunus Roman site 24th. Two on the Sogut plateau 25th. One at Hamitkoy and one at Dalyan 26th. One at Dalyan and one at Euromos temple site 27th. Two again at Dalyan, one in the Teperasi woods and two at Koycegiz 28th. Finally one again at Dalyan 29th.
Song Thrush | Turdus philomelos
Single bird in the olive groves around the temple of Euromos 27th. was the
only record.
Mistle Thrush | Turdus viscivorus
Present in small numbers in woods at higher altitude. One at Karamel pass, one on Kemer to Sogut road both on 25th. Also one at the temple of Euromos 27th.
Cetti’s Warbler | Cettia cetti
Heard and occasionally seen most days around Dalyan, particularly in scrub adjacent to Prince of Caunos hotel. Additionally , single at Hamitkoy 24th. Four at Hamitkoy 26th. Five at Bafa Golu 27th. One in the woods at Teperasi and three at Hamitkoy 28th. Finally three in the north west corner of Koycegiz Golu 29th.
Zitting Cisticola | Cisticola juncidis
Several birds present in fields around Hamitkoy One on 23rd. and four on the 26th.
Sedge Warbler | Acrocephalus schoenobaenus
Two individuals seen well at the fresh marsh close to Hamitkoy on 26th.
Reed Warbler | Acrocephalus scirpaceus
Singles on the river at Dalyan 22nd. and in reeds close to Hamitkoy 26th.
Great Reed Warbler | Acrocephalus arundinaceus
Singles in s
Sardinian Warbler | Sylvia melanocephala
Heard at various locations with three pairs observed well, around the ruins at Kaunos on the 24th.
Eastern Orphean Warbler | Sylvia crassirostris
Single bird in trees around the Prince of Caunos hotel on 23rd. was the only record.
Barred Warbler | Sylvia nisoria
An immature feeding in blackberry bushes near Hamitkoy 23rd. was the only record.
Lesser Whitethroat | Sylvia curruca
Present in small numbers around Dalyan and Hamitkoy. Two at Hamitkoy 23rd. One at Dalyan and one at Hamitkoy 24th. One at Dalyan and seven at Hamitkoy 26th. and finally two at Hamitkoy 28th.
Garden Warbler | Sylvia borin
Single record of a bird near Hamitkoy on 26th.
Blackcap | Sylvia atricapilla
Present in small numbers around the Dalyan, Koycegiz area. Three at Hamitkoy 23rd, two at Dalaman 28th. One at Dalyan and 10 at Hamitkoy 25th.
Chiffchaff | Phylloscopus collybita
Small numbers observed. Two at Dalyan 22nd. and a single on 23rd. One at Kaunus Roman site 24th. Four were seen on the Sogut plateau 25th. and one at Hamitkoy 26th.
Willow Warbler | Phylloscopus trochilus
The most numerous phylloscopus warbler, seen regularly around Dalyan. Additional sightings were one at Hamitkoy 24th. 14 at Hamitkoy and one at Radar Hill 26th. one at Miletus Roman site 27th and one at Hamitkoy 28th.
Spotted Flycatcher | Muscicapa striata
Seen in small numbers in the lower coastal regions. One at Dalyan 22nd. , one again around the vicinity of the hotel at Dalyan and one at Hamitkoy 23rd. One at Kaunos Roman site 24th. One at Dalyan and one at Hamitkoy 26th. Finally one in the woods at Teperasi 28th.
Long-tailed Tit | Aegithalos caudatus
Small group of at least three birds were seen in deciduous woods at Teperasi and a single bird was seen at the river bridge near Hamitkoy all on the 28th.
Sombre Tit | Parus lugubris
Individuals observed well at the pass above Seki and in the dry canyon 22k west of Sogut 25th.
Coal Tit | Parus ater
A single bird was seen at Dalyan 23rd in conifers in the cemetary below the rock tombs at Dalyan and one was seen in the Roman site at Kaunos 24th.
One was seen in conifers along the promenade at Koycegiz 26th. Birds were also heard in coniferous woods at various altitudes.
Blue Tit | Parus caeruleus
Fairly scarce. One was seen in the olive groves around Euromos temple site 27th. Two were seen in the woods at Teperasi 28th.
Great Tit | Parus major
Present in small numbers. One at Dalyan 22nd, one at Kaunos Roman site 24th. and one at Hamitkoy 26th. . Two in the woods at Teperasi on the 28th.
Kruper’s Nuthatch | Sitta krueperi
Seen well in the pine woods near Iztuzu 23rd. Alsotwo2 on the mountain pass off the N 350 on the 25th.
Rock Nuthatch | Sitta neumayer
Heard and seen regularly in all suitable habitat. Two pairs were present in the Dalyan area on the rocky outcrop to the north of the town where a mud constructed nest site was seen 22nd. A single bird was seen in the pine woods near Iztuzu 23rd. Two birds were seen at Kaunos Roman site 24th. One was in the mountains, at the quarry, near Bomepinar 25th. Whilst single birds were seen at Euromos and at Miletus Roman site 27th.
Penduline Tit | Remiz pendulinus
An immature with a damaged leg seen feeding in reeds at Hamitkoy on 26th.
Red-backed Shrike | Lanius collurio
Numerous in all suitable lowland habitats with a few birds at higher altitudes. Two at Dalyan 22nd. Seven at Hamitkoy 23rd. One at Kaunos Roman site and one at Hamitkoy both on the 24th. One en route to the mountains and a further bird on the Sogut plateau 25th. Eight at Hamitkoy 26th. One at Koycegiz and another at Hamitkoy on the 28th. One at Dalyan and seven at Dalaman airport on the 29th.
Jay | Garrulus glandarius
Regularly seen. All birds of the Black-headed race. One at Dalyan 22nd. one at Dalyan and two at the river bridge near Hamitkoy 23rd. Three at Dalyan and one at Kaunus Roman site on the 24th. One in the mountains around Sogut 25th. One at Dalyan 26th. One at Dalyan and one at the Menderes delta on the 27th. Six at Dalyan whilst on boat trip up the river and onto Koycegiz Golu and one at the river bridge near Hamitkoy all on the 28th. Three at the north west corner of Koycegiz Golu 28th.
Magpie | Pica pica
Present in small groups around Dalyan and Hamitkoy, A total of 12 birds were seen at Hamitkoy 23rd. 15 were seen at the same site 24th. A single bird was seen en route to the mountains and two were seen at a rubbish tip high in the mountains in the area of Bolmepinar 25th. Two birds were at Hamitkoy 26th. One was seen near Yatagan, one was seen at Miletus and one was at the Menderes delta 27th. whilst 12 birds were seen at Hamitkoy 28th.
Jackdaw | Corvus monedula
Two birds seen in the Yatagan area 27th.
Hooded Crow | Corvus cornix
Common in small numbers in all habitats. High counts were seven together at Hamitkoy 23rd. , six at Dalyan and six at Hamitkoy 24th. 50+ around a rubbish tip along a track from the quarry off the Sogut to Cavdir road 25th. 10 at Koycegiz Golu on our boat trip and 16 at Hamitkoy 28th. 25 at Koycegiz rubbish tip 29th.
Raven | Corvus corax
Two birds seen flying between the tombs and the ruins at Kaunus 24th.
Starling | Sturnus vulgaris
Small group of 21 birds between Hamitkoy and the north shore of Koycegiz Golu 28th was the only record.
House Sparrow | Passer domesticus
Common and widespread. 50+ in the village of Bolmepinar on the 25th
and 100+ at Hamitkoy 26th. were the largest gatherings noted.
Spanish Sparrow | Passer hispaniolensis
Small numbers associating with House Sparrow flocks around Hamitkoy,
with four seen on the 24th , singles on both the 23rd. and 26th. and three on the 28th.
Tree Sparrow | Passer montanus
Small numbers in mixed finch flocks on plateau around Seki 25th.
Chaffinch | Fringilla coelebs
Common in small numbers in all habitats. One or two birds seen regularly on walks from the hotel at Dalyan. Other records were as follows, one at Kaunos Roman site and one below the rock tombs at Dalyan 24th. One in the mountains at Karamel Cayin 25th. Six at Hamitkoy 26th. One at Euromos temple site 27th. One in the woods at Teperasi and 20 at Hamitkoy 28th, two in the north west corner of Koycegiz Golu 29th.
Brambling | Fringilla montifringilla
Winter bird in mixed flock of Serin and Goldfinch near Seki on 25th. was the only record.
Serin | Serinus serinus
Present in small flocks in mountainous areas. Six were seen around Seki. Eight were on the route of the old road on the N 350 at Karabel Cavin and four were seen at Bekiler, all on the 25th.
Greenfinch | Carduelis chloris
Present in small numbers. One was seen whilst on a walk from our hotel in Dalyan on the 22nd. One was at the Roman site at Kaunos on the 24th. Two were seen at the Karamel summit on the 25th. Two were seen at Hamitkoy 28th.
Goldfinch | Carduelis carduelis
Widespread small flocks observed at Hamitkoy 23rd. 24th and 26th. A large flock of 200+ birds was observed on the arable fields around Seki 25th. There were also good numbers heard in the trees around the car park at Miletus Roman site 27th.
Linnet | Carduelis cannabina
Seen at higher altitude on Sogut plateau four amongst a mixed flock of Goldfinch and Serin and four in the village of Bolmepinar 25th were the only records.
Cirl Bunting | Emberiza cirlus
Single male at course of old road on N 350 at Karabel Cayin and a female at the pass of Gugu Beli above Seki 25th. were the only records.
Rock Bunting | Emberiza cia
Two birds observed at the pass above Seki and a further pair in roadside scrub west of Sogut 25th.
Reed Bunting | Emberiza schoeniclus
Two birds in the reed beds at Hamitkoy on the 26th was the only record.
Black-headed Bunting | Emberiza melanocephala
A large non-descript bunting seen in flight and heard to give chipping call was possibly this species, seen around pools south of Dalaman Airport 26th.
Corn Bunting | Miliaria calandra
Six birds were seen on first walk from the hotel in Dalyan 22nd. Four birds were seen on a walk from the river to the Roman site at Kaunus and a single bird was seen at Hamitkoy 24th. Single was seen in the mountains at the village of Bekiler 25th. One was seen at the temple ruins of Euromos 27th. 11 birds were seen around Koycegiz Golu, whilst on a boat trip in the morning. A flock of 33 birds were seen flying over, in the evening presumably going to roost at Hamitkoy 28th.