It's a clear, bright Tuesday morning and with the new month upon us I'm off to Orgiva with a mate chasing supplies for a spot of building work. As always I'm keeping an eye out as we follow the twists and turns in the road along the valley, and I can't help reflecting on the changing of the seasons. You could be pretty much guaranteed to see Woodchat Shrikes along this route over the summer...the hirundines too have largely disappeared south, together with the flocks of Bee Eaters that perched on the telegraph wires along the road throughout July and August.

It's not just about the departures for wintering grounds in Africa though, and the hillsides around Lanjaron has still got some exotic surprises if you keep your eyes open. As we approached Orgiva a Hoopoe flashed across the road...unmistakably broad black and white wings, close enough for me to glimpse the long, curved probing beak and the "Red Indian" crest folded back against the bird's head. Excellent stuff! These flamboyant-looking birds, migratory over so much of their European range, are year-long residents in southern Spain and I'm reall y pleased we've started November's list with a personal favourite and a regional winter speciality.

With other species arriving from further north, remember to check the blog regularly for all the latest news as the month unfolds. As always, we'll keep you posted.....