Birds of prey over Las Pocicas

[Gizmouk]

Just home in UK after 3 weeks in Pocicas - three days ago I saw a group of large birds of prey soaring over the rambla, about 10-12 in all. They were moving in circles together and gradually disappeared towards Albox. Does anyone know what they might have been? Vultures???

Chrid

[The Sheriff]

Gizmouk,

The birds you are enquiring about are not Eagles, as to whether they are Vultures - I have never seen vultures in the area and I lived near Las Pocicas for 8 years.

I think I know the Bird they are - but for the life of me I cannot remember their name ???? Old age !!! { Addition - Just checked on Google Buzzards was the name I was looking for }

When we lived in Albanchez one cold winter's day I counted up 80 birds in flocks all coming together from the Mountains - I lost count at 80 there were well over a 100 I would guess - It was then a local told me - If there is 1 or 2 birds these are probably Eagles as they hunt alone or as a breeding pair.

Any more that two and they are Buzzards - again he said not many Vultures around here - the Buzzards hunt in 4 or 5's or more so that the eagles think twice about attacking them.

Fred.

[Gizmouk]

Great Fred - THANK YOU!!! I'll tell my pal

Chris

[cantabrian]

i think there is still a vulture sanctuary near velez rubio/blanco,they still come around the village for the odd carcass,it is (or was )open to visitors

[Gizmouk]

Over the last 9 years I've spent 6 weeks a year in Pocicas on average - I've seen the odd lone bird of prey (eagles?) but this was the first time I've ever seen a substantial group like that. Irritatingly by the time I'd raced in to get my camera they were just dots in the sky. Next time!

[Gizmouk]

Meanwhile.... somewhere in the rambla...

http://youtu.be/JuqNig88uOM

Chris