A MAGICAL DAY BIRDING IN THE MOROCCCAN DESERT-DAY 6

Just when we thought the trip couldn’t get any better, today exceeded all expectations. It was one of those unforgettable days filled with “pinch yourself” moments, incredible birds, and breathtaking desert scenery.

We started with an early morning walk around the hotel as the sun rose over the landscape. It was a wonderful beginning, with Woodchat Shrikes, Serins and a small wave of migrant warblers moving through the area.

Our first stop was the Dedes Valley. Hamid, our brilliant guide, promised we would see sandgrouse, and he delivered. Groups of bubbling Black-bellied Sandgrouse flew around us, some landing nearby once they became used to our presence. Then a different call caught our attention, and a group of beautiful  Crowned Sandgrouse flew in and settled close by, giving us excellent views.

Black-bellied Sandgrouse

(c)Dennis Morrison

Moments later came the highlight of the morning. A distant whistle had us all scanning the plain before Hamid calmly said the magical words: “Hoopoe Lark.” We quickly picked up a bird bounding across the arid landscape, its striking black-and-white wings flashing in flight. As it came closer, it finally landed just metres away, giving us unforgettable views.

 Hoopoe Lark

(c) Jack Pettit

After such a spectacular sighting, it seemed impossible to top, but the day continued with more desert specialists. A stop further south produced good views of the elusive Saharan Scrub Warbler darting between clumps of vegetation.

Saharan Scrub Warbler 

Desert Larks and Crested Larks were also present, along with a beautiful singing male Moussier’s Redstart.

Later, in some lush agricultural fields, we found several impressive larks with huge bills, Maghreb Larks, a distinctive southern Moroccan form that many of us were delighted to add to our lists.

Maghreb Larks

(c) Jack Pettit

By late afternoon, we continued south to Merzouga and our hotel for the next two nights.

I don't think any of us was prepared for the beauty of the place. Towering red Saharan dunes glowed in the evening light, and within minutes, we were out walking across the warm sand.

I'm taking it all in. I've always wanted to visit the Sahara Desert

Not far from a Bedouin camp, a chipping call revealed a stunning male Desert Sparrow perched on a wooden hut, singing and allowing fantastic views.

Desert Sparrow

 (c)Dennis Morrison

Amazingly, another Hoopoe Lark appeared behind the hotel, while three Bar-tailed Larks were also located. 

Bar-tailed Lark

(c) Jack Pettit

Two impressive Great Grey Shrikes of the Saharan race were watched closely, one even catching and eating a scorpion.

Great Grey Shrike

(c) Jack Pettit

As the sun set behind the dunes, seven Cream-coloured Coursers flew in to roost.

It was pure magic, incredible birds, unforgettable scenery, and one of those days that remind you exactly why birding is so special.

Now we’re heading off for dinner, though I doubt many of us will sleep much tonight. The desert sky is crystal clear, and with the excitement of what tomorrow might bring, sleep may have to wait.