The autumn of 2002 has materialized into another superb season for observing birds of essentially Asiatic origin in southern Israel. From mid-October to mid-November several periods of eastern winds have brought some exciting species from the Central Asian region. These included a number of National rarities such as three individual Oriental Turtle Doves, Blyth's Reed Warbler, Hume's Warbler, two Steppe Grey Shrikes, and a 'potential' Hume's Short-toed Lark.

Although the season is far from over, this is a good opportuntiy to reflect on some of the species which we've managed (for the first time in our pages) to record in images.

Happy viewing!

James Smith