After a typically healthy Kibbutz breakfast at Gevulot we enjoyed fine views of two roosting Barn Owls near the guest rooms and then began further exploration of the Western Negev fields. As usual, raptors were plentiful with Black Kites, Imperial Eagle and Long-legged Buzzard. However, Pin-tailed Sandgrouse was our main quarry for the morning and before too long we were enjoying spectacular views of a minimum of 1,500 birds wheeling around the fields near Patish, as hunting Marsh Harriers frequently spooked the flock.

From there we opted for a drive towards Hatzerim and Ze'elim, having superb flight views of a young Imperial Eagle on the way and a wonderfully low passing flock of migrating White Pelicans.

After lunch we had stunning views of 8 Stone Curlews at Ze'elim and then called in at the Revivim fields finding about 60 Spotted Sandgrouse and an engaging flock of 17 Dotteral finishing off another superb trip to the Negev.

A couple of male Pallid Harriers were also seen and seemingly in the middle of nowhere we came across a Little Owl amongst the boulder piles. Eventually we found the main objective of such a long off road drive - a Finsch's Wheatear. A female of this scarce winterer gave good views near the Be'er Osnat Reserve, and was promptly celebrated by all of our group.

Good birding,

James Smith