We started at Bessan where up to 3 male Little Bustards were found including one which on cue did a small flight. A Montagu's Harrier and a Black Kite were also noted.
At Fleury we stopped to enjoy 6 Lesser Kestrels mobbing a Buzzard and a fabulous Roller hunting insects over a hay meadow. Moving on we also watched a Turtle Dove and 5 Rock Sparrows.
At Lespignan we listened to a Quail calling and were astonished to see a male Little Bustard here which is a first there for me. Two Great Spotted Cuckoos flew by and eventually we located our main target at least 3 superb Ortolan Buntings. As we left dozens of Bee-eaters arrived perching on overhead wires and feverishly hunting for flying insects.
The highlight for me though was the pure joy and excitement exuded by the group at the sight of a Red-legged Partridge a lifer for all except Mike. It really puts birding into perspective and as it should be. We should be able to appreciate all species even if we are more familiar with some more than others.
Today a Griffon Vulture passed low over my house and a Golden Oriole sang for some time in the woods across the valley.
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