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Two years in Egypt
Bird records from four winter seasons
October 2002 – June 2006
Introduction
The Scandinavian holiday makers are visiting Egypt mostly during the winter months. So, for the tour guides, this means that the season for us in Egypt is from October to April. During the summer months the high temperatures usually puts the tourists off in favour for Greece and Spain.
I started out working for the Swedish tour operator Fritidsresor and later continued to TEMA, whom I now partly work for as a freelance guide. They do mainly 7-day cruises on the Nile and these trips are off course perfect for a tour guide/birdwatcher.
I have lived all this time in the small man-made Red Sea resort called El Gouna. It is situated about 20 km north of Hurghada and about 430 km southeast of Cairo. This is right on the Red Sea and just a few km inland are the foothills of the Red Sea Mountains, so especially during migration times it is a great spot. Within 4-5 hours driving you can reach both Cairo to the north, Luxor in the Nile Valley or the southern Red Sea coast. The resort it self has about a dozen hotels ranging from three-star to five-star de luxe and many cafes and restaurants. This makes it a great place to stay as well as a base from which to explore the rest of the country.
For the birder it is an outstanding area with the golf course, the tidal lagoon in the south, the sea and the proximity to the mountains. A week here in autumn or spring will produce many great birds, that´s a promise!
My four seasons
I first arrived to Egypt on October 8th in 2002. This season I stayed there until April 8th 2003. Since this was during my time with Fritidsresor, I worked a lot (six days a week) and had only one week off which I spent on the Nile.
My second season was short since I resigned from the company in the end of November 2003. So arriving on October 6th, it was only about two months. In November the first birding trip with Nimbusresor took place.
The third season was from October 12th 2004 to April 7th 2005. I spent three weeks over Christmas/New Year in Sweden. From now on working as a freelance tour guide, I had much more time off.
The fourth season was from October 6th 2005 all the way to June 6th 2006. During this time I left the country for Sweden (three weeks over Christmas/New Year and one week in May) and for Lebanon (one week in May).
Systematic list of species seen during this period
This list contains only my own observations and impressions of birds during 2002-2006. No summer periods and only a few visits to the most distant areas of the country should be considered when reading. On some of the more interesting species I have added a line or two below with more information so to better indicate the species´ status.
White-fronted Goose/Bläsgås/Anser albifrons
One record: two 2cy birds were at the bird-rich marshland along the Nile north of Esna on January 19th 2003.
Very few records exist from Egypt of this species.
Egyptian Goose/Nilgås/Alopochen aegyptiaca
Fairly commonly seen around Aswan and Abu Simbel, rarer north towards Luxor. High numbers at Aswan in winter, up to 250 birds. Several pairs with chicks seen at Abu Simbel from January onwards. During the winter 2002/2003 up to 80 were on a sandbank at Dendera north of Luxor.
Shelduck/Gravand/Tadorna tadorna
One record: one bird was along the Nile between Edfu and Kom Ombo on January 16th 2003.
Wigeon/Bläsand/Anas penelope
Very common in the mixed flocks of ducks on the Nile during the winter months. The highest numbers usually between Esna and Edfu and sometimes also further south towards Aswan. Perhaps as many as 10.000 are estimated to be present here in January, the largest single flock I have seen was around 1.000.
Gadwall/Snatterand/Anas strepera
Uncommon and in low numbers on the Nile during the winter. About 45 were counted between Kom Ombo and Esna in both January 2003 and 2006.
Teal/Kricka/Anas crecca
Common and widespread along the Nile during the winter months. Flocks of up to 300-400 seen in wetlands and lagoons along the river, high numbers also at Crocodile Island near Luxor. Some records also of smaller flocks along the Red Sea coast in October and March.
Mallard/Gräsand/Anas platyrhynchos
I have only seen this species a few times during my time here. This has been singles or smaller flocks along the Nile.
Pintail/Stjärtand/Anas acuta
Fairly common among the ducks on the Nile but never in high numbers. Usually together with Wigeons and Shovelers, highest count is about 100 in one small area. Some records also from the coastline in migration times, like the 28 flying south at El Gouna on October 9th 2005.
Garganey/Årta/Anas querquedula
Rare and in low numbers among the other ducks on the river, but in their winter plumage easy to miss in the huge flocks. 5-10 birds can be revealed by scanning through a large flock of Teals and Wigeons. The 100 birds seen just north of Edfu on October 23rd 2004 might be a late flock from the autumn migration.
Of the extreme numbers (tens of thousands) said to migrate through the country I have seen nothing. Possibly this takes before and then after my usual period in Egypt, October to April.
Shoveler/Skedand/Anas clypeata
The most common duck on the Nile and present in high numbers in winter time. Usually reaches the highest number in January when possibly more then 10.000 are between Luxor and Aswan. Several times an estimated 5.000 have been seen between Esna and Edfu. Some spring time records from the coastline, often a small flock at Hurghada rubbish tip.
Pochard/Brunand/Aythya ferina
Usually restricted to the duck flocks on the Nile in winter time, but there it can be quite numerous. Especially between Esna and Edfu where numbers can reach 600-700, often then with Tufted Ducks.
Ferruginous Duck/Vitögd dykand/Aythya nyroca
Present in the duck flocks on the Nile in low numbers during the winter months, the highest numbers usually counted in mid-winter. 480 in January 2003 and at least 400 in January 2005 are good counts, but more often you find less then 100 as the cruise ship passes the flocks. The 200 seen behind Philae temple (between the dams) in Aswan on January 22nd 2006 are probably additional birds. A male bird was still here as late as April 9th the same year.
This internationally threatened species has an important wintering ground on the Upper Nile and Lake Nasser.
Tufted Duck/Vigg/Aythya fuligula
A few large flocks winters on the Nile, usually close to Esna. The highest count, a gathering just before dusk, reached 1.750 and was in December 2005.
Quail/Vaktel/Coturnix coturnix
Common during spring migration (mid-February until May) when birds can turn up at the most unexpected place. A small patch of green is all that is needed, in the desert or in a village, anywhere! Some places have had up to seven-eight birds at one visit, usually Hurghada rubbish tip or El Gouna golf course.
Little Grebe/Smådopping/Tachybaptes ruficollis
Only one record: one bird in summer plumage at Abu Simbel on January 17th 2003.
Black-necked Grebe/Svarthalsad dopping/Podiceps nigricollis
Wintering birds seen on the Nile with the highest counts among the ducks south of Esna. They usually gather all at the same place, and 85 is the highest number here (December 2005). Also behind Philae Temple (between the dams) at Aswan were five seen in December 2005 and the same number at Hurghada rubbish tip on March 2nd 2003.
Brown Booby/Brunsula/Sula leucogaster
Seen regularly from boat trips off El Gouna and Hurghada, mostly single birds. Three were seen on October 24th 2002. I saw the species on about 30% of the trips. Three records from land: Hamata and Wadi Lahami on April 8th 2006 (possibly the same bird) and El Gouna on May 9th 2006 (in strong NE wind).
Northern Cormorant/Storskarv/Phalacrocolax carbo
Common wintering bird in the Nile Valley and large numbers can be seen on Lake Nasser at Abu Simbel. Up to 1.000 can be seen on one evening, flying south towards the lake in November-December. Parties of at least 1.500 has been seen at Abu Simbel in January. A few records of single birds exist from the Red Sea coastline.
White Pelican/Vit pelikan/Pelecanus onocrotalus
Some flocks of 20-400 flying south along the Nile are seen every year in October-early December. About 400 were over Luxor both on November 10th 2002 and on October 18th 2003. 370 roosted on the Nile north of Edfu on December 1st 2005. They winter on Lake Nasser (also a few singles along the Nile) and small numbers are seen at Abu Simbel (up to 75) at least until May. Spring migration has been seen in March-April with smaller flocks flying north.
Pink-backed Pelican/Rosaryggad pelikan/Pelecanus rufescens
One record: two birds were at Abu Simbel on April 11th 2006.
Due to the increased coverage from birders, several records are now being done every year at this site, mostly from April to September. Also reported from Aswan.
Bittern/Rördrom/Botaurus stellaris
Uncommon and seldom seen winter visitor to the reeds along the Nile. I have done less than ten records. Usually a single bird flying over the reeds or being flushed by a fisherman, but on December 22nd 2002, three birds were seen at the same time north of Esna. Of these, two were in an aerial fight, probably over a winter territory.
Little Bittern/Dvärgrördrom/Ixobrychus minutes
Fairly common in the Nile Valley and around Cairo, both in canals and ponds and along the river itself. Because of its “hide-and-seek” behaviour, you see only a few unless you focus on the edge of reed beds and small ditches and ponds. Up to ten have been counted on a day of cruising. Sites like Crocodile Island and Abbassa fish ponds NE Cairo often has around five birds. A bird on migration was at Wadi Lahami on April 8th 2006.
Night Heron/Natthäger/Nycticorax nycticorax
Common but often in low numbers in the Nile Valley and around Cairo, and also regularly on migration along the coast. Some sites can have 10-15 birds, otherwise mostly singles or a few. Breeding colonies at Abbassa had about 100 in April 2006. Flocks of around 25 were seen in El Gouna in March 2003 and in October 2004 and 2005
Striated Heron/Mangrovehäger/Butorides striata
Uncommon and scattered along the Red Sea and in the Nile Valley, but not that hard to find. Several birds are around the lagoon in El Gouna where it probably breeds (a pair was seen with this behaviour in May 2006). Crocodile Island has had up to five birds at one visit and with low water in mid-winter, they feed more in the open along canals and lagoons. Five were along the canal between Luxor and Qena on January 21st 2003.
Cattle Egret/Kohäger/Bubulcus ibis
Very common and widespread, the dominating bird in some areas. 1000´s breed in and around Cairo and also north of Luxor are colonies with over 1000 birds. Evening roosts along the Nile have been seen with over 1000 birds, for example south of Esna on December 4th 2005. 30 were at El Gouna golf course in May 2006 which is a high number from the Red Sea.
Squacco Heron/Rallhäger/Ardeola ralloides
Very common in the Nile Valley and around Cairo, regularly seen along the Red Sea in migration times. Highest numbers in the winter months, for example the 1.000 being counted from the Luxor bridge to Kom Ombo on December 1st 2005. 350 were north of Luxor on March 31st 2003. Many birds, mostly singles, seen around El Gouna in March-April.
Western Reef Heron/Revhäger/Egretta gularis
Fairly common but in low numbers (higher along the southern part) along the Red Sea. Up to three birds are using the lagoon in El Gouna. Often seen around the islands off Hurghada with several birds. Further south, around Hamata and Wadi Lahami mangroves, a day can produce as much as 20 birds.
Little Egret/Silkeshäger/Egretta garzetta
Very common in the Nile Valley and around Cairo, also this species increases with the wintering birds. One of the dominating birds on a Nile cruise, and several 1000 are seen between Luxor and Aswan. 1.300 were counted only from Edfu to Esna on November 21st 2004. Breeding colonies with Cattle Egrets and Night Herons at Abbassa fish ponds in April 2006.
Great White Egret/Ägretthäger/Egretta alba
The rarest of the herons where a few spend the winter along the Nile and on the shores of Lake Nasser. A three-day cruise from Luxor to Aswan usually produces only five or six birds. Singles widespread among other herons and egrets, but sometimes there are three or four roosting on a sand bank. In the winter 2005/2006 up to 20 were seen behind Philae Temple (between the dams) at Aswan, a bit surprisingly.
Grey Heron/Gråhäger/Ardea cinerea
Common wintering bird in the Nile Valley and around Cairo. A typical day of cruising can give around 100 birds, but flocks up to 80 have been seen. 115 were counted from Edfu to Kom Ombo on January 16th 2003 and 60 were at Crocodile Island on January 18th 2006. Singles and small parties can be seen along the Red Sea in migration times. Around El Gouna there is usually up to ten birds resident.
Purple Heron/Purpurhäger/Ardea purpurea
Fairly common but in low numbers along the Nile and a few around Cairo, also seen regularly along the coast in migration times. A good day of cruising in winter time can give 25 birds and the 45 counted from Kom Ombo to Esna on January 27th 2005 is the highest from this period. Migrants seen along the coast in March-April, like the six birds flying north during raptor watch at Ain Sukhna on April 25th 2006.
Goliath Heron/Goliathäger/Ardea goliath
One record: one bird at Wadi Lahami mangroves on March 20th 2005.
This site, and nearby Hamata, is THE place in Egypt (and the Western Palearctic) for this species. Here it has been seen regularly the last years, and obviously bred in 2006!
Yellow-billed Stork/Afrikansk ibisstork/Mycteria ibis
One record: eleven birds were at Abu Simbel on April 10th 2006 and one younger bird the day after.
Like the Pink-backed Pelican, you stand a good chance of finding this exclusive species at Abu Simbel on a visit between April and October.
Black Stork/Svart stork/Ciconia nigra
Small numbers are passing by on migration in September-October and in March-May. More often seen in spring time, usually 20-50 birds flying north, sometimes with White Storks. 180 flying north at El Gouna on March 10th 2006 is the highest spring number and the same number was flying south there on October 9th 2002. One 2cy bird flying south at Kom Ombo on January 27th 2005 and six birds at Aswan in January 2006 are rare winter records.
White stork/Vit stork/Ciconia ciconia
A great spectacle is the spring migration of White Storks going north over the Red Sea mountains in March-April. No total coverage has been done the last years, so many flocks pass without being noted. 2003 had 4.000 passing over El Gouna on March 20th and several flocks of around 1.000. In the second half of March 2005, about 6.000 were seen in five flocks. From mid-March to mid-April 2006 nearly 10.000 passed north with a huge flock of 3.500 over El Gouna on March 10th. Singles and small numbers wintering along the Nile and around Abu Simbel, where there is usually a small gang at the rubbish tip. 60 lingered outside El Gouna in the end of May 2006.
Glossy Ibis/Bronsibis/Plegadis falcinellus
Wintering flocks spread out along the Nile, fairly common in some places. This is noted especially during low water in December-January, when flocks can reach several hundred. 400 at Crocodile Island in January 2005 and the same number north of Luxor on January 3rd 2003 are the highest counts, more often flocks are on less then a hundred birds. 200 were behind Philae Temple (between the dams) on April 9th 2006, possibly a flock on migration.
Spoonbill/Skedstork/Platalea leucordia
Like the Glossy Ibis a common winter visitor along the Nile and passage migrant. Flock sizes usually small, the 50 birds roosting on a sandbank south of Dendera in December 2002 was a high count. 20 flying south at El Gouna on October 10th 2005 and 40 flying north at Kom Ombo on April 9th 2006 are flocks on migration. Singles and small parties often seen along the Red Sea mangrove areas
Greater Flamingo/Större flamingo/Phoenicopterus roseus
Uncommon visitor with some singles and migrating flocks seen. 20 flying south at Abu Simbel on November 19th 2004, 45 flying north on March 7th 2005, and 15 here on April 10th 2006. Up to three younger birds stayed at the lagoon in El Gouna from December to March 2005/2006.
Honey Buzzard/Bivråk/Pernis apivorus
Common passage migrant but where the bulk usually passes before (August-September) and after (end-April-May) my season in the country. Four 1cy birds flying south at El Gouna golf course on October 9th 2005 is one of the few autumn records. In spring 2006, when I stayed longer, at least 700 passed north during May 2nd and 9th.
Black-shouldered Kite/Svartvingad glada/Elanus caeruleus
Common along the Nile Valley and around Cairo. The 2.5-hour drive in from Luxor to Aswan can result in 15-20 birds and a cruise day should give around ten. Sites like Crocodile Island and Abbassa fish ponds always has three or four of this elegant raptor.
Black Kite/Brun glada/Milvus migrans
Common, locally very common, at towns and villages in the Nile Valley and around Cairo. About 100 have been seen both north of Cairo and at Aswan (usually over the rubbish tip) and 210 were counted at Abu Simbel at dusk on January 17th 2003. Quite numerous on spring migration along the northern Red Sea coast with good day counts like 150 at El Gouna on March 20th 2003 and 141 at Ain Sukhna on April 25th 2006.
Egyptian Vulture/Smutsgam/Nephron percnopterus
Uncommon and seen in migration times, mostly in spring. Singles seen along the Red Sea and at Abu Simbel in from mid-March to May. Down in Shalatein five were seen in March 2005 and ten in April 2006. Visits at the raptor site at Ain Sukhna in March-April 2006 resulted in 62 being counted on four separate days.
Griffon Vulture/Gåsgam/Gyps fulvus
Three records, all from raptor count at Ain Sukhna in spring 2006: one flying north each on March 13th, April 5th and April 25th.
Lappet-faced Vulture/Örongam/Torgos tracheliotus
Records only from two visits to Shalatein on the southern Red Sea coast. In March 2005 at least eight birds were present and in April 2006 they were at least 15. That day were also six more birds seen on three different stops between Shalatein and Berenice, at stretch of about 100 km.
Shalatein seems like a sure bet to see them, but reports are also from Abu Simbel and south of Aswan. Look for a camel market with some carcasses and there will be vultures around!
Short-toed Eagle/Ormörn/Circaetus gallicus
Regularly seen on spring migration along the Red Sea mountains, starting from the beginning of March. Singles are seen over El Gouna but by far the best site is Ain Sukhna where they can be numerous in March-April. In 2006 we had a massive day on March 13th with at least 290 passing north. 13, 18 and 65 on three days in April seems little, but more normal.
Marsh Harrier/Brun kärrhök/Circus aerginosus
Common over the reed beds and marsh lands in the Nile Valley, and migration seen along the Red Sea in autumn and spring. A day of cruising in winter can have ten birds hunting along the river. Springtime often has several birds at Hurghada rubbish tip and raptor count at Ain Sukhna in 2006 had nine birds on April 25th. Many singles passing El Gouna in March-April.
Hen Harrier/Blå kärrhök/Circus cyaneus
Two records: one male southeast of Luxor on November 23rd 2004 and one female flying north behind Philae Temple at Aswan on April 9th 2006.
Pallid Harrier/Stäpphök/Circus macrourus
Uncommon but regularly seen migrant in autumn and spring. Both along the Red Sea and in the Nile Valley, and sometimes two together, they are always spectacular to see. During October 7-16th 2003 in El Gouna, three males and five unidentified Pallid/Montagues (of which most seemed like Pallid) were seen flying south. Two adult males flew north, 200 m between them, 40 km north of Quesir on April 7th 2006. One 2cy bird was at Abbassa fish ponds on January 22nd 2005, a rare winter record.
A report from the southern Red Sea in September 2004 indicated a strong passage at that time with over 50 birds during a four-day period!
Montagu`s Harrier/Ängshök/Circus pygarus
Status similar to Pallid Harrier with a low numbers of birds passing on migration. A difference is that I have seen none in the autumn, they probably pass earlier. They also pass late (from the beginning of April) in spring, so only in 2006 I have seen more then one or two. That year in El Gouna, from mid-April, they were often seen, with several each day around May 1st. Also two flying north at Abu Simbel on April 11th and two at Ain Sukhna on April 25th.
Goshawk/Duvhök/Accipiter gentilis
One record: one 1cy female at El Gouna golf course on October 18th 2005.
Sparrowhawk/Sparvhök/Accipiter nisus
Uncommon and in low numbers seen during the winter months, often a single bird passing by during a day in the field. More numerous during migration in March-April with many seen along the Red Sea, in 2006 the top days were 25 at El Gouna on April 18th and 30 at Ain Sukhna on April 25th.
Levant Sparrowhawk/Balkanhök/Accipiter brevipes
Records of this late-arriving migrant only from spring 2006. Quite stunningly a flock of about 450 soared and flew north over El Gouna on April 18th. Two males flew north at Ain Sukhna on April 25th and single birds were seen in Hurghada on May 2nd and in El Gouna on May 3rd.
Common Buzzard/Ormvråk/Buteo buteo
The “Steppe Buzzard”, subspecies vulpinus, is seen in the autumn with a few birds coming in from the sea and very numerous in spring, when tens of thousands are passing north along the Red Sea mountains. A day in October-beginning of November can have about ten birds flying south while the spring migration sees several days with a thousand or more. Many top days unfortunately goes unnoticed far over the mountains. My top day was on April 25th 2006 with at least 2.000 flying north at Ain Sukhna. Also 1.000 over El Gouna on March 20th 2003 indicates a strong movement some days even along the coastline.
Raptor counts at the famous site in Ain Sukhna in recent years had several days with over 10.000 Steppe Buzzards passing.
Long-legged Buzzard/Örnvråk/Buteo rufinus
Only four records: one at Kom Ombo on January 16th 2003, one at El Gouna golf course on April 2nd 2003, one or two at Crocodile Island on November 17th 2003 and two flying north at Ain Sukhna on April 25th 2006.
Lesser Spotted Eagle/Mindre skrikörn/Aquila pomarina
Fairly common during spring migration (mid-March to mid-May) but as with many other raptors, seen mostly close to the Red Sea mountains and one of the best sites is Ain Sukhna. A good raptor day at El Gouna might have a few Lesser´s among Steppe Eagles and buzzards but Ain Sukhna is the place for the higher counts. During the visits in April 2006, nearly 300 were seen in three separate days. One bird also along the Nile north of Kom Ombo on November 22nd 2003.
Top days at Ain Sukhna has included over 1.000 Lesser Spotted Eagles.
Greater Spotted Eagle/Större skrikörn/Aquila clanga
Five records of which four are winter records of younger birds along the Nile: north of Kom Ombo on November 22nd 2003, north of Edfu on November 21st 2004 and the same area on January 27th 2005 and behind Philae Temple at Aswan on January 22nd 2006. One bird also passed Ain Sukhna on April 6th 2006.
Steppe Eagle/Stäppörn/Aquila nipalensis
Common during spring migration along the Red Sea mountains but also seen regularly elsewhere. Singles have been seen in the desert between Hurghada and Luxor in the winter months. 420 were counted during four days in spring 2006 at Ain Sukhna. Days in El Gouna with storks and raptors close to the sea have had up to 40-50 passing north.
Booted Eagle/Dvärgörn/Hieraaetus pennatus
Seen during migration in autumn (rare) and in spring (more common) when again Ain Sukhna is the place to be. Single birds in El Gouna on October 9th 2002 and over Dendera on October 18th 2002 as well as over Crocodile Island on November 24th 2004 are the autumn records. Three birds surprisingly flew south along the Nile north of Kom Ombo on January 27th 2005. 98 were counted at Ain Sukhna during three days in April 2006. Singles are seen at El Gouna with four on May 9th 2006.
Osprey/Fiskgjuse/Pandion haliaetus
Common breeding bird along the Red Sea coast where they nest on the ground. Often seen along the shorelines with up to four together in El Gouna. A few records from the Nile during the winter months.
Lesser Kestrel/Rödfalk/Falco naumanni
One record: one at Deir el-Bahri, Luxor on October 27th 2004.
Kestrel/Tornfalk/Falco tinnunculus
Common in most habitats and very often seen along roads in the Nile Valley. Dominating raptor in El Gouna with several pairs breeding. Additional birds seen during spring migration.
Merlin/Stenfalk/Falco columbarius
Two records: one south of Hurghada on October 18th 2005 and one flying north at Sakkara, Kairo on April 5th 2006.
Sooty Falcon/Sotfalk/Falco concolor
Fairly few records of this summer visitor, I have seen them in October and again from the end of April. Three October records from El Gouna, one adult south of Luxor on October 22nd 2004. A pair was at Abu Minghar Island off Hurghada on April 26th 2006 and one bird was at El Gouna on May 9th.
On the wanted-list of every visiting birder but they don´t arrive before the end of April. A boat trip to the islands off Hurghada is the best way to see them but also at the Wadi Gemal Islands a good number of birds breed.
Lanner/Slagfalk/Falco biarmicus
Fairly common in the desert areas along the Red Sea coast, more so in the southern parts. Here up to seven-eight birds can be seen during a whole day in the field. Three birds were seen together over Shams Alam Resort on April 7th 2006. Also seen in the Nile Valley but more rare, even though a pair is seen from time to time around Crocodile Island/Luxor.
Peregrine/Pilgrimsfalk/Falco peregrinus
Two positively identified records: one adult at Hurghada rubbish tip on February 26th and March 6th 2006 and one adult at Hamata on April 8th 2006.
Barbary Falcon/Berberfalk/Falco pelegrinoides
Local resident but not common in the desert areas along the Red Sea. Also breeds around Abu Simbel, where it has been seen several times. One bird was found with a nest at Shalatein on April 8th 2006. I have seen it a few times only around El Gouna/Hurghada.
Little Crake/Mindre sumphöna/Porzana parva
The handful of records that exists from this period is probably not giving the true picture of this secretive species. Four winter records (end-November to end-January) of five birds along the Nile between Esna and Edfu. They were seen during a close scanning of the edge of the reeds and small openings, the same areas where Little Bitterns appear. Two females were at Hurghada rubbish tip on March 15th 2006.
Moorhen/Rörhöna/Gallinula chloropus
Very common among floating water vegetation on the Nile and on canals leading from it. Several times gatherings of around 100 birds have been seen.
Purple Gallinule/Purpurhöna/Porphyrio porphyrio
Common, in some areas very common, on the Nile and often in the same areas as Moorhens. Crocodile Island is an easy place to see them (up to 50), but the high concentrations are further up the river. Sometimes up to 100 have been counted on a short stretch and at least 500 were between Edfu and Kom Ombo on December 1st 2005.
Coot/Sothöna/Fulica atra
Wintering in high numbers along the Nile and in Lake Nasser. The ones on the river are usually concentrated to a few large flocks, often close to Esna together with the ducks and grebes. Here were 1.750 counted in December 2005. Rare along the Red Sea but 50 were at Hurghada rubbish tip on March 2nd 2003.
Crane/Trana/Grus grus
Migrates through in the autumn (October) and in spring. Some stragglers are seen away from this pattern, but otherwise it is usually some high-soaring flocks against the blue African sky that are seen. At least 400 moved south outside Hurghada on October 9th 2005. On March 13th 2005, amidst migrating storks, 500 were counted over El Gouna. 350 were over El Gouna on March 10th 2006.
Painted Snipe/Rallbeckasin/Rostrathula benghalensis
Seen a few times each at the well-known sites Crocodile Island and Abbassa fish ponds outside Cairo. The first had the snipe on November 23rd 2003, January 29th 2005 and a pair on April 12th 2006. The latter was the scene on November 25th 2004 and on April 6th 2006. I also saw single snipes along the Nile south of Luxor on December 15th 2002 and north of Luxor on January 3rd 2003.
Not rare but in low numbers, elusive and needs just the right habitat. Many are the visiting birders that leave Egypt without seeing this beautiful creature.
Oystercatcher/Strandskata/Haematopus ostralegus
Rare this far south in Egypt. Three winter records from the coast around El Gouna and three birds on Abu Minghar Island on April 13th 2006.
Black-winged Stilt/Styltlöpare/Himantopus himantopus
Very common along the Nile with the highest number during low water in December-January. Hundreds are seen on a cruise day with the record count of 1.000 from Edfu to Kom Ombo on December 1st 2005. Singles and small parties seen along the Red Sea in migration times, but the 21 flying over El Gouna golf course on April 29th 2006 looked disorientated.
Avocet/Skärfläcka/Recurvirostra avosetta
Two winter records: one south of Luxor on January 1st and one at Aswan on January 18th, both 2003.
Stone Curlew/Tjockfot/Burhinus oedicnemus
Only a few records of this migrant that can be easily mistaken for the next species. Five were at Wadi Gemal both in March 2005 and in April 2006. One in El Gouna on March 14th 2005 and also two more records here of unidentified Stone Curlews/Senegal Thick-knees, but here it should be the first of the two.
Senegal Thick-knee/Senegaltjockfot/Burhinus senegalensis
Fairly common and widespread along the Nile Valley and around Cairo. Often detected on its loud call at dusk or when flushed. Groups of up to 12-15 can be seen on roofs and along roads around Cairo. Always heard from the cruise ships in the evenings, can be seen roosting under trees and bushes. 25 were at Abu Simbel on November 21st 2003, a high count.
Cream-coloured Courser/Ökenlöpare/Cursorius cursor
Few and far between in the desert wilderness, these are the records: two at El Gouna golf course on March 14th 2005, totally three between Wadi Gemal and Shalatein on March 19-20th 2005, one north of Shalatein on April 8th 2006 and one at El Gouna golf course on May 5th 2006. Two migrating flocks with ten at Hurghada rubbish tip on March 18th 2003 and 13 flying north at El Gouna on March 10th 2006, both flocks seen during rough weather.
Collared Pratincole/Rödvingad vadarsvala/Glareola pratincola
Only spring records of this migrant, with singles or small numbers seen along the Red Sea from end-March to May. El Gouna golf course seems like the favourite place with up to 25 in the end of April 2006.
Black-winged Pratincole/Svartvingad vadarsvala/Glareola nordmanni
One record: one flew north at Ain Sukhna on April 25th 2006.
Little Ringed Plover/Mindre strandpipare/Charadrius dubius
Low numbers wintering on the mud banks along the Nile. Crocodile Island has had up to six birds and also Abbassa fish ponds can show this number. Ten were behind Philae Temple on December 3rd 2005. A pair showed breeding behaviour at El Gouna golf course in April/May 2006.
Ringed Plover/Större strandpipare/Charadrius hiaticula
Common and widespread along the Red Sea coast and quite a few in the wader areas along the Nile. The lagoon in El Gouna has had up to 45 and Hurghada rubbish tip 15-20 in spring 2006. Mainly a wintering bird and the number drop down in spring.
Kittlitz´s Plover/Kittlitzstrandpipare/Charadrius pecuarius
Four records: 30 at Abbassa fish ponds on November 25th 2004, seven-eight here on January 22nd 2005, two along the Nile between Kom Ombo and Edfu on January 27th 2005 and three along the Nile just north of Aswan on January 22nd 2006.
Wadi Natrun outside Cairo is the famous place for this bird, but also at Abu Simbel it has bred the last years. In addition, do scan the plover areas along the Nile in winter as well!
Three-banded Plover/Trebandad pipare/Charadrius tricollaris
One record: one bird at El Gouna golf course on March 13th 2003.
This should be the fourth or fifth record in the country as well as in the Western Palearctic.
Kentish Plover/Svartbent strandpipare/Charadrius alexandrinus
Common mainly along the Red Sea but also many along the Nile, although no larger gatherings seen. Breeding and numerous at the lagoon in El Gouna with 35 here on October 15th 2004 and 16 flying north on March 14th 2005.
Greater Sand Plover/Ökenpipare/Charadrius leschenaultii
Fairly common along the Red Sea where it winters in low numbers, usually only a few birds left in mid-April. The lagoon in El Gouna has its flock wintering, often around ten seen. In October-November they can be up to 25, and on February 15th 2003, 35 were seen just north of here. Some birds are seen in summer plumage by then.
Higher numbers of over 100 are reported from the southern coastline.
Caspian Plover/Kaspisk pipare/Charadrius asiaticus
Two records, both at exactly the same spot: one male at El Gouna golf course on March 14th 2005 and a female there on April 3rd 2005.
Golden Plover/Ljungpipare/Pluvialis apricaria
One record: one along the Nile on January 15th and 19th 2003.
Grey Plover/Kustpipare/Pluvialis squatarola
Common along the Red Sea coastline with many seen at mangroves and mud flats. Low numbers and well spread out, the lagoon in El Gouna rarely has more than ten. A migrating flock of 25 at Abu Minghar Island on April 13th 2006 is a good number. Two records from the Nile, one each south of Edfu on December 1st 2005 and at Crocodile Island on January 18th 2006.
Spur-winged Plover/Sporrvipa/Vanellus spinosus
Very common and can be the dominating bird in some areas in the Nile Valley and around Cairo, loud and unafraid. Some single pairs have been seen in El Gouna and around Hurghada. Local large gatherings occur during the winter along the Nile, extreme was the flock of at least 410 south of Luxor on January 19th 2003, also 250 here in Janaury 2005. More normal would be around 100.
White-tailed Plover/Sumpvipa/Vanellus leucurus
One of the highlights on a Nile cruise is to count the tens of White-tailed Plovers wintering along the river. The first arrives in end-October but they seem to disappear already in February with the rising waters flooding the mud banks. At least 100 are estimated to be present between Luxor and Aswan in mid-winter. The 62 counted from Edfu to Kom Ombo on December 1st 2005 is the best day so far. 39 from Kom Ombo to Esna on January 27th 2005 is another good number. Several gatherings of around ten have been seen, eleven were at Crocodile Island on December 6th 2004
Lapwing/Tofsvipa/Vanellus vanellus
Winter visitor with low numbers seen along the Nile and some scattered records along the Red Sea. More common in the north around Cairo. Up to 50 were seen in 2002/2003 at a grassland north of Esna. Singles at sites like Crocodile Island and smaller flocks seen around Cairo.
Little Stint/Småsnäppa/Calidris minuta
The most common small wader wintering along the Nile and also along the Red Sea but there in much smaller numbers. A cruise day in mid-winter will see hundreds in the mixed wader flocks on the muddy shorelines. Well spread out and the flocks rarely exceed 150. Small flocks seen around El Gouna during migration, up to 30 at Hurghada rubbish tip in March 2003 and 2006.
Temminck´s Stint/Mosnäppa/Calidris temminckii
Uncommon but possibly overlooked among the other small waders. Singles and small flocks are found along the Nile in winter. Crocodile Island is good place to get close to them and up to ten have been seen here. Ten were also behind Philae Temple on April 9th 2006. A few records of single birds during migration in El Gouna.
Curlew Sandpiper/Spovsnäppa/Calidris ferruginea
Only two records: one 1cy at El Gouna golf course on October 9th 2005 and two along the Nile just north of Aswan on January 22nd 2006.
Dunlin/Kärrsnäppa/Calidris alpina
Fairly common wintering bird but in low numbers along the Nile and on migration along the Red Sea. Often small flocks (rarely more than ten) together with Little Stints or Ruffs. Hurghada rubbish tip seems like a safe bet in spring where up to 50 were seen in March 2006.
Ruff/Brushane/Philomachus pugnax
Very common along the Nile in winter and often the most numerous wader during a cruise day. Like most other waders, the highest counts are being done during low water in December-January. Nearly 800 were between Edfu and Kom Ombo on December 1st 2005. 300 at Crocodile Island both in January 2003, December 2004 and January 2006. 400 at Aswan on December 3rd 2005.
Jack Snipe/Dvärgbeckasin/Lymnocryptes minimus
Six records during mid-winter low water, all along the Nile except one at Abu Simbel on January 24th 2005. Three just north of Aswan on Janaury 24th 2005 is the only record of more then one bird.
Common Snipe/Enkelbeckasin/Gallinago gallinago
Common along the Nile where they often feed in the open with other waders. At least 100 between Esna and Edfu on January 20th 2006 is a high count. Flocks of 40 were seen both at Kom Ombo on January 16th 2003 and north of Aswan in the winter 2004/2005.
Black-tailed Godwit/Rödspov/Limosa limosa
Fairly common wintering bird along the Nile, often in small flocks in the better wader areas. The sandbank at Aswan is a good site with 38 on November 20th 2004 and 75 on December 3rd 2005. At least 150 were counted between Edfu and Kom Ombo on December 1st 2006. A bird was on migration at the lagoon in El Gouna on April 17th 2006.
Whimbrel/Småspov/Numenius phaeopus
Uncommon visitor with scattered records along the Red Sea. Single birds have been seen at El Gouna golf course in late autumn/winter and better numbers further south. Small numbers were along the mangroves of Hamata and Wadi Lahami in April 2006 and four at Abu Minghar Island on April 13th 2006.
Curlew/Storspov/Numenius arquata
Common wintering bird but in low numbers along the Red Sea. The lagoon in El Gouna always has a flock of up to 20, this is the highest number I have noted anywhere along the coast.
Spotted Redshank/Svartsnäppa/Tringa erythropus
Common along the Nile in wader areas with a little deeper water, just like the rich area north of Edfu. Here were 100 on November 14th 2002 which is one of the top counts. About 150 were between Edfu and Kom Ombo on December 1st 2005. Several flocks of 30-40 have been seen, often in areas with many Black-tailed Godwits.
Redshank/Rödbena/Tringa totanus
Fairly common along the shores of the Red Sea, mostly in winter. The lagoon in El Gouna has up to seven birds in winter and in March about the same number can be seen at Hurghada rubbish tip. The mangrove areas in the south are better with 15 at Wadi Lahami in March 2005.
Marsh Sandpiper/Dammsnäppa/Tringa stagnatilis
Good practice for a Western birder is this species that winters along the Nile. During a cruise day tens of birds can be picked out among the other waders. 80 were counted from Edfu to Kom Ombo on December 1st 2005 which is the highest day count. 30 were on just a short stretch north of Edfu on October 23rd 2004. Flocks of ten-fifteen have been seen several times. Regularly seen along the Red Sea during spring migration, with many records of up to three birds around El Gouna/Hurghada.
Greenshank/Gluttsnäppa/Tringa nebularia
Winters both along the Nile and at the coast with low numbers scattered among the other waders. Usually singles (but loud enough) and rarely more than five at one spot. Hurghada rubbish tip always has a few during spring migration.
Green Sandpiper/Skogssnäppa/Tringa ochropus
Also this Tringa is usually seen with singles or pairs, but never common. As it prefers a somewhat different habitat than most waders, it is rarely seen on good wader days. Hurghada rubbish tip in March often holds two-three birds and migrants are seen passing El Gouna as well. Only a few records from along the Nile.
Wood Sandpiper/Grönbena/Tringa glareola
Winters in small numbers in the Nile Valley and seen along the Red Sea mostly in migration times. Sites like Crocodile Island and Abbassa fish ponds often has several birds and up to five have been seen on the golf course in El Gouna.
Common Sandpiper/Drillsnäppa/Actitis hypoleucos
Seen in small numbers along the Red Sea beaches and a few also on suitable places along the Nile. In Egypt they are often few and far between, I have never seen more than three together.
Terek Sandpiper/Tereksnäppa/Xenus cinereus
Recorded only in spring 2006 when one to four birds were seen at the lagoon in El Gouna from April 17th to May 3rd with four seen on May 1st.
Is said to be rare wintering bird along the southern shores of the Red Sea with low numbers at mangrove mud flats like Hamata and Wadi Lahami.
Turnstone/Roskarl/Arenaria interpres
Seems to be wintering in small numbers far south along the Red Sea, I have never seen them around Hurghada/El Gouna. Visits at the southern areas of Shalatein, Wadi Lahami and Hamata has given up to ten at each place.
Arctic Skua/Kustlabb/Stercorarius parasiticus
Records only from spring 2006 when six migrants heading north were seen. Two flying north each at Shams Alam Resort on April 7th, Abu Minghar Island on April 13th and Hurghada/Abu Minghar Island on 26th.
Sooty Gull/Sotmås/Larus hemprichii
Fairly common but in low numbers along the Red Sea, breeding on small islands and islets. Much rarer than White-eyed Gull around Hurghada/El Gouna, and not always easy to find. A boat trip is a good bet and there are always 15-20 birds hanging around Shellgada Harbour in Hurghada. Further south though it is more common and here it sometimes even outnumbers its usually more numerous cousin.
White-eyed Gull/Vitögd mås/Larus leucophthalmus
Endemic to the Red Sea and very common along its shorelines. Breeds numerously on islands off Hurghada and high numbers frequents the rubbish tip and other areas around the town. A one-hour visit to a beach café in the evening can see up to 1000 passing to their night roost.
Great Black-headed Gull/Svarthuvad trut/Larus ichthyaetus
One of my favourites, it is always great to find this spectacular gull. Uncommon spring migrant with nine records during this period, seven of which are from mid-February to mid-April. One bird on the Nile north of Kom Ombo on November 22nd 2003 is the only record in autumn and away from the Red Sea coast. Two at El Gouna on December 26th 2002 indicates wintering birds along the coast. Four flying north at El Gouna on March 15th 2005 and eight in a mixed gull flock north of Ras Gharib on March 13th 2006 are only records of more than two birds.
Little Gull/Dvärgmås/Larus minutus
One record: one 2cy at Abbassa fish ponds on January 22nd 2005.
Black-headed Gull/Skrattmås/Larus ridibundus
Common along the Nile, where large wintering flocks can be seen, and less so along the coast. Evening roosts on the river can be huge, about 1.700 gathered south of Esna on January 27th 2005. At Aswan flocks of 400-500 are regularly seen, mostly at dusk. Along the Red Sea seen regularly, but mostly small parties.
Slender-billed Gull/Långnäbbad mås/Larus genei
Winters around El Gouna and probably also elsewhere along the Red Sea. Often seen at the lagoon with a highest count on March 14th 2005 with 85 birds. Singles were still here in the end of April 2006.Two records from the Nile, both at Aswan: one on the sandbank on November 20th 2004 and one behind Philae Temple on April 9th 2006.
Lesser Black-backed Gull/Silltrut/Larus fuscus
Numerous in flocks on spring migration, mainly around mid-March, flying north along the Red Sea. Top days can have hundreds passing El Gouna, like the 300 on March 15th 2005. Singles recorded along the Nile and at Abu Simbel. Rare outside this period.
Caspian Gull/Kaspisk trut/Larus cachinnans
Fairly common along the Red Sea and some also seen along the Nile and at Abu Simbel. One gathering of around 200 birds is often seen around Hurghada rubbish tip. The complex of species/subspecies originating from Larus argentatus and Larus fuscus is not at all fully investigated.
Gull-billed Tern/Sandtärna/Sterna nilotica
Common winterer along the Nile, especially in the southern parts like Aswan and at Abu Simbel. Flocks often gather on sandbanks during low water and seems locally very common here and around the High Dam. 75 at Aswan on October 22nd 2005 and a total of 240 passing at dusk here on January 26th 2005 are great counts. 150 flying north at Abu Simbel on April 11th 2006 were obviously on migration. Singles and small parties seen several times during spring migration at El Gouna.
Caspian Tern/Skräntärna/Sterna caspia
Common along the Red Sea and during wintertime the dominating tern along the shorelines. Pairs and small colonies breed on several places around Hurghada/El Gouna. The lagoon always has roosting terns, highest count here is 22 on December 5th 2002. A small colony of about 20 birds were at Abu Minghar Island in spring 2006.
Crested Tern/Tofstärna/Sterna bergii
Fairly common, though in low numbers, along the Red Sea but always a bit off shore. Up to six-seven birds are often seen fishing off El Gouna and during diving trips to reefs, also of course around the islands off Hurghada. Rarely any higher numbers, but a sandbank at El Gouna has had up to 15 birds. Seen throughout the winter.
Lesser Crested Tern/Iltärna/Sterna bengalensis
Local breeder but absent from its nesting islands (at least those near El Gouna) from end-October until mid-April. Often seen closer to shore than Crested Tern. I have seen them in El Gouna in October (25 on the sandbank at Möwenpick on October 12th 2005) and a pair here in April-May 2006. Also seen around the islands off Hamata in May 2006.
Common Tern/Fisktärna/Sterna hirundo
Common migrant with hundreds seen along the Red Sea from mid-April 2006. 300 moving north at Abu Minghar Island on April 13th and hundreds off El Gouna in rough weather on May 9th. No positive autumn records.
White-cheeked Tern/Vitkindad tärna/Sterna repressa
Common, locally very common, along the Red Sea but absent from mid-November until March (but most arrive later, beginning of April). The sandbank at Möwenpick and a raft at sea off El Gouna always has them, up to 75 in October and even more in spring. Over 100 were at Abu Minghar Island on June 4th 2006.
The larger colonies are on islands at islets further out from El Gouna/Hurghada. Also at the islands off Wadi Gemal/Hamata are hundreds of terns present during the summer months.
Bridled Tern/Tygeltärna/Sterna anaethetus
Only seen in late spring 2006 with two records: many (at least 60) at sea southeast of Hamata on May 20-21st, seemed common. Also five at Abu Minghar Island, Hurghada on June 4th.
Breeds in unknown numbers on islands along the Red Sea and present in the summer months.
Little Tern/Småtärna/Sterna albifrons
Seen only during spring migration in 2006. Three at Abu Simbel on April 11th, about 40 around Abu Minghar Island on April 13th and several at El Gouna in April-May with 25 at sea on May 9th.
Whiskered Tern/Skäggtärna/Chlidonias hybridus
Very common wintering bird along the Nile and fairly common on the coast during migration times, mostly in spring. Large flocks around sandbanks and shallow areas, especially down towards Aswan. Often mixed flocks with White-winged Black Terns, but much more common than this species. Mixed numbers easily reaches 1.000 during a cruise from Luxor to Aswan. On November 1st 2004, a mixed gathering at dusk north of Aswan was about 1.000. Often seen in El Gouna from mid-March, 35 flying north over the lagoon on April 17th 2006 is a good count.
Black Tern/Svarttärna/Chlidonias niger
Some single birds have been picked out in the swirling flocks of Chlidonias terns on the Nile but I can only remember just a few.
White-winged Black Tern/Vitvingad tärna/Chlidonias leucopterus
Common wintering bird on the Nile and often as a smaller number in the flocks with Whiskered Terns. Much less numerous, but 200-300 should be counted on a cruise from Luxor to Aswan. The difficulty of separating the species in the large flocks often results in a note like “Chlidonias sp 250”. 50 behind Philae Temple on April 9th 2006 were mostly in summer plumage as were the seven at Luxor on April 22nd 2006. A single bird was at El Gouna golf course in April-May 2006.
One might wonder where the amazing flocks of thousands that are seen in Eilat in May are coming from. Are we missing something here in Egypt?
African Skimmer/Afrikansk saxnäbb/Rynchops flavirostris
One record: one bird was at the sandbank in Aswan in the evening of December 3rd 2005.
This much sought-after species has recently been seen during boat trips (summer months) in Lake Nasser from Abu Simbel and with a few recent records on the Upper Nile as well.
Crowned Sandgrouse/Kronflyghöna/Pterocles coronatus
Much-wanted sandgrouse but easily missed unless a reliable water hole is known. Still it seems to be fairly common in the desert areas along the southern Red Sea and less so further north. I have seen flocks of around 20 between Wadi Lahami and Berenice a few times in March 2005 and April 2006.
Spotted Sandgrouse/Ökenflyghöna/Pterocles senegallus
Common and often seen along the roads through the desert, particularly north of El Gouna towards Ras Gharib and from Safaga to Qena. Flock sizes vary from a few to 25, rarely over 50 during a drive. From Aswan to Abu Simbel there can be none, or like on November 19th 2004, 250 in many small flocks! Regularly seen around Hurghada rubbish tip and surrounding roads, up to 40. Possibly somewhat replaced further south by the Crowned Sandgrouse.
Collared Dove/Turkduva/Streptopelia decaocto
Five-six birds seen in March 2006 around Hurghada rubbish tip is the only positive record from this period. The difficulty of separating it from its African cousin during a glimpse has resulted in a few unidentified birds as well.
African Collared Dove/Afrikansk turkduva/Streptopelia roseogrisea
Two records from the same place, Shams Alam Resort/Wadi Gemal: five on March 20th 2005 and at least four on April 7-8th 2006.
Many records during the last years from settlements along the southern Red Sea coastline as well as from Abu Simbel. Expanding its breeding area?
Turtle Dove/Turturduva/Streptopelia turtur
Common during spring migration (some from the beginning of March but mainly in April) but otherwise absent, possibly they leave early in the autumn. One in El Gouna on January 9th and 30th 2003 and one on Crocodile Island on November 17th 2004 are the few winter records. Very common around Abu Simbel in spring and many flocks moving north at El Gouna in end-April 2006.
Laughing Dove/Palmduva/Streptopelia senegalensis
One of the most common and widespread birds in the country, anywhere there is a building basically! Most common in villages and towns, but can be seen flying by or perching on a small shed almost everywhere except extreme deserts.
Namaqua Dove/Långstjärtsduva/Oena capensis
Rare and elusive and with records widespread, often only as one bird flying by. I have done ten records during this period. Three of these are from a known site in Luxor with a record count of 15 on November 23rd 2004. One seen at the same place in Qena on April 1st 2003 and on November 17th 2004 is also interesting. Four flew past Kom Ombo on January 27th 2005 and one at Abu Simbel on November 21st 2004. One record each also from El Gouna (October 2003) and Hurghada (April 2003).
Senegal Coucal/Senegalsporrgök/Centropus senegalensis
Three records: one bird along the canal south of Cairo on November 25th 2003 and one at nearly exactly the same spot at Abbassa fish ponds on November 25th 2004 and on January 22nd 2005.
Barn Owl/Tornuggla/Tyto alba
Only two records, both at the same place: one bird hunting along the cornice in Luxor on March 9th 2005 and one on November 7th 2005.
Eagle Owl/Berguv/Bubo bubo
One record: one bird seen at dusk in El Gouna on January 27th and 30th 2006. Probably ssp ascalaphus but not seen well enough.
Little Owl/Minervauggla/Athene noctua
Only one record: one bird at Kom Ombo on February 24th 2005.
This species is said to be fairly common in the Nile Valley, but after my time in the country, I would not fully agree.
Long-eared Owl/Hornuggla/Asio otus
One record: one bird in El Gouna on November 5th 2004. Seen in full daylight flying over the roofs, probably coming in from the sea.
Egyptian Nightjar/Ökennattskärra/Caprimulgus aegyptius
Two records, both from Abu Simbel: one hunting at dusk on November 20th 2003 and on April 10th 2006.
Swift/Tornseglare/Apus apus
Fairly common in autumn and spring but absent during the winter months. Most migrant swifts along the Red Sea in spring belong to this species.
Pallid Swift/Blek tornseglare/Apus pallidus
Very common, especially along the Nile Valley during the winter months. Large gatherings of over 1.000 can be seen around Luxor, for example over Crocodile Island. Breeds on the cliffs on the West Bank at easily seen at Deir el-Bahri and Valley of the Kings.
Alpine Swift/Alpseglare/Apus melba
Two records of this migrant visitor: one over El Gouna on April 18th 2006 and one passing Ain Sukhna on April 25th 2006.
White-breasted Kingfisher/Smyrnakungsfiskare/Halcyon smyrnensis
Winters and possibly breeds around Cairo and a highlight during a visit to Abbassa fishponds. No records south of the southern outskirts of Cairo. Several birds seen around the canal at Sakkara south of the city in November 2003, November 2004 and four here in April 2006. Up to ten have been counted between Cairo and Abbassa fish ponds and four-five birds in that area.
Kingfisher/Kungsfiskare/Alcedo atthis
Common in El Gouna where singles and pairs are seen on several places, if they breed is uncertain. Another few records also along the Red Sea. Regularly, but not so often, seen along the Nile during the winter months and several at every visit at Abbassa fishponds.
Pied Kingfisher/Gråfiskare/Ceryle rudis
Very common in the Nile Valley and one of the dominating birds on a cruise. Noisy and social flocks often seen, up to 20 together. Over 100 during a cruise day is not uncommon. Many in canals and ponds as well and up to 30 counted at Abbassa fishponds. Some singles and pairs have been seen along the Red Sea and one pair is at the lagoon in El Gouna.
Little Green Bee-eater/Grön dvärgbiätare/Merops orientalis
Common in the farmlands in the Nile Valley and easily seen on wires along the road. Often in pairs or small groups with some larger flocks of 20 having been seen. Seen around Cairo but never along the Red Sea.
Blue-cheeked Bee-eater/Grön biätare/Merops persicus
Fairly common but in low numbers, seen until the beginning of November and then again from mid-March. Singles or small flocks seen on migration along the Red Sea coast as well as in the Nile Valley, most common in April-May. The 45 seen around Abu Simbel on April 10-11th 2006 is the highest count, most flocks are less than 15.
Bee-eater/Biätare/Merops apiaster
Common during migration times with especially high numbers moving north in April-May. In autumn some linger throughout October and the first returns around mid-March. 420 were counted at Ain Sukhna on April 25th 2006 and at least 400 passed El Gouna on May 3rd 2006.
Hoopoe/Härfågel/Upupa epops
Common, locally very common, in the Nile Valley and much less so (mainly during spring migration) along the Red Sea. Often seen in the farmlands and fields, six-seven birds in the same small area is not uncommon. One day of birding can give up to 15-20 birds and 16 were seen on the same spot in Aswan in November 2003. In spring sites like Hurghada rubbish tip and El Gouna have had seven birds on one day.
Wryneck/Göktyta/Jynx torquilla
Mainly a spring migrant (from end-February) with a few records in autumn as well. Along the Red Sea often found in gardens, small green areas and on El Gouna golf course where they feed out in the open. Most sites have one to three birds but the golf course regularly turns up with five or six.
Desert Lark/Stenökenlärka/Ammomanes deserti
Probably more common than what the records show, this due to the inaccessibility of many mountain areas. Along the roads this lark is seen regularly in singles or a few together, although many times only a glimpse is caught. The best site during my time here was Valley of the Kings in Luxor where a pair was seen, often drinking from a leaking tap by the parking place.
Hoopoe Lark/Härfågellärka/Alaemon alaudipes
Spread out in the endless deserts and not always easy to find, although it might be quite common. I have seen them only a few times each on the roads from El Gouna to Cairo, from Quesir to Shalatein and a bit east of Qena (three here on December 14th 2002) on the Qena-Safaga road. About a dozen records all together.
Bimaculated Lark/Asiatisk kalanderlärka/Melanocorypha bimaculata
Uncommon spring migrant along the Red Sea, mainly in March, and often seen together with Short-toed Larks. Small flocks along the roads in mid-March is the best bet, in 2006 the highest count was 25 at Hurghada rubbish tip on March 15th. Also seen regularly at El Gouna.
Short-toed Lark/Korttålärka/Calandrella brachydactyla
Common during migration times and tens of thousands are flying north along the Red Sea in March-April. Singles and small parties in October are seen and then the massive wave in spring passes towards the end of March. An estimated 2.000 were along the road between Hurghada and Safaga on March 29th 2003 and during the day of March 10th 2006 at least 1.000 passed El Gouna. The golf course often has 150-200 around mid-March.
Crested Lark/Tofslärka/Galerida cristata
Very common in the Nile Valley and around Cairo. Often seen roadside, on small tracks and in the edge of cultivation. Very rare along the Red Sea.
Skylark/Sånglärka/Alauda arvensis
Wintering visitor that rarely reaches as far south as El Gouna. Here six birds stayed the winter 2005/2006. Also noted on winter visits to Abbassa fish ponds.
Sand Martin/Backsvala/Riparia riparia
Common during migration times and with a smaller number wintering in the Nile Valley. The 200 at Crocodile Island on January 15th 2003 is a high winter count. High numbers pass along the Red Sea in spring, about 300 were at Hurghada rubbish tip on March 6th 2006.
Rock Martin/Afrikansk klippsvala/Hirundo fuligula
Common in the Nile Valley but not in any high numbers. Easily seen around Luxor when visiting ancient monuments like Karnak and Deir el-Bahri where they are seen at close range. Sometimes join the other swallows and martins over insect-rich marshlands.
Crag Martin/Klippsvala/Hirundo rupestris
Only one positive record: two at Shams Alam Resort on April 8th 2006.
Swallow/Ladusvala/Hirundo rustica
Very common along the Nile (highest number in winter) and along the Red Sea (during migration). In winter both savignii and rustica are seen commonly over the river. Often numerous around Crocodile Island and other marshlands along the river, many gatherings of over 500 have been seen. Also in spring along the Red Sea several hundred can be seen together.
Red-rumped Swallow/Rostgumpsvala/Hirundo daurica
Common during spring migration and with a few winter records of single birds together with Swallows along the Nile. In March-April many are seen along the Red Sea and some good days in El Gouna have had up to 30-40 moving north. Ten outside Luxor on November 23rd 2004 was a bit surprising.
House Martin/Hussvala/Delichon urbicum
Common during migration times, most in spring, and with a small number staying the winter in the Nile Valley. Often joins in the other swallows and martins.
Richard´s Pipit/Större piplärka/Anthus richardi
One of the great discoveries was to find that this species probably winters, at least some years, at the golf course in El Gouna. Up to four birds were seen in October-December 2002, two in November 2004 and two in November 2005 and April-May 2006. Also two at Crocodile Island on January 18th 2006.
Tawny Pipit/Fältpiplärka/Anthus campestris
Migrant visitor in autumn and spring, fairly common in spring in suitable areas. The golf course in El Gouna which seems like a favourite spot can have up to 15 in a day towards the end of March. Hurghada rubbish tip also has several birds but after that they are usually single or just a few.
Tree Pipit/Trädpiplärka/Anthus trivialis
Common during spring migration but fairly late, really high numbers are not reached until the first week of April. Again the golf course in El Gouna is a good place with nearly 200 on April 7th 2006.
Meadow Pipit/Ängspiplärka/Anthus pratensis
Wintering visitor that I have seen only during visits to Abbassa fish ponds in November 2004 and January 2005.
Red-throated Pipit/Rödstrupig piplärka/Anthus cervinus
Common during migration along the Red Sea and also fairly common wintering bird in the Nile Valley. On the fairways on the golf course they seem to be more numerous in autumn than in spring, with up to 70-80 on a day in October compared to only 20-30 in March-April. A winter visit to Crocodile Island usually gives 50-or-so birds.
Water Pipit/Vattenpiplärka/Anthus spinoletta
Winter visitor with records from both Abbassa fish ponds, El Gouna and Crocodile Island, indicating that it is a widespread wintering bird. Several records from the golf course in November-December with four on November 29th 2005. Three at Crocodile Island on December 6th 2004. Also seen at Hurghada rubbish tip in March 2003 and many there in March 2006.
Yellow Wagtail/Gulärla/Motacilla flava
Common both as a wintering bird in the Nile Valley and as a migrant in green areas along the Red Sea. Mixed with Pied Wagtail there can be hundreds along the Nile on a day in December-January. The golf course in El Gouna can have up to 100 in April, ssp both flava, thunbergi and feldegg.
Grey Wagtail/Forsärla/Motacilla cinerea
Four records : two at Esna on November 13th 2002, one in El Gouna on October 14th and 19th 2004, one outside Cairo on November 25th and one at El Gouna on November 27th 2005.
Pied Wagtail/Sädesärla/Motacilla alba
Very common in most areas except deserts, highest number during the winter months. Both along the Nile and in the migrant areas along the Red Sea it is one of the dominating passerines. 100 during a day in autumn or spring on the golf course is not uncommon.
African Pied Wagtail/Brokärla/Motacilla aguimp
One of the specialities in famous Abu Simbel where I have found it on all my birding visits there, from November to April. Up to four have been seen, but they move around a lot are not always easy to find. Also one at the Nile in Aswan on October 22nd 2005.
Common Bulbul/Trädgårdsbulbyl/Pycnonotus barbatus
Common in villages, gardens and plantations in the Nile Valley, also in central Cairo. Often in pairs or small gangs, discovered by their calls and obvious behaviour.
Rufous Bush Robin/Trädnäktergal/Cercotrichas galactotes
Five records: one on Crocodile Island on March 29th 2003 and one along the Nile north of Esna on March 30th 2003. One on Crocodile Island on April 12th 2006 and a pair outside Luxor the same day. One in El Gouna on May 22nd 2006.
Nightingale/Sydnäktergal/Luscinia megarhynchos
Four records: one on Crocodile Island on March 29th 2003, one in El Gouna on April 7th 2003 and two at Shams Alam Resort on April 7-8th 2006.
Bluethroat/Blåhake/Luscinia svecica
Common wintering bird with the highest concentrations in the reedbeds and along marshlands in the Nile Valley. A day of birding here (or cruising on the river) can reveal 15-20 birds playing hide-and-seek in small openings in reeds and ditches. Also some birds wintering in El Gouna and other places.
Black Redstart/Svart rödstjärt/Phoenicurus ochruros
Four records: one on the West Bank, Luxor on January 20th 2003, one outside Luxor on November 23rd 2004, one at Shams Alam Resort on March 19th 2005 and one in El Gouna on December 8th 2005.
Redstart/Rödstjärt/Phoenicurus phoenicurus
Fairly common, but in low numbers, in migration times in gardens and other green areas along the Red Sea. A day of birding in El Gouna in March-April rarely gives more than four or five.
Whinchat/Buskskvätta/Saxicola rubertra
Fairly common during migration in October and then again from mid-March. Often perching one here and one there, yet again the golf course in El Gouna is a good place to look, up to five in a day here.
Stonechat/Svarthakad buskskvätta/Saxicola torquatus
Not that common actually, surprisingly few have been seen in the Nile Valley. Then it is more often seen in green areas along the Red Sea with the golf course being a safe bet. Here several pairs are more or less resident, six were seen on November 29th 2005.
Concerning the eastern races ssp. maura and variegata they have been seen several times during the winter months. At least two were positively maura but the rest probably all belong to variegata, like the four at Shams Alam Resort in March 2005.
Isabelline Wheatear/Isabellastenskvätta/Oenanthe isabellina
Common during migration times with a few scattered winter records. In October-November a small number is seen along roads and in green areas along the Red Sea, but it is really common from mid-February onwards. In March they can be everywhere with tens of birds on El Gouna golf course and many also around Hurghada rubbish tip.
Northern Wheatear/Stenskvätta/Oenanthe oenanthe
Fairly common in migration times, much more in spring (from end-February) than in autumn. Never as numerous as Isabelline Wheatear and the highest number from El Gouna golf course is about ten during a day.
Pied Wheatear/Nunnestenskvätta/Oenanthe pleschanka
Three positive records: one male at Hurghada airport on April 9th 2003, one female at El Gouna on October 15th 2004 and one male at Berenice on March 20th 2005. In addition to these a handful of birds, most at Abu Simbel, have been left unidentified.
Cyprus Pied Wheatear/Cypernstenskvätta/Oenanthe cypriaca
One record: one male at Abu Simbel on January 18th 2003.
Black-eared Wheatear/Medelhavsstenskvätta/Oenanthe hispanica
Fairly common during spring migration and with a few autumn and winter records, the latter at Abu Simbel in the deep south. From mid-February and on often seen along roads and in green areas, gardens etc. along the Red Sea. Many spots have several birds but never more than four or five.
Desert Wheatear/Ökenstenskvätta/Oenanthe deserti
Mainly a bird for the winter months of the year, and not as common as might be expected from a desert country like Egypt. Usually in the outskirts of green areas and villages, never in real deserts. Up to five spend the winter at El Gouna golf course and it can be fairly common during a day at Abu Simbel. Otherwise few and scattered, several records are from Nile cruise ships passing dry fields along the river.
Kurdish Wheatear/Kurdstenskvätta/Oenanthe xanthoprymna
Two records: one male at Giza pyramids, Cairo on February 13th 2003 and one male southeast of Aswan on December 2nd 2005.
Mourning Wheatear/Sorgstenskvätta/Oenanthe lugens
Regularly seen during drives through mountainous deserts, but never common and a bird can disappear over a crest and then be gone. The road from Safaga to Qena through the Red Sea mountains often has two or three. Another area is the West Bank at Luxor where single birds are often seen at the ancient monuments.
Hooded Wheatear/Munkstenskvätta/Oenanthe monacha
Uncommon in the deserts, usually in or near mountains and the most desolate areas. Sometimes hard to find but in some areas you have a good chance of finding this bird. The ancient monuments at the West Bank, Luxor had most records during this period, with one to two males seen. The drive from Safaga to Qena also had several records and one male was north of Quesir on February 20th 2006.
White-crowned Black Wheatear/Vitkronad stenskvätta/Oenanthe leucopyga
The most common “desert” wheatear and often seen on drives through these areas. Again it seems to be the mountains attracting most birds. A three-hour drive can give up to ten birds and this number can also be seen in Abu Simbel. Easily seen at Aswan and singing birds were noted at Ain Sukhna during raptor watch in spring 2006.
Rock Thrush/Stentrast/Monticola saxatilis
Two records, both from the same trip in April 2006: one male south of Wadi Lahami on April 8th and two at Abu Simbel on April 11th.
Blue Rock Thrush/Blåtrast/Monticola solitarius
A low number spend the winter in suitable, rocky areas and most of my records are from the ancient monuments around Luxor. Here they can be seen perching on temple roofs and columns, as good as any cliff in the Alps… The Valley of the Kings had two birds in the winter 2002/ 2003. Four records from migration, all in 2006: one male at El Gouna on March 3rd, two at Ain Sukhna on March 13th, one there on April 5th and one at Makadi Bay on April 2nd.
Song Thrush/Taltrast/Turdus philomelos
One record: one at Abu Simbel on November 19th 2004.
Fan-tailed Warbler/Grässångare/Cisticola juncidis
Common, locally very common, in the Nile Valley and around Cairo. Easily found by its “zitting” song (which can be heard even from a passing tour bus!) and often seen along tracks and ditches in the farmlands. Curious and not at all shy, can be approached down to one meter at sites like Crocodile Island.
Graceful Warbler/Streckad prinia/Prinia gracilis
Also this tiny and vocal species is common and often seen in the Nile Valley and around Cairo. Likes tall vegetation like reed and sugar cane and its different calls is a characteristic part of a day in the Nile Valley.
Savi´s Warbler/Vassångare/Locustella luscinioides
Found during migration (mainly spring from end-February) in gardens, reed patches and other green areas along the Red Sea. Shy and hides like a mouse close to the ground in hotel gardens and bushes. Several can be found by carefully searching these areas in March-mid-April. Three or four were at Shams Alam Resort on April 7-8th 2006. Up to three singing at Hurghada rubbish tip in March 2006.
Sedge Warbler/Sävsångare/Acrocephalus schoenobaenus
Fairly common and low numbers are seen during migration and with a few winter records. In spring a few are found at migrant areas along the Red Sea, for example in the reeds at Hurghada rubbish tip. Winter records mainly from the south like at Abu Simbel.
Reed Warbler/Rörsångare/Acrocephalus scirpaeus
Appearance much like Sedge Warbler but more common. Several at Abu Simbel in January 2003 indicates that they winter at least in the far south of the country. Numerous in the reeds at Hurghada rubbish tip in spring, which is basically the only larger patch of reeds along the entire Red Sea coastline.
Clamorous Reed Warbler/Papyrussångare/Acrocephalus stentoreus
Fairly common in the reeds along the Nile and also around Cairo. Silent and less easy to find in winter but the singing birds are many in spring at sites like Crocodile Island and Abbassa fish ponds. Singles have been found in scrubs and reeds at Abu Simbel during winter visits.
Eastern Olivaceous Warbler/Eksångare/Hippolais pallida
Fairly common during spring migration and with a few records from autumn and winter. Specially Abu Simbel seems to attract many, and the area was crawling with them during visits in March 2005 and April 2006. Here were also birds seen in January 2005. Otherwise it is usually just a few in hotel gardens and such along the Red Sea.
Subalpine Warbler/Rödstrupig sångare/Sylvia cantillans
Uncommon and low numbers seen in hotel gardens and other green areas along the Red Sea in March-April. Five birds in one hotel garden in El Gouna on April 2nd 2003 is the highest day count, usually they are one or two. Several also at Wadi Gemal on March 20-21th 2005.
Ménétrie´s Warbler/Östlig sammetshätta/Sylvia mystacea
One record: one female at El Gouna golf course on October 19th 2004.
Sardinian Warbler/Sammetshätta/Sylvia melanocephala
Common and one of the dominating warblers, both on the coast and in the Nile Valley. A low number winters around El Gouna but more commonly so further south. On migration common in bush lands a gardens.
Rüppells Warbler/Svarthakad sångare/Sylvia rueppelli
Surprisingly few with only four records, all from March: one male at El Gouna on March 20th and one female there on March 27th 2003, two males at El Gouna on March 15th 2005 and one male at Wadi Gemal on March 21st 2005.
Eastern Orphean Warbler/Mästersångare/Sylvia crassirostris
Two records: two at El Gouna on April 6th 2003 and one behind Philae Temple, Aswan on April 9th 2006.
Barred Warbler/Höksångare/Sylvia nisoria
One record: one 1cy at El Gouna golf course on October 19th 2004.
Lesser Whitethroat/Ärtsångare/Sylvia curruca
Common during migration times and with a few staying for the winter, mainly in the south. Can be numerous and dominating in the gardens and scrubs along the Red Sea in March-April, up to 10-15 in one garden. Also in October there can be quite a few at El Gouna, unlike many other warblers.
Common Whitethroat/Törnsångare/Sylvia communis
A low number is seen during migration time, but seems to arrive late in spring, mainly in April. Singles seen at typical warbler sites along the Red Sea, but always just one or two.
Eastern Bonelli´s Warbler/Bergsångare/Phylloscopus orientalis
Only four records is less than excpected: one at Crocodile Island on January 15th 2003, one at Hurghada rubbish tip on March 6th 2006, one at Abu Simbel on March 27th 2006 and one south of Safaga on April 7th 2006.
Chiffchaff/Gransångare/Phylloscopus collybita
The most common warbler both during winter and migration times. Highest numbers during migration but can be numerous far south even in winter. Days with 50 in a small area of insect-rich bushes and scrubs is not uncommon during spring.
Willow Warbler/Lövsångare/Phylloscopus trochilus
Fairly common during migration but arrives later, mostly in April. Often found as singles or a few by searching through scrubs with Chiffchaffs. Probably overlooked.
Spotted Flycatcher/Grå flugsnappare/Muscicapa striata
Only records from late spring 2006 of this early-leaving and late-arriving migrant. In the end of April they arrived and in May they were some days very common around El Gouna with birds perching anywhere they could.
Red-breasted Flycatcher/Mindre flugsnappare/Ficedula parva
One record: one female at El Gouna on October 7th 2003.
Semi-collared Flycatcher/Balkanflugsnappare/Ficedula semitorquata
One record: one male at Sakkara on April 5th 2006.
Nile Valley Sunbird/Nilsolfågel/Anthreptes metallicus
One of the target species of visiting birders and an exotic-looking bird indeed. Males in breeding plumage from mid-February onwards. Fairly common in suitable habitat (must have trees and bushes in blossom) in the Nile Valley and some also around Cairo. Easily seen around Luxor and Aswan in hotel grounds and botanical gardens. Visits to Crocodile Island has resulted in 30-40 birds some days.
Golden Oriole/Sommargylling/Oriolus oriolus
Six records of single birds spread over the migration periods. Three around mid-October (Red Sea hotel gardens and Luxor) and three in spring, March 15th, April 28th and May 3rd (all from Hurghada/El Gouna).
Isabelline Shrike/Isabellatörnskata/Lanius isabellinus
Two or possibly three records: one adult at El Gouna golf course on March 2nd 2003, one 2cy at Crocodile Island on January 29th 2005 and possibly that bird seen here again, now as an adult, on January 18th 2006.
Very interesting (not to say extremely frustrating) is also the record of an unidentified Isabelline/Brown Shrike in a hotel garden in El Gouna on April 6-7th 2003. Short glimpses during work were given of this bird and it was not found again during extensive search.
Red-backed Shrike/Törnskata/Lanius collurio
One record: one 1cy at El Gouna golf course on October 19th 2004.
Southern Grey Shrike/Ökenvarfågel/Lanius meridionalis
Seven records during this period, well spread from Cairo to Abu Simbel and from end-November to March which indicates wintering birds. Four of these (five birds) have been done along the southern Red Sea coastline from Safaga to Wadi Gemal, so this seems to be the area in which to look for them.
Woodchat Shrike/Rödhuvad törnskata/Lanius senator
Only seen during spring migration from this period, the first arriving in end-February and then fairly common throughout the spring. Most are found in Red Sea hotel gardens, El Gouna golf course and in scrubs along the road, but also many in the Nile Valley. Many sites have had five-six birds during a visit and around ten were at Abu Simbel on April 10-11th 2006.
Masked Shrike/Masktörnskata/Lanius nubicus
This handsome shrike is also fairly common during spring migration which starts in mid-February. Prefers more vegetation than Woodchat Shrike and most are seen in the Nile Valley and a smaller number along the Red Sea. A visit to Crocodile Island or during a cruise day in end-March up to ten can be seen. Also two mid-October records from El Gouna.
House Crow/Huskråka/Corvus splendens
Common in some ports and towns along the Red Sea, mainly Suez, Ras Gharib and Safaga and with a smaller number in Hurghada. Easily seen in these places on roofs and noisily searching for food in rubbish bins and street corners. Highest numbers in Suez and up to 30 having been seen in Safaga.
Carrion Crow/Kråka/Corvus corone
One of the most common and widespread birds in the country. Present in most areas except vast desert areas but otherwise they feed and live of basically everything. Often seen snapping at floating objects on the Nile like gulls and hitching a ride on cruise ships.
Brown-necked Raven/Ökenkorp/Corvus ruficollis
Common in desert areas but also around settlements and villages here. Numerous at dumps and rubbish tips and often seen mobbing Black Kites or migrating raptors over these areas. Up to 100 have been seen at the rubbish tips at Shalatein and Abu Simbel.
Starling/Stare/Sturnus vulgaris
A few winter records exist from this species that winters in the north of the country. Several flocks seen around Cairo in November 2003 and in winter 2004/2005.
House Sparrow/Gråsparv/Passer domesticus
VERY common.
Spanish Sparrow/Spansk sparv/Passer hispaniolensis
Fairly common and widespread, both in hotel grounds along the Red Sea and in villages in the Nile Valley. Often separated from the House Sparrows, mostly feeding in fields and in the outskirts of settlements rather than among houses and cars. Several flocks of around 100 have been seen.
Streaked Weaver/Streckad vävare/Ploceus xxx
One record at the known site Abbassa fishponds: one male on April 6th 2006.
Red avadavat/Tigerfink/Amandava amandava
I connect this species with one site, Crocodile Island. Here they seem common and small flocks of around 15 birds are often seen. Males in beautiful breeding plumage from late winter.
Goldfinch/Steglits/Carduelis carduelis
One record: two at Crocodile Island on January 20th 2003. This species is kept in cages at some places in the country so the origins of these birds can not be certain.
Trumpeter Finch/Ökentrumpetare/Bucanetes githagineus
Possibly common but I have seen them only on some places along the Nile Valley. They seem to prefer the area where the farmland meets the desert. The Valley of the Kings near Luxor is a safe bet that always holds of flock of up to 80 birds. Here they are very tame and can be fed by hand! Southeast of Aswan was a flock of 40 in December 2005 and flocks have also been seen outside Luxor in such areas as mentioned above.
Ortolan Bunting/Ortolansparv/Emberiza hortulana
Only one record: one male at El Gouna golf course on April 7th 2006.
Cretzschmar´s Bunting/Rostsparv/Emberiza caesia
Also of this, presumed more common, species there is only one record: one male west of El Gouna on March 2nd 2003.
Since both this and the previous species are so numerous in nearby Eilat in spring, one might wonder why there are so few seen here.