In the first half of April, we have already seen some nice species like Green-winged Teal, Common Crane and Mediterranean Gull. Migration comes to a slow start. Grasshopper Warbler, Sedge Warbler, Barn Swallow, Sand Martin, Hobby, Ring Ouzel, Yellow Wagtail, Nightingale, Redstart and Tree Pipit have already been seen several days at different places. The second half of April is usually a period of good chances for birds and birdwatchers. With winds from the east we have a good chance to firm migration. With these conditions, the chance of discovering a vagrant also increases. I let me venture a prediction of 7 species for the next 4 days; Black Kite, Osprey, Pallid Harrier, Marsh Sandpiper, Great Snipe, Hoopoe and Great Spotted Cuckoo. 3 out of 7 you will not hear me complain (results from the past are no guarantee for the future).

Lepelaar / Eurasian Spoonbill Platalea leucorodia, ad, de Slufter, Texel, 17-04-2014

Gele Kwikstaart / Yellow Wagtail Motacilla flava, adulte man / adult male, De Cocksdorp, Texel, 17-04-2014