I found a wintering Masked Shrike a few weeks ago in Deffi Park, Jubail
that has been seen every weekend since by various birders and photographers.
The bird has kept faithful to a very small area of the park, and is also very
vocal, making it easier to see. The Masked Shrike is an uncommon but regular
passage migrant and increasingly regular winter visitor to Saudi Arabia. Winter
records have come from all areas of the Kingdom but are more common in the
southwest and the Eastern Province although they remain scarce at this time of
year in both areas. Birds pass mainly in April to May and September although
there are records from all months of the year and during this period they are
much commoner than they are in winter.
Hi Jem! I'm currently visiting the Dhahran/Dammam area, and was researching the different types of birds that are in this area and where I can find them, when I can across you blog. I found it to be the best! I usually do birdwatching and photography in America so I figured I should not waste this opportunity to see some incredible birds here. Although I must admit I'm a bit overwhelmed as to where to start. Any suggestions about where would be some good places to start during this time of year? Thanks!
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DeleteMany of the good birding areas nearby to Dammam are currently closed and not accessable. Dammam corniche is a good area as are the wader roost sites although these are being built on. Find details of how to get there etc under the birding locations tab at the top of my website. Any parks are good early morning before they get busy. The entire Jubail area is good but is 1.5 hours drive away from Dammam.
Jem
Thanks for the advice! Will definitely get started. Its too bad some of the places are closed. Last time I was here, I spotted flamingos at the corniche, which was neat. Thanks again.
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