Whilst in Tabuk we spent an entire day
birding a few very large pivot irrigation fields and the surrounding scrub.
This proved very rewarding with many species seen some in good numbers.
Red-back Shrike was one of the most common species seen with over 75 recorded
including adult males and juveniles. Pallid Harriers and Marsh Harriers were
recorded as were Steppe Eagles and Common Kestrels. Spanish Sparrows and House
Sparrows were common and several Common Chiffchaff, Willow Warblers and
Graceful Prinias were seen. Five Corn Buntings could be hear singing at first
light and a single Ortolan Bunting was located in a tree. A European Roller was
in one large field along with 50+ Spur-winged Lapwings. Collared Dove, Namaqua
Dove and Laughing Dove were all seen as were large numbers of Greater
Short-toed Larks, Red-throated Pipits, Crested Larks and a couple of Tawney
Pipits. We also saw two species of bird that according to the 2011 edition of
"Birds of the Middle East", were not meant to be in the area. This is
probably due to lack of observer coverage of the area as I know Viv Wilson who
lived there recently saw both species. These birds were White-eared Bulbul that
is not shown to be within 250 kilometres of Tabuk and Common Myna that is shown
about 450 kilometres south near Yanbu.
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| Corn Bunting |
 |
| Red-backed Shrike |
 |
| Red-backed Shrike |
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| Spanish Sparrow |
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| Spur-winged Lapwing |
 |
| Tawny Pipit |
 |
| Willow Warbler |
 |
| Willow Warbler |
