The search for Crimson-winged Finch

30th December 2024

On the second attempt in two days, I found myself at Oukaïmeden in the High Atlas.  There was a lot more fresh snow then I had expected.  Crunching up past the ski lifts I met Dutch birder, Jaap Gijsbertsen, also on the look out for Finches.  

We took different paths in our searches after a short conference, only to converge again for lunch.

I was surprised to see a Levaillant's Woodpceker above the snow line, in the only trees to be seen.  After a short walk, I returned to the hamlet, Rock Sparrow, Rock Bunting, Atlas Shore Lark and Red-billed Chough were all apparent, searching out seeds after the morning's melt. 

After lunch, I went to explore the small lake where Jaap had seen a Water Pipit and  White-throated Dipper.  As I crossed the bridge, I became aware of a small flock of birds behind me.  There they were!  After several hours searching, the African Crimson-winged Finches, had found me.  Four in total.


I messaged Jaap, and despite poor signal, he eventually he received my message, and shortly after came to view the birds.  There was also two Dipper and a Water Pipit.  






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