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SOME IMPRESSIONS OF SPRING MIGRATION IN CYRENAICA MARCH-MAY 1952.
Lt.-Col. J. K.StanfordO.B.E., M.C., M.A.
Copyright 1953 British Ornithologists Union
ABSTRACT
1.
Migration was proceeding throughout Cyrenaica from 21 biarch to 16 May, though some wintering species had already gone.
2.
A inass of migration seems to mobe from south to north through the whole area, and a remarkable medley of species migrates or halts simultaneously.
3.
These birds must get little or no water, arid after the desert-crossing drop in wherever there is shade or vegetation.
4.
The Subalpine Warbler appears to pass through on a front of at least 500–600 miles and Hoopoes and Orioles on a wide front.
5.
There was little evidence of coasting movements except by Swallows, and the bulk of coasting seen on the north seaboard was to the west or northwest.
6.
Daylight movement from south to north was slight, seen only in Lesser Kestrels, Curlews, Coursers, Bee-eaters, Short-toed Larks, Corn Buntings, Linnets and Turtle Doves, with individuals of other species.
7.
"Invisible migration", as evidenced by arrivals, was very heavy.
8.
Warblers were scarce, except Nightingales, Wood and Icterine Warblers and Common Whitethroats. Willow-warblers were very scarce.
9.
Notes are given of the migration of Quail, Cuckoos, Flycatchers and Red-footed Falcons.
10.
A considerable array of waders and water-birds passes north from the desert and stays till mid-May on marshes near the sea or pools in the Gebel el Achdar.
11.
A few instances are given of birds singing, or being in moult, on migration.
