This week's SMAP is free, so this is a perfect opportunity to show you what was probably my favourite observation in my last vacations.
Awesome scenery, isn't it? And you're wondering... what has he been smokin? There are no birds here!. And yet, this is where I've found him.
"Him" is a species I've only encountered 2 more times in all my birdwatching sessions, and actually the last time was here! That's why, as I got close to this little river, I took a closer look; not only because the place is beautiful, but also to see what could be lurking around. And...
Could it be??
Yess! A dipper!!
This species is just amazing. A small passerine, swimming around like a duck. I felt blessed to find it, let alone photograph it. And truth is, this was probably the only decentish I was able to take; but considering he was way far, in a place with low light, among the trees, in a very clouded day, and me with a bridge camera... I consider it a win!
I've tried a ton of photos, with more zoom, less zoom, while he was hoping on the rocks, looking at the water. I saw him plunge, disappear in the cold waters, just to return again after some brief moments.
The species is basically unmistakable! Just by the colours alone they're easy to identify: brownish with a huge white breast, and a short tail. And if any doubt still exists, there are no other passerines swimming and diving in rivers, at least in Portugal. It is fascinating to see him in and out of the water with such ease; and trust me, the water was freaking cold!
I was still able to capture a blurred photo as he swam an jumped to the nearby rock, before disappearing again, this time for good. These minutes were worth gold! Too bad the photos weren't sharp enough for my liking... but who knows, maybe he will be there waiting for me next time I visit, hopefully in a sunny day! :)
Still haven't joined Splinterlands? In what planet do you live in? Click the banner below and join the fun! (It has my referral link; you can go directly to the website if you don't want to use it; either way... join in! 😎 )