Booted Eagle was by far the most common raptor passing over the rock during our stay. Up to 2000 of these medium sized eagles can be seen crossing the Straits each autumn. The first two days were pretty much a wash out as far as raptor watching was concerned as the rock was shrouded in cloud. We were unfortunate to be caught in the middle of the Levanter season. This arises when humid easterly winds surge up the sheer east faces of the rock. Quite an impressive site as the cloud funnels through at great speed. Needless to say not great for raptor passage as the rock summit can stay covered in cloud all day.

Booted Eagle, O'Hara's Battery, 14 Oct 2009

On Monday we had a single Booted Eagle. That said it was quite a sight. The three of us were walking near the Levant Battery when we saw a Yellow Legged Gull chasing another large bird very near to the sea. This large bird was in fact a young Booted Eagle that probably got disorientated and ending up skimming the sea. As we watched the Eagle gained height and eventually flew out south at greater height, not too much the worse for wear.

Yellow Legged Gull chasing a Booted Eagle, Levant Battery, 12 Oct 2009

Tuesday was no better as the rock remained shrouded in cloud, however, we did have 4 birds at lower altitude. On Wednesday Alan and I walked up the Med steps. These take you south from Jews Gate and under the south face. You then climb steeply to the summit from the eastern side of the rock. When we arrived at O’Hara’s Battery we were again greeted by the Levanter although there were occasional breaks. We had a couple of Booted Eagles straight away in the cloud above us. Followed quickly by a Peregrine that steamed past us and dived on one of the two eagles. This is a regular occurrence and can result in the eagles losing eyes! Fortunately the Booted Eagle survived the attack but it did drop considerable height which brought it right alongside us at the battery. I managed a few quick shots before the bird was on its way. Wednesday was generally a better day for viewing with cloud sitting about 100-200 metres above the rock during the afternoon. We finished the day with a count of 32 Eagles and a few Sparrowhawks, and good views of a two Short Toed Eagles. Many of the eagles approached in sunshine but then disappeared above our heads into cloud. Maybe 32 could have been more but we’ll never know.

Me and my shadow. Booted Eagles at differing heights and conditions

Booted Eagle, O'Hara's Battery, 14 Oct 2009. After losing the Peregrine this bird departs for Morocco.

Thursday was the best day for viewing. We arrived at the cable car watch point just after lunch and we finished the day with 53 Booted Eagles, 5 Short Toed Eagles, 5 Sparrowhawk, 1 Osprey and 1 Kestrel. In a twist of fate the weather was nearly too good. With plenty of sun the eagles gained considerable height and many passed through 1000’s of metres above our heads. Thankfully several did not attain that height and passed through within range of the camera. we ended the week with 90 Booted Eagles which considering the conditions was rather pleasing.

Booted Eagle, Pale Phase, Cable Car Watchpoint, 15 Oct 2009

Booted Eagle, Dark Phase, Cable Car Watchpoint, 15 Oct 2009

Booted Eagle, Pale Phase, Cable Car Watchpoint, 15 Oct 2009

Steve Copsey