Škocjanski zatok (KP): today's highlight was a superb male MERLIN perched on the grass in the freshwater marsh. It remained there for at least 10-15 minutes, giving great views (see pics above). It represents the first record of the species this winter. Other birds in the area included: 2-3 Wigeon, Shoveler, lots of Teals, 2 males Pochard (in the freshwater), 2 females Tufted Duck, +6 Pygmy Cormorant, 1 Great Egret, 1 Buzzard, 2 Sparrowhawks, 10-15 Greenshanks over the brackish lagoon and 1 female Brambling (ringed) at the feeding station (with all the other finches and tits).
Lazzaretto - Muggia (TS) - on the sea: +12 Red-breasted Mergansers, 1 Curlew on the mudflats, 5 Great Crested Grebes, +5 Black-necked Grebe, 2 Kingfishers, 1 Black-throated Diver and 1 male Common Eider, which seems to be an irregular visitor to the area.
