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On Saturday I went birdwatching in Uruguay. You might be surprised to hear that, and yes, I was a bit surprised at myself too, but there I was with a coachload of twitchers heading out into the Uruguayan countryside.

But what an experience it was. In addition to enjoying the delightful scenery, I soon succumbed to the thrills and excitement shared by the whole group as our knowledgeable young guide identified over 40 different bird species, frequently in quick succession.

I pointed and clicked at every opportunity. It was difficult to get good photos and for me almost impossible to remember what they were. Below are the few that I managed to get a focus on, and some I remember, but help or confirmation with the identifications would be appreciated (Andy?).

Later: Andy P has helped with some identifications and corrections as indicated below.

1 – I think this may be rufous hornero, Argentina’s national bird.

2 – Blue & White Swallow

3 – Picazuro Pigeon and Blue & White Swallow

4 – Common Gallinule

5 – Southern Lapwing (Identified by Andy P)

6 – Wattled Jacana (Identified by Andy P)

7 – Southern Lapwing

8 – Yellow-billed teal (Identified by Andy P)

9 – Twitchers

10 – Great Kiskadee

11 – Probably a White-Winged Coot (Identified by Andy P)

12 – Gilded Hummingbird

13 – Twitchers getting more excited

14 – Fork tailed flycatcher

14a – Dove (Type unknown) – (Identified by Andy P)

15 – An unidentifiable selection on the seashore

For the record we went to Pascual’s Lake, Santiago Vazquez Wetland and Penino Beach (Province Reserve).

A most enjoyable experience.