Abu Dhabi 2012

[PeterB]

Just got back from a weeks break in Abu Dhabi. Managed to mis-time it again so I was there while Ian was back home.

I didn't do any deliberate birding but was impressed with the usual array of brids around the hotel grounds which are kept lush with vegitation in what would otherwise be a sandy desert scene.

Since my last visit a year ago the birds have become very tame, with the House Sparrows, White Cheeked Bulbuls and Grey Francolins coming up to you if you sit at one of the outside cafe bars. I was able to feed some of them from my hand.

Also saw plenty of Myna, Collared and Laughing Doves, Red Vented Bulbul and one I didn't recognise, a small brown bird about the size and shape of a Reed Warbler but with a relatively long black beak.

Anyway, here are my holiday snaps.


View from our room.



I am not sure, I think this is a Alexandrine Parakeet.



Grey Francolin



White Cheeked Bulbul

[PeterB]

Red Vented Bulbul




Laughing Dove



and finally, we went to Ferrari World and I had a go on this.



Fantastic.

[Little Sparrow]

It looks a fabulous place Peter! Super looking birds and for them to get so close must have been a real treat. Great when you get to see new bird species...and get the chance to feed them.

I am not sure about the Roller Coaster though...it looks HUGE!!!! Well done for having a go, you must have a strong constitution!

Thanks for sharing your brill hol pics.

[astafjevs]

I love Roller Coasters.

You were there a week and didn't do any proper birding? I'm aghast

[PeterB]

I had every intention of visiting a couple of places Ian had recommended but the week flew by.

The coaster was great, if not too short, but at 150mph it was never going to last long.

Erindoors actually came on the ride, something I thought she would never do. She did scream all the way round though.