Awash - The End

Our last day in Ethiopia began with a Black-backed Jackal beside the road as we drove towards Awash NP again. Once inside we drove to the savanna and cruised slowly along, making our first stop when a lark flew up beside us. After a bit of a chase it turned out to be a Gillett’s Lark and it showed quite nicely in the scope. In the same area Lee spotted a pair of Heuglin’s Coursers and a little later, another appeared nearby. Moving on we were suddenly confronted by a Kori Bustard, resplendent with a couple of Northern Carmine Bee-eaters riding on its back – just like on the pictures I’ve drooled over and  couldn’t believe our good fortune. 

Kori Bustard and chums

Amazing photo opportunities and a privilege to witness this amazing spectacle. Nearby, we scored with Singing Bushlark and Red-winged Lark at the same spot, and we followed that up with a European Roller, Abyssinian Scimitarbill, and more carmine’s before driving to Awash Falls Lodge for lunch. And boy was it hot – probably over 100 degrees Fahrenheit.

Unfortunately it was time to leave and we drove back to Addis Ababa, stopping along the road and seeing Chestnut-headed Sparrow-weaver, Striolated Bunting and Green-winged Pytilia. And that’s a wrap.