One last watch over the bottleneck: the end of the count
After 71 days scanning Batumi's skies, our 2026 count ends with steady migration, a Rough-legged Buzzard and thanks to everyone who made the season possible.
Today was a special day… and we think the birds knew as well! After 71 days scanning Batumi’s skies, whether they were grey or blue, windy or rainy, exploding with birds or empty, it was our last day counting for the 2026 season.
What would happen felt like a gamble after a lot of empty skies this month, but both stations had a truly lovely final day. While our numbers were not the highest (which is good since we don’t want to leave with migration in full swing!), today brought very enjoyable steady migration and high diversity.
We had the chance to enjoy and say goodbye to most of our protocol species one last time. In addition to the more common species, including streams of Steppe Buzzards and Black Kites, a handful of Hen Harriers, Long-legged Buzzards and Peregrine Falcons added some zest to our day! Not to mention one of BRC’s few records of Rough-legged Buzzard (our second this season!)! Add a last basking Caucasian Viper and three (!) observations of Wallcreeper to the raptors, and it was truly a memorable conclusion to the season. We look forward to sharing more details about our overall season in our 2026 Autumn Report, so stay tuned!
Now is the perfect time to reflect on all the wonderful people who make what we do possible. We end this year’s count with immense appreciation for the dozens of volunteers from around the world who chose to come to Batumi or supported us from afar (thank you BRC team!)! We also thank our generous sponsors, including Kite Optics, OSME and independent donors whose contributions are indispensable. And of course we are tremendously grateful to our Georgian host families, who worked tirelessly to provide us with tasty food and a cosy place to stay. Didi madloba to all!
