20180529 (25)_Moltonis_Warbler
Following latest research into the Subalpine Warbler complex, two (or three) species are held to exist depending on which authority you consult: but they agree that Moltoni's Warbler, breeding in the Balearics, Corsica and Sardinia, and parts of Italy, is a distinct species. The spring male is characterised by pale and not extensive salmon pink on breast and flanks, with a narrow white moustache: compared to more intense and extensive orangey-pink tones on Eastern and Western Subalpine Warblers. Of the group, Moltoni's seems to be the rarest visitor to British shores and it was a happy fluke that Walrus-chasing put Marion and I within easy reach of this one at Duncansby Head. Having moved South to the Moray, we very quickly drove back to the North coast to connect with this handsome bird, which showed very well in the afternoon sunshine.
20180529 (25)_Moltonis_Warbler
Following latest research into the Subalpine Warbler complex, two (or three) species are held to exist depending on which authority you consult: but they agree that Moltoni's Warbler, breeding in the Balearics, Corsica and Sardinia, and parts of Italy, is a distinct species. The spring male is characterised by pale and not extensive salmon pink on breast and flanks, with a narrow white moustache: compared to more intense and extensive orangey-pink tones on Eastern and Western Subalpine Warblers. Of the group, Moltoni's seems to be the rarest visitor to British shores and it was a happy fluke that Walrus-chasing put Marion and I within easy reach of this one at Duncansby Head. Having moved South to the Moray, we very quickly drove back to the North coast to connect with this handsome bird, which showed very well in the afternoon sunshine.