Autumn Migration of Passerines in Bahariya Oasis, Egypt – Where Do They Come from and Where Do They Go?

Stêpniewski K., White M.L.J., Megalli M. 2011. Autumn migration of passerines in BahariyaOasis in Egypt - where do they come from and where do they go? Ring 33, 1-2: 27-36. We present the results of studies on directional preferences of passerine migrants in Bahariya Oasis, Western Desert, Egypt. Fieldwork was conducted in August and September 2010. Birds were mist-netted, ringed and tested in Busse’s orientation cage; in total 66 tests were analysed. The most pronounced direction was W, which was surprising and remains unexplained. Southern directions were also prominent, particularly SW; among the northern directions NW were distinct and NE less so. Our results are in line with those at other ringing stations in Egypt, suggesting a common migration pattern in this region. They also allow for tracking probable migration routes through Bahariya. Birds may arrive at the oasis from the Nile Delta and Mediterranean coast, then the majority head SW towards Lake Chad, while others may fly directly S or SE towards the Nile Valley. Bahariya Oasis appears to be an important crossing point of passerine migration routes across the Sahara and it is important to continue further studies in this area.