Am in Berlin then travelling on to Halberstadt in Saxony later today. Being very rusty indeed, and having been unable to find any of my better birding books, I'd appreciate some guidance on what ticks to keep my eye out for. Halberstadt is right slap bang in the middle of the forest and right by a large lake. Given the small amount of Googling I've done, possibilities are - and I may be barking completely up the wronng tree here - (not currently on my list): Little Crake Eagle Owl Hoopoe Grey-headed/Black Woodpecker Bluethroat Golden Oriole I ran out of time then Have limited gen (like only my Collins) and need guidance re: easily distinguishable sp. Bloke and his wife at Germany office have offered to lend me a set of bins and a scope and take me for a day out. Any help from seasoned European birders much appreciated. I don't get this sort of chance often, so cross fingers Pete - now you know why I couldn't do Southport Good to meet up again... just next time, not in a pub full of mental cases ;o) Cheers all! Sioux