With the temperatures already sub-zero in Lithuania, it really seemed the apt time to trade a bit of the cold for a dash of warmth and, at the same time, partake in some first class birding and do my best to finally bump into another of those all-time classic birds - Great Bustard. As for where, the choice was simple - destination Valencia, Spain. Here, as the autumn creeps in, not only do the Great Bustards gather in big flocks, but so too do many other birds of the plains, such as Stone Curlews and Black-bellied and Pin-tailed Sandgrouse. On top of that, there's a fair mouth-watering mix of winterers and residents, including Griffon Vultures, to make this one good destination for an autumn or winter break. Add to that, there is a secret weapon lurking an hour’s drive south of Valencia, a weapon in the birding armoury that almost guarantees success whatever the target!