Dedicated birdwatchers have identified well over 250 species, with as many as 25 of them now year-round residents! Mangrove plantations on the coast north of Al Khor are popular haunts of local ornithologists. Gulls, cormorants and waders can be spotted along the shorelines; ducks, geese, mallard, stilt and teal can be found around effluent ponds and in the reeds. Many species can also be seen in the vicinity of Al Rumeilah Park, Doha Golf Club etc. Despite this harsh, salty, hot and arid environment, Qatar can provide excellent birding from August through to May. Geographically, the peninsula of Qatar juts some 150 km northwards into the Arabian Gulf. The right wind conditions in spring, autumn and even winter can bring thousands of migrants flooding into the country.