Movement

Had a cruise around the Patch on Monday hoping for a few Migrants. I had to go to the Post Office at Ottringham to post my lads Birthday card, so I carried on down to Stone Creek. I'd not been down there for some time as the Farmers had ploughed the whole area. The drought had made sure there was little interest for Birds. I did record a Marsh Harrier and a single Curlew.

Halfway up the long straight of Cherry Cobb Sands Rd, I noticed a large "Dung Heap",... always worth a look! After a short while I spotted the hoped for Species...

Juvenile

4 were seen in total plus a Wheatear (P.97)...

I saw another Yellow Wagtail (P.98) by the Creek as I left...

Pat Haven was VERY quiet so I moved onto Welwick. This proved to be a good move as on arrival I immediately had 2 Whinchats (P.99) on the fences and bushes!

A trio of Year Ticks!

A surprise if brief Short-eared Owl finished the visit off nicely.

A quick check of Cliff Farm on the way home produced a pair of Collared Doves (rare here)...

and a Whitethroat.

An excellent day.

Tuesday meant a trip to NDC. I started on the Platform in pleasant conditions as I wanted a view overhead. This paid off early with sightings of Peregrine and Hobby. No luck with Passerine migrants though. I gave it 90 minutes.

On returning to the car park I had another Hobby sighting. The Hide proved quiet on this visit although a big surprise was the appearance of this Great White Egret briefly at the Northern end...

Thursday had me back down on the Humber. I returned to Welwick curious to see if any of Tuesday's Birds were still around. Almost immediately I had a SEO briefly along the Floodbank. I concentrated on the fenced off area and soon had a Wheatear and a Whinchat. Possibly all the same Birds as Tuesday? I stayed around for a couple of hours finishing with 2 Whinchats. The undoubted highlight of this visit was my first Green Sandpiper in Britain for FOUR years!!! The bird flew out of the drain and over the hedge infront of my car. A VERY distinctive Species. On the way home I checked the fields and finally got close enough to a Mediterranean Gull for a decent pic...

I returned to Duff early on Friday arriving around 8. I was going to try the Platform again but a Mobile home was parked in the corner, so I headed for the Hide. I'd only been in there some 10 minutes when a Hobby flew into my Scope view. I got stunning views as it flew over the Carrs and Trees to my left. Magic! Haydn then arrived with a bang, he'd just had a Redstart!!! Unfortunately despite a good search we couldn't relocate it. I only have one record here and it was a Tick for Haydn. An excellent find. It made me think if I may have seen it, had I walked to the Platform?

There were a few young Buzzards about some showing reasonably closely...

Just before Haydn left another Birder appeared. It was John Heaton who lives locally. It was great to see him as I hadn't bumped into him for quite some time. After Haydn left we had a good "catch up" discussing various topics. He conveyed his condolences regarding Buddy which was greatly appreciated. I could feel his genuine empathy. 

He said some kind things about the Blog which meant a lot coming from a person of his stature. After he left I scoured the car park and surrounds for the Redstart after a heavy downpour but no joy. Maybe next time?

We enjoyed the appearance of a family of Deer which proceeded to roam the Carrs for quite some time...

Yesterday I had a run down to the Cliff... metaphorically speaking of course. This paid off when I picked up an Arctic Skua (P.100, H.71) chasing a Black-headed Gull. After a coffee and scone I had an hour down at Welwick. Much quieter today but nice views of Yellowhammer, Reed Bunting and plenty of Meadow Pipits.

Two Ticks

...not seconds!

I dropped in at Duff yesterday morning on my way over to Lancs for "The Mother" visit. I arrived before Haydn and had some luck with Blackcap (male and female), Whitethroat (family of 4) and Song Thrush around the car park Rowans.

Once we were in the Hide we started to search. It was tough going as the drought continues but there's always hope... right? 

Remarkably there's still water on the Scrape! A couple of Herons were present and a Little Egret was attracted later. We enjoyed a pleasant 2+ hours. Highlight for me was a Lesser Whitethroat by the Hide, which was a Year Tick (107). Stock Doves came and went and 3  Snipe lifted briefly across the Scrape just before we left. Haydn had a couple of Collared Doves which are scarce here.

As we reached our cars a pair of Bullfinches flew over the field, another Year Tick! (108).

Not so quiet after all...

Amazing news of a YELLOW-THROATED WARBLER at Liverpool Docks. A First. Obviously Ship-assisted...(I won't open that door). No further sign makes it academic. We all have SA records on our Lists?

The Summer of 26

It's been a hot one! I'm old enough to remember the Summer of 76 which I enjoyed as a Waiter on the Isle of Wight at Sandown in the Grand Hotel. Great days!

However FIFTY years on and hopefully without sounding like a grumpy old man (as if I would), I struggle with the heat. Fortunately I live on the Coast which moderates the temperature somewhat but it can still get "toasty". Great for holidays though.

On Sunday I had my first flock of Scoter (P.88, H.69) South (still no Velvet). After my recent "Tern Fest" things have dried up apart from the constant presence of Sandwich offshore.

A VERY quiet session at Duff on Monday with Haydn was finally livened up with a feeding Hobby over the Scrape giving fantastic close views as it swooped low over the Pool!

The views were better than this!

After Haydn left I had a visit from Site Manager Craig Ralston and his Assistant. They were eyeing up the Scrape...

Looked promising! They eventually made there way up for a chat. My hopes were confirmed when they told me they intended doing some work on it. Hopefully it will take place shrotly to enable Birds to use it this Autumn. Fingers crossed.

Yesterday a Bar-tailed Godwit landed briefly on the Beach before continuing South...

A Rare sight if not a Rare Bird

Like most Waders they seldom linger...why would they?! You have to BE there. I also had my first returning Dunlin (H.70). The only Birds of note around the car were Meadow Pipits...

and House Sparrows (c30)

A few Pied Flys have arrived down the road but I haven't found one here ...yet...

Taking a fresh look

Birds on the move now and it's time to freshen things up. I'm adapting a more consistent approach to my Patch coverage to build a fuller Annual picture both Coastal and Inland. The reward of finding a "good" Patch Bird far exceeds the completion of a Twitch in my Book. However I will still venture when I feel the need. Selective... and all that. Age is definitely affecting my perspective (3 months to the BIG 70) and that's fine. Things change. I'm just glad I'm still here! I'm still interested in most aspects of this wonderful Pastime and will continue to pursue them with vigour.

The Blue-cheeked Bee-eater is still present on North Ronaldsay 

A slow week locally with a few health checks involved. All done now. I met Haydn on Friday at Duff (I did have a VERY quiet couple of hours on Wednesday). Before he arrived I had a walk out towards the Platform...

View from the Bridge

Little was seen on this occasion BUT much potential for the coming Months.

Quiet again which was expected but always a pleasure enjoying the view and the company. Watching a Hare chase a mobbing Marsh Harrier for a good 5 minutes was "different" We managed a brief viewing of a Cygnet with a Parent through the thick vegetation on the Scrape.

Most of the hay has been collected now and it was "Corvid City" out on the Carrs. We discussed possible migrants that may appear (as Birders do). Much checking of fence posts took place without any luck. Green Sandpiper was also mentioned, although chances here are slim with no exposed mud. Always the chance of a flight view though?

Around 12.30 that's exactly what Haydn got as a Bird flew low, briefly, just above the Riverbank! Of course yours truly didn't get "on it". Gripped again...but no big deal.

I left for the Coast at 1 and headed for the Cliff. Low tide was later now (6pm) so nothing of note on the Beach. I gave it till 5 but still no joy. I had a stretch before leaving and noticed a small Bird flying low across the shingle, flicking its wings. Only my 5th Common Sandpiper (P.87, H.66) for the Village and my 3rd August record. It flew around the Cliff and I couldn't relocate it.

The downs and ups of Patch Birding in a Nutshell.

Into the Autumn we go...

Beach and Sea

After sorting a few things out in the Garden we headed for the Tip and then Tesco. Louise loves a "Meal Deal" so I ended up joining the Prawn Sandwich brigade! We then headed for the Cliff to enjoy our Lunch. A few Hirundines were about with both Sand and House Martin alighting on the Clifftop right by the Car. Gannets were feeding spectacularly offshore.

After dropping her off at home ...I returned for another session...this time with Bins and Camera...

The tide was on the turn and there were some nice sandbanks showing by the waters edge. After around 30 minutes a large group of Terns arrived from the North. Mainly Sandwich (with many juveniles) but they included a few Arctic (P.84, H.63) and Common (P.85, H.64). They landed a few hundred yards to the North...

I was hoping they may eventually move further South as the tide started to come in. Eventually my wish was granted as they settled directly out from my car at c40 yards...

I then heard a familiar repeated note but I couldn't see them? Then...there they were...

7 Whimbrel (H.65)

Things were going well regarding my new initiative! Things got even better when another flock of Whimbrel appeared...

This time they numbered 13...or so I thought? They landed on the beach directly opposite the car...

Clearer on this cropped photo

You may have noticed my error? I only noticed the rogue Bird when I downloaded my pics. I have a Bar-tailed Godwit amongst the Whimbrel. In my defence the flock came in quick and I was trying to get photos. Also, when the Bird was on the beach it had its Bill tucked in. Honest!

Today fueled me for the Autumn to come. Some fresh tactics will be employed to try and freshen things up and unearth new records...

August

Got the ball rolling for the Month by visiting various locations in the Village and Patch.

More enhancements to the Car mean I'm more confident exploring further now! I found a way to get to the Cliff by the Old Sewage, which was pleasing.

I struck early with a fine female Peregrine heading purposefully North offshore...

Just!

Followed shortly afterwards by a Hobby over the set-a-side. Both Year Ticks. There were a few Gannets and Sandwich Terns feeding also, some giving great close views.

After grabbing a Coffee and Scone I headed down to Pat' Haven to enjoy them. I was hoping for views of Marsh Harriers but surprisingly I didn't see any? I gave it a good hour before moving on. Just before I did I heard a "peep". There was a small gap in the reeds...

Greenshank

Another FOY.

I finished off at Old Hive enjoying the thriving Sand Martin Colony and seeing my first Mediterranean Gulls of the Year...

VERY locally the Herring Gull youngster is developing well on our Chimney...

The dawn chorus can be a bit strong but the Parents have done a sterling job.

The BCBE is BACK...yet again, as it tours the Orkneys. This time it's on North Ronaldsay. Yet again inquiries were made but on reflection that "boat has sailed" for me. the mobile nature of the Bird plus the Bank Holiday traffic means a no no. Maybe it will stop off on it's way back South? I'm not holding my breath! One for my 70's...

BCBE (2)

"It's back"...as they say. Well, not quite!? It's turned up on an adjacent Island, namely Sanday!!

As usual, initially thinking 100%...NO. Then after chewing it over I started to look at the logistics. After missing it by a day on Papa, I'd understandably dismissed the chances for another year. Lamentable.

I made several enquiries both online and over the phone and it became clear it was a "Bridge too Far" for yours truly. I could have made it onto the Island sometime tomorrow afternoon but too many variables meant no attempt would be made. I like to think I'm made of strong stuff BUT there are limits on occasion and this is definitely one of those.

Basically it would have meant a c12 hour solo drive to the North Coast of Scotland. Then a Ferry to Orkney ((c90 mins) plus a taxi to Kirkwall (30mins). Then, a 2 hour afternoon Ferry to Sanday plus a Bus to the area... eventually!!! When I write it down, it seems even more crackers lol!

It IS my "most wanted" BUT this Scenario is beyond my compass. As I write (6.45pm) the Bird has disappeared BUT I reckon there's hardly anyone looking and it's a BIG Island. So, it could still be there, somewhere? Time will tell. If anyone has made the Trip, you deserve it!

That's twitching for you. No guarantee. Haydn texted me reminding me of the "enjoyment" factor. He's spot on. This would have been an ordeal NOT an adventure...

Duff Tick

It was time for my fortnightly visit to my Mother's on Wednesday, so I stopped off at Duff on the way. I'd arranged to meet Haydn, although we hadn't confirmed. I was pretty sure he'd be there and sure enough I received a messages around 9. As I was waiting at Howden Level Crossing I received an update informing me he''d found a Cattle Egret with the Cattle feeding on the River bank!!!Over the past few weeks we'd discussed the chances of one turning up among this herd! This Species was high on the "What's Next" List.

It took me another 20 minutes to reach the Car Park and I made my way steadily towards the Hide. I was fairly confident it would hang around under the circumstances? On arrival Haydn and Oliver Metcalfe were looking at the Bird, doing what Cattle Egrets do! Fortunate timing! I have to be honest and say it would have been nice to find it myself but if I'm going to be "gripped off", I'm glad it was Haydn! I let Elaine know and she soon joined us to enjoy the Bird.

This was my 172nd Species for the Reserve and my 106th for the Year.

Haydn recently managed to grab a pic' of the "rare" Reed Warbler...

Only my 2nd record!

Inbetween my charging around recently, I managed a few pics of local stuff that I thought was worth sharing. A couple of Butterflies right in front of the Hide...

Painted Lady

Peacock

I also had a close encounter with a Leveret as I was driving through the Village. It ended up on next door's driveway before safely disappearing back into the fields...

Cute!

It's not ALL Birds...

BCBE - My Report

I'm writing this as I watch the Open whilst recovering mentally and physically! 

Wednesday morning I was still washed out but feeling better. Possibly heat exhaustion? A relaxing morning with another nap meant I was feeling more myself. Incredibly the Bird was still present!! They don't tend to linger.

I made some inquiries regarding transport, accommodation etc which fitted. I was getting "Twitchy". As already stated I have previous on this Island which was reassuring in my present state. 

Louise arrived home at 4 and I broke the news to her that I was going to make an attempt. As always, I had her full backing. My ASAP Mantra was still intact, which is vital. Trust me, I couldn't have attempted this drive earlier!

I left at 5.30pm fully aware of the solo drive I had in front of me (551 miles/11 hours). At least I'd have the Match to listen to!? Things went well as I headed up the East Coast towards Scotland. I usually turn at Scotch Corner and go across the A66 but due to my "new" addition XC70 which still hasn't got a turbo I chose the flatter East Coast route. 

The Match came and went with the usual outcome!!! I'm a passionate Englishman BUT when you've read this book sooooooo many times, it's hard to feel emotional either way? Personally, I'd accept defeat more readily if we actually took part in the game. There's a familiar pattern here... score a goal then drop back and defend and wait to get beat. We have never been able to keep the ball, that's why we lose as soon as we play a Top Team. They wear us down, then strike. I WILL put myself through the "visual" eventually.

A couple of road closures delayed my arrival in Edinburgh but I reached the Premier Inn by Midnight. My kipping in the car days are over. There were NO updates during my drive?

I rose at 5.45 and after the inevitable "Ronald" I continued over the Forth Bridge towards Perth. I was keen to receive an early message, hopefully positive. I then saw a message from David Roche who lives on the Island. The Bird wasn't seen in the evening and didn't roost in the usual garden. Not great. 

What to do? Carry on. The consequences of turning back too early were unthinkable at this juncture!!

Around 8 I received a message from Tony Dixon informing me some Birders were on Site and hadn't seen the Bird by 7.30. Definitely not good. I was now past Perth heading for Inverness. My Ferry from Scrabster was at 1.15 and I couldn't stop and wait for news or I wouldn't make it. It wasn't looking good obviously BUT what if it was relocated and I'd turned back!? I decided to drive on to Inverness hoping for a miracle. More refreshments on arrival and still enough time to make the Ferry BUT still no news... either way.

I gave it till 10 then reluctantly bailed out as by now I wouldn't make the Ferry. Plenty of time to chew things over on the long drive home. I arrived home at 9pm. If you're into this crazy "game" you'll appreciate the tension of checking subsequent messages knowing that you now can't get there! All good "fun"? Feeling fine now I'm asking myself why I didn't go earlier? Answer...I physically couldn't. Just bad timing. My desire and determination hasn't diminished and the age thing is irrelevant really (well mainly)...I was at a low ebb writing my previous Post. Yes, I'm struggling to get around (I won't mention it again) BUT I can still get there... eventually! 

Twitching the Long-tailed Shrike and the Dartford Warbler in the extreme heat took it out of me. Both involved long walks. So much for Summer Doldrums!

The Car performed beautifully which was VERY pleasing and a great relief! I feet MUCH better for having tried, if unavoidably belatedly. 

So, mixed feelings. I knew exactly what to do, I just couldn't do it earlier. Rather frustrating! That's enough excuses lol!

I managed to recoup my travel and accommodation costs which was some consolation and I did manage to have a chat with the people I know on this wonderful little Island. It would have been VERY special to see this beautiful Bird here but alas, it wasn't to be. The VARIED THRUSH was arguably my favourite experience and this was probably my biggest Dip. I had both here with the STELLER'S EIDER experience! Triumph and Disaster and all that. This one cut deep. On reflection I couldn't have got over Tuesday and I'd have landed after it departed Wednesday afternoon. Which would have been worse. Some relief!

So, not the best 48 hours, coupling the Bird with the Footy!!!

There have been 4 records in the last 7 years which gives hope that I'll get another shot. "There'll be another". I need something to look forward to in my 70's!!! Congratulations to all who made it!

BCBE

It happened yesterday...and I haven't travelled!

15.20. Orkney Blue-cheeked Bee-eater Papa Westray 

My most wanted on my favourite Scottish Island. Why not?

Well, a few factors at present...

Limited mobility with challenging solo logistics 

Car not 100% for TWENTY hours of driving 

Age and energy!

EXTREMELY frustrating but I'll just have to take it on the chin.

The Bird is still present as I write (it would have cleared off if I'd travelled). All the VERY best to the intrepid hopefuls who have made the Trip. 

As you probably remember I've made 3 visits to the Island and thoroughly enjoyed them, despite mixed results. I'm still not sure how I did the Varied Thrush (click) Twitch!!! So, I am experienced in how to get and stay there.

This is the 4th record in the last 7 years so maybe I'll get another shot before I depart. Hopefully a Mainland Bird. I missed the Yorkshire Bird in July 1989 due to a family holiday.

I've seen plenty on Cyprus BUT I'd still LOVE to see one in Britain. Here's to the next one...

More Summer Surprises!

Whilst still recovering from my successful trip to Crail, I was checking my messages on Tuesday evening when I saw some interesting posts from the York Area Birders. As you know I'm still keen on my York Area List having resided in the area for 26 years. Since moving out to the South Holderness I've made several return visits to Twitch possible additions...as well as countless visits to the Mecca of North Duffield Carrs...of course!!

Wednesday morning one of the the locals made their way onto Strensall Common early doors to check the report out. "Lo and behold" it turned out to be positive news! Remarkably a Dartford Warbler was associating with a family of Stonechats! Great news but the problem was it was on MOD Land in a restricted area. There was no access between 7.30 and 4, Monday to Thursday and Weekends (hence the early visit).

Tough one?

I left the locals involved to deal with possible "News" options and made my way over to Duff for a Session, aiming to arrive at SC at 4. Now then I know of Strensall Common and had a rough idea of access to the area BUT I didn't know it THAT well. A combination of 32c and mobility issues meant a reluctance to venture far without precise directions! I followed the Google Maps PIN but ended up at an area with no access so I tried the car park I knew well. I also contacted a few locals who kindly sent me some maps. So, just after 4 I made my way onto the Common. The area where the Bird had been seen looked a long way. It was toasty!

I reached the gate into the Military Area and went through it. A few other Birders were on their way and had reached the spot (they were quicker than me). I rang one of them and he said there was no sign of the Bird. I continued for a while but I was struggling with the heat and the uneven terrain. I also wasn't sure where I was going!! A decision was made. I bailed out, which doesn't come easy to me. However I figured the Bird had been around for while as it had been seen feeding Stonechats!!! I planned to have a go on Friday when there were no restrictions and I'd have more time to plan my route. The Bird was seen that evening.

Onto Friday morning. I left home at 4.15 arriving at the Common at 6.30. I'd arranged to meet my Pals Haydn and Steve. After a brief chat we set off as it was already warming up! Once in the Military Area, I asked them to continue to figure out the route. They found the spot and Haydn returned to show me the way. It was a good distance (c1 mile). Once in the Area we spread out and started to search for the DW/Stonechats. It took some time (45 minutes) but we eventually found the family...and eventually the Dartford Warbler. The views were fleeting but conclusive as it flitted about the habitat. Success!

We arrived back at the car park around 11. It was now 32c!

News has been released now, hence this post. A remarkable record for the York Area and an even more remarkable series of events. It was my 241st Species for the Area.

Summer Doldrums?

Last Tuesday I made my way over to Duff early doors to meet Haydn. We had a good catch up and shared a rare Bird for the Reserve in the form of a Jay. Only my 6th record! Context!

Later in the day on return, I managed to see the Marsh Tit at Spurn (first for 16 years apparently) and I finally recorded a Quail. A couple of Spurn Ticks to boot, taking me to 323. Who says mid-summer is "quiet"?

I have to admit the combination of Football, Cricket and Tennis...and hot weather has meant my local Birding has been limited recently. I am multifaceted lol!

Onto Sunday.

I picked my phone up at lunchtime after a slow morning to check my messages and realised I'd made a "schoolboy error" by leaving it on silent! I looked in stunned disbelief...

13.14. Fife LONG-TAILED SHRIKE at Crail, adult type in garden on track to Thirdpart House

My Word!!!!!!

I gave Louise "the look", gathered my gear and headed West... after a short discussion of course!

After the traditional pitstop on Hull, I made a couple of phone calls and waited for further news. It didn't come. There was some uncertainty over the ID also? I gave it a couple of hours before returning East. A couple of negative messages confirming my decision. I was still in that heightened state that Twitchers know so well!

It was now 4pm.

As I was out I decided to go down Patrington Haven for a while.

4.23. Fife LONG-TAILED SHRIKE adult-type again at Crail, adult type in garden on track to Thirdpart House

Oh dear...or words to that effect!

Too late now and to be honest even if I'd have carried on initially it would have been extremely tight to make the 341 miles before dusk?

Onto Monday. Positive news came through early, VERY early...5.04 to be precise! I headed for Wetherby to meet Steve Lawton, arriving just after 7. I joined him in his car and we headed for Scotland.

We made good time with no delays arriving early afternoon. It was quite a hike to the Site but I made it.

We joined the group and waited. The Bird was present in the hedge but VERY elusive!. The wind didn't help. There were brief glimpses in the bottom of the hedge but nothing satisfying.

Experienced Scottish Birders around me had their scopes trained on the area but it just wouldn't "show well"...as they say! The Birder next to me had been there some time and had seen the Bird. Eventually he had it again, so I asked him if I could "take a peep". I looked through his large Swarovski and there deep in the hedge was the Bird. A truly breathtaking view!!! I thanked him profusely.

Steve managed to get a record shot, which was impressive under the circumstances...

Another mate, Tony Dixon, who travelled overnight also managed a pic...

We decided we were both happy, so we headed home. Definitely an unexpected addition for both of us...then again I guess every MEGA is!? Some more than others though and this one was definitely "left field". Interestingly, a Species of the same family, namely Red-tailed Shrike has turned up at this time of Year on more than one occasion...but not this one, which is definitely in the "extreme" category.

Driving back we had plenty of time to chat. We swapped stories about Twitching from the past, as Birders do. We both agreed how fortunate we were to have a Hobby we enjoy so much and the adventures it allows us to have. We also reflected on the fact that even after decades of Rarity chasing, new Birds STILL turn up.

Here's to the next one...

Meaningful Visits

Scorcher today (28c) so I headed for the hut despite an inevitable increase in temperature? At least I have shade and a gentle Northerly breeze to moderate things. In my continuing efforts to balance my annual visits I'm putting the Summer hours in to see what I can discover.

A Quail would be nice and is possible with the current influx. Hobby would be an excellent consolation.

Nationally 2 MEGA alerts this morning with the WRH relocated in South Wales and a BOOTED EAGLE in Devon! Not bad for a "quiet" time of Year?

Back here I'm relying mainly on flight Sightings for obvious reasons. Still good fun and it keeps me alert... hopefully! My ears can still ick up most frequencies, I like to think.

I did pop across Sunday evening on the strength of a report of FOUR Glossy Ibis being seen by the Warden Craig Ralston. Elaine from the Village came down straight away after I contacted her. She rang me as I passed Hull to give me negative news. I decided to carry on anyway. I gave it an hour but no joy. This Species is high on my "Expected Additions List" along with Cattle Egret.

For many of my early Years coming here, I didn't really "get it". As I approach 70, I definitely do now. It's the whole experience really, the History, the Birds, the location and especially the view. No more dashing around (well maybe occasionally), just more appreciation of what I've got here. Watching the Birds come and go and fully taking in the changing of the Seasons.

I left at 3. Had to give the car five as it was rather toasty...

22 Species recorded in 3.5 hours.

Not so Old Friend

A special occasion yesterday as I'd arranged to meet my old Buddy Nige from my past life as a PE Teacher! He's 15 years younger than me lol! I arrived at 8.30 and gave it some time around the car park hoping for my GSW Year Tick...it didn't materialize.

Once ensconced I yet again started to enjoy my favourite view (just tops my bedroom window vista). The Meadow is just starting to turn now with just a hint of Autumn starting to show...he says optimistically. Birdsong has understandably dropped off significantly now as the residents (some temporary) go about their breeding business. I then heard a Cuckoo...then even better, I saw it...

I just caught it before it disappeared, never to be seen...or heard again.

A Scottish chap then appeared and started a conversation(doesn't always happen). He mentioned my new acquisition in the car park and we had a discussion on old Volvo's and a few other brands. Then some 30 minutes later Nige appeared. Great to see him again. I managed to point out a few Species for him as we had our "catch up" and he finished off by spotting a cc Marsh Harrier which he was understandably chuffed about. Nice. The Reed Warbler was still giving the occasional scratchy blast.

32 Species were recorded before we headed for the St Vincent's Arms for an enjoyable lunch. 40 years since my first visit!

Just booked another couple of weeks to the Fortunate Isles in October. A later visit this year due to a quirk of the Calendar...but no matter. It will bring back memories of earlier visits when I was "restricted" to "Teachers Week". I've also secured Louise's favourite flat for both weeks which scored big points! As you probably know "Good Birds" can turn up any time in the "Magic Month" and well into November come to that depending on the vagaries of the Autumn Storms. A few examples of MEGA connections in the "Twenties" ...

Common Nighthawk 24/10/1999

Chimney Swift 23/10/1999

Upland Sandpiper 26/10/1999

Solitary Sandpiper 20/10/2000

Aquatic Warbler 26/10/2006

Ovenbird 28/10/2004

Northern Waterthrush 22/10/2011

Common Yellowthroat 23/10/1997

Rose-breasted Grosbeak 25/10/2007

Indigo Bunting 25/10/2020

1999 was a good year!!!

also...

Snowy Owl 29/10/2008

Red-eyed Vireo 27/10/2011 

Mobility issues continue unfortunately (I'm working on it) BUT that won't stop me from making my annual homage to Scilly. There's History involved here. It's now 35 years since my first visit...and counting!

Quiet?

... and rightly so. Deep into the Breeding Season now with sightings at a premium. Leave them be.

So what can I tell you? I have Herring Gulls nesting on my Chimney!

...and a pair of Blackcaps visited my Birdbath...

Avocets and Marsh Harriers are still performing well at Patrington Haven.

On a whim I visited Duff yesterday for a few hours. Hopes weren't high considering the time of Year...but you never know...

Haydn had been earlier and had a Great Spotted Woodpecker, which would have been a Year Tick. After around 45 minutes of seeing very little I heard something VERY significant. Earlier in the Spring there had been plenty of Sedge Warblers around the scrape giving great views. This sound was slightly different. I had my second record of Reed Warbler for the Reserve. I eventually got a glance but no chance of a pic. A three hour watch revealed just 21 Species, the last of which was another Year Tick in the form of a Common Tern feeding along the River. It only appeared as I was packing up! As I left a Blackcap struck up from the copse at the side of the Hide bringing me to three figures for the Year. Maybe not so quiet after all. I need 6 more Species to beat my best Year Total.

I've been doing my Half-time team  talk today whilst watching the Test Match. I've kept the pace at Duff but deliberately hung back at Holmpton to give myself an extended run for the rest of the Year. As you know I like the second half on the Coast much better!

100+ possible!

Quail listening?

Three reports in the Spurn Recording Area on Monday. One by the Lighthouse on the Point, one on Easington Straight and one at the North end of  Easington Gas Terminal. The Recording Area has stretched over the Years!

I still need this Species for Spurn and I admit to being slow off the mark due to commitments and the nature of the Bird. I'd settle for a listen! Anyway I had a "good go" on Tuesday and Wednesday morning but not a whisper at Sites 2 and 3. I gave the Point a miss! The hail thunderstorms didn't help and I couldn't linger by the Gas Terminal for obvious reasons. So, my wait continues. However, I did sneak a Hobby and a noteworthy 22 Shelducks. I did try Snakey Lane also for a Holmpton Year Tick but no luck there either. Still time I guess with plenty of reports this Year.

After a coffee and scone in Patrington I made my way down to Patrington Haven to try and photograph Reed Warbler. You may remember I didn't manage any pics at Skeffling when Robert was here. I parked up by the bridge and waited. There were still a few thunderstorms around but they were isolated and infrequent. No hail today!

With vegetation high and a flat topography sightings were mainly limited to flight views. I managed Marsh Harrier (male and female), Mute Swan (20), Black Swan...

Shelduck (6), Tufted Duck (3), Avocet (10), Little Egret (8), Stock Dove...

I drove down to the bridge which gave me the best view of the reeds. I remained in the car and this paid off when a Kingfisher alighted on the bridge momentarily. Frustrating, as I was as ready as I could be with the camera. Exceptional eyesight...the Bird that is!

I could hear Reed Warblers and there was plenty of activity with young no doubt having fledged by now This gave me a better chance, Eventually they gave themselves away...

I gave it 3 hours, enjoying what came and went, recording 30 Species. Later on, between the downpours, I sat on the barrier by the Bridge, so I could view both sides of the channel. Things had quietened down somewhat BUT again with patience, I got better views...