A Wood Warbler turned up in Mick Turton's garden at Easington today. A very nice find and early. Very few records annually and actually rarer than Barred Warbler!
I need to look...harder...and I will!
Sunday, 30 July 2017
Saturday, 29 July 2017
Patrington Haven
Had an hour with Bud on a bright and breezy morning. I timed my visit with high tide. It was a busy scene but most birds were very distant. A couple of distinctive species were Little Egret (28) and Shelduck (c1000). Impressive numbers of the common waders also, particularly Knot which were well into 4 figures.
I'll be paying regular visits over the next few months...
I'm going to try and balance Birding in the Village with a few selected sites throughout the Patch. You never know...I might even find something decent?!
I'll be paying regular visits over the next few months...
I'm going to try and balance Birding in the Village with a few selected sites throughout the Patch. You never know...I might even find something decent?!
Thursday, 27 July 2017
Pyrenees Finale
Last one...promise!
In order not to drag things out too long, I'm going to post a series of remaining images from the trip with a few notes to explain things. I hope you enjoy them.
Back to the Golden Eagle first. I found a few more...
The closest I got to a Lammergeier was at the Col de Troumouse
Close enough!
Griffon Vulture...
Egyptian Vulture...
Having a quick look back through my posts from during the trip I see I didn't post a pic of my Rock Sparrow success. So, here's the proof...
That's it then. I've not decided if I'm going again next year yet. If I did have a summer break though this location would be high on my list. Spectacular birds and scenery plus excellent accommodation and food. Maybe you'd like to try it?
In order not to drag things out too long, I'm going to post a series of remaining images from the trip with a few notes to explain things. I hope you enjoy them.
Back to the Golden Eagle first. I found a few more...
The closest I got to a Lammergeier was at the Col de Troumouse
Close enough!
Griffon Vulture...
Egyptian Vulture...
Having a quick look back through my posts from during the trip I see I didn't post a pic of my Rock Sparrow success. So, here's the proof...
 |
| Eagle Owl |
Wednesday, 26 July 2017
Pyrenees reprise - Our Golden Day (2)
I've been flicking through some pics on this damp day and I've come across a few images which might enhance the story of our afternoon with the majestic Golden Eagle.
I'd had a prolonged but distant view from the Village the day previously as a bird flew through carrying what looked like a Marmot...
If you recall from the original post I'd received some information from a ranger (Flavian) while viewing the Lammergeier nest in the Valle d'Ossoue. He'd given us directions which I hoped to follow (you know how it is). We returned to Gavarnie and parked up. We then had to find the trailhead (as the Americans say). After a while we discovered it, tucked away behind a Hotel. The temperature was 38c by the way. We started to climb around 2.30pm...I know madness!
It was steep...VERY steep!
The plan was to make our way up to a plateau from were we could scan across the ravine to the cliff face, where the nest was located. We climbed and climbed. Mercifully it was shaded due to the wooded hillside. We wouldn't have made it otherwise...we'll I wouldn't! The leg held and Louise never complained. Eventually after over an hour we emerged out of the trees and there was the crag opposite...
It was still a good distance c400 yds but at least we were level now and I could scan with the 'scope.
The view of the Valle d'Ossoue from the plateau with the Lammergeier cliff on the right...
Louise headed for the shade and I had an initial scan with my Trinnies. I got lucky and found the nest...pleased with that. I then set up the scope to see if I could see any signs of life. I couldn't. No adults, no youngster/s.
I aimed to stay around 3 hours, so we had a decent window. Then after around 30 minutes...a fly-by...
Awesome! What a bird... was euphoric to see this magnificent bird so close and at eye level. It disappeared eventually around the cliff. Then, some movement at the nest! Nothing clear at first and difficult to be certain in the intense heat haze. Eventually...there it was...the GE youngster. REALLY pleased with the quality of this hand held phone-scoped effort considering the distance and conditions...
Quite an occasion for yours truly. I was as pleased with this experience as I was with any on the holiday.
Huge birds but gigantic distances. Never easy to get near, so I considered myself very fortunate. Just as we were leaving we were treated again...
When we reached the valley floor around 6.30 I turned to see both adults WAY up high above the ridge circling and enjoying the evening sunshine...
As you say Charles...another great day in the Pyrenees!
I'd had a prolonged but distant view from the Village the day previously as a bird flew through carrying what looked like a Marmot...
If you recall from the original post I'd received some information from a ranger (Flavian) while viewing the Lammergeier nest in the Valle d'Ossoue. He'd given us directions which I hoped to follow (you know how it is). We returned to Gavarnie and parked up. We then had to find the trailhead (as the Americans say). After a while we discovered it, tucked away behind a Hotel. The temperature was 38c by the way. We started to climb around 2.30pm...I know madness!
It was steep...VERY steep!
The plan was to make our way up to a plateau from were we could scan across the ravine to the cliff face, where the nest was located. We climbed and climbed. Mercifully it was shaded due to the wooded hillside. We wouldn't have made it otherwise...we'll I wouldn't! The leg held and Louise never complained. Eventually after over an hour we emerged out of the trees and there was the crag opposite...
It was still a good distance c400 yds but at least we were level now and I could scan with the 'scope.
The view of the Valle d'Ossoue from the plateau with the Lammergeier cliff on the right...
Louise headed for the shade and I had an initial scan with my Trinnies. I got lucky and found the nest...pleased with that. I then set up the scope to see if I could see any signs of life. I couldn't. No adults, no youngster/s.
I aimed to stay around 3 hours, so we had a decent window. Then after around 30 minutes...a fly-by...
Awesome! What a bird... was euphoric to see this magnificent bird so close and at eye level. It disappeared eventually around the cliff. Then, some movement at the nest! Nothing clear at first and difficult to be certain in the intense heat haze. Eventually...there it was...the GE youngster. REALLY pleased with the quality of this hand held phone-scoped effort considering the distance and conditions...
Huge birds but gigantic distances. Never easy to get near, so I considered myself very fortunate. Just as we were leaving we were treated again...
When we reached the valley floor around 6.30 I turned to see both adults WAY up high above the ridge circling and enjoying the evening sunshine...
As you say Charles...another great day in the Pyrenees!
Catch up
Rainy day here. So time to slow down...and catch up?
I made it down to Kilnsea Wetlands before the deluge to connect with the overdue Little Stint...
Green Sandpiper (2) and Ruff were also new for the year. I bumped into Frank Moffat and John Hewitt. John mentioned that someone had claimed the WHITE-RUMPED SANDPIPER again but no further news as I write (1pm). This site is starting to produce an impressive list of quality birds and will no doubt continue to do so. AMERICAN GOLDEN PLOVER and another WHITE-WINGED BLACK TERN (juv) recorded in the past two days.
A Little Egret also showed very well...
The past few days locally... A Little Tern wandered North to allow me to add it to my Holmpton year list during a dog walk. I also sneaked a Mistle Thrush sighting from the bus near Patrington. I popped down to the triangle late yesterday afternoon after work to try for the Red-backed Shrike. I made my way along the canal past the developing and highly controversial Visitor Centre...
I could see a group of admirers in the distance but as I had "the Budster" with me I decided to spare them the dubious presence of his company! A grim record shot it is then...
One for the jizz afishionados.
High on the cuteometer was this pair of young Little Owls on the way home. Great news indeed...
Totals adjusted accordingly.
I made it down to Kilnsea Wetlands before the deluge to connect with the overdue Little Stint...
Green Sandpiper (2) and Ruff were also new for the year. I bumped into Frank Moffat and John Hewitt. John mentioned that someone had claimed the WHITE-RUMPED SANDPIPER again but no further news as I write (1pm). This site is starting to produce an impressive list of quality birds and will no doubt continue to do so. AMERICAN GOLDEN PLOVER and another WHITE-WINGED BLACK TERN (juv) recorded in the past two days.
A Little Egret also showed very well...
The past few days locally... A Little Tern wandered North to allow me to add it to my Holmpton year list during a dog walk. I also sneaked a Mistle Thrush sighting from the bus near Patrington. I popped down to the triangle late yesterday afternoon after work to try for the Red-backed Shrike. I made my way along the canal past the developing and highly controversial Visitor Centre...
I could see a group of admirers in the distance but as I had "the Budster" with me I decided to spare them the dubious presence of his company! A grim record shot it is then...
 |
| c150 yds through the heat haze at the rear of Rose Cottage |
High on the cuteometer was this pair of young Little Owls on the way home. Great news indeed...
Totals adjusted accordingly.
Monday, 24 July 2017
Carry on regardless!
Loved those films!
Crappy weather on the coast so we're heading for East Leake.
Bit of an issue on the M1...
Writing this in Louise's car as we head back to Hull to pick up the V70 after its service. We enjoyed a nice hour watching the birds perform well, if distantly. The crowd was very small allowing for a relaxing experience.
Off to the pub for T so no time to post a pic from the camera. To be honest the images are small scale!!
I can however post a "phonescoped" attempt which came out surprisingly well...even though I say so myself...
Crappy weather on the coast so we're heading for East Leake.
Bit of an issue on the M1...
Hopefully everyone OK! Fortunately North bound.
Rain has stopped and wind easing. A bit of lunch... then BEE-EATERS.
Off to the pub for T so no time to post a pic from the camera. To be honest the images are small scale!!
I can however post a "phonescoped" attempt which came out surprisingly well...even though I say so myself...
 |
| c100yds |
After our meal at the Red Sails I became aware through a text from Gavin Atkinson (cheers pal) of a VERY confiding male Crossbill (P.122) at Skeffling. The bird was still present on arrival. I have to say though...it didn't look well and it's behaviour made me concerned for its future as it was reluctant to fly as vehicles past by. Hope it makes it.
Sunday, 23 July 2017
WHITE-RUMPED SANDPIPER
A couple of shots of the WRS...
An excellent find by John Hewitt.
A day out tomorrow with the Bee-eaters...and Louise of course!
 |
| Among the Dunlins |
An excellent find by John Hewitt.
A day out tomorrow with the Bee-eaters...and Louise of course!
Saturday, 22 July 2017
Quite a week
Got an hour break, so I've time to complete the weeks activity.
To finish off a fortunate week I popped down to Kilnsea Wetlands yesterday morning to try for the WHITE-RUMPED SANDPIPER. As I approached the hide I noticed a Birder scanning the site through the blind.
It turned out to be Frank Moffat. He told me he had the bird in his 'scope and would I like to have a peep (sorry). The bird was no more than 30yds away feeding with c40 Dunlin. I also had a brief view of a Wood Sandpiper. I'd seen him many times over the years but never had a chat. We discussed various topics before we left...including Footy. Nice bloke.
Now then...I "wander" where that ALBATROSS is...
To finish off a fortunate week I popped down to Kilnsea Wetlands yesterday morning to try for the WHITE-RUMPED SANDPIPER. As I approached the hide I noticed a Birder scanning the site through the blind.
It turned out to be Frank Moffat. He told me he had the bird in his 'scope and would I like to have a peep (sorry). The bird was no more than 30yds away feeding with c40 Dunlin. I also had a brief view of a Wood Sandpiper. I'd seen him many times over the years but never had a chat. We discussed various topics before we left...including Footy. Nice bloke.
Now then...I "wander" where that ALBATROSS is...
Thursday, 20 July 2017
AMUR FALCON - the full story
Finally stopped...after a trip to Swillington Ings for the magnificent CASPIAN TERN...
Had a great few hours watching this beast of a Tern performing well intermittently over Astley Lake and surrounds. It's ironic how things turn out in Birding...fascinating as well...at least to me! It took me 30 years to add this species to my Yorkshire list and now I've seen two in two years. MUCH better views on this occasion. At one stage it patrolled the lake for a good 10 minutes giving a stunning performance. It exuded power and dexterity as it circled the area.
Some familiar faces were present. It was great to see my old pal Vince from my days in the Valley, particularly at NDC. He told me he'd heard a Corncrake there recently! He was hoping the CT would drift down to Fairburn for a patch tick. At one time it flew south, so I sent him a text. However the bird returned to the lake a short while later. Tony (Dixon) also turned up with a couple of mates...County ticking. I also met a chap from York who I liked and will remain nameless at his request. I liked him because he said nice things about my Blog lol! No seriously, we hit it off and chewed the fat over many things Birding and beyond. He modestly informed me he'd seen BLACK-BROWED ALBATROSS and FEA'S PETREL...in Yorkshire. That's two up on me! You know who you are pal. Many thanks for your comments.
....................................................................................
So, back to the other day then, to put some flesh on the bones of one of my better/best days.
Having had time to reflect on events I feel I was VERY fortunate to connect with this bird for numerous reasons.
No time for any prep'. Fortunately the tank was full, my phone was fully charged (just as well as yet another "cheapo" car charger let me down), I had a coat and Buddy had his bowl...he didn't get a vote!
I texted Trevor but didn't get a reply immediately so I set off west. My thoughts at this time were to cruise down as far as possible, kip in the car and be ready for dawn. The further I could get the better. I'd heard from John Hewitt the nightmare journey they'd had back, due to the A30 roadworks...c11 hours!
Steady progress was made down the A1 - M18 - M1 and onto the M42. A few speed restriction sections were adhered to...iron will-power. I was heading for Bristol down the M5 and the traffic was still flowing. Hitting this area at around 5pm didn't fill with me hope but I was still going strong...and the bird was still showing!
It then dawned on me (I'm quick like that) that I had an outside chance of making it before dusk!! It would all depend on the traffic around Exeter and the A30 road works? However, I still felt the cards were still stacked against me.
I HAD to make one stop...too much Peps Max. I checked the phone and was pleased to read encouragement and updates from Trevor Charlton, Tony Dixon, Steve Lawton, Haydn Patterson and Phil Jones. A Facebook post from Lee Evans had also mentioned some reliable, experienced Birders who had seen the bird.
Onward!
Onto the A30. Where were the road works? Who knows ...who cares! Turned out they had finished last weekend...some Good Luck. I sailed down to Penzance and it was only 7. I was getting a bit
excited by now! The weather was good and the sun was still well above the horizon. Another update on the pager added a little spice by informing me the bird was now..."distant". I'd keyed the postcode into my phone on Google maps (surprising I know) and it worked a treat in the maze that is West Cornwall. I turned down the minor road to St Buryan. An extremely narrow road with very high walls/hedges. I needed to see a birder now...it was gone 8pm and the light was fading as the cloud thickened.
I turned another bend and there was a red transit with a guy with bins looking into a field. "Any sign" I tried to say calmly. "I've just had it but it's flown off" was his reply. I thanked him and continued down the lane. More cars and a few birders...encouragingly they were all training there optics in the same direction. I noticed Steve Webb who'd just returned from Peru (to also get a second chance). They were all stood on the wall ...but I couldn't climb up due to my mobility issues! Fortunately being tall I re-arranged the vegetation to find myself looking at my target sat in a bush...
That was rather pleasing I thought to myself...HUZZAH!!!
I enjoyed watching the bird for the next 10 or so minutes while I got my breath back. I counted 10 birders!!? The bird then hopped along the hedge a couple of times...
It was getting dull by now. Nobody else had arrived. I recognised a few local faces including Paul Freestone. Around 8.30 the bird flew from the hedge towards Lassadell House and was lost to view. The group stayed in position but I decided to follow the road towards the house. I could then see a bird on the wire just beyond the house. I alerted the group...
I love this picture...because I took it! lol! No, as I've said before it's not about the "best" picture, I'll never achieve that with my point and shoot. It's about personal memories and this is definitely one to savour! I might be finding a place in my "RUSH BIRDS" top ten for this one. An evocative image of the last time the bird was seen as it left the wire and appeared to fly into the garden of the house...to roost?
Time for McDonald's and Tesco now.
I returned to the lane and settled down for a night in the V70. Just a word on the old girl. She's just topped 100,000 miles and she cruised down the motorways in style giving me as always a smooth comfortable and economical journey. She's in next week for a full service and new cam-belt (overdue). I'm confident she can give me the same again (53 plate). My last one managed 230,000! Tough cars Volvos.
I'd arranged to meet Trevor at dawn. My days of sleeping well in the car are well and truly over. Fortunately the short summer night passed quickly. I was the only car present at 11pm. By 5am the lane was packed and every available spot was taken. Trevor was 2 cars down from mine! I led him to the house and showed him were I'd seen it last. Then we waited.
I had Bud with me so I kept him away from the main groups (not everyone is dog friendly, especially in situations like this). I recognised a lot of familiar faces, many from the north including Dave Hursthouse and John McLoughlin.
I was convinced it would show as I believed it had gone into the garden of Lassadell House. Alas it wasn't to be. There were a few unsubstantiated claims but no confirmed sighting. My phone had packed up by now and I'd lost Trevor in the crowd, so at 9.45 I returned to McDonald's for breakfast. The traffic problems in the lane were mounting with tractors and coaches turning up.
I figured I'd wait in Penzance for a while and wait for news as getting a parking spot again would be be er...difficult!
No sign by 11 so I decided to make the long drive home...very contented. THIS IS the very best type of twitch for me. No dithering, no what ifs...just GO!!!
Summary
So my luck at Lands End had finally changed...
2011 - I changed my flight time to Scilly from morning to afternoon to try for the 1w male SCARLET TANAGER at St Levan on Saturday October 22nd. A smart move I thought until the bird decided to leave and fly to Scilly!!!
2013 - A HERMIT THRUSH was at Porthgwarra on October 30th. A MOURNING DOVE was also present on Rum, Inner Hebrides. I decided (foolishly) to wait at Exeter for news on the HT ON November 1st as I had another long drive to Scotland for the MD. The bird was present but by the time I'd driven down from Exeter it had disappeared and so had most of the birders. I spent the next 2 days looking for it in vain. I did get the MD.
2014 - I was in the middle of another wonderful week on Scilly when it turned sour. The one species I reckoned I'd be in prime position for on Scilly would be YELLOW-BILLED CUCKOO. It was Thursday October 24th and we were on St Agnes looking at an Ortolan Bunting. The MEGA alert goes off to inform me a YBC had been found at Porthgwarra! No boat Friday when the bird was still present and of course it had disappeared when I turned up on Saturday.
That exorcised a few demons.
So, as you can see I like to think I was due some luck down there.
I have no hesitation in placing this sighting at number 4 in my all-time "RUSH BIRDS" list (see left hand column)...pop pickers!
For what it's worth I feel the bird may still be around the West Cornwall peninsular...
Had a great few hours watching this beast of a Tern performing well intermittently over Astley Lake and surrounds. It's ironic how things turn out in Birding...fascinating as well...at least to me! It took me 30 years to add this species to my Yorkshire list and now I've seen two in two years. MUCH better views on this occasion. At one stage it patrolled the lake for a good 10 minutes giving a stunning performance. It exuded power and dexterity as it circled the area.
Some familiar faces were present. It was great to see my old pal Vince from my days in the Valley, particularly at NDC. He told me he'd heard a Corncrake there recently! He was hoping the CT would drift down to Fairburn for a patch tick. At one time it flew south, so I sent him a text. However the bird returned to the lake a short while later. Tony (Dixon) also turned up with a couple of mates...County ticking. I also met a chap from York who I liked and will remain nameless at his request. I liked him because he said nice things about my Blog lol! No seriously, we hit it off and chewed the fat over many things Birding and beyond. He modestly informed me he'd seen BLACK-BROWED ALBATROSS and FEA'S PETREL...in Yorkshire. That's two up on me! You know who you are pal. Many thanks for your comments.
....................................................................................
So, back to the other day then, to put some flesh on the bones of one of my better/best days.
Having had time to reflect on events I feel I was VERY fortunate to connect with this bird for numerous reasons.
- Firstly the fact that it re-appeared at all after an absence of 11 days. The 6th of July seems a long time ago now when I realised I couldn't go down to Cornwall, on the eve of my trip to my son's wedding in Italy.
- The fact that it lingered for the remainder of the day on July 17th.
- I was sooo lucky with the traffic...or lack of it. To travel from North Yorkshire to Lands End during the day with no significant stoppages was remarkable.
No time for any prep'. Fortunately the tank was full, my phone was fully charged (just as well as yet another "cheapo" car charger let me down), I had a coat and Buddy had his bowl...he didn't get a vote!
I texted Trevor but didn't get a reply immediately so I set off west. My thoughts at this time were to cruise down as far as possible, kip in the car and be ready for dawn. The further I could get the better. I'd heard from John Hewitt the nightmare journey they'd had back, due to the A30 roadworks...c11 hours!
Steady progress was made down the A1 - M18 - M1 and onto the M42. A few speed restriction sections were adhered to...iron will-power. I was heading for Bristol down the M5 and the traffic was still flowing. Hitting this area at around 5pm didn't fill with me hope but I was still going strong...and the bird was still showing!
It then dawned on me (I'm quick like that) that I had an outside chance of making it before dusk!! It would all depend on the traffic around Exeter and the A30 road works? However, I still felt the cards were still stacked against me.
I HAD to make one stop...too much Peps Max. I checked the phone and was pleased to read encouragement and updates from Trevor Charlton, Tony Dixon, Steve Lawton, Haydn Patterson and Phil Jones. A Facebook post from Lee Evans had also mentioned some reliable, experienced Birders who had seen the bird.
Onward!
Onto the A30. Where were the road works? Who knows ...who cares! Turned out they had finished last weekend...some Good Luck. I sailed down to Penzance and it was only 7. I was getting a bit
excited by now! The weather was good and the sun was still well above the horizon. Another update on the pager added a little spice by informing me the bird was now..."distant". I'd keyed the postcode into my phone on Google maps (surprising I know) and it worked a treat in the maze that is West Cornwall. I turned down the minor road to St Buryan. An extremely narrow road with very high walls/hedges. I needed to see a birder now...it was gone 8pm and the light was fading as the cloud thickened.
I turned another bend and there was a red transit with a guy with bins looking into a field. "Any sign" I tried to say calmly. "I've just had it but it's flown off" was his reply. I thanked him and continued down the lane. More cars and a few birders...encouragingly they were all training there optics in the same direction. I noticed Steve Webb who'd just returned from Peru (to also get a second chance). They were all stood on the wall ...but I couldn't climb up due to my mobility issues! Fortunately being tall I re-arranged the vegetation to find myself looking at my target sat in a bush...
 |
| 8.15pm |
I enjoyed watching the bird for the next 10 or so minutes while I got my breath back. I counted 10 birders!!? The bird then hopped along the hedge a couple of times...
 |
| 8.25pm |
 |
| 8.45pm |
Time for McDonald's and Tesco now.
I returned to the lane and settled down for a night in the V70. Just a word on the old girl. She's just topped 100,000 miles and she cruised down the motorways in style giving me as always a smooth comfortable and economical journey. She's in next week for a full service and new cam-belt (overdue). I'm confident she can give me the same again (53 plate). My last one managed 230,000! Tough cars Volvos.
I'd arranged to meet Trevor at dawn. My days of sleeping well in the car are well and truly over. Fortunately the short summer night passed quickly. I was the only car present at 11pm. By 5am the lane was packed and every available spot was taken. Trevor was 2 cars down from mine! I led him to the house and showed him were I'd seen it last. Then we waited.
I had Bud with me so I kept him away from the main groups (not everyone is dog friendly, especially in situations like this). I recognised a lot of familiar faces, many from the north including Dave Hursthouse and John McLoughlin.
I was convinced it would show as I believed it had gone into the garden of Lassadell House. Alas it wasn't to be. There were a few unsubstantiated claims but no confirmed sighting. My phone had packed up by now and I'd lost Trevor in the crowd, so at 9.45 I returned to McDonald's for breakfast. The traffic problems in the lane were mounting with tractors and coaches turning up.
I figured I'd wait in Penzance for a while and wait for news as getting a parking spot again would be be er...difficult!
No sign by 11 so I decided to make the long drive home...very contented. THIS IS the very best type of twitch for me. No dithering, no what ifs...just GO!!!
Summary
So my luck at Lands End had finally changed...
2011 - I changed my flight time to Scilly from morning to afternoon to try for the 1w male SCARLET TANAGER at St Levan on Saturday October 22nd. A smart move I thought until the bird decided to leave and fly to Scilly!!!
2013 - A HERMIT THRUSH was at Porthgwarra on October 30th. A MOURNING DOVE was also present on Rum, Inner Hebrides. I decided (foolishly) to wait at Exeter for news on the HT ON November 1st as I had another long drive to Scotland for the MD. The bird was present but by the time I'd driven down from Exeter it had disappeared and so had most of the birders. I spent the next 2 days looking for it in vain. I did get the MD.
2014 - I was in the middle of another wonderful week on Scilly when it turned sour. The one species I reckoned I'd be in prime position for on Scilly would be YELLOW-BILLED CUCKOO. It was Thursday October 24th and we were on St Agnes looking at an Ortolan Bunting. The MEGA alert goes off to inform me a YBC had been found at Porthgwarra! No boat Friday when the bird was still present and of course it had disappeared when I turned up on Saturday.
That exorcised a few demons.
So, as you can see I like to think I was due some luck down there.
I have no hesitation in placing this sighting at number 4 in my all-time "RUSH BIRDS" list (see left hand column)...pop pickers!
For what it's worth I feel the bird may still be around the West Cornwall peninsular...
Wednesday, 19 July 2017
CASPIAN TERN
 |
| Astley Lake, West Yorkshire |
No rest for the wicked...
Better in flight...
Full write-up of last few days to follow...
Monday, 17 July 2017
AMUR FALCON
I decided to go to Wykeham to try for the Honey Buzzards that had showed really well yesterday. I DID get my first sighting here but the birds were VERY high...
Still, better than nothing.
I'd been there over 3 hours but this brief sighting was all I'd had. I was prepared to stay longer but things changed.
MEGA Cornwall AMUR FALCON 1s female reported St Buryan
Reported?
NO!
Another message replacing the word reported with STILL!!!
GO!!!
446 miles. It was now past 1. I took the A64 - A1 - M18 - M1 - M42
M5 - A30.
Updates told me the bird was lingering. Would it wait for me and would the light hold?
My phone Sat Nav worked a treat and I arrived just after 8. The terrain on the Cornish peninsular is a challenge with limited viewing due to high walls and undulating topography.
Fortunately a (very) small group of admirers were present BUT the bird had moved!?
The next 15 minutes weren't great...then...
A change of fortune at last...and a bit of determination. I'll allow myself a small blast on my own trumpet this time!
I've managed to post this from my phone before I grab a few hours kip. I'm still at Buryan with my guard dog. Trevor Charlton is on his way down. I hope to be sharing his celebration in the early hours...
Still, better than nothing.
I'd been there over 3 hours but this brief sighting was all I'd had. I was prepared to stay longer but things changed.
MEGA Cornwall AMUR FALCON 1s female reported St Buryan
Reported?
NO!
Another message replacing the word reported with STILL!!!
GO!!!
446 miles. It was now past 1. I took the A64 - A1 - M18 - M1 - M42
M5 - A30.
Updates told me the bird was lingering. Would it wait for me and would the light hold?
My phone Sat Nav worked a treat and I arrived just after 8. The terrain on the Cornish peninsular is a challenge with limited viewing due to high walls and undulating topography.
Fortunately a (very) small group of admirers were present BUT the bird had moved!?
The next 15 minutes weren't great...then...
A change of fortune at last...and a bit of determination. I'll allow myself a small blast on my own trumpet this time!
I've managed to post this from my phone before I grab a few hours kip. I'm still at Buryan with my guard dog. Trevor Charlton is on his way down. I hope to be sharing his celebration in the early hours...
Sunday, 16 July 2017
A couple of extras
Song Thrush belting it out at the front of my house this evening...
My mate Phil had great views of the Kent Bonaparte's Gull recently...
My mate Phil had great views of the Kent Bonaparte's Gull recently...
Curlews in the background
Two birds calling high over the garden this afternoon (H.85) were a welcome addition to the year list. I take what I can get on the wader front here!
Day out tomorrow...not sure where yet....
Day out tomorrow...not sure where yet....
Saturday, 15 July 2017
Mid-Summer Madness?
After a crazy but essential week it's time to take stock...
I have a 6 day window of potential opportunity. Will I get some much needed luck?
At least there are birds possible...
BLACK-BROWED ALBATROSS... Germany
The bird has left again recently.
ELEGANT TERN... Northern France
Just across the channel from Kent.
AMUR FALCON... Cornwall
Further rumours of the bird lingering.
I know...super optimistic!!!
Oh...and SWINHOE'S PETREL...Fair Isle
Many twitched this individual in previous summers. I won't be going.
................................
Over the next few days I'll be sorting out stats from my Cyprus and French Pyrenees trips.
I also want to update and synchronize my Spurn list so I can return it to Tim Jones on the spreadsheet he sent me. A new order starts next year. I don't actively chase birds here but I have accumulated a decent total over the past 30 years. RED-EYED VIREO and CLIFF SWALLOW being the most noteworthy. Living close by obviously helps these days but I can't compete with the Kilnsea crew.
I aim to grill Holmpton again this Autumn. It will be tough...but I will persevere...
I have a 6 day window of potential opportunity. Will I get some much needed luck?
At least there are birds possible...
BLACK-BROWED ALBATROSS... Germany
The bird has left again recently.
ELEGANT TERN... Northern France
Just across the channel from Kent.
AMUR FALCON... Cornwall
Further rumours of the bird lingering.
I know...super optimistic!!!
Oh...and SWINHOE'S PETREL...Fair Isle
Many twitched this individual in previous summers. I won't be going.
................................
Over the next few days I'll be sorting out stats from my Cyprus and French Pyrenees trips.
I also want to update and synchronize my Spurn list so I can return it to Tim Jones on the spreadsheet he sent me. A new order starts next year. I don't actively chase birds here but I have accumulated a decent total over the past 30 years. RED-EYED VIREO and CLIFF SWALLOW being the most noteworthy. Living close by obviously helps these days but I can't compete with the Kilnsea crew.
I aim to grill Holmpton again this Autumn. It will be tough...but I will persevere...
Wednesday, 12 July 2017
Time to reflect
After a whirlwind but very enjoyable few days in Italy we've landed back in Holmpton.
I managed to get down to Holderness field to eventually see the Buff-breasted Sandpiper...a Spurn/Patch tick. I bumped into a few of the locals including Richard Boon from the Village. We were joined by John Law who beat us to the first viewing. He kindly put us on the bird from the adjacent pool.
Fortunately the bird fed at the nearest point to the fence we were viewing from. I got a few record shots but I'm too tired to go through them now!
I needed a walk so I returned to the car via Beacon lane. As I was walking up to Driftwood I saw John Hewitt talking to Steve Exley. I informed them the BBS was still present some 15 mins previous. John then kindly invited me up onto his platform for a cuppa.... quite a view! We had a good chat for some 30 mins before I had to leave to pick up the lads from their holiday home.
I managed to get down to Holderness field to eventually see the Buff-breasted Sandpiper...a Spurn/Patch tick. I bumped into a few of the locals including Richard Boon from the Village. We were joined by John Law who beat us to the first viewing. He kindly put us on the bird from the adjacent pool.
Fortunately the bird fed at the nearest point to the fence we were viewing from. I got a few record shots but I'm too tired to go through them now!
I needed a walk so I returned to the car via Beacon lane. As I was walking up to Driftwood I saw John Hewitt talking to Steve Exley. I informed them the BBS was still present some 15 mins previous. John then kindly invited me up onto his platform for a cuppa.... quite a view! We had a good chat for some 30 mins before I had to leave to pick up the lads from their holiday home.
Monday, 10 July 2017
Robert's Wedding
It's the BIG day.
Had a great evening last night drinking and joking with my two sons. Precious time.
Earlier we'd visited Mount Baldo via the cable car, which gave great views of the Malcesine Castle (the wedding venue) and Lake Garda...
At the top we met my Sister, Eldest son Graeme and his wife Rachel plus my Grandson Daniel...
He's a cutie!
I did manage a quick bird sighting (no bins on such an important occasion) in the form of c5 Alpine Swifts zooming over our heads at very close quarters. I even managed to get Graeme interested..for a few seconds at least!
It's going to be a busy day, so time to get suited and booted...
Had a great evening last night drinking and joking with my two sons. Precious time.
Earlier we'd visited Mount Baldo via the cable car, which gave great views of the Malcesine Castle (the wedding venue) and Lake Garda...
At the top we met my Sister, Eldest son Graeme and his wife Rachel plus my Grandson Daniel...
He's a cutie!
I did manage a quick bird sighting (no bins on such an important occasion) in the form of c5 Alpine Swifts zooming over our heads at very close quarters. I even managed to get Graeme interested..for a few seconds at least!
It's going to be a busy day, so time to get suited and booted...
Friday, 7 July 2017
AMUR FALCON - I was only joking my dear
News broke late last night. Lands End!
Of course I wasn't available... again. Busy day Friday...packing. much prep, pets to boarding, 3 suits to pick up in Manchester for the wedding....
Louise can do all that...no she can't!
I did leave Stockport at 1pm for the M6 car park but news had dried up by then. Just as well really as it took me an hour to do 10 miles. This country's transport system is a disgrace.
Anyway, enough moaning about things turning up when I"m not available...
................................
Off to Lake Garda tomorrow morning to enjoy quality time with family at my youngest son's wedding. One of the things that's definitely more important than birds.
Of course I wasn't available... again. Busy day Friday...packing. much prep, pets to boarding, 3 suits to pick up in Manchester for the wedding....
Louise can do all that...no she can't!
I did leave Stockport at 1pm for the M6 car park but news had dried up by then. Just as well really as it took me an hour to do 10 miles. This country's transport system is a disgrace.
Anyway, enough moaning about things turning up when I"m not available...
................................
Off to Lake Garda tomorrow morning to enjoy quality time with family at my youngest son's wedding. One of the things that's definitely more important than birds.
Thursday, 6 July 2017
Negative Vibes
(Anti)social media?
I admit to using Facebook and Twitter to glean Birding info and follow Family and friends.
Trouble is... there's SO much negativity. Similar to the general news I guess. I'm a big boy and I can handle the harsh realities but do I want it rammed down my throat when I'm trying to relax?
Bird news is filled with failed breeders, declining populations etc. Another blow in Cyprus just announced.
Well here's some good news... it's called Frampton Marsh where I'm writing this from...
c44 Lapwing of which well over half are youngsters in a binocular view.
Three figure numbers of Black-tailed Godwits
Family parties of Shoveler, Tufted Duck and Great Crested Grebe.
Summer plumage Ruff in all their finary.
Red-crested Pochard (6)
Spoonbill (2)
Turtle Dove
Find a nice place...and enjoy it!
I admit to using Facebook and Twitter to glean Birding info and follow Family and friends.
Trouble is... there's SO much negativity. Similar to the general news I guess. I'm a big boy and I can handle the harsh realities but do I want it rammed down my throat when I'm trying to relax?
Bird news is filled with failed breeders, declining populations etc. Another blow in Cyprus just announced.
Well here's some good news... it's called Frampton Marsh where I'm writing this from...
c44 Lapwing of which well over half are youngsters in a binocular view.
Three figure numbers of Black-tailed Godwits
Family parties of Shoveler, Tufted Duck and Great Crested Grebe.
Summer plumage Ruff in all their finary.
Red-crested Pochard (6)
Spoonbill (2)
Turtle Dove
Find a nice place...and enjoy it!
