Double Duff

2 visits, Wednesday and Friday. The main news being a flock of magnificent Whooper Swans (45) were present, albeit distantly...

I was hoping some would have returned by now. Even better tosee them actually ON the Carrs, as they can spend long periods on Ellerton and the Farm fields over the road. I was joined by Haydn on both occasions. Friday was the better day weather-wise and we enjoyed a good hour out on the Platform. I "had" 26 Pink-footed Geese going South on arrival...

...followed shortly afterwards by 3 Whooper Swans off the Farmland to the South, low over my head!

Haydn mentioned he'd had a Willow Tit on his way out but we couldn't locate it on our return, although he heard it. However I did score with Stonechat (97)...

...Goldcrest (98) and Bullfinch (female).

Once in the Hide Haydn picked up FIVE cc Marsh Harriers hunting just beyond the far end of the Reserve on Ellerton Ings. We later had a male on Duff. Not bad for an Inland Site! A superb large, female Peregrine was present on the grass for a good hour. A couple of Red Kites circled over the Poplars. Buzzards (4) were present throughout, including one pale individual in a bush, standing out like a sore thumb in the Winter sunshine.

An uplifting 4 hour session in ideal conditions. Sunshine throughout which is much appreciated in Dullvember. I'll be back next week.

Eastern promise for the weekend. Maybe a late result?

Duff - 98