Grounded

Migration always continues into November, which thankfully extends the interest beyond the dreaded clock change. 

I had a session at Duff on Wednesday and was joined by Haydn. As we walked down the path to the Hide we saw a Treecreeper briefly which was a nice start. Only my second record this year. Still no sign of water on the Carrs but there's always something to see and the view has been improved with the recent management. I now have a clear view down to Garganey Hide. Bodes well for the Winter sessions.

The highlight of our 3.5 hour watch was the constant Westerly movement of Fieldfares. I always see good numbers at this time of Year but it's usually a temporarily "resident" flock of c100. We conservatively estimated c500 Birds.

I briefly picked up a distant "White Egret" that looked large but quickly disappeared into thick cover. I was pleased when Haygn picked it up over Bubwith Ings confirming it as a Great White...

...a Little Egret was also seen...

There were at least 3 Stonechats present which are always good value. Other notables were a lone Pink-footed Goose...

Raptors were represented by Marsh Harrier (2) and Red Kite. The two new channels through the reeds paid off when we eventually SAW a Water Rail. It showed on three occasions but was two quick for me to record.

The loyal Whooper Swan Herd (or at least part of it c70) was present distantly on Ellerton Ings...

Always a heartwarming sight to see these returning Birds.

It wasn't all Birds...

So, a good morning. Unfortunately the afternoon went "pear shaped" when I had er...a mechanical issue! I managed to get her to Hull and hopefully things can be sorted?

As a consequence I'm now "Birding from Home"...it's all the rage! I've put 5 hours in the last couple of days encouraged by an influx of the jewels that are Pallas's Warblers. I've never seen one in the Village in 14 Years despite my location being favourable. You've heard about my near misses but no connection...yet. I'll keep trying. My mate Phil had better luck at South Gare...