A good number of Yellowhammers at the feed station today, at least 3 pheasants too.
A Mistle Thrush and Goldcrest were around the church area this morning.
Monday, 29 February 2016
Sunday, 28 February 2016
28th Feb - touch of frost last night, cloudy morning, sunny spell pm, 7C, but cool light/fresh NE wind
I visited the local reservoir this afternoon, several Mallard pairs were present, whilst Goldeneye (c20) and Goosander (9) were all very actively displaying and after the females.
About 25 Pochard, c10 Gadwall and numerous Tufted Duck were present, an estimated 150 Wigeon were taking it easy, some feeding on the dam and 38 Greylag and 2 Canada Geese were loathing on the water.
Two Grey Herons were fishing around the edge and 12 Cormorants were fishing or sitting in the trees. A Water Rail was heard in the reed bed.
Two male Grey Wagtails were at the out flow one singing and disputing territory with the other. A pair of Long-tailed Tits and Bullfinch were in the bushes. At the feed station a good number of Tree Sparrow were feeding, maybe 50, only 1 Fieldfare was seen though. A Buzzard frequently called and flew over the reservoir.
A newly fruiting fungus was spotted, not sure on the species, need to check it out further. This fungus is probably the Liberty Cup, also known as Magic Mushroom due to their effects, it is a common species.
Two male Grey Wagtails were at the out flow one singing and disputing territory with the other. A pair of Long-tailed Tits and Bullfinch were in the bushes. At the feed station a good number of Tree Sparrow were feeding, maybe 50, only 1 Fieldfare was seen though. A Buzzard frequently called and flew over the reservoir.
A newly fruiting fungus was spotted, not sure on the species, need to check it out further. This fungus is probably the Liberty Cup, also known as Magic Mushroom due to their effects, it is a common species.
Saturday, 27 February 2016
27th Feb - mostly cloudy all day, a cold steady easterly making the 7C feel like 2C
It was nice to see a flock of ~40 Redwing move north over the village this morning.
I visited Shawell lagoons during the afternoon, hoping for a Iceland Gull as one was seen by Carl some days ago and others have been reported around the Midlands, however I did not see one.
There was two Grey Herons present, one was on the middle bank and then moved to a lagoon to fish. It did catch a small fish, it picked and dropped it several times before swallowing it. How fish originated in the lagoons is a mystery, some say fish eggs get transported on the legs of birds.
Several colour ringed gulls were present, however, due to poor light it was not possible to read them, apart partially. One Lesser-black Backed gull had one ring which ended with a T, which I believe would have been ringed by the Thames group.
Also present were a pair of Shelduck, only 6 Wigeon, 31 Tufted Duck and a Cormorant. 17 Lapwings were there, this is well down on the wintering flock that visits the lagoons, suggesting many have left to their breeding areas.
I visited Shawell lagoons during the afternoon, hoping for a Iceland Gull as one was seen by Carl some days ago and others have been reported around the Midlands, however I did not see one.
There was two Grey Herons present, one was on the middle bank and then moved to a lagoon to fish. It did catch a small fish, it picked and dropped it several times before swallowing it. How fish originated in the lagoons is a mystery, some say fish eggs get transported on the legs of birds.
Several colour ringed gulls were present, however, due to poor light it was not possible to read them, apart partially. One Lesser-black Backed gull had one ring which ended with a T, which I believe would have been ringed by the Thames group.
Also present were a pair of Shelduck, only 6 Wigeon, 31 Tufted Duck and a Cormorant. 17 Lapwings were there, this is well down on the wintering flock that visits the lagoons, suggesting many have left to their breeding areas.
Friday, 26 February 2016
Thursday, 25 February 2016
25th Feb - mostly sunny, light breeze, 7C
A neighbour told me he heard Tawny Owl calling early yesterday evening to the east of the village.
There were small numbers of Redwing and Fieldfare, less than 20 each, with - 100 Starlings feeding on pastures this morning.
A good number of gulls, Common, Herring and Lesser-black Backed with Jackdaws and Roks were feeding on other pastures.
Green and Great-spotted Woodpeckers were busy calling and drumming respectively and Coal Tits were often heard singing during the day.
There were small numbers of Redwing and Fieldfare, less than 20 each, with - 100 Starlings feeding on pastures this morning.
A good number of gulls, Common, Herring and Lesser-black Backed with Jackdaws and Roks were feeding on other pastures.
Green and Great-spotted Woodpeckers were busy calling and drumming respectively and Coal Tits were often heard singing during the day.
Wednesday, 24 February 2016
Tuesday, 23 February 2016
23rd Feb - sunny spells, 7C, light breeze
Busy helping with the lambing today. Unbelievably two ewes gave birth to quads yesterday and all were a good size and heathy. Ewes are only designed for two lambs really so as these grow extra feeding will be needed.
I was able to watch the feed station for a short while early afternoon. There were at least 10 Yellowhammers, 6 Chaffinch, 6 Great, 2 Blue and 1 Coal Tit. 4 Tree and 6 House Sparrows were present, a Tree Sparrow often seeing a House Sparrow off the feeder. Two Pheasants fed below the feeders.
A Mistle Thrush was in the area and the Goldcrest was singing again. Several Song Thrushes could be heard singing around the general village area.
I was able to watch the feed station for a short while early afternoon. There were at least 10 Yellowhammers, 6 Chaffinch, 6 Great, 2 Blue and 1 Coal Tit. 4 Tree and 6 House Sparrows were present, a Tree Sparrow often seeing a House Sparrow off the feeder. Two Pheasants fed below the feeders.
A Mistle Thrush was in the area and the Goldcrest was singing again. Several Song Thrushes could be heard singing around the general village area.
Monday, 22 February 2016
22nd Feb - cloudy start giving way to sunny spells, 8C, light SW
A Goldcrest has been singing the last few days in the Church area.
I spotted a lone Lapwing flying to the north of the village close to the Bittesby fields. Once Lapwing wintered and bred in the Parish and immediate close area, possibly a 1000 wintered and several breed in the fields, these have practically gone now. So, to see one may suggest an early bird looking for a breeding area, or just one passing by. There are still some that winter a few miles away, possibly 200-300 maximum, but seemingly less yearly.
I spotted a lone Lapwing flying to the north of the village close to the Bittesby fields. Once Lapwing wintered and bred in the Parish and immediate close area, possibly a 1000 wintered and several breed in the fields, these have practically gone now. So, to see one may suggest an early bird looking for a breeding area, or just one passing by. There are still some that winter a few miles away, possibly 200-300 maximum, but seemingly less yearly.
Sunday, 21 February 2016
21st Feb - sunny spells, strong gusty SW, but very mild, 15C
Few Redwings and Fieldfares around the pastures again.
In the village our neighbour Richard said that he now has one, maybe two, Reed Buntings coming to his garden feeding area. Also, last Thursday night, 1100ish, a Hedgehog, was walking around their garden.
This afternoon I went to see the Long-billed Dowitcher that had reappeared at Wanlip after some days absence. On arrival at the Plover hide in Watermead country park the bird was still present on the far side of the marsh, the light and strong wind made viewing difficult at times, but good views were had. After awhile the Lapwing, Gulls and Dowitcher took flight and it disappeared, not immediately returning with the Lapwing. The Dowitcher breeds in North America and Siberia and winters South America, as occasionally happens some go of the normal course and can end up in the UK. There are at least two others here (In UK) presently.
Probably due to the wind few other birds were about, Teal on the same pool, two Goosander, a single Pochard and several Tufter Duck were on the main pool opposite. A party of Long-tailed Tits were searching the drive hedgerow and a Green Woodpecker called nearby.
In the village our neighbour Richard said that he now has one, maybe two, Reed Buntings coming to his garden feeding area. Also, last Thursday night, 1100ish, a Hedgehog, was walking around their garden.
This afternoon I went to see the Long-billed Dowitcher that had reappeared at Wanlip after some days absence. On arrival at the Plover hide in Watermead country park the bird was still present on the far side of the marsh, the light and strong wind made viewing difficult at times, but good views were had. After awhile the Lapwing, Gulls and Dowitcher took flight and it disappeared, not immediately returning with the Lapwing. The Dowitcher breeds in North America and Siberia and winters South America, as occasionally happens some go of the normal course and can end up in the UK. There are at least two others here (In UK) presently.
Probably due to the wind few other birds were about, Teal on the same pool, two Goosander, a single Pochard and several Tufter Duck were on the main pool opposite. A party of Long-tailed Tits were searching the drive hedgerow and a Green Woodpecker called nearby.
Saturday, 20 February 2016
20th Feb - cloudy, with light rain occasionally, mild 9C, light-mod SW/S
A day of catching up and the first lambs born on the farm.
Two Kestrels were along Montilo lane this morning. Several were seen on the journey to Norfolk the other day, so hopefully they are doing well across many parts of the country.
Later, the Sparrowhawk was in the garden around the feeder area chasing a bird in the bush.
Two Kestrels were along Montilo lane this morning. Several were seen on the journey to Norfolk the other day, so hopefully they are doing well across many parts of the country.
Later, the Sparrowhawk was in the garden around the feeder area chasing a bird in the bush.
Friday, 19 February 2016
19th Feb - sunny, 8C, keen SW
Today's observations in Norfolk and pics will be added tomorrow.
Old Hunstanton; a quick look over the sea for a while did not find too much, but several Fulmar were flying towards the cliffs, they nest here and seem to be doing well.
Thornham Harbour; a visit to the harbour area particularly to see the Twite was next. these small finches are really great, although at first they look plain and dull a close look shows them to be really well marked with a yellow bill. 30 were counted in one flock and close views were had. They breed in upland areas and move down and to the coast for the winter where conditions are less severe.
On top of a channel marker a Kingfisher surveyed the scene. Walking along the bank towards Holme there were plenty of Skylarks and meadow Pipit, a Rock Pipit flew past calling and settled on the marsh. On the pastures Pink-footed, Brent, Canada and Greylag Gees grazed, accompanies by Lapwings, Golden Plover, Starlings and Wigeon. The hoped for Merlin never showed, but Marsh harriers were over the fen areas.
The next stop was Brancastor Staithe to see the Red-necked Grebe that has been there awhile, it was in the main channel just off the car parking area, with a Little Grebe and Goldeneye. around the harbour area were a variety of other birds, including Brent Geese, Curlew, Turnstone, Godwits and Oystercatchers.
A visit to Choseley barns area next for the Rough legged Buzzard resulted in one very brief view as it dissapeared over the crest and hedge, but then not re-located. However, 3 Buzzard, a Marsh Harrier, Kestrel and Sparrowhawk were seen there. Grey and Red legged Partridge were present on the fields as well has many Hare, easily more than 20 were visible.
Titchwell RSPB reserve was the next place, first a coffee and check the feeders. A good mixture of Tits and Finches were on the feeders including a female Brambling. its always worth looking in the ditch as you go down the main path for Water Rail, and sure enough one was feeding there oblivious to those walking past. Looking over the freshmarsh a single Water Pipit was feeding with several Meadow Pipits. On the main marsh there was a good selection of birds, including both Black-tailed and Bar-tailed Godwits and a good flock of Avocets.
Reaching the shore the tide was well out making space for waders to be feeding along the edge, including Sanderling, Turnstone and many others. Out on the sea a very distant flock of Common Scoter, several Red-breasted Mergansers were close to shore and a single Great-crested Grebes.
In all, nearly 60 species were seen at Titchwell.
Old Hunstanton; a quick look over the sea for a while did not find too much, but several Fulmar were flying towards the cliffs, they nest here and seem to be doing well.
Thornham Harbour; a visit to the harbour area particularly to see the Twite was next. these small finches are really great, although at first they look plain and dull a close look shows them to be really well marked with a yellow bill. 30 were counted in one flock and close views were had. They breed in upland areas and move down and to the coast for the winter where conditions are less severe.
The next stop was Brancastor Staithe to see the Red-necked Grebe that has been there awhile, it was in the main channel just off the car parking area, with a Little Grebe and Goldeneye. around the harbour area were a variety of other birds, including Brent Geese, Curlew, Turnstone, Godwits and Oystercatchers.
A visit to Choseley barns area next for the Rough legged Buzzard resulted in one very brief view as it dissapeared over the crest and hedge, but then not re-located. However, 3 Buzzard, a Marsh Harrier, Kestrel and Sparrowhawk were seen there. Grey and Red legged Partridge were present on the fields as well has many Hare, easily more than 20 were visible.
Titchwell RSPB reserve was the next place, first a coffee and check the feeders. A good mixture of Tits and Finches were on the feeders including a female Brambling. its always worth looking in the ditch as you go down the main path for Water Rail, and sure enough one was feeding there oblivious to those walking past. Looking over the freshmarsh a single Water Pipit was feeding with several Meadow Pipits. On the main marsh there was a good selection of birds, including both Black-tailed and Bar-tailed Godwits and a good flock of Avocets.
Reaching the shore the tide was well out making space for waders to be feeding along the edge, including Sanderling, Turnstone and many others. Out on the sea a very distant flock of Common Scoter, several Red-breasted Mergansers were close to shore and a single Great-crested Grebes.
In all, nearly 60 species were seen at Titchwell.
Thursday, 18 February 2016
18th Feb - wow a sunny day, 8C, light breeze
I made my way to Roydon Common in Norfolk to see the Harrier roost, and hopefully the Pallid Harrier that has been wintering in the area and of late roosting on the common. I arrived at 1500h, plenty of time ahead of the roost. Not too much about until about 1530h when 3 ring tail Hen Harriers came to the common and seemed to go to roost early. This was followed by a hunting Barn Owl. Across the common a number of Roe Deer were out feeding.
Things remained pretty quite except for some distant Jays, Magpies and Carrion Crows, a cock Pheasnt occasionally showed and meadow pipes flitted about.
About 1645h another Hen Harrier was spotted low, followed by another bird, yes the Pallid Harrier. The Pallid did some flying and sitting on posts where it preened, in all I was able to watch it for about 15 mins before it dropped down to roost on the common. So, good views of this and 6 ringtail Hene Harriers were had.
Tomorrow to the coast.
Things remained pretty quite except for some distant Jays, Magpies and Carrion Crows, a cock Pheasnt occasionally showed and meadow pipes flitted about.
About 1645h another Hen Harrier was spotted low, followed by another bird, yes the Pallid Harrier. The Pallid did some flying and sitting on posts where it preened, in all I was able to watch it for about 15 mins before it dropped down to roost on the common. So, good views of this and 6 ringtail Hene Harriers were had.
Tomorrow to the coast.
Wednesday, 17 February 2016
17th Feb - cloudy start quickly giving light rain through the day, a cool SW light
Passing through North Kilworth I noticed there was a Kestrel hovering over the new canal marina area that is being created.
The rain increased during the day and lasted in to the night, giving another cold, wet miserable day
The rain increased during the day and lasted in to the night, giving another cold, wet miserable day
Tuesday, 16 February 2016
16th Feb- frosty night -5, clear sunny day, light NE
A Chaffinch was gave a few bursts of song this morning. The Nuthatch was calling loudly as it visited the feed station area.
A Sparrowhawk dashed in to the wood edge first thing disturbing the thrushes which had been feeding in the sunshine. A good size flock of winter thrushes were feeding on the pasture behind the church.
A Sparrowhawk dashed in to the wood edge first thing disturbing the thrushes which had been feeding in the sunshine. A good size flock of winter thrushes were feeding on the pasture behind the church.
Monday, 15 February 2016
15th Feb - frosty night, -5C, sunny bright morning, little cloud pm, light N wind
A pair of Bullfinch were in the blackthorn thicket this morning, and a Skylark called as it flew over.
Sunday, 14 February 2016
14th Feb - sunny periods, cool NE light to mod, 5C
The Fieldfare and Redwing flock is now regular on the fields to the east of the village and will probably stay, feeding for a few weeks until the head off north.
At the local reservoir this afternoon I first checked a game feed area on the neighborouring field, this held c60 Chaffinch, 2 Brambling, 2 Greenfinch, 5 Linnet and a Reed Bunting. Siskin was heard in the nearby Alders. A Grey Wagtail was feeding at the overflow.
On the reservoir there was 3 Goosander, plenty of Gadwall and Tufted Duck, about 30 Pochard and 6 Goldeneye, only 2 Wigeon were seen. About 20 Fieldfare were feeding on a neighborouring pasture, then a covey of 10 Red legged Partridge flew past. A Buzzard flew by, quickly followed by a Sparrowhawk, a Kestrel had been spotted earlier. At the feed station ~ 20 Tree Sparrows were feeding.
At the local reservoir this afternoon I first checked a game feed area on the neighborouring field, this held c60 Chaffinch, 2 Brambling, 2 Greenfinch, 5 Linnet and a Reed Bunting. Siskin was heard in the nearby Alders. A Grey Wagtail was feeding at the overflow.
On the reservoir there was 3 Goosander, plenty of Gadwall and Tufted Duck, about 30 Pochard and 6 Goldeneye, only 2 Wigeon were seen. About 20 Fieldfare were feeding on a neighborouring pasture, then a covey of 10 Red legged Partridge flew past. A Buzzard flew by, quickly followed by a Sparrowhawk, a Kestrel had been spotted earlier. At the feed station ~ 20 Tree Sparrows were feeding.
Saturday, 13 February 2016
13th Feb - cloudy cool start, light east wind, remained dull with drizzle/light rain shower pm, 4C
At the local lake this morning a pair of Little Grebes were displaying and 2 Song thrush were singing. There was a roving Tit flock working the bushes, with them was a Treecreeper.
Mid-day there was ~100 Fieldfare and 20 Redwing feeding on the pastures to the east of the village.
The weather was pretty miserable during the afternoon and with few gulls at Shawell I decided to go for the Green-wing Teal that had re-appeared at Daventry reservoir after being absent for a few days since I last tried to find it and failed (6th Feb).
Making my way to the grit trap pool I was able to find the Green-winged Teal resting under the willows on the far side, fortunately it soon became mobile swimming around the pool and coming closer giving good views and a chance for some record photos. The most obvious plumage difference for the drake to our Eurasian Teal is the white vertical stripe on its side, you can compare in the second photo below. The female of the two species are practically indistinguishable in the field.
In the area were at least 15 Siskin feeding high up on the Alder, several Son Thrushes were present and singing, a pair of Bullfinch were in the Blackthorn, the male performing his quite song to the female. On the main reservoir 3 Goosander and 3 Shoveler were present and over 20 Great crested Grebes. In all I spotted 34 bird species in the area I explored, I;m sure there's more wildlife here to find during the Spring and beyond
Blackthorn has been seen in flower for several weeks, has it ever been this early?
Mid-day there was ~100 Fieldfare and 20 Redwing feeding on the pastures to the east of the village.
The weather was pretty miserable during the afternoon and with few gulls at Shawell I decided to go for the Green-wing Teal that had re-appeared at Daventry reservoir after being absent for a few days since I last tried to find it and failed (6th Feb).
Making my way to the grit trap pool I was able to find the Green-winged Teal resting under the willows on the far side, fortunately it soon became mobile swimming around the pool and coming closer giving good views and a chance for some record photos. The most obvious plumage difference for the drake to our Eurasian Teal is the white vertical stripe on its side, you can compare in the second photo below. The female of the two species are practically indistinguishable in the field.
Blackthorn has been seen in flower for several weeks, has it ever been this early?
Friday, 12 February 2016
12th Feb - touch of frost, chilly cloudy start becoming brighter, 6C
Quite a lot of bird song this morning, the days are getting noticeably lighter in the mornings now.
More Redwing and Fieldfare in the fields to the east again, they moved off NW.
Visited Brandon marsh during the afternoon, the recent high water had clearly made quite a few birds move on, fewer ducks than normally seen, though Teal, Gadwall and Shoveler were numerous.
Cormorants were present looking fine in their breeding plumage.
On east marsh there were 3 Great crested Grebes, while out side the Carlton hide a Little Grebe pair were displaying, interestingly they often spent a while out of the water on the bank.
There was about 50 Lapwing present, some giving display calls and flight, some will already left their winter areas heading back to breeding sites. Another breeding visitor to Brandon is the Oystercatcher, one has returned this week and was present today.
A Cettis Warbler was noisy in the reeds, then flew across the gap in front of east marsh hide to disappear into the reeds again.
More Redwing and Fieldfare in the fields to the east again, they moved off NW.
Visited Brandon marsh during the afternoon, the recent high water had clearly made quite a few birds move on, fewer ducks than normally seen, though Teal, Gadwall and Shoveler were numerous.
11th Feb - frost last night, then sunny periods, light SW, 7C
This morning at lease 200 Firldfare and 50 Redwing were around the fields to the east, they then flew NW. Having not seen many since the windy-wet weather they seem to be moving back, probably some heading off homewards now for breeding.
An afternoon look at local farmland which has been set-aside produced a flock of ~50 Linnets, 7+ Yellowhammers and 4+ Reed Buntings. As well as Fieldfares, Redwing, Great spotted Woodpecker and Buzzard.
An afternoon look at local farmland which has been set-aside produced a flock of ~50 Linnets, 7+ Yellowhammers and 4+ Reed Buntings. As well as Fieldfares, Redwing, Great spotted Woodpecker and Buzzard.
Wednesday, 10 February 2016
10th Feb - sunny periods, light NW, 8C
Greenfinches were singing and displaying this morning in the sunshine, along with a Song Thrush singing.
Took a look at Shawell lagoons during the afternoon, hoping for scarce gulls and ones with colour rings. Plenty of gulls, maybe 3000 over the landfill with a steady movement between there and the lagoons, however, no scarce or ringed gulls were spotted.
I was met by a couple of Long-tailed Tits and a Treecreeper in the hedge. A nice surprise on the first lagoon was a pair of Shelduck.
Also, there was 19 Tufted Duck, c200 Wigeon, 8 Gadwall, Shoveler pair and 50 Canada Geese. A Buzzard passed by low. The following photos show the scene on the middle bank.
Took a look at Shawell lagoons during the afternoon, hoping for scarce gulls and ones with colour rings. Plenty of gulls, maybe 3000 over the landfill with a steady movement between there and the lagoons, however, no scarce or ringed gulls were spotted.
I was met by a couple of Long-tailed Tits and a Treecreeper in the hedge. A nice surprise on the first lagoon was a pair of Shelduck.
Also, there was 19 Tufted Duck, c200 Wigeon, 8 Gadwall, Shoveler pair and 50 Canada Geese. A Buzzard passed by low. The following photos show the scene on the middle bank.
Tuesday, 9 February 2016
9th Feb - a touch of ground frost last night, cool start with sunny intervals, becoming cloudier, 8C
A Great -spotted Woodpecker was drumming in the local wood first thing and a Mistle Thrush was singing in the village, a Coal Tit joined in from the Church area.
A Sparrowhawk flew over a sheep grazing pasture trying for the Starling flock that was busy feeding there, but no luck.
Redwing and Fieldfare have been scarce for the last few days now.
A Sparrowhawk flew over a sheep grazing pasture trying for the Starling flock that was busy feeding there, but no luck.
Redwing and Fieldfare have been scarce for the last few days now.
Monday, 8 February 2016
8th Feb - a thoroughly wet and windy (SW) night continuing during the day, 8C
A Raven battled its way against the wind westward low over the village at 1115h, calling as it went.
RSPB garden bird survey, village results.
The counts from 4 residents are in, thanks to those for sharing their data. In all 26 species were seen, with a maximum total count of 210 birds, the full results are below.
The top 5 max counts were:
House Sparrow 36
Blue Tit 19
Jackdaw 19
Goldfinch 17
Greenfinch 17
Chaffinch 16
Great Tit 13
The results clearly show how important that gardens and feeders are for birds. These are not one-off appearances in the gardens but are regularly seen throughout the winter. We have a good population of Greenfinches which is good to see, as in recent years they have suffered from disease in many parts of the country.
Everyone could make a little room for wildlife in their garden, for instance, now is the time to erect a nest box, somewhere quiet, away from possible cat predation and not facing the direct sunlight. Or plant a bush that provides a natural food source for birds or butterflies, etc. Lots of garden information is available free at the RSPB website.
RSPB garden bird survey, village results.
The counts from 4 residents are in, thanks to those for sharing their data. In all 26 species were seen, with a maximum total count of 210 birds, the full results are below.
The top 5 max counts were:
House Sparrow 36
Blue Tit 19
Jackdaw 19
Goldfinch 17
Greenfinch 17
Chaffinch 16
Great Tit 13
The results clearly show how important that gardens and feeders are for birds. These are not one-off appearances in the gardens but are regularly seen throughout the winter. We have a good population of Greenfinches which is good to see, as in recent years they have suffered from disease in many parts of the country.
Everyone could make a little room for wildlife in their garden, for instance, now is the time to erect a nest box, somewhere quiet, away from possible cat predation and not facing the direct sunlight. Or plant a bush that provides a natural food source for birds or butterflies, etc. Lots of garden information is available free at the RSPB website.
| Gill | Sarais | Richard/Stella | Steven | ||
| Garden | Garden | Garden | Paddock | ||
| Feeders | Feeders | Feeders | Feeders | ||
| Sat morning | Sat morning | Sun morning | Sat morning | Max Species count | |
| Blackbird | 2 | 3 | 2 | 7 | |
| Blue Tit | 2 | 4 | 8 | 5 | 19 |
| Chaffinch | 3 | 2 | 9 | 2 | 16 |
| Coal Tit | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 4 |
| Collard Dove | 3 | 2 | 3 | 1 | 9 |
| Goldfinch | 8 | 1 | 8 | 17 | |
| Greenfinch | 1 | 5 | 10 | 1 | 17 |
| House Sparrow | 8 | 15 | 9 | 4 | 36 |
| Long-tailed tit | 3 | 3 | 6 | ||
| Robin | 1 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 6 |
| Dunnock | 2 | 1 | 1 | 4 | |
| Great Tit | 2 | 5 | 6 | 13 | |
| Starling | 1 | 1 | |||
| Woodpigeon | 2 | 1 | 1 | 4 | |
| Gt Spotted Woodpecker | 2 | 2 | 4 | ||
| Carrion crow | 1 | 1 | |||
| Nuthatch | 3 | 3 | |||
| Jackdaw | 1 | 3 | 15 | 19 | |
| Bullfinch | 4 | 4 | |||
| Tree sparrow | 6 | 6 | |||
| Sparrowhawk | 1 | 1 | |||
| Yellowhammer | 1 | 3 | 4 | ||
| Pheasant | 1 | 1 | |||
| Feral pigeon | 3 | 3 | |||
| Wren | 1 | 1 | 2 | ||
| Magpie | 1 | 2 | 3 | ||
| Max garden count | 32 | 48 | 67 | 63 | 210 |
| Total No. Species =26 |
Sunday, 7 February 2016
7th Feb - a wet night, sunny but cool morning with moderate SW, clouding over, strong gusty later with showers, 8C
A hen and cock Pheasant were at the feed station first thing and two Nuthatches were calling nearby.
This afternoon I ventured to the local reservoir, braving the deteriorating weather conditions. Within 5 mins of getting kitted out I was hit by heavy showers and very strong gusts, alas no pot of gold at the end of the rainbow.
Birds were hard to find, even the ducks were having a challenge, there were 5 Goosanders in, plenty of Goldeneye and Gadwall though. A Sparrowhawk shot through the feeder area, scattering the Tits and 30+ Tree Sparrows for a while. A Great-spotted Woodpecker called nearby and ~60 lapwings moved over head to a new filed.
I have 4 sets of data from the RSPB garden birdwatch for the village and will be posting a summary shortly, the gardens were attracting a wide selection of birds to the feeders and in good numbers, especially for Goldfinch and Greenfinch.
This afternoon I ventured to the local reservoir, braving the deteriorating weather conditions. Within 5 mins of getting kitted out I was hit by heavy showers and very strong gusts, alas no pot of gold at the end of the rainbow.
I have 4 sets of data from the RSPB garden birdwatch for the village and will be posting a summary shortly, the gardens were attracting a wide selection of birds to the feeders and in good numbers, especially for Goldfinch and Greenfinch.
Saturday, 6 February 2016
6th Feb - another wet day, wind freshening becoming strong and gusty with rain from S. 9C
Currently no sighting to report, maybe later.
A Long-billed dowitcher reported from Wanlip near Leicester has disappeared early, while a Green-winged Teal is reported from Daventry reservoir, this maybe do-able having never visited this site it may be interesting to see.
Not hearing any more news on the LBD and deciding the weather was not suitable for gull watching at Shawell I headed off to Daventry. Passing Shawell lagoons I could see gulls numbers were very low anyhow.
At the reservoir I walked over the dam, nearly blown over and down the east side, I could see a variety of ducks including 2 Goldeneye and 4 Goosander. Heading a little further to where the Green-winged Teal with Eurasion Teal has been, another birder said it had not been seen recently. The Eurasion Teal were a bit nervy, branches in the neighborouring trees banged and broke-off in the wind making some Teal fly off, others were tucked up under the reeds and overhanging branches. Anyhow, after a considerable time searching and waiting the Green-winged Teal was not located. May be it will turn up another day, or has it left the area?
A Long-billed dowitcher reported from Wanlip near Leicester has disappeared early, while a Green-winged Teal is reported from Daventry reservoir, this maybe do-able having never visited this site it may be interesting to see.
Not hearing any more news on the LBD and deciding the weather was not suitable for gull watching at Shawell I headed off to Daventry. Passing Shawell lagoons I could see gulls numbers were very low anyhow.
At the reservoir I walked over the dam, nearly blown over and down the east side, I could see a variety of ducks including 2 Goldeneye and 4 Goosander. Heading a little further to where the Green-winged Teal with Eurasion Teal has been, another birder said it had not been seen recently. The Eurasion Teal were a bit nervy, branches in the neighborouring trees banged and broke-off in the wind making some Teal fly off, others were tucked up under the reeds and overhanging branches. Anyhow, after a considerable time searching and waiting the Green-winged Teal was not located. May be it will turn up another day, or has it left the area?
Friday, 5 February 2016
5th Feb - cloudy day, occasional light shower later, 10C, light-mod, increasing SW
Not too much happening today. Goldcrests and Mistle Thrush were again around the Church area.
Mid-morning a Kestrel was hunting near Montilo lane, regular here now.
At1540h at least 30 Redwings flew on to the old railway to roost.
Mid-morning a Kestrel was hunting near Montilo lane, regular here now.
At1540h at least 30 Redwings flew on to the old railway to roost.
Thursday, 4 February 2016
4th Feb - cloudy morning, sunny intervals pm, 12C, light/mod westerly
I ventured off to the north arm of Rutland water particularly to see the wintering Grebes that have been there for a while. I quickly found the Red-necked Grebe, but after prolonged searching I could not find the Black-necked and Slavonian Grebes. Great-crested and Little Grebes were present, 2 Oystercatchers and 8 Redshank settled nearby. The usual selection of ducks were present, plenty of Goldeneye and Gadwall, several Egyptian Geese, but still no B-n or Slav Grebes. After 2 hours I decided to head off to the Egleton reserve to see what was there.
Two redhead Smew were distant from the Sandpiper hide. Lots of Gadwall, Shelduck, Teal, Shoveler, Pochard, Goldeneye and Pintail, one Little Egret was preening on an island. A female Peregrine sat atop one of the Osprey platforms. Several Song Thrush were singing and a Mistle Thrush was near the car park.
I decided to give it another go to find the Grebes back in the north arm so headed back the short distance to view from the fish ponds lane end. Another birder was just leaving and told me he had just been watching them. On searching, this time I quickly found a little group of grebes busily feeding, a good view showed them to be 3 Black-necked Grebes and one Slavonian, to see them together was really good and allowed their features to be compared well.
All the time one could hear the 'grunting' of Cormorant at there colony at the end of the fish ponds, a look when leaving showed there bulky untidy nests being attended to.
Two redhead Smew were distant from the Sandpiper hide. Lots of Gadwall, Shelduck, Teal, Shoveler, Pochard, Goldeneye and Pintail, one Little Egret was preening on an island. A female Peregrine sat atop one of the Osprey platforms. Several Song Thrush were singing and a Mistle Thrush was near the car park.
I decided to give it another go to find the Grebes back in the north arm so headed back the short distance to view from the fish ponds lane end. Another birder was just leaving and told me he had just been watching them. On searching, this time I quickly found a little group of grebes busily feeding, a good view showed them to be 3 Black-necked Grebes and one Slavonian, to see them together was really good and allowed their features to be compared well.
All the time one could hear the 'grunting' of Cormorant at there colony at the end of the fish ponds, a look when leaving showed there bulky untidy nests being attended to.
Wednesday, 3 February 2016
3rd Feb - unsettled morning with showers, sunnier afternoon, 8C, light to mod SW, feeling cool
First thing there were c100 each of Fieldfare and Starling feeding on the pastures to the east of the village.
Late morning within the village area a Mistle Thrush, Song Thrush and both Coal and Great Tits were singing well.
Late morning within the village area a Mistle Thrush, Song Thrush and both Coal and Great Tits were singing well.
Tuesday, 2 February 2016
2nd Feb - sunny spells, 10C, cool SW
A meeting in London today, so making the most of it I took a walk through St. James park past the lake which can produce some interesting sightings. Not the best Royal park for wildlife, but handy.
There was plenty of Ring-necked Parakeets in the tree tops calling and flying around, these are common now in many London parks. I heard Blue and Great Tits giving alarm calls meaning only one thing and sure enough a Sparrowhawk past over head towards Green park. A Wren was singing and 6 Blackbirds feeding on the grass in a quieter area.
There were several Egyptian Geese around and a little further along the path there was a pair with 11 goslings, maybe less than a week old clearly doing fine.
Other 'wild'or free roaming' birds included Greylag and Canada Geese, Pochard, Tufted Duck, Red-crested Pochard, Moorhen, Coot, Mute Swans, a single Grey Heron, Magpie and 30+ Carrion Crows. the gulls include Black-headed and Herring.
Birds definitely not or probably not free roaming included; Red-breasted Goose 3, drake Smew, Wigeon 2, White-fronted Goose 1, Barnacle Goose 6, Bar-headed Goose 2, Ruddy Shelduck 2, Gadwall, Black Swan 1, Shoverler 4, Shelduck 2 and a White-headed Duck.
Of course, there were numerous Grey Squirrels everywhere in the park!
There was plenty of Ring-necked Parakeets in the tree tops calling and flying around, these are common now in many London parks. I heard Blue and Great Tits giving alarm calls meaning only one thing and sure enough a Sparrowhawk past over head towards Green park. A Wren was singing and 6 Blackbirds feeding on the grass in a quieter area.
There were several Egyptian Geese around and a little further along the path there was a pair with 11 goslings, maybe less than a week old clearly doing fine.
Other 'wild'or free roaming' birds included Greylag and Canada Geese, Pochard, Tufted Duck, Red-crested Pochard, Moorhen, Coot, Mute Swans, a single Grey Heron, Magpie and 30+ Carrion Crows. the gulls include Black-headed and Herring.
Birds definitely not or probably not free roaming included; Red-breasted Goose 3, drake Smew, Wigeon 2, White-fronted Goose 1, Barnacle Goose 6, Bar-headed Goose 2, Ruddy Shelduck 2, Gadwall, Black Swan 1, Shoverler 4, Shelduck 2 and a White-headed Duck.
Of course, there were numerous Grey Squirrels everywhere in the park!
Monday, 1 February 2016
1st Feb - Cloudy, moderate SW wind, gusty at times pm, mild 10C
A Goldcrest was singing early in the Church Yew tree.
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