During the afternoon Chris called to say he had found a Little Gull at Stanford reservoir, I saw one earlier in the year, but another record was a good find, he sent some photos that I have added below.
Tuesday, 31 October 2017
31st Oct - sunny periods, high cloud, light SW, 10C
Willey; A busy day with little time for obs, I did see at least one flock of ~20 Redwings heading south.
During the afternoon Chris called to say he had found a Little Gull at Stanford reservoir, I saw one earlier in the year, but another record was a good find, he sent some photos that I have added below.
During the afternoon Chris called to say he had found a Little Gull at Stanford reservoir, I saw one earlier in the year, but another record was a good find, he sent some photos that I have added below.
Monday, 30 October 2017
30th Oct - grass frost last night, High cloud, mostly sunny, light Westerly, 11C.
Bittesby; I had a walk over Bittesby farms this afternoon. At first there was little around, even the old railway and wooded areas were quiet. A Golden Plover was heard overhead and a few Skylark were on the large oil seed rape field.
Over the far side in the top of two Ash trees about 100 Fieldfare and a few Redwings and a single Starling were sitting, sometimes flying down to feed. I then noticed that there were also smaller birds in the trees and hedgerow, scanning through I could see ~10 Chaffinch, a single Linnet and ~20 Yellowhammers, looking carefully through them proved worthwhile as a male Brambling was showing well. A Green Woodpecker was heard nearby.
Over the far side in the top of two Ash trees about 100 Fieldfare and a few Redwings and a single Starling were sitting, sometimes flying down to feed. I then noticed that there were also smaller birds in the trees and hedgerow, scanning through I could see ~10 Chaffinch, a single Linnet and ~20 Yellowhammers, looking carefully through them proved worthwhile as a male Brambling was showing well. A Green Woodpecker was heard nearby.
Sunday, 29 October 2017
29th Oct - cloudy, then sunny spells, light NW, 10C
Willey; spent an hour this morning watching the feed station and sky for migration. 3 Cormorants flew over south, two flocks of Golden Plover, 26 over SE, then 20 over northward. Plenty of Gulls were moving over, a few Redwing flew in to the bushes and other were feeding on the church Yew Tree, only 1 Fieldfare was around though.
On the feed station 2 Nuthatch, 5 Greenfinch, 2 Tree Sparrow, c20 House Sparrows, Coal, Blue and Great Tits, Chaffinch, Jackdaw. Song Thrush and Blackbirds, plus Goldcrest were feeding in the Yew tree too.
Stanford reservoir; Just as I arrived after lunch Chris called to tell me that 3 Great (white) Egrets had just flown off from here over the fields at low level, this is an exceptional record, beating my 2 the other week.
Two Goldeneye were present today, plus all the usual duck species, the number of Teal must be at least 300, the low water and vegetated edges perfect for them. 48 Mute Swans were near the inlet away from the Greylag and Canada Geese. Several Grey Heron were hunting the margins, the black-tailed Godwit was on the point still..
A Kestrel was hunting and Buzzard was flying around. On the rough/game area c40 Goldfinch were feeding on Thistle heads. A Jay flew over towards the adjacent wood. More Redwing, c40, were feeding in the bushes, with a few Fieldfare, c10.
A Red Admiral was making the most of the sunshine.
On the feed station 2 Nuthatch, 5 Greenfinch, 2 Tree Sparrow, c20 House Sparrows, Coal, Blue and Great Tits, Chaffinch, Jackdaw. Song Thrush and Blackbirds, plus Goldcrest were feeding in the Yew tree too.
Stanford reservoir; Just as I arrived after lunch Chris called to tell me that 3 Great (white) Egrets had just flown off from here over the fields at low level, this is an exceptional record, beating my 2 the other week.
Two Goldeneye were present today, plus all the usual duck species, the number of Teal must be at least 300, the low water and vegetated edges perfect for them. 48 Mute Swans were near the inlet away from the Greylag and Canada Geese. Several Grey Heron were hunting the margins, the black-tailed Godwit was on the point still..
A Kestrel was hunting and Buzzard was flying around. On the rough/game area c40 Goldfinch were feeding on Thistle heads. A Jay flew over towards the adjacent wood. More Redwing, c40, were feeding in the bushes, with a few Fieldfare, c10.
A Red Admiral was making the most of the sunshine.
Saturday, 28 October 2017
28th Oct - sunny am, becoming cloudy pm, light westerly, 15C
Lutterworth country park; a look here this morning as it gives a good vista for migration and has a small valley that helps channel the birds. Small flocks of Redwings with the odd Fieldfare with them moved over westward. A flock of 14 Goldfinch, several Greenfinch, Chaffinch and Bullfinch and a single Lesser Redpoll was about in the park.
Shawell Lagoons; the lagoons were quiet this afternoon, although Carl spotted 3 colour ringed Black-headed Gulls, one had a Polish ring, the others we have to check their origins. Also, colour ringed Great-Black backed and Lesser-Black backed were seen. A Cormorant was present and a Shelduck flew past twice. A Green Woodpecker was exploring the banks for food.
The occasional Red Admiral butterfly was seen flying.
The occasional Red Admiral butterfly was seen flying.
Friday, 27 October 2017
27th Oct - sunny, light NW, 14C
Mere lane lake; a look here this morning but generally quite with usual species seen including Little Grebe, Green Woodpecker, Jay, Reed Bunting and Meadow Pipit over.
Stanford Reservoir; here during the afternoon, lovely and sunny. A Black-tailed Godwit on the point, unfortunately it seems to have only one leg. About 30 Lapwing were also there. A male Goldeneye was my first of the autumn for this site. Treecreeper were spotted in a couple of different locations, while the roving along-tailed Tit flock did not contain any notable Tit or Warbler species.
A Barn Owl was hunting over the reedbed at 1450h, maybe it has late young? Three Little Grebe were near the inlet bay. passerines seemed generally in short supply, a couple of Bullfinch, a few Chaffinches and 2 Cetti’s Warblers were found. A single Grey Wagtail flew from the inlet.
Red Admiral and Small Tortoiseshell Butterflies were seen during the day.
Stanford Reservoir; here during the afternoon, lovely and sunny. A Black-tailed Godwit on the point, unfortunately it seems to have only one leg. About 30 Lapwing were also there. A male Goldeneye was my first of the autumn for this site. Treecreeper were spotted in a couple of different locations, while the roving along-tailed Tit flock did not contain any notable Tit or Warbler species.
A Barn Owl was hunting over the reedbed at 1450h, maybe it has late young? Three Little Grebe were near the inlet bay. passerines seemed generally in short supply, a couple of Bullfinch, a few Chaffinches and 2 Cetti’s Warblers were found. A single Grey Wagtail flew from the inlet.
Red Admiral and Small Tortoiseshell Butterflies were seen during the day.
Thursday, 26 October 2017
26th Oct - High cloud, almost still, 15C
Yesterday’s Razorbill at Draycote Water was picked up dead today, as is often the case for auks and the like blown inland.
Willey; this morning very little was stirring in the cloudy still,conditions, only a few Redwing came over. The local Mistle Thrushes were visiting the various Holly trees for the berries.
During the late morning I spent some time watching the feed station, most entertaining. A male Great spotted Woodpecker on the peanuts, Nuthatch, at least 3 Coal Tits, 2 Greenfinch, Goldfinch were among the visitors.
Shawell Lagoons; I checked here this morning, but still very little in and the Gulls were very jumpy. A Cormorant and Little Grebe on the north pool, the number of Common Gulls is increasing, I counted at least 10 during my visit. A Buzzard and Kestrel were flying over, this may have been part reason for the Gulls being jumpy.
Willey; this morning very little was stirring in the cloudy still,conditions, only a few Redwing came over. The local Mistle Thrushes were visiting the various Holly trees for the berries.
During the late morning I spent some time watching the feed station, most entertaining. A male Great spotted Woodpecker on the peanuts, Nuthatch, at least 3 Coal Tits, 2 Greenfinch, Goldfinch were among the visitors.
Shawell Lagoons; I checked here this morning, but still very little in and the Gulls were very jumpy. A Cormorant and Little Grebe on the north pool, the number of Common Gulls is increasing, I counted at least 10 during my visit. A Buzzard and Kestrel were flying over, this may have been part reason for the Gulls being jumpy.
Wednesday, 25 October 2017
25th Oct - sunny periods, light westerly, mild 17 C
Stanford Reservoir; a look here this morning, generally rather quite, only move the was 14 Fieldfare westward. A small number of Redwing were in the bushes. 5 Buzzrds together we’re making the most of the thermals. The Greenshank was feeding on the point, c70 Lapwing flew in. On the adjacent field Meadow Pipit, Skylark and Reed Bunting were busy. Otherwise things much as normal with all the usual species seen.
A few Red Admiral and Small Tortoiseshell butterflies were around.
Draycote Water; a couple of interesting birds were found there this morning, so after lunch I decided to have a look.
The first was a Razorbill, it was quite windy during the night so must have got blown inland. It seemed healthy but not very active while I was there. If it does not leave or feed it probably will not survive too long. Said to be the first in Warwickshire for 100 years, need to confirm this though.
The second bird was an adult Grey Phalarope, this was quite close and often on the shore, taking no notice of the fisherman or observers that were close by .
More photos will be added at some time.
A few Red Admiral and Small Tortoiseshell butterflies were around.
Draycote Water; a couple of interesting birds were found there this morning, so after lunch I decided to have a look.
The first was a Razorbill, it was quite windy during the night so must have got blown inland. It seemed healthy but not very active while I was there. If it does not leave or feed it probably will not survive too long. Said to be the first in Warwickshire for 100 years, need to confirm this though.
The second bird was an adult Grey Phalarope, this was quite close and often on the shore, taking no notice of the fisherman or observers that were close by .
More photos will be added at some time.
24th Oct - cloudy, dullish, light - moderate SW, mild 17C
A busy day, a low level of Redwing SW movement during the day.
Monday, 23 October 2017
23rd Oct - cloudy, light SW, 14C, few spots of rain at times
Willey; a noticeable passage to Redwing and finches over SW first thing. A 100 passed by in 3 flocks. This continued at a slower pace through the day.
During the afternoon at the feed station Nuthatch, 2 Coal Tit, Greenfinches, Chaffinch, Goldfinch, a female Great-Spotted Woodpecker (had a metal ring), ~10 Long-tailed Tits, Blue and Great Tits.
Stanford Reservoir; a morning visit produced 2 Pintail, a Little Grebe, Greenshank, Cetti’s Warbler, a steady trickle of Redwings passing through, a Willow Tit, a flock of ~20 Lesser Redpoll plus all the usuals.
During the afternoon at the feed station Nuthatch, 2 Coal Tit, Greenfinches, Chaffinch, Goldfinch, a female Great-Spotted Woodpecker (had a metal ring), ~10 Long-tailed Tits, Blue and Great Tits.
Stanford Reservoir; a morning visit produced 2 Pintail, a Little Grebe, Greenshank, Cetti’s Warbler, a steady trickle of Redwings passing through, a Willow Tit, a flock of ~20 Lesser Redpoll plus all the usuals.
22nd Oct - windy NW, 12C, cloudy
Stanford Reservoir; a morning visit here, a few Redwing were moving through, as were occasional Siskin and Lesser Redpoll. A Grey Wagtail flew from the dam toward the inlet. The usual duck, with 4 Pintail still present. The Greenshank was on the shore and a Green Sandpiper called as it flew along the reservoir. A Coal Tit was in the mixed Tit flock with a single Chiffchaff too. The resident Bullfinch were busy in the thickets.
Saturday, 21 October 2017
21st Oct - cloudy, occasionally short shower, wind becoming strong and Gusty SSW, 14C
Bittesby mere lane lake area; a look here first thing, generally quiet on the lake, a Little Grebe, Moorhen, Coot and the Mute Swan pair with 2 large cygnets. A few Redwing were in the hawthorns and flying over, about 250 Wood Pigeon were feeding on the adjoining stubble field. A couple of Jays and magpies were around. A charm of 12 Goldfinch were feeding on the Teasel heads. The windy condition was keeping things in cover.
A Black Redstart had been seen at Newbold Verdon on the edge of a new housing estate, so after lunch I made the short trip to see it, I didn't and as the wind became even stronger it was unlikely to break cover at any time soon. Cutting my losses I headed for Shawell lagoons.
Shawell lagoon; the weather conditions were not too good, with strong wind and showers at times, then a quieter spell before becoming rough again, the Gulls were taking it in their stride. Nothing unexpected had been blown in with only a few Tufted Duck and Little Grebe on the open water.
A Black Redstart had been seen at Newbold Verdon on the edge of a new housing estate, so after lunch I made the short trip to see it, I didn't and as the wind became even stronger it was unlikely to break cover at any time soon. Cutting my losses I headed for Shawell lagoons.
Shawell lagoon; the weather conditions were not too good, with strong wind and showers at times, then a quieter spell before becoming rough again, the Gulls were taking it in their stride. Nothing unexpected had been blown in with only a few Tufted Duck and Little Grebe on the open water.
Friday, 20 October 2017
20th Oct - mostly cloudy, light-mod WSW, 13C
Willey; this morning first thing there were more Redwing and Song Thrush about, most in small flocks heading SW, only briefly stopping, a couple of Fieldfare came over too. A roving Tit flock was around, with a pit stop at the feed station, which included a Coal Tit. Several Goldcrest in the church Yew Tree and ~20 Starling were flying around the local field and village, possibly migrants.
Mid-morning a Raven flew over, then in the fields to the NW off the lane a Little Owl was spotted on the fence post, its been quite awhile since one has been seen, although sometimes pellets may be found. Overhead a few Skylark and Meadow Pipits were moving between the local fields.
Late afternoon a flock of 14 Collared Doves flew overhead.
Stanford Reservoir; No news of the Dusky Warbler this morning, so I spent the afternoon here in a hope it may still be around, not surprising it wasn’t found. All the usual birds were seen, a Red Kite moved over slowly westward.
Mid-morning a Raven flew over, then in the fields to the NW off the lane a Little Owl was spotted on the fence post, its been quite awhile since one has been seen, although sometimes pellets may be found. Overhead a few Skylark and Meadow Pipits were moving between the local fields.
Late afternoon a flock of 14 Collared Doves flew overhead.
Stanford Reservoir; No news of the Dusky Warbler this morning, so I spent the afternoon here in a hope it may still be around, not surprising it wasn’t found. All the usual birds were seen, a Red Kite moved over slowly westward.
Thursday, 19 October 2017
19 Oct - dull cloudy, damp 15C, showers short pm
Willey; a Snipe was flushed from the top field early morning and a Jay was in the Long spinney near the top road junction.
Stanford Reservoir; I wasn’t planning on visiting but mid-morning news came that the ringers had caught a Dusky Warbler and were about to release it. So, I went to see if it could be seen again once released, I did not show again for the rest of the day.
A Water Rail called from the by-pass stream.
During the afternoon while searching still there were 8 Lesser Redpol feeding and 2 Golden Plover flew over. Another birder spotted a Brambling before it flew off.
Stanford Reservoir; I wasn’t planning on visiting but mid-morning news came that the ringers had caught a Dusky Warbler and were about to release it. So, I went to see if it could be seen again once released, I did not show again for the rest of the day.
Photo Chris Hubbard
A Water Rail called from the by-pass stream.
During the afternoon while searching still there were 8 Lesser Redpol feeding and 2 Golden Plover flew over. Another birder spotted a Brambling before it flew off.
18th Oct - drizzle early, cloudy, light SE, 14C
Willey; again a few Redwings around first thing.
Stanford Reservoir; an afternoon visit.
A single female Pintail was on the water near the point and Greenshank and Black-tailed Godwit were nearby, whilst the Green sandpiper was on the inlet weir, a Grey Wagtail was on the outflow.
Along the bypass bushes several Redwing, Blackbird and Son Thrush were feeding. A single Lesser Redpoll was feeding on seed heads. The roving Tit flock included 2 CoalTits today and 4 Chiffchaffs.
A Barn Owl flew out of the willows and was hunting, well it was quite dull late afternoon.
Stanford Reservoir; an afternoon visit.
A single female Pintail was on the water near the point and Greenshank and Black-tailed Godwit were nearby, whilst the Green sandpiper was on the inlet weir, a Grey Wagtail was on the outflow.
Along the bypass bushes several Redwing, Blackbird and Son Thrush were feeding. A single Lesser Redpoll was feeding on seed heads. The roving Tit flock included 2 CoalTits today and 4 Chiffchaffs.
A Barn Owl flew out of the willows and was hunting, well it was quite dull late afternoon.
Tuesday, 17 October 2017
17th Oct - mostly sunny, light, sometimes breezy SW, 16C
Willey; another flock of about 20 Redwing this morning, headed of SW, with 2 Fieldfare present.
Stanford reservoir; a look here after lunch, nothing new was found on the outward walk. The Green Sandpiper was on the weir and Greenshank on the shore. A single Chiffchaff in the Tit flock, with mostly Long-tailed Tits and Goldcrests. On the return walk I spotted 2 Great (White) Egret on the shore the far side and digiscoped some record photos. This is only my second record of this species at this site, someone did report a fly-by here earlier in the year
A few butterflies were about, mostly Red Admirals, like this one having a rest on the grass.
Stanford reservoir; a look here after lunch, nothing new was found on the outward walk. The Green Sandpiper was on the weir and Greenshank on the shore. A single Chiffchaff in the Tit flock, with mostly Long-tailed Tits and Goldcrests. On the return walk I spotted 2 Great (White) Egret on the shore the far side and digiscoped some record photos. This is only my second record of this species at this site, someone did report a fly-by here earlier in the year
A few butterflies were about, mostly Red Admirals, like this one having a rest on the grass.
Monday, 16 October 2017
16th Oct - cloudy, wind picking up during the day, blusterly southern mild 18C
Ex hurricane Ophelia passed over the west of the UK, Ireland and Scotland bringing very strong winds (100 mph+) and rain. It started life much further south and picked up Saharan sand and dust from Iberian wild fires which caused the sun and sky to appear quite orange at times, photos taken at 1415h today.
Willey; 12+ Redwings this morning flew out of the church lane hedge off SW.
Shawell lagoons; a look here early afternoon in case the wind had blown something inland and it was taking shelter. In fact, only the usual mix of Gulls and a few Tufted Duck. Couple of Cormorant were present, an adult and juvenile.
Willey; 12+ Redwings this morning flew out of the church lane hedge off SW.
Shawell lagoons; a look here early afternoon in case the wind had blown something inland and it was taking shelter. In fact, only the usual mix of Gulls and a few Tufted Duck. Couple of Cormorant were present, an adult and juvenile.
Sunday, 15 October 2017
15th Oct - cloudy, light drizzle early, slowly breaking up, light-mod, sometimes breezy SW, 18C
Willey; a Barn Owl was hunting in the early hours to the east crossing the road.
About 0700h 4 Mistle Thrush were around the Yew and Holly. A little later about 12 Fieldfare, first of the autumn, were in the BH wood field, a Fox ran from the top hedgerow.
I noticed a squashed hedgehog on the road to the west of the village junction.
Stanford reservoir; A visit here during the afternoon produced much of the usual species, additionally a Golden Plover flew over calling. Now the water level is rising we have already had more Great-crested Grebes and now the number of Coot are increasing again, today there were 19, up from 4.
The roving Tit flocks, contained a single Coal Tit along with Long-tailed, Blue and Great, plus Goldcrests.
Chris found the first Autumn Goosander this morning, so Goldeneye can't be far behind.
A good number of Dragonflies around today, plus several Butterflies including Red Admiral and Comma. Hornets are still very busy, as they were at this nest in a bird nest box which they have taken over.
About 0700h 4 Mistle Thrush were around the Yew and Holly. A little later about 12 Fieldfare, first of the autumn, were in the BH wood field, a Fox ran from the top hedgerow.
I noticed a squashed hedgehog on the road to the west of the village junction.
Stanford reservoir; A visit here during the afternoon produced much of the usual species, additionally a Golden Plover flew over calling. Now the water level is rising we have already had more Great-crested Grebes and now the number of Coot are increasing again, today there were 19, up from 4.
The roving Tit flocks, contained a single Coal Tit along with Long-tailed, Blue and Great, plus Goldcrests.
Chris found the first Autumn Goosander this morning, so Goldeneye can't be far behind.
A good number of Dragonflies around today, plus several Butterflies including Red Admiral and Comma. Hornets are still very busy, as they were at this nest in a bird nest box which they have taken over.
14th Oct - sunny periods, 22C, warm, light S/SW
Norfolk
After a interesting time at a vintage event during the morning it was birding.
Kelling water meadows; a very nice selection of birds in this area, the key bird was a Juv Red- necked Phalarope which was showing well, other waders included a Spotted Redshank, Ruff, several Curlew Sandpipers, 6 Snipe, Curlew and Black-tailed Godwit. At least 3 Stonechats were present and Linnets were numerous, often coming to drink. A skein of Pink-feet Geese passed over head.
Burnham Overy Staithe; next to the A road a considerable flock of Geese were feeding, mostly Pink-feet and Greylags, with them 4 Egyptian Geese. Earlier a Taiga Bean Goose had been reported here, but not seen for a while. After only 10 mins I found it in the flock and was able to put others on it. The views were good but it some became lost in the busy feeding and squabbling flock. Anther birder pointed out a juvenile Greenland White-fronted Goose, this was most interesting as I've never seen a Juv so early in the winter season, it's plumage was quite distinctive.
After a interesting time at a vintage event during the morning it was birding.
Kelling water meadows; a very nice selection of birds in this area, the key bird was a Juv Red- necked Phalarope which was showing well, other waders included a Spotted Redshank, Ruff, several Curlew Sandpipers, 6 Snipe, Curlew and Black-tailed Godwit. At least 3 Stonechats were present and Linnets were numerous, often coming to drink. A skein of Pink-feet Geese passed over head.
Burnham Overy Staithe; next to the A road a considerable flock of Geese were feeding, mostly Pink-feet and Greylags, with them 4 Egyptian Geese. Earlier a Taiga Bean Goose had been reported here, but not seen for a while. After only 10 mins I found it in the flock and was able to put others on it. The views were good but it some became lost in the busy feeding and squabbling flock. Anther birder pointed out a juvenile Greenland White-fronted Goose, this was most interesting as I've never seen a Juv so early in the winter season, it's plumage was quite distinctive.
Friday, 13 October 2017
13th Oct - very mild, 18c, mod- blusterly WSW, sunny spells
Titchwell RSPB; travelled hto here during the morning and spent some while here, a lot of the time searching for a Yellow-browsed Warbler in the bush/tree area, apart from possibly hearing it once I did not see it. Everyone else had about the same luck as it was not showing much due to the wind.
At the feed station there were several Brambling and Siskin in the Larch tops, as well as the usual finches and Tits, inclding a single Coal Tit.
On the Freshmarsh the main scarcity was a Grey Phalarope that showed very well. Little Stint and Curlew Sandpipers were among the more usual waders. Several flights of Pink-feet Geese passed overhead, while a single Brent Goose was on the marsh. About 50 species were seen in all.
At the feed station there were several Brambling and Siskin in the Larch tops, as well as the usual finches and Tits, inclding a single Coal Tit.
On the Freshmarsh the main scarcity was a Grey Phalarope that showed very well. Little Stint and Curlew Sandpipers were among the more usual waders. Several flights of Pink-feet Geese passed overhead, while a single Brent Goose was on the marsh. About 50 species were seen in all.
Thursday, 12 October 2017
12th Oct - mostly sunny, light - mod WSW, 16C
Willey; a couple of Redwing heard first thing but not seen. Still no significant numbers around the Midlands.
Stanford reservoir; a morning visit hoping for some migrants. The Green Sandpiper was on the inlet weir again, but no other waders were found. No significant roving mixed Tit flock, just a couple of small loose groups. At least 5 Chiffchaffs were present in the bushes around the reservoir. A few Redwing were heard and on the fallow adjoining field there was plenty of Skylark and Meadow Pipit activity.
Lesser Redpoll, small flocks, were passing through, some dropping down to feed or drink in the puddles, smashing looking birds, at least 100 passed through during the morning, 20 were caught by the ringing team present. Chaffinch and Bullfinch were also present at the reservoir today.
No new waterfowl were found, in fact the water was fairly quiet, except Great-crested Grebes have increased further to 20. It can't be long before Goldeneye turn up here.
Plenty of hornet activity, they have made a nest in a bird box, a couple of butterflies - Small Tortoiseshell and Dragonflies were about.
Stanford reservoir; a morning visit hoping for some migrants. The Green Sandpiper was on the inlet weir again, but no other waders were found. No significant roving mixed Tit flock, just a couple of small loose groups. At least 5 Chiffchaffs were present in the bushes around the reservoir. A few Redwing were heard and on the fallow adjoining field there was plenty of Skylark and Meadow Pipit activity.
Lesser Redpoll, small flocks, were passing through, some dropping down to feed or drink in the puddles, smashing looking birds, at least 100 passed through during the morning, 20 were caught by the ringing team present. Chaffinch and Bullfinch were also present at the reservoir today.
No new waterfowl were found, in fact the water was fairly quiet, except Great-crested Grebes have increased further to 20. It can't be long before Goldeneye turn up here.
Plenty of hornet activity, they have made a nest in a bird box, a couple of butterflies - Small Tortoiseshell and Dragonflies were about.
11th Oct - cloudy, dull, moderate WSW, 14C
Willey; a cock Pheasant was in the church lane and flew off towards the old railway mid-morning.
Shawell Lagoons; after lunch i had a look here, plenty of Gulls present, no scarce Gulls though. Also, the colour ringed ones I saw were all very muddy and unreadable today. However, there were two Dunlin on the shore, feeding and washing.
Shawell Lagoons; after lunch i had a look here, plenty of Gulls present, no scarce Gulls though. Also, the colour ringed ones I saw were all very muddy and unreadable today. However, there were two Dunlin on the shore, feeding and washing.
Tuesday, 10 October 2017
10th Oct - cloudy am, sunny spells late afternoon, breezy SW, mild 17C
Willey; surprisingly I did not see any more Redwings, I expecting an arrival after yesterday. This morning 0830h 9 Cormorants were flying passed the village northerly, a little later 7 Meadow Pipits flew over southward and several Skylarks were heard overhead.
Stanford reservoir; after lunch I made a visit here, it was quite breezy at times making birds keep in shelter, alter several Dragonflies, Southern Hawker and Common Darter were out flying.
A single Black-tailed Godwit and Greenshank we're on the point with a few Lapwing and about 20 Cormorant. Great crested Grebes have now increased from 4 to 12, no doubt as the water has risen making it more suitable for them. Greylag Geese and Canada Geese were in good numbers, I counted at least 550 of the former. The usual mixed Tit flocks were about but the breeze keeping them fairly well hidden. A single Jay flew over the reservoir to the wood.
Stanford reservoir; after lunch I made a visit here, it was quite breezy at times making birds keep in shelter, alter several Dragonflies, Southern Hawker and Common Darter were out flying.
A single Black-tailed Godwit and Greenshank we're on the point with a few Lapwing and about 20 Cormorant. Great crested Grebes have now increased from 4 to 12, no doubt as the water has risen making it more suitable for them. Greylag Geese and Canada Geese were in good numbers, I counted at least 550 of the former. The usual mixed Tit flocks were about but the breeze keeping them fairly well hidden. A single Jay flew over the reservoir to the wood.
Monday, 9 October 2017
9th Oct - mostly cloudy, mild, 16C, light WSW
A busy day but I notice a few things.
Willey; a Fox was spotted standing in the pasture field about mid-day. Early afternoon about 12 Redwing dropped in to the old railway trees. This evening alteast 6 Magpies were quite noisy in that same area.
Willey; a Fox was spotted standing in the pasture field about mid-day. Early afternoon about 12 Redwing dropped in to the old railway trees. This evening alteast 6 Magpies were quite noisy in that same area.
Sunday, 8 October 2017
8th Oct - sunny spells, light NW, 17C max
I took a photo of a Giant House spider in home late yesterday, about 4 cm across. They often enter homes in the autumn looking for a mate.
Willey; later afternoon I sorted of my paddock feed station and filled it up for the first time this autumn. I soon had Blue, Great and a Coal Tit feeding, along with a Nuthatch, a male Great-spotted Woodpecker and a couple of Greenfinch. So, now they know food is back I expect to see numbers increase as autumn progresses, and hopefully some new visititors.
Willey; later afternoon I sorted of my paddock feed station and filled it up for the first time this autumn. I soon had Blue, Great and a Coal Tit feeding, along with a Nuthatch, a male Great-spotted Woodpecker and a couple of Greenfinch. So, now they know food is back I expect to see numbers increase as autumn progresses, and hopefully some new visititors.
Saturday, 7 October 2017
7th Oct - cloudy/drizzle early, then cloudy, with westerly freshening pm, rain shower later afternoon, 16C
Willey; mid-morning a Kestrel was on the telegraph pole near the village pond and a Chiffchaff was singing from the trees.
Shawell lagoons/old sand pit; It was Webs count today and as Carl is away I went to count the waterfowl early. However, there were very few waterfowl present, 35 Teal, 3 Shoveler, 21 Tufted Duck, some Canada Geese and Coot was about it. As winter progresses numbers and variety should increase.
Rutland Water; This afternoon I decided to see if I could find the American Wigeon again, after failing on my previous attempt. The odds were better now as 2 drakes have been seen in the last few days on different lagoons. I spent considerable time searching without success until I meet another birder who told me he had been watching it recently from the Smew hide, he even came back with me to help locate it - decent fellow - we soon found it and had good views of it feeding.
Plenty of other duck were on lagoon 2, including Pintail, Teal, Shoveler and European Wigeon.
The other bird good to see was the Great Egret, at least 2 were present, with several Grey herons.
Shawell lagoons/old sand pit; It was Webs count today and as Carl is away I went to count the waterfowl early. However, there were very few waterfowl present, 35 Teal, 3 Shoveler, 21 Tufted Duck, some Canada Geese and Coot was about it. As winter progresses numbers and variety should increase.
Rutland Water; This afternoon I decided to see if I could find the American Wigeon again, after failing on my previous attempt. The odds were better now as 2 drakes have been seen in the last few days on different lagoons. I spent considerable time searching without success until I meet another birder who told me he had been watching it recently from the Smew hide, he even came back with me to help locate it - decent fellow - we soon found it and had good views of it feeding.
Friday, 6 October 2017
6th Oct - sunny am, cloud increasing pm, very light to light NW, 16C
Stanford reservoir; Chris found an Egyptian Goose with the Greylags and Canada Geese, when I got there it was still present and showing well, this is my first site record.
The Green Sandpiper was on the inlet weir and several Lapwings on the point. The usual duck were present, Teal, Shoveler, Gadwall, Mallard, a few Tufted and 1 Pochard drake. A Grey Wagtail flew over and 2 Little Grebe were showing. At the feed station about 15 Tree Sparrows were feeding. Only one roving Tit flock seen today and a couple of Chiffchaff. Several Bullfinches were in the thickets and at least 5 Linnet were present.
Gull numbers were higher today, with another Common Gull present.
Now the spillway work has been Completed the water level in the reservoir will (slowly) return to full, so I expect more Gulls, especially Common Gull and Diving duck numbers to increase.
The Green Sandpiper was on the inlet weir and several Lapwings on the point. The usual duck were present, Teal, Shoveler, Gadwall, Mallard, a few Tufted and 1 Pochard drake. A Grey Wagtail flew over and 2 Little Grebe were showing. At the feed station about 15 Tree Sparrows were feeding. Only one roving Tit flock seen today and a couple of Chiffchaff. Several Bullfinches were in the thickets and at least 5 Linnet were present.
Gull numbers were higher today, with another Common Gull present.
Now the spillway work has been Completed the water level in the reservoir will (slowly) return to full, so I expect more Gulls, especially Common Gull and Diving duck numbers to increase.
Thursday, 5 October 2017
5th Oct - sunny spells, breezy NW again, 16C, feeling cool at times
Willey; A Chifchaff was singing in the church lane hedge, along with a Blackcap and Nuthatch, a Mistle Thrush flew in to the Yew tree for berries.
As yet no Redwing or Fieldfare seen in the immediate area, inward migration seems slow, probably due to the weather we are having.
Draycote Water; a meeting here this morning with the warden for Stanford reservoir gave me time for a quick look. A Great-spotted and Green Woodpecker were noisy, plenty of Meadow pipits and Pied Wagtails along the dam area. 10+ Little Grebes were by the pontoons, with a good number of Great-crested Grebes on the open water. ^ Little Egret were along one shore area. Surprisingly very few Gulls were present - they must have gone off feeding elsewhere, e.g. Cotesbach landfill & the fields. Just he usual ducks were present, so a little disappointing as recently they have had some scarce birds present, e.g. Little Stint.
Frolesworth; along the Brought road on a recently sown field 6 Stock Dove were feeding along with black-headed Gulls and Wood Pigeon.
As yet no Redwing or Fieldfare seen in the immediate area, inward migration seems slow, probably due to the weather we are having.
Draycote Water; a meeting here this morning with the warden for Stanford reservoir gave me time for a quick look. A Great-spotted and Green Woodpecker were noisy, plenty of Meadow pipits and Pied Wagtails along the dam area. 10+ Little Grebes were by the pontoons, with a good number of Great-crested Grebes on the open water. ^ Little Egret were along one shore area. Surprisingly very few Gulls were present - they must have gone off feeding elsewhere, e.g. Cotesbach landfill & the fields. Just he usual ducks were present, so a little disappointing as recently they have had some scarce birds present, e.g. Little Stint.
Frolesworth; along the Brought road on a recently sown field 6 Stock Dove were feeding along with black-headed Gulls and Wood Pigeon.
Wednesday, 4 October 2017
4th Oct - mostly cloudy, breezy, 14C, Westerly
Stanford reservoir; an afternoon visit, the Gulls seemed to be enjoying the breezy conditions by flying up in to the wind, at last a Common Gull was present. The Greenshank and Green Sandpiper were present in their usual area, about 50 Lapwing were on the point. A single Little Grebe was out in the rough water and 2 Water Rsils were calling from the nearby Reed area. Otherwise as expected and passerines were keeping their heads down in the wind.
Tuesday, 3 October 2017
3rd Oct - mostly cloudy, a few sunny intervals, light NW, 14C
A Autumnal day with plenty of leaves falling and more fungi spotted - yet another
busy day.
Willey; A Jay flew from a hedge Oak tree towards the Long Spinney, during the afternoon a Sparrowhawk flew over and a little later a single Swallow was flying around over the BH wood and field area.
A couple of butterflies were seen distantly, including a Comma
busy day.
Willey; A Jay flew from a hedge Oak tree towards the Long Spinney, during the afternoon a Sparrowhawk flew over and a little later a single Swallow was flying around over the BH wood and field area.
A couple of butterflies were seen distantly, including a Comma
2nd Oct - cloudy and breezy, westerly, 14C
A busy day, little time for obs.
Willey; a Raven flew over mid- morning.
Willey; a Raven flew over mid- morning.
Sunday, 1 October 2017
1st Oct - Swallow- drizzle early, then cloudy, light SW, 16C
Willey; 0900h a adult and Juv Swallow were flying over the village feeding.
Stanford reservoir; a Ruff, Greenshank and Green Sandpiper were seen. The mixed Tit flock held over 10. Long-tailed Tits, Goldcrest, 6 Chiffchaff and a Coal Tit. A family of 4 Bullfinches also worked their way through the bushes.
Shawell Lagoons; a look here after lunch did not produce much. At least 17+ Great-black backed Gulls were present, one with an orange ring, but it flew off before I could read it. Shame as we don't get many cr GBBGs here. A Green Woodpecker was calling loudly while a Buzzard passed over the pools.
Stanford reservoir; a Ruff, Greenshank and Green Sandpiper were seen. The mixed Tit flock held over 10. Long-tailed Tits, Goldcrest, 6 Chiffchaff and a Coal Tit. A family of 4 Bullfinches also worked their way through the bushes.
Shawell Lagoons; a look here after lunch did not produce much. At least 17+ Great-black backed Gulls were present, one with an orange ring, but it flew off before I could read it. Shame as we don't get many cr GBBGs here. A Green Woodpecker was calling loudly while a Buzzard passed over the pools.
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