Thursday 30 March 2023

Somerset Levels

Wednesday 29 March

A day off from dancing so, with Richard Osman, a short drive from Weston-super-Mare over the the Somerset Levels to spend the morning at RSPB Ham Wall and time in the afternoon for a walk through Shapwick Heath to check out the far lake for the newly-arrived Sand Martins.  Following heavy overnight rain it was still falling, albeit slightly, as we headed west down the M5.  Reaching RSPB Ham Wall the ran had all but stopped and the rest of the day remained dry and overcast but with little wind.  On the other hand, no sooner had we got back to Weston-super-Mare and stopped to refuel and the heaven absolutely opened and continued to pour down for the rest of the evening and during the night!

Loxton marsh reedbed RSPB Ham Wall looking east towards Glastonbury Tor

A trio of Jackdaws as we approached the reserve and once inside straight to the feeding area to check the visitors and observed Chaffinch, Great Tit and Robin but, most noticeably, the male Reed Bunting.  Then it was off to follow the main trails visiting all hides and observation points.  Lots of calling Chiffchaff with usual passage of both Woodpigeon and Carrion Crow but reaching the first lagoon we immediately heard our first booming Bittern. To the far right a single Great White Egret, a small number of Gadwall, a few Coot and a couple of Great Crested Grebes before we noted the Cetti's Warblers' penetrating songs.

Crossing the track to check the waters on the other side we found vey many Shoveler along with a smaller number of both Coot and the occasional Mallards.  Very few Teal here but at least six Heron and a single Little Egret.  A pair of Mute Swans were seen in the distant reeds. And for all those who believed that Grey Herons were tree-nesting birds, Ham, Wall seems to have Herons that build their nests in the actual reedbed.

The Heron Ardea cinerea pair 
A sitting Heron Ardea cinerea

Spending time at Viewing Point 1 we saw another Mute Swan along with a number of Tufted Duck, Mallards and Teal.  Lots of Lapwing and more Great Crested Grebes and a Little Egret plus a pair of Little Grebes.  Both Herring and Black-headed Gulls were noted before we found the four Redshank on the far side.  Moorhen and Cormorant were added to the day's list and whilst at Viewing Point 2 we added more Heron and a couple of Canada Geese. A Kingfisher had flashed down the stream between the tracks as we approached this site. Then, as we looked out over the water, a dozen Snipe rose and swirled round above us before heading over to the back of the water.

A quartering Marsh Harrier Circus aeruginosus

Finally, it was on to the Avalon Hide where, as approached, we heard our second Bittern of the morning. Once in the tower hide we had views of Pochard, a handful of WigeonTeal and Mallard.  As with all previous views over the reserve, always a sighting of a quartering Marsh Harrier. Time to head back to the car park for our picnic lunch and passing the nearby small spinney added a lovely singing Willow Warbler.  Whilst stopping at the new bridge about thirty metres on we stopped to pass on the sighting to two visiting birders and as I turned to point to the exact place Richard, who was watching the reeds, saw a Bittern complete its somewhat laboured flight across a short stretch of reeds; lucky him!  A final look at the feeding station produced a Coal Tit and then a cock Pheasant strolled past as we ate our sandwiches.

A strange old day as I had set my target bird as the Bittern whereas Richard was desperate to see a Kingfisher.  In the end it turned out that I saw the Kingfisher and Richard the Bittern!

Lunch over, we crossed the road and entered the Shapwick Heath Nature Reserve.  Walking along the former railway line we soon added both Woodpigeon and Carrion Crow before being pleasantly rewarded by the arrival of two male and a female Bullfinch which proceeded to feed on the buds of the tree immediately in front of us. On the opposite water Pochard, Cormorant, a Great White Egret and Coot.

The next water before the bridge produced many Wigeon plus Mallard, Teal and Shoveler plus a pair of Lesser Black-backed Gulls. On the bank, a pair of both Canada and Greylag Geese. Behind us a pair of Long-tailed Tits and in the distance on both sides at least four Marsh Harriers including a trio of most handsome males. 

Male Marsh Harrier Circus aeruginosus

Next it was a turn into the trees on our left to take the track to the hides and we encountered another resting Great White Egret and then from the hide overlooking the main lagoon no less than at least 500 Sand Martins feeding over the water. On the water itself hundreds of Wigeon along with a small number of both Teal and Mallard plus a pair of Great Crested Grebes.  The occasional Cormorant passed over or came to rest and the birds regularly took to the air as a passing Marsh Harrier came looking for an afternoon meal.  Then, away to our right near the old tin hut, the appearance of a hunting Sparrowhawk.  Making our way back to the car park we added Robin, Magpie and even a "yaffling" Green Woodpecker.  A great day indeed and much enjoyed Richard's company.

Birds seen:

Greylag Goose, Canada Goose, Mute Swan, Wigeon, Gadwall, Mallard, Shoveler, Teal, Pochard, Tufted Duck, Pheasant, Little Grebe, Great Crested Grebe, Cormorant, Bittern, Little Egret, Great White Egret, Heron, Marsh Harrier, Sparrowhawk, Moorhen, Coot, Lapwing, Snipe, Redshank, Black-headed Gull, Lesser Black-backed Gull, Herring Gull, Woodpigeon, Kingfisher, Green Woodpecker, Sand Martin, Robin, Blackbird, Cetti's Warbler, Chiffchaff, Willow Warbler, Long-tailed Tit, Coal Tit, Blue Tit, Great Tit, Magpie, Jackdaw, Carrion Crow, Chaffinch, Bullfinch, Reed Bunting.

Yet another Marsh Harrier Circus aeruginosus

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Tuesday 28 March 2023

Langford Lakes, Wiltshire

Male Reed Bunting Emberiza schoeniclus

Monday 27 March

Travelling to Weston-Super-Mare from Southampton entailed a long stretch on the A36 towards and after Salisbury and, as the road travelled alongside the Langford Lakes just beyond Wilton, it would have seemed very remiss not to spend almost an hour checking out the bird life. So, arriving around 11 o'clock in the car park having just seen a Buzzard resting on top of a wooden post, it was on along the paths to check the various hides and lakes.

Immediately in front of the car was a small rookery in the bare trees and at least six individuals were at home whereas on the opposite side of the main track in the grassy meadow  couple of Magpies were foraging in the grass.  The bushes and track in front of me held a couple of Robin and a Blackbird was seen on the opposite side of the path. On the first lake a couple of Canada Geese and every following stretch of water was to produce more with eighteen on the final water.

Robin Erithacus rubecula

Moving along the first hide on the right produced, other than more Canada Geese, a pair of Mallard and eight Gadwall. Nothing different from the opposite hide other than a pair of passing Carrion Crows and a few distant Rooks. All around me singing Chiffchaffs and a very dominant Song Thrush.  Then, as I moved off, a couple of Chaffinch and nearby Cetti's Warbler, the latter both seen and heard.  In the trees ahead a Great Spotted Woodpecker was busy with its drumming.

Even breeding Canada Goose Branta canadensis

The next lake held a number of Tufted Duck plus a couple of Coot and a single Mute Swan, whereas the opposite lake on my left, in addition to more Canada Geese, produced a pair of Pintail.  Just about to move on and a single Cormorant appeared for a few seconds before moving on.

Pintail Anas acuta

So on to the last lake before the extensive meadow.  Approaching the last section of a track a stop to admire the male Reed Bunting posing atop the neighbouring small tree and then, once inside the last hide, very many Canada Geese plus at least three Snipe.

Three resting/sleeping Snipe Gallinago gallinago

The walk back produced both a Greenfinch and male Siskin and once aside the final filed before the car a resting Mistle Thrush.  Moving towards the exit to continue our journey westwards first a Woodpigeon moving above the trees then a cock Pheasant below same.  Over the adjacent river and a sight of three Jackdaws above the local houses.  Maybe just a fifty minute stop for the 24 species but lovely to see the Mistle Thrush and Snipe, never mind both Buzzard and Great Spotted Woodpecker.

Distant record shot of the Mistle Thrush Turdus viscivorus

Birds seen:

Canada Goose, Gadwall, Mallard, Tufted Duck, Pheasant, Cormorant, Buzzard, Coot, Snipe, Woodpigeon, Great Spotted Woodpecker, Robin,  Blackbird, Mistle Thrush, Song Thrush, Cetti's Warbler, Chiffchaff, Magpie, Jackdaw, Rook, Carrion Crow, Chaffinch, Siskin, Reed Bunting.

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Sunday 26 March 2023

Oxey Marsh and lagoons, Lymington

Greenshank Tringa nebularia
 with Common Redshank Tringa Totanus
 and notice the Spotted Redshank Tringa erythropus in the background

Sunday 26 March

Following last night's heavy rain it was dull and overcast this morning with some light rain falling as I set off at 8.15 to drive into the New Forest to meet up with other members of the Hampshire Ornithological Society for their meeting covering Oxey Marshes and the Normandy Lagoons, so ably led by the very experienced and informative Ian Packer.  Perhaps due to the weather conditions, only a total of six of us including Ian (Michael, Brian, two Susans and myself) for the three plus miles figure-of-eight loop but great fun and in great company.  And even the very light rain rain stopped within the hour and the sun put on a hazy hat to keep us war,  especially when we stopped for our picnic lunch.

Those who braved the elements, myself, Ian, Michael, Susan, Brian and Susan at Normandy Lagoon. Solent to the right

Having noted the Jackdaws as I drove through Lymington and passed both Song Thrush and Collared Doves as I approached the meeting point in Maiden Lane, we were soon rewarded with a number of species a we awaited the off, including Chiffchaff, Blackbird, Cetti's Warbler and an over-flying pair of Canada Geese. Once on the way both Robin and Woodpigeon were immediately added to the day's list and then a Magpie flew across the lane. Continuing on down a very muddy path on the other side of the Salterns sailing Club we stopped to both identify Chiffchaff and Chaffinch and also added a solitary House Sparrow.

Avocets Recurvirostra avosetta

Then we back out into the open and crossing the marsh where we found a number of Meadow Pipits and a Sky Lark was singing above us and eventually found.  A number of Black-tailed Godwits were on the meadow to our right accompanied by some distant Redshank and Curlew whilst to our left we had a trio of Avocet, Black-headed Gull and a pair of Pintail on the water.  A single Great Black-backed Gull flew over and we were to find two more once we reached the sea wall and could see the shingle spit. The occasional Mallard but mainly Teal occupies the wet areas albeit we did see the first Snipe of the day as it beat a hasty retreat away from us.  By this time Canada Geese were seen just about everywhere and once the first pairs of Shelduck had been noted they, too, made very frequent appearances.  Likewise, no shortage of Oystercatchers showing up at very regular intervals.

Oystercatchers Haematopus ostralegus

As we approached the sea wall the first of a number of Lapwing were up in the air and a distant cock Pheasant was noted. A heron flew across from right to left and then we were on the sea wall checking the Solent itself.  As already mentioned, a pair of Great Black-backed Gulls were accompanied on the shingle spit by a Herring GullBrent Geese and Redshank.  Nearer to us on the water a feeding Great Crested Grebe and a second individual a little further away.

Female and male Eider Duck Somateria mollissima

Approaching Acre Pond we had chance to check the more open Oxey Lake where we not only found a number of Eider Duck on the water but even more on the far bank and totalling approximately 40 individuals, mainly males. The hedgerow behind us held a trio of Dunnock, Stonechat and the Reed Bunting, first seen by Michael.  Brian then proceeded to find a Wren.

Spotted Redshank Tringa erythropus

So to the wonder of Acre Pond.  Not just many Redshanks and more Black-tailed Godwits and Avocets but the first of two Spotted Redshanks, thanks to Ian's scope.  The second Spotted Redshank was even nearer and we had the privilege of seeing it posed next to a Common Redshank where both were joined by a Greenshank.  

Greenshank Tringa nebularia
Redshank Tringa totanus and Greenshank Tringa nebularia

Moving round to our final destination, Normandy Lagoon, we spent much time study the bird life and even stopped for our picnic with the sun shining and warming our backs as we noted the very many Black-headed Gulls and a pair of Black-tailed Godwits.  Upon arrival we had spent considerable time checking the gulls where it was possible to pick out a good number of Mediterranean as well as a couple of Herring Gulls.  Lots of Shelduck on the lagoon plus more Avocets

Black-headed Gulls Larus ridibundus with a few Mediterranean Gulls Larus melanocephalus
(Note the gull almost centre front looking right)

A female Red-breasted Merganser was busy feeding and seemed to have covered just about every area of the water and on the far bank a quartet of Spoonbill plus many more Little Egrets and Redshanks. Immediately below us about a dozen Dunlin and a couple of Ringed Plovers on the shingle and looking across the water to the far bank a larger flock of Dunlin perhaps totalling fifty or more. It took a little time but we eventually also found a handful of Wigeon and a couple of Cormorant. Before continuing to the far corner before starting our return walk to the cars, a Great Black-backed Gull flew over and then Barry managed to find another Snipe.  (Brian's home territory and he knew where to find the resident birds!)

Making our way back it was not so much the single Feral Pigeon (Rock Dove) nor the pair of Mute Swans that caught our attention but, rather, the Raven that Ian found immediately above us being mobbed by the local Black-headed Gulls and one can imagine the cacophony of noise surrounding the occasion! So ended a most splendid morning with a final total of species exceeding the fifty mark.

Birds seen:

Brent Goose, Canada Goose, Mute Swan, Shelduck, Wigeon, Mallard, Teal, Pintail, Eider Duck, Red-breasted Merganser, Pheasant, Great Crested Grebe, Cormorant, Little Egret, Heron, Spoonbill, Oystercatcher, Avocet, Ringed Plover, Lapwing, Dunlin, Snipe, Black-tailed Godwit, Curlew, Spotted Redshank, Common Redshank, Greenshank, Mediterranean Gull, Black-headed Gull, Herring Gull, Great Black-backed Gull, Rock Dove, Woodpigeon, Collared Dove, Sky Lark, Meadow Pipit, Wren, Dunnock, Robin, Stonechat, Blackbird, Song Thrush, Cetti's Warbler, Chiffchaff, Blue Tit, Great Tit, Magpie, Jackdaw, Carrion Crow, Raven, Starling, House Sparrow, Chaffinch, Reed Bunting.

Dunlin Calidris alpina with Ringed Plover Charadrius hiatiula at extreme right

Greenshank Tringa nebularia with Spotted Redshank T.erythropus in background


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Saturday 25 March 2023

Warsash Shore

Saturday 25 March

Out of the house by 10.30 to walk along the shore past Warsash harbour and on down to Southampton Water vis the Spit, followed by a visit to both the Scrape and meandering Pool on the Hook with Warsash Nature Reserve.  The sun may have been shining through the broken cloud but the strong wind dropped the temperature to single figures.  With the tide well on its way in, it became very evident reaching the Spit that the wintering Wigeon flock had departed save for three stragglers found at the back of the Scrape.  Even the Brent Geese numbers were down to a couple of score rather than in excess of a hundred individuals.

Redshank Tringa totanus

However, still lots of Redshank to be seen long with a dozen Oystercatchers, a Black-tailed Godwit  and a couple of Curlew.  Just three Turnstones and neither Grey Plover nor Dunlin this morning.  Reaching the Spit I did find ten Ringed Plover but was twenty minutes too late for the sighted Wheatear.  Also present a number of Black-headed Gulls and a pair of Gadwall.  I had already recorded a few Herring Gull, Carrion Crow and Woodpigeon as I made my way along the shore of Southampton Water.

Ringed Plovers Charadrius hiaticula

Reaching the Scrape the pair of Mute Swans were at the very back and five Tufted Duck were the most numerous ducks on the water albeit, apart from the Wigeon trio resting at the far end, there were also a handful of Teal and ten Shelduck on the grass.  Off to the right a single Canada Goose and to the left a sleeping flock of a dozen Curlew.  Immediately in front of me on the stream a pair of Mallard. As I was departing a trio of Linnets flew past and a Sky Lark was singing as it ascended the heavens. In the meadow to the side both Magpie and Blackbird were noted.

Sleeping Curlew Numenius arquata

Onwards towards the Meandering Pool and no sooner had a I take the narrow path alongside the now burnt gorse that I, at last, found that familiar brown figure on the grass and the female Wheatear remained for at least a minute enabling me to get a record shot before moving below the bank at the back.

Northern Wheatear Oenanthe oenanthe

Once at the Meandering Pool all very quiet with just a pair of Shelduck and a single Teal plus another Magpie at the back of the water. A stop as at the Scrape as I made my way back produced both a single Coot and a male Kestrel.  Similarly, moving through the little spinney as I left the shore I stopped to watch a foraging Goldcrest and a close Cetti's Warbler left me in no doubt that it wanted to be recorded as it blasted away with its distinctive song. On reaching the Spit the tide was now just about fully in but the Ringed Plovers were still visible and at the far end there were now three Cormorant along with a couple of Herring Gulls. Despite the strong wind, a most enjoyable walk and many thanks to both the Wheatear and Goldcrest for giving such clear sightings.

Herring Gulls Larus argentatus and Cormorants Phalacrocorax carbo

Birds seen:

Bret Goose, Canada Goose, Mute Swan, Shelduck, Wigeon, Gadwall, Mallard, Teal, Tufted Duck, Cormorant, Coot, Oystercatcher, Ringed Plover, Black-tailed Godwit, Curlew, Redshank, Turnstone, Black-headed Gull, Herring Gull, Great Black-backed Gull, Woodpigeon, Sky Lark, Wheatear, Blackbird, Cetti's Warbler, Goldcrest, Magpie, Carrion Crow, Linnet.

Ringed Plover Charadrius hiaticula

Tufted Duck Aythya fuligula

Great Black-backed Gulls Larus marinus

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Thursday 23 March 2023

Workmans Lane, Warsash

Thursday 23 March

Yesterday's blog completed and published and all looking fine outside so decided I would take advantage of the present situation and drive up to the top of Workmans Lane on the outskirts of the village.  However, getting out of the car to change my footwear I discovered the opposite sign of the coin; it may have been bright and even some sunshine but it was blowing a proverbial gale.  Still, once changed I set off hoping to find a little shelter from the trees as I started down the lane.  Immediately in front of me over a hundred Starling in the trees and on the wires.  A single Black-headed Gull crossed the road and in the field to my right I found the first of the seven Magpies I was to see during the next ninety minutes.

A few of the Starlings Sturnus vulgaris on the wires

Moving on down the lane I saw a number of Carrion Crows and Woodpigeons then stopped to observe the fifty Brent Geese resting near the water-filled dip in the large field to my right.  Also present a couple of Herring Gulls and as I lifted my camera for a distant record shot the birds decided they'd be better off elsewhere.  However, having continued on down to the shore and back the flock had returned and resumed their resting.

The Brent Geese Branta bernicla flock

A couple of Blackbirds in the hedgerow along with a Robin as I took the narrower track down to the shore and a single Great Tit in the garden to my left. A pair of Mallards were resting o the pond at the bottom of the lane but nothing to be seen on the very choppy waters of the Solent.

Returning up the lane at the entrance to the horse fields the above Starlings seemed to have decided they like my presence and there they were right in front of me as I passed through the gate. A Chiffchaff flittered out of the grass and onto the lowest wire of the fence before disappearing and I sent of to walk the perimeter.  Almost at the turning point by the three-sided stable and a trio of Rooks crossed the track I front of me followed by another pair.  Checking the fields to my right I found a trio of Canada Geese and another large flock of Starlings were feeding on the ground next to the horses.

Starlings Sturnus vulgaris

Between the stable and the first style to take the path leading to Hook Lane I had a Sky Lark ascend to my right and then just in time to catch sight of the Egyptian Goose away to my right below the fence.  I took a chance and seem to have just managed to capture the goose before it disappeared from sight.

Can you spot the Egyptian Goose Alopochen aegyptiaca?

Away to my left a Green Woodpecker was very loudly "yaffling" away in the trees and then, immediately overhead a visiting Buzzard. Once back on Hook Lane to walk back to the car I came across a few Chaffinch and then a Great Spotted Woodpecker alighted on a rather small tree immediately in front.  With camera ready the bird moved on a little and then back across the lane to a larger tree.  Picked up again behind a few branches, I thought I had captured the bird with my camera but, no, yet another Starling!  So ended a pleasant walk and I'm sure the exercise did me good and still no sign of the promised rain.

Buzzard Buteo buteo

Birds seen:

Brent Goose, Canada Goose, Egyptian Goose, Mallard, Buzzard, Black-headed Gull, Herring Gull, Woodpigeon, Green Woodpecker, Great Spotted Woodpecker, Skylark, Robin, Blackbird, Chiffchaff, Great Tit, Magpie, Rook, Carrion Crow, Starling, Chaffinch.

Not the Great Spotted Woodpecker but another Starling!

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Titchfield District

Wednesday 22 March

Departing Fareham just after 10.30  and the forecast suggesting no rain before noon, I decided on a double Titchfield visit and, hopefully, back home before the promised rain. First port of call the Meon shore at Titchfield haven where I found the tide fully in and a good breeze creating choppy water.  Scoping near and far and left and right from the cliff top not a single bird in sight nevermind finding a Scoter or early tern.  So down to the harbour where a handful of mallard were resting and then to the road bridge to check the adjacent lower end of the reserve.  Hundreds of Black-headed Gulls and a small, huddled flock of about thirty Black-tailed Godwits sheltering on the grassy bank at the base of the fence. Slightly up river a lone Oystercatcher was resting on the end of a short pier. Looking at the island from the mirador just along the road, more Black-headed Gulls and a Teal but also Mallard, Gadwall and and a Little Grebe on the water. A Magpie flew over the reserve and a pair of Canada Geese headed up river from the coast. So back to the car via the back of the Visitors Centre where I also observed Great Tit and House Sparrows with more Woodpigeons as I walked up the hill along with a pair of Blackbirds and a Robin at the cliff top.  So on to Titchfield Canal and as I drive past the harbour a Pied Wagtail flew across the road in front of me.

Long-tailed Tit Aegithalos caudatus

Once at the car park, plenty of room so, presumably, most of the daily dog-walkers had been and gone, and putting on my boots the welcome sounds of Blue Tit, Great Tit and Chiffchaff.  First a walk round the little spinney at the back which produced sightings of all the above and then off down the path towards the Barb Owl view point.  No shortage of Woodpigeons and the first of the carrion Crows plus a Magpie. However, with the Barn Owls not showing time to scope out the water below me where numerous gulls were seen resting.  A closer check with both bins and scope produced mainly Black-headed but also a good number of Mediterranean and a few Common Gulls in the mixed flock. Just to their side more than a handful of Herring Gulls including a number of immatures.  Working the water an octet of Gadwall plus the occasional Teal, Mallard and Shoveler.   Seven Cormorants were also resting on the nearside bank and as I looked to the far side not only did I find a quintet of Shelduck but a dozen Black-tailed Godwits resting under a fallen tree. The three Canada Geese flew down river and the dozen Jackdaws continued to forage along the edges.

Continuing on down the path I was accompanied by the constant song of the Chiffchaffs and Robins and Great Spotted Woodpecker was busy drumming in the trees behind me accompanied by a second individual in the trees near the approaching avenue.  However, almost blasting my ears to my immediate front was the singing Song Thrush that I eventually found hidden by the surrounding twigs. Shame I couldn't get a decent focus on the bird.  Looking back at the floods I had just left I also picked up a few Coot at the far end.

Record shot of the singing Song Thrush Turdus philomelos

Approaching the bridge I found my first Long-tailed Tits, such lovely little birds but, none the less, a most powerful song. More Chiffchaff and Great Tits and then chance to see what was on the main lake to my left.  Scores of Shoveler along with more Black-headed Gulls and a few Gadwall and Teal.  At the back a pair of Mute Swans and a small number of resting Black-tailed Godwits on the bank.  It was whilst studying the far side that I came across a most unexpected sight with a dozen Tufted Duck on the water.  A first for me which, probably, suggests the water is deeper than I had imagined. A single Moorhen paddles across and more Coot were noticed.

Tufted Duck Aythya fuligula at the back of the lake

At the end of the tarmacked path time to hear a Cetti's Warbler blasting out and found more Chiffchaff along with a couple of Blackbirds.  A pair of Long-tailed Tits were working the tree next to me and setting off on the return walk along came the rain!  But just a light shower and stopped almost before it had begun and followed by growing sunshine, which lasted for the rest of the day. A last look at the lake actually produced a couple of well-hidden Pintails at the back of the water and once back at the original floods a second pair were feeding on the open water.  At the far end of the water to almost complete the gull list was a single Great Black-backed Gull but no sign of the missing Lesser black-backed Gull! Finally, more Robins and then a Greenfinch "weezing" away from the top of a tree in the car park to complete the morning's birding.

Birds seen:

Canada Goose, Mute Swan, Shelduck, Wigeon, Gadwall, Mallard, Shoveler, Teal, Pintail, Tufted Duck, Little Grebe, Cormorant, Moorhen, Coot, Oystercatcher, Black-tailed Godwit, Mediterranean Gull, Black-headed Gull, Common Gull, Herring Gull, Great Black-backed Gull, Woodpigeon, Collared Dove, Great Spotted Woodpecker,  Collared Dove, Pied Wagtail, Dunnock, Robin, Blackbird, Song Thrush, Cettti's Warbler, Chiffchaff, Long-tailed Tit, Blue Tit, Great Tit, Magpie, Jackdaw, Carrion Crow, House Sparrow, Greenfinch

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Wednesday 22 March 2023

Rio Almanzora and Vera Playa with the Arboleas Birding Group

 Wednesday 22 March

It sounds like a great day's birding for Dave and his Arboleas Birding Group.  All those sightings of both Barn and Red-rumped Swallows reminds we in the UK that our Barn Swallows should now be about to, hopefully, descend upon us.  Here, to date, so far only mention of a few Sand Martins. I really like Dave's comment about the Iberian Grey Shrike on its "resident" power line.  How true this of so many species, whether it by the Crossbills that I would regularly see at the top of the old tree at the Alcaucin picnic area or the Little Owl that always rested on the same pile of stones at the edge of the arable land beyond Ventas de Zafarraya and, I am sure, many others will have similar tales to relate. Still looking forward to catching upon all those missed Spanish species when I return in may.

Rio Almanzora & Vera Playa: Wednesday 22nd March

After my tiring, but very enjoyable, exploits at El Fondo on Monday, today I kept it local and decided to go to the Rio Almanzora and Vera Playa.  I picked up Juda at La Alfoquia and we made our way to the Rio Almanzora rambla, joining it at the Desert Springs golf complex end.  There was a bit of stagnant water below the first weir which contained some Moorhen and a Mallard duck.  The shrubs provided Goldfinch, Greenfinch and a Linnet some vantage points.  Juda spotted a Magpie and I identified a pair of Red-billed Chough flying over.  The "resident" Iberian Grey Shrike was on the power line again.  Our first Barn Swallow of the day flew by.  Also saw House Sparrows before we got to the ford.  There we flushed a Green Sandpiper.  Juda spotted a pair of Teal.

Iberian Grey Shrike (PHOTO: David Elliott-Binns)

We were joined by Trevor, Phil and Sue, Peter, Phil 2 and Peter 2.  Peter spotted a Common Sandpiper down by the dyke.  There were numerous Barn and Red-rumped Swallows, together with House Martins, flying around.  Amongst the shrubs we saw Chichaff.  Phil identified one as a Willow Warbler. Some Woodpigeon were also seen.

We convoyed to the beach outside Villaricos.  There were numerous Cormorants on the harbour rocks and feeding nearby.  There were a pair each of Yellow-legged Gulls and Little Egrets also on the rocks. Unusually there was a small group of Black-winged Stilt there as well.  Peter 2 added Spotless Starlings on the tower and some Sanderling on the island rocks.  A Blackbird flew by.

Black-winged Stilts (PHOTO: David Elliott-Binns)

We moved round to the embankment overlooking the estuary.  Here we added Greater Flamingos, Little Ringed and Kentish Plover and Little Stint.  Phil 2 found a Shelduck.  I had some Shoveler.  Also seen were Coot, Moorhen, Little Egret, Cormorant and Mallard.

We adjourned to the "Shark" bar at Villaricos where Phil 2 very kindly bought all the coffees.  We then headed to the dual carriageway overlooking the pools opposite the Consum supermarket behind Vera Playa.  Phil spotted a Kestrel followed by a Redshank and Ruff.  The first shallow pool as usual contained numerous Moorhen and Black-winged Stilts.  Phil 2 spotted three Grey Heron on the far side. I added Whit-headed Duck and Little Grebe.  Sue found a Whiskered Tern.  A single Glossy Ibis was seen.  We also saw Greater Flamingos, Black Headed Gull, Shoveler, Coot, Shelducks and Black-winged Stilts.

We drove round to the Acuaparc car park and crossed the road to the elevated viewing platform overlooking the pool.  There were numerous White-headed Ducks plus a pair of Black-necked Grebes. Phil added Common and Red-crested Pochard.  Sue saw five distant Whiskered Terns.  Phil was first to see a pair of Jackdaw fly over . A whole squadron of Cormorant also flew over.

Male Red-crested Pochard (PHOTO: David Elliott-Binns)

We ended up with 45 species.  Great weather, great birds, great company.  Safe journeys to both Phils and Sue who head back to the UK soon.
Regards,
Dave

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Tuesday 21 March 2023

Hayling Island & Farlington Marshes

 Tuesday 21 March

The Mixed Black-headed Larus ridibunus and Mediterranean Gull Larus melancocephalus breeding colony

The forecast suggested very early morning shower followed by more showers later in the morning.  Therefore, awake early and out of the house just after 7 to visit Hayling Island and catch the incoming tide.  Dull and cloudy for my time at Hayling Island but starting in the car park with scores of Black-tailed Godwits, Redshank, Dunlin and Black-headed Gulls I made my way to the "Billy Line" and on down to the neighbouring old oysterbeds.

Black-tailed Godwit Limosa limosa

The initial walk provided me with a number of Woodpigeon, Carrion Crows and Magpie plus a male Blackbird  on the bank of the first pond to my left. On the oysterbeds themselves I soon noted numerous Brent Geese along with  few Shelduck, Curlew and Dunlin. As I left the old railway track to take the narrow path a couple of Chiffchaff, Greenfinch and Blue Tit were observed. Ere long I also added both Oystercatcher and a couple of Grey Plover.

Black-headed Gulls Larus ridibundus

The loud noise of the hundreds of Black-headed and Mediterranean Gulls on the breeding colony was heard well before reaching the site where, I estimate, there must have been at least 300 of the former and certainly more than 50 of the latter, albeit it was too cold to stop and make a more definitive count. Whereas the Black-headed birds seemed to be spread far and wide, the group of Mediterranean Gulls concentrated on one particular area at the north of the breeding site.

Mediterranean Gulls Larus melancocephalus

But not just the gulls.  A Cormorant had overflown me and was now fishing in the waters to the left of the colony and within a few metres a pair of Red-breasted Mergansers were drifting along.  Shame not better weather to throw more light on the birds.  And on the opposite side of the colony I was also to find a pair of Little Grebe.  meanwhile, immediately behind me, I turned to find a Song Thrush perched on the top of one of the bramble bushes.  Leaving the colony behind me I ventured out to the sea wall to scan the main harbour and eventually found the long-staying Long-tailed Duck amidst the choppy, dull water with a mixture of resting and diving for food.

Male Red-breasted Merganser Mergus serrator

back at the car and changing out of my walking boots a short, sharp shower arrived but I was already sitting in he car so no problem.  However, with it being only 9.15 and looking a little brighter, I mad the decision to stop at nearby Farlington Marshes (on the other side of the harbour) on the way home and a very profitable 90 minutes it turned out to be in the ever improving weather and much brighter then forecast.

The tide was now almost in but a few Brent Geese, Carrion Crows and an Oystercatcher were below me as I parked the car to walk straight to the closed Visitors CentreWoodpigeons, Magpie and Black-headed Gulls were added to the new list of species seen on the day.  Once at the Visitors Centre I was able to check the river on the opposite side having first recorded a number of Moorhen, Little Egret and a cock Pheasant of the motorway side of the track.

Cock Pheasant Phasianus colchicus

The lagoon in front of me held a pair of Mute Swans along with a number of both Mallard and Teal

Mute Swans Cygnus olor with Black-tailed Godwits Limosa limosa

Eight Black-tailed Godwits and a single Redshank were resting at the right-hand side and a Pied Wagtail seemed to demand attention as it flitted around the area.  Also present a number of Coot plus more Moorhens along with a pair of Little Grebe before I found the quartet of Gadwall. But more noticeable was the quintet of Avocet.

Avocets Recurvirostra avosetta

With the main track not looking too bad I decided to continue up to the sea wall before returning to the car.  Reaching the first bend having noted the Blackbird in the way, I stopped to admire the Meadow Pipit that landed close to me on the field to my right and then, on the opposite side, not only many more Brent but also a score of Canada Geese. Flying around to my right a number of Lapwing and many more Canada Geese were noted.

Brent Geese Branta bernicla

At the back of the next field I found a very large number of resting Shelduck whist to my left the field held many resting/feeding Black-headed but with also at least a score of Mediterranean Gulls. With more time to check these gulls I also noted the few Lapwing and Curlew that were feeding amongst them.  Overhead a male Kestrel hovered and  lone Heron flew across the field to the back.

Meadow Pipit Anthus pratensis

So back to the car park but then decided to walk along the sea wall to the mirador so checking both the bushes and the fields and rivers to my right.  A Robin and a pair of Greenfinches were quickly added and many more Brent Geese recorded.  On the river I then counted a further 25 Avocets plus more Teal, a second Little Egret and more Carrion Crows and Woodpigeon.  Before turning for the return walk to the car park, a pair of Meadow Pipits flew out to the harbour and back with one alighting on the bush below me to give a good photo opportunity. And so this last minute additional walk added a total of 31 species with Avocets the special bird at this site. Home just after 11 in time for a shower before lunch and the afternoon's dance and a final total of 40 species for the morning. Most enjoyable.

Distant Greenfinch Carduelis chloris

Birds seen:

Canada Goose, Brent Goose, Mute Swan, Shelduck, Gadwall, Mallard, Teal, Red-breasted Merganser, Long-tailed Duck, Pheasant, Little Grebe, Cormorant, Little Egret, Heron, Kestrel, Moorhen, Coot, Oystercatcher, Avocet, Lapwing, Grey Plover, Dunlin, Black-tailed Godwit, Curlew, Redshank, Black-headed Gull, Mediterranean Gull, Herring Gull, Woodpigeon, Meadow Pipit, Pied Wagtail, Robin, Blackbird, Song Thrush, Chiffchaff, Blue Tit, Magpie, Carrion Crow, Starling, Greenfinch.

Moorhen Gallinula chloropus

Song Thrush Turdus philomelos

Gull colony with Mediterranean Gulls Larus melancocephalus at the very far end

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