Birds of Salisbury Plain (No. 2) - 21st July 2008

We arrived at our pre-arranged meeting point and were split into two groups to be taken by Land Rovers to the Great Bustard re-introduction area. The first group went off to the hide, whilst the second group had a very informative talk on the re-introduction programme and watched a film on the project. There was also a chance to purchase membership and buy some Great Bustard Group merchandise. Then the groups switched. Birds seen from the hide included 6 GREAT BUSTARDS, comprising of 4 males and 2 females as well as CORN BUNTING, STONECHAT, LINNET, YELLOWHAMMER and a single MONTAGU’S HARRIER. The chalk grassland was beautifully awash with wildflowers including, Sainfoin, Pyramidal Orchid, Toadflax and Common Cranesbill. We then headed off to Langford Lakes Nature Reserve where we enjoyed lunch in the sunshine. A SPOTTED FLYCATCHER was seen briefly and we found Green-flowered Helleborine. On the lakes we had good views of 2 MANDARIN DUCKS, HOBBY, a brief KINGFISHER (3 times), REED WARBLER and COMMON BUZZARD. The afternoon was spent on Salisbury Plain in search of more specialities. The grassland had more Pyramidal Orchids, plus another stunning array of chalk grassland wildflowers and butterflies which included Marbled White, Dark Green Fritillary, Small Skipper and to our surprise, a Hummingbird Hawk Moth. Birds were very quiet due to strong winds, although this did not deter us. We drove to another site and soon located our target – MONTAGU’S HARRIER, a fine female flew past us and was seen quartering the fields. We drove off in the direction it was heading and in the process flushed 2 magnificent STONE CURLEW from the side of the road! We soon relocated the harrier and to our surprise, also saw a fine juvenile. Both birds were seen well along with COMMON BUZZARD and KESTREL. A pair of GREY PARTRIDGE were also spotted in the grassy fields rounding off a brilliant day. Due to the scarcity of breeding species such as Montagu’s Harrier and Stone Curlew we have withheld the name of sites visited on Salisbury Plain to avoid extra pressure on the species involved.

Montagu's Harrier by David Preston

Birds of Salisbury Plain - 6th July 2008

We arrived at our pre-arranged meeting area on Salisbury Plain in the pouring rain and were met by The Great Bustard Group. It was decided to split into two groups and one headed to the hide, while the other watched a video about the Bustard Project. From the hide 5 GREAT BUSTARDS fed in the release pen, from which they were free to fly and come and go as they pleased. We had good views of these magnificent birds and also saw LINNET, STONECHAT, YELLOWHAMMER, SKYLARK and WHITETHROAT. Pyramidal and Common Spotted Orchids were seen behind the hide on the chalky grassland. The second group took their turn and managed to see the same birds with the addition of a COMMON BUZZARD. The video presentation and talk from the warden was excellent and very informative and we also had the chance to purchase some Great Bustard Group merchandise. Also on site, LITTLE OWL and GREY WAGTAIL were seen along with a Fox and good numbers of Brown Hare. The weather by now had brightened so we headed past Stonehenge and down to the Wiltshire Wildlife Trust reserve at Langford Lakes. We enjoyed lunch in the sunshine and saw a family party of SPOTTED FLYCATCHERS and a brief GARDEN WARBLER. The lakes itself yielded several MANDARIN DUCK, KINGFISHER and the more common duck species. COMMON BUZZARDS soared over the nearby hillsides along with good numbers of hirundines. 2 COMMON SANDPIPERS were also seen feeding along the edge of a lake. Our last destination was an area with within the Salisbury Plain Training Area, although on our arrival the weather was pretty awful. The sun soon came out and SKYLARKS and COMMON BUZZARDS became very apparent. The warmth also brought out several butterflies including Ringlet and Marbled White. A Roe Deer was seen briefly as well as a GREEN WOODPECKER and a RED-LEGGED PARTRIDGE. We tried another area and had walked only a few minutes when we heard a large clap of thunder and the heavens opened. The torrential rain fell for quite a while and most of us were soaked through to the skin. Needless to say we found the whole situation quite amusing! We eventually dried off, but decided to head for home before we got soaked again. It was still an excellent day despite the weather and the Bustards were indeed the highlight.

Great Bustard

Minsmere with Nightjar Evening – 28th June 2008

We arrived at Sizewell in glorious sunshine and immediately saw the nesting KITTIWAKES on the rigs, some of the young were well grown. Arriving at Minsmere we set off for the heath, noting BITTERN along the way. On the heath itself, windy conditions kept the birds low but our patience was rewarded with up to 3 DARTFORD WARBLERS that showed well. On our return to the centre we saw and heard REED WARBLER and had brief views of BEARDED TIT and SEDGE WARBLER. We enjoyed lunch in the shade and then headed off towards the scrape. From the West hide we had stonking views of an adult MEDITERRANEAN GULL along with large numbers of BLACK-HEADED GULLS with young. The other hides produced SANDWICH, COMMON AND LITTLE TERNS and plenty of BLACK-TAILED GODWITS, REDSHANK and a single CURLEW. Most of the birds had congregated on East scrape where we found another 10 MED GULLS, 11 LITTLE GULLS, a male RUFF, 3 SPOTTED REDSHANK, TEAL, WIGEON and plenty of TERNS. On the beach we had great views of LITTLE TERN chicks although they blended in with their surroundings pretty well. Along the north wall we had views of BEARDED TIT and a brief sighting of a WATER RAIL. The bushes around the centre pond yielded a GARDEN WARBLER whilst the pond itself had good numbers of dragonflies including FOUR SPOTTED CHASER and EMPEROR DRAGONFLY as well as a brilliant GRASS SNAKE swimming across the pond. We then headed up to Southwold for Fish and Chips and then returned to Minsmere for a spot of reedbed watching. By now the wind had dropped and we had good views of MARSH HARRIER. With the sun dropping, we went onto the heath and heard good numbers of DARTFORD WARBLERS singing and saw a HOBBY, which flew over. Eventually we heard NIGHTJAR and we saw and heard at least 4 birds churring from their perches. STONE CURLEW called in the distance and NOCTULE BATS flew overhead. A fine end to a great day with a total of 90 recorded.

Minsmere with Nightjar Evening - 21st June 2008

We started the day off at Sizewell, where over 100 pairs of KITTIWAKES were seen nesting on the rigs offshore, 2 LITTLE GULLS were also spotted nearby. On arrival at Minsmere we headed straight to Dunwich Heath and had great views of a pair of DARTFORD WARBLERS, along with several STONECHATS. A superb BITTERN was seen in flight over the north levels and CETTI’S WARBLER, SEDGE AND REED WARBLERS were all seen well. After lunch we walked around the scrape, adding 3 GARGANEY, 4 SPOTTED REDSHANK, 10 LITTLE GULLS and 2 ARCTIC TERNS to our already growing list. MEDITERRANEAN GULLS, HOBBY and over 50 Icelandic BLACK-TAILED GODWITS were also noted. We drove offsite to Southwold for our evening meal and tucked in to Fish & Chips before heading back to Minsmere, where we spent the early part of the evening in the Island Mere Hide. MARSH HARRIERS, BITTERN and best of all 3 OTTERS swam at the back of the mere. With time getting on we went to our Nightjar site and as the light dropped we started to hear ‘churring’. It didn’t take long before we saw our first NIGHTJAR. We then saw a male well in flight and had even better views of one perched on top of tree. Brilliant! On our way back to the vehicles, several Glow Worms shining on the pathway were a delightful sight. An excellent day, we had managed to see all our target birds and recorded 102 species for the day.

Chough

Puffin

Mandarin

PEMBROKESHIRE 13th – 15th June 2008

Friday
We started our weekend close to Camarthen where we took a walk around beautiful woodland. NUTHATCHES and TREECREEPERS were particularly common and we enjoyed good views of BLACKCAP and GOLDCREST. The star of the show was a female PIED FLYCATCHER that fed in front of us, completely unaware of our presence. Whilst having lunch we saw both RED KITE and COMMON BUZZARD overhead. We arrived in Pembrokeshire and headed down to Martin’s Haven and the beautiful coastline. Almost immediately we found an immature PEREGRINE sitting on a cliff edge, whilst several GANNET, a single ATLANTIC GREY SEAL and many ROCK PIPITS kept us entertained. Whilst standing on the cliff edge we were fortunate to watch 2 brilliant adult CHOUGH come sailing by and landing on the cliff top. We continued to have good views of these great birds until they drifted off. On the sea we watched 3 HARBOUR PORPOISE and WHEATEAR, LINNET and STONECHAT were also seen among the rough grass. We then went back to our accommodation where we enjoyed a great meal. After dinner we returned to Martin’s Haven and onto the deer park and again saw the CHOUGH. As the light dropped we saw our first MANX SHEARWATERS and numbers built up to several thousand before the light faded.

Saturday
After a hearty home-cooked breakfast we were soon back down to Martin’s Haven and in the queue for the boat to Skomer. Numbers are limited to 250 people a day on the island, so we were fortunate to be on the first boat. 2 adult PEREGRINES flew over our heads whilst waiting and several ROCK PIPITS sang from the cliffs. It wasn’t long before we were on our way. As we neared Skomer, we were treated to the wonderful sight of at least 1000 PUFFINS, they seemed to be the most common bird and were just floating in the water. After an introductory chat by the warden, we were soon walking on the island. Thankfully, the rest of the visitors headed straight for the PUFFIN nesting cliffs, but we walked towards the middle of the island and located a SHORT-EARED OWL. We watched this rare breeder hunt above the Red Campion covered hillside and it even perched on a bush for us. The weather could not have been better for our visit, light breeze, no cloud and warm temperatures. Along the paths we started seeing our first MANX SHEARWATERS, but unfortunately they were all dead. GREAT BLACK-BACKED GULLS are a chief predator of this small seabird, whose numbers reach over 250,000 birds on the island. Almost 40% of the world population occur on Skomer. GUILLEMOTS, RAZORBILLS and FULMAR were all seen well and we scoped Grassholm Island and its 34,000 pairs of GANNET, a magnificent sight! MEADOW and ROCK PIPITS are all common and several WHEATEARS were seen, including juveniles. As we walked along the coast, several CHOUGHS flew past and we then located 6 more. We all enjoyed good scope views and took photographs. As ever, time was getting on, so we had lunch and then walked to the south of the island where the main density of PUFFINS are. We were not disappointed as we had extremely close views, down to a foot in places. Needless to say, lots of photographs were taken. We ended up at the jetty with a little time to spare so we sat in the sunshine with seabirds all around us. A magical experience! After disembarking we headed back to get a welcome drink before visiting some wetlands where a family party of SHOVELER, LITTLE GREBE and TUFTED DUCK were seen amongst the gulls. REED BUNTINGS and SEDGE WARBLERS were also noted. We had a leisurely meal that evening, which included some good local produce.

Sunday
After yet another hearty breakfast we packed up and drove towards England via the Brecon Beacons to the Forest of Dean. As we crossed the English border it started raining heavily and we ate lunch in the vehicle. Soon the rain stopped and the sun came out – perfect weather for raptors. From a viewpoint nearby, we saw RED KITE, COMMON BUZZARD, PEREGRINE, KESTREL and a GOSHAWK, not bad for a short visit! From here we travelled a short distance where we soon located a juvenile DIPPER standing on the shoreline of a stream. Our last site in the forest was an area of ponds where we soon found several family parties of MANDARIN amongst the common MALLARD. We travelled home via the M40 where the site of 34 RED KITES from the vehicle was unbelievable. A perfect end to a good weekend.

SOUTHERN SWEDEN – SUMMER SPECIALITIES 31st May – 2nd June 2008

Saturday
We arrived at Copenhagen Airport to see bright sunshine and beautiful blue skies and were soon on our way to Sweden. After crossing the massive Oresund Bridge we reached our first destination and as soon as we got out of the vehicles heard a THRUSH NIGHTINGALE singing. A walk around the area produced good numbers of ARCTIC TERNS, BLACK TERN, EIDER, 1500 BRENT GEESE and at least two singing male ICTERINE WARBLERS, one of which showed well in the canopy of some birches. We also had brief views of a northern race LONG-TAILED TIT and a couple of LITTLE TERNS. Later, we enjoyed lunch in the hot sun at our accommodation and watched MARSH HARRIER, RED KITE and at least 2 pairs of nesting FIELDFARE. We then spent the afternoon in the Falsterbo area, where due to the excellent weather conditions the birding was rather quiet. The highlight being two CARRION CROWS amongst the common HOODED CROWS We also found several TREE SPARROWS, DUNLIN, AVOCET, GOLDENEYE and another ARCTIC TERN. In the evening we enjoyed a drink in the accommodation gardens before enjoying a good meal.

Sunday
On awakening we found the FIELDFARES continued to entertain and several ‘FLAVA’ YELLOW WAGTAILS fed on the short turf around the buildings. Today we headed north, stopping en-route to see WHINCHAT, COMMON BUZZARD and more RED KITES. At our first three sites we saw GARGANEY, up to 11 RED-NECKED GREBES including 3 young, BLACK TERN, LITTLE RINGED PLOVER and WHITE STORK. We drove on and visited a small nature reserve where a NUTHATCH was seen and yet more THRUSH NIGHTINGALES were heard. We stopped for lunch amongst some pines and struck gold with a superb BLACK WOODPECKER that flew right over us. Singing GOLDEN ORIOLE, TREE PIPIT and PIED FLYCATCHERS were also noted. Butterflies and dragonflies were in good numbers and included CLUB-TAILED DRAGONFLY and BLACK-VEINED WHITE BUTTERFLY. Our next site was an area of meadows that were being cut and this attracted up to 6 WHITE STORKS and 8 RED KITES, whilst 25 COMMON CRANES were seen distantly in a cattle field and a few ‘THUNBERGI’ YELLOW WAGTAILS fed. Nearby at a lake we heard yet more THRUSH NIGHTINGALES, although seeing them was a different matter and a pair of nesting LONG-TAILED TITS, which showed well. BLACK TERNS, HOBBY and LESSER WHITETHROAT were also seen. From a viewing screen we found a NORFOLK HAWKER DRAGONFLY, a brief PENDULINE TIT and a superb HONEY BUZZARD that flew right over us. 4 COMMON CRANES flew close over our heads and the BLACK TERNS came very close to the hide. Our last site was a damp area behind a military base. We soon found the area we were looking for and almost immediately our target species started singing – a RIVER WARBLER. We had great views of this, a rare bird to the area. A GREEN SANDPIPER flew over and MARSH WARBLER and GRASSHOPPER WARBLER’S sang. Near the vehicles we had good but brief views of a THRUSH NIGHTINGALE – at last! On our way back to the accommodation, an OSPREY flew over. That night we enjoyed an al-fresco meal at a nearby restaurant before heading back.

Monday
Again the FIELDFARE and YELLOW WAGTAILS were seen before breakfast and with the weather bright, warm and sunny we headed back to Falsterbo. On arrival it was once again very quiet and we headed towards the observatory. To our delight we found a stunning adult ROSE-COLOURED STARLING, which flew past us and into the dunes. Over the next 45 minutes it flew about but was quite wary. Eventually we had good views and with no other birders about we reported it to the bird observatory, although the bird was never seen again. Little else was seen so it seemed like a good idea to go to the bakery for coffee and cakes, which were eaten in the bakery garden, again in the sunshine. After picking up our bags we went inland. Another WHITE STORK, SPARROWHAWK and a superb 3rd year GOLDEN EAGLE was seen. With time getting on, before heading to the airport, we went to a nearby lake for lunch. A single RED-NECKED GREBE and a fantastic HOBBY, which flew overhead were the most notable sightings. We then headed back towards Denmark and on towards the airport. A brilliant weekend, the weather being especially good, even too hot at times! This contrasting to damp, wet conditions, which we met on arrival in the UK.

Raptor Day in Norfolk - 24th May

Our first site of the day was on the coast where we hoped to see Montagu’s Harrier although due to very strong winds and cold conditions we failed to connect with these birds. COMMON BUZZARD, MARSH HARRIER, SPARROWHAWK and KESTREL were seen very well and good numbers of COMMON SWIFT and SWALLOWS hawked insects over the rape fields. We then headed to Titchwell where after lunch we again braved the windy conditions and we saw a drake GARGANEY, up to 25 LITTLE GULLS, winter plumaged CURLEW SANDPIPER along with the commoner waders such as RINGED PLOVER, BLACK-TAILED GODWIT, TURNSTONE, DUNLIN all in their summer dress. MARSH HARRIERS flew over the reedbeds and a few BEARDED TITS were also noted. We then made another attempt for the Montagu’s Harriers but there was still no sign. The weather had now brightened and the sky was clear although the wind was still keen so we headed to the Wensum Valley Raptor Watchpoint where we met a friend from Colchester who informed us that there had been no sightings all afternoon. From the watchpoint we had good views of COMMON BUZZARD, MARSH HARRIER, KESTREL and 2 HOBBIES. With time getting on we gave up and headed down to the vehicle, and whilst enjoying a slice of Annette’s fruitcake we had very close but brief views of a male HONEY BUZZARD. It flew over the trees and disappeared although we were happy to get views of this scarce breeder. We drove down the road and didn’t get far before it appeared on our left and flew right over us. We had unbelievable views as it drifted off. Although we missed the Montagu’s this more than made up for it. Another great day.

Honey Buzzard

White-tailed Eagle

Black Grouse

Pine Marten

Scotland - 12th - 17th May 2008

For the second year running, we enjoyed a fantastic week in Speyside, Scotland. The weather was perfect – warm, sunny, with very little wind. Our accommodation was central to all the main birding areas and the rooms were very comfortable, with good food, especially the Scottish breakfasts, which were great. The scenery was amazing. The birds were outstanding as usual.


Bird Highlights of the week include:-
RED-THROATED DIVER – Birds in breeding plumage seen very well
BLACK-THROATED DIVER – 2 pairs in full summer plumage showing extremely well
GREAT NORTHERN DIVER – Seen in both summer and winter plumage
SLAVONIAN GREBE – Good numbers in breeding dress
LONG-TAILED DUCK – 2 seen in summer plumage just offshore
RED KITE – 4 birds seen
WHITE-TAILED EAGLE – Excellent views of 2 adults
GOLDEN EAGLE – 4 different birds, 2 gave excellent views
OSPREY – Common in suitable habitat – great views
RED GROUSE – Easily seen, great views
BLACK GROUSE – Up to 8 birds seen lekking giving good views
CAPERCAILLIE – 1 male seen from Loch Garten Watchpoint
PTARMIGAN – Amazing views of up to 8 birds in breeding plumage
WOODCOCK – 6 birds roding
WOOD SANDPIPER – 3 adults showed down to 6 feet
GREAT SKUA – 1 single offshore on the west coast
ARCTIC SKUA – 2 dark-phase adults offshore
BLACK GUILLEMOT – Great views on the west coast
RING OUZEL – 3 seen including 2 stunning males
WOOD WARBLER – 8 birds recorded this year including 2 showing to 10 feet
CRESTED TIT – Small numbers seen very well


Mammal Highlights include:-
BOTTLE-NOSED DOLPHIN – Great views on the coast
PINE MARTEN – 2 seen at very close range (1 young male and adult female)
RED SQUIRRELS – common
OTTER – 1 seen well on coast

Portland Bill, Dorset - 3rd – 4th May 2008

Saturday
Our journey down to Portland produced numerous COMMON BUZZARDS and a single HOBBY. We headed straight for Portland Bill and it wasn’t long before we spotted our first MANX SHEARWATERS of the weekend, along with FULMAR, GANNET, KITTIWAKE, RAZORBILL and GUILLEMOT. We walked to the west cliffs and to the delight of the group found a single PUFFIN. This species is quite difficult to see at Portland, feeding out at sea early in the morning and coming back late in the day. STONECHAT and WHEATEAR of the larger Greenland race was also seen. We enjoyed lunch in the breezy conditions before taking a walk around the top fields and the coastal path back to the Bill. Several TURTLE DOVES, up to 3 more GREENLAND WHEATEARS, ROCK PIPIT and good numbers of SWALLOWS and SWIFTS passed through. We then headed to the café for a welcome cup of tea. Whilst inside a dark phase ARCTIC SKUA flew past but only a few managed to get on to it. We then headed back towards Weymouth, stopping at Chesil Cove, where a COMMON SCOTER was the only notable bird and then to Ferrybridge where LITTLE TERN, SANDWICH TERN and DUNLIN were seen. We arrived at our accommodation and settled in whilst a few of the group popped to the RSPB reserve at Lodmoor, where we watched a summer plumaged CATTLE EGRET. We all enjoyed a good meal followed by a good nights’ sleep.

Sunday
Before breakfast we took a walk to nearby Lodmoor reserve where the CATTLE EGRET was still present, along with SPOONBILL, REED & SEDGE WARBLERS, WHITETHROAT and CETTI’S WARBLER. We then walked toward the Rugby Club and found a superb WATER VOLE and a little further on struck gold, when we relocated a HOOPOE. We enjoyed watching this beautiful visitor from the Mediterranean before heading back for breakfast. We then walked over to Weymouth Bay where a BLACK TERN flew around with the more numerous COMMON TERNS before heading back to Portland. As we arrived the heavens opened and we got a little wet, although sheltering from the rain we still managed to see plenty of MANX SHEARWATERS and the usual seabirds along with brief views of a tern that was almost certainly a ROSEATE. A summer plumaged GREAT NORTHERN DIVER, COMMON SCOTER and WHIMBREL were also seen. The rain continued so we reconvened for lunch before heading down towards Weymouth. We then spent the afternoon at Radipole Lake RSPB, where the rain had stopped and we saw more REED, SEDGE and CETTI’S WARBLERS and 2 superb BEARDED TITS, which gave brilliant views in the reedbeds, also good numbers of hirundines fed over the meres. With time getting on we headed towards home, stopping in the New Forest where we had brilliant views of a male REDSTART. Another great weekend.

Hoopoe

Woodchat Shrike

Bee-eater

Lammergeier

SPANISH PYRENEES 25th – 28th April 2008

Saturday
After our late evening flight it was great to wake up at the famous Boletas Birdwatching Centre in the small village of Loporzano in the foothills of the Spanish Pyrenees. On our first pre-breakfast walk we were soon watching the numerous SPOTLESS STARLINGS and even more numerous CORN BUNTINGS, which were the most common passerine over the weekend. The lanes were alive with birdsong and we soon added ROCK SPARROW, SERIN, EGYPTIAN VULTURE and BLACK KITE to our list. After a hearty breakfast, prepared by the lovely Esther we headed the short distance to the local cemetery. Normally not the ideal birding location but here it was a bird supermarket. TAWNY PIPITS, CIRL BUNTING, CRESTED LARK, GOLDEN ORIOLE, BLACK WHEATEAR, BLACK-EARED WHEATEAR and WOODCHAT SHRIKE were seen almost simultaneously. Over the next hour or so we had seen a fantastic variety of species and had enjoyed very good views of all of them. Late morning we headed north noting CRAG MARTIN, and BLUE ROCK THRUSH as well as numerous GRIFFON VULTURES. Lunch was taken in the glorious warm sunshine where we watched CHOUGH, RAVEN, ALPINE SWIFT and PEREGRINE. We then enjoyed a walk along a lake where male SUBALPINE WARBLER and a variety of insect species were seen. As we retraced our steps an adult LAMMERGEIER drifted past us and gave us excellent views. What a day! On the road down to the village a male PIED FLYCATCHER, up to 10 BEE-EATERS and a stunning SHORT-TOED EAGLE carrying a snake were seen. We finished the day at another large lake where BLACK-WINGED STILT, WHISKERED and BLACK TERNS, SANDERLING, up to 30 WOOD SANDPIPERS and MARSH HARRIER added to the excitement. Needless to say our evening meal went down a treat and afterwards we took a walk into the village to sample the local nightlife. A superb SCOPS OWL was seen calling and we managed great views, a GIANT PEACOCK MOTH, a MOLE CRICKET and a MOORISH GECKO were also noted. That night we all slept well!

Sunday
Our pre-breakfast walk yielded HOOPOE, calling QUAIL and WHINCHAT as well as the ubiquitous CORN BUNTINGS. Today we were heading south towards the open steppes where we hoped to find species suited for the habitat and our journey was interrupted on many occasions with species such as MELODIOUS WARBLER, WHITE STORK, FAN-TAILED WARBLER, NIGHTINGALE, another PIED FLYCATCHER and more SHORT-TOED EAGLES. We eventually reached our first destination and it wasn’t long before the air was full of the song of CALANDRA LARKS and a distant SOUTHERN GREY SHRIKE, NORTHERN WHEATEAR, ALPINE SWIFT and usual GRIIFON VULTURES were seen. Further down the road we had brief views of a male RED-FOOTED FALCON, although this bird didn’t linger and soon afterwards a HOOPOE landed right in the open, giving superb photo opportunities. As we drove on, four BLACK-BELLIED SANDGROUSE were seen well in flight and 2 stunning adult GREAT-SPOTTED CUCKOOS flew past, landing nearby for us all to see. With time getting on we headed south and soon reached an area where we saw our first LESSER SHORT-TOED LARK of the weekend, along with a stunning male MONTAGU’S HARRIER and a distant SOUTHERN GREY SHRIKE. Several CHOUGH were seen along with good numbers of WHINCHAT. Our last site of the day was a large lake surrounded by reedbeds. A singing GREAT REED WARBLER remained elusive and we managed only brief glimpses. Another GREAT SPOTTED CUCKOO flew past and on the lake several BLACK TERNS partrolled up and down. We scanned the lake from the visitor centre and had great views. A female MONTAGU’S HARRIER, HOBBY and a male SHOVELER were spotted, whilst BLACK TERNS numbered 36. After our evening meal we searched for the SCOPS OWL again but this time only succeeded in hearing two birds.

Monday
Our last early morning walk produced a pale phase BOOTED EAGLE, BLACK KITE, GOLDEN ORIOLE, GREAT SPOTTED WOODPECKER and a ROBIN! We revisited the cemetery area and we located all the species from our first day with the addition of MELODIOUS WARBLER, PIED FLYCATCHER and COMMON REDSTART. We took a walk through the olive and almond groves and worked our way down to the river valley below. It wasn’t long before we found a pair of THEKLA LARK and in the base of the valley a superb male ORPHEAN WARBLER, which flew around the bushes. Soon after at least two male WESTERN BONELLI’S WARBLERS started singing and giving us a show as they flew around some pines. A WRYNECK and GOLDEN ORIOLE also called, although remained out of view and a SPOTTED FLYCATCHER was seen briefly. We then made our way to the top and headed back to Casa Boletas for a very enjoyable 3 course meal. The afternoon was spent in the lower foothills were we watched a stunning GOLDEN EAGLE that displayed over some rocky crags before moving on to a castle where we watched 2 male SPECTACLED WARBLERS, a pair of BLACK WHEATEAR, THEKLA LARK, BLACK-EARED WHEATEAR, BLACK REDSTART and several ALPINE SWIFT. We then took a leisurely drive towards Zaragoza seeing several COMMON SANDPIPERS and BLACK KITES along the way before returning to Stansted and the good old British weather. A brilliant weekend spent in a fantastic birding area with a great group.

The Brecks - 12th April 2008

We began the day looking for Goshawk and after a while several SPARROWHAWK appeared soaring over the woods, whilst a distant bird could well have been a GOSHAWK, it was a little too far away to tell. WOODLARKS fed young and in the pines several CROSSBILLS were spotted. Both LESSER REDPOLL and SISKIN flew over calling and YELLOWHAMMERS sang around us. At Santon Downham we watched a nesting GREY WAGTAIL, several MARSH TIT, NUTHATCH and TREECREEPER. One of the highlights of the day was a stonking male LESSER REDPOLL that fed in an Ash Tree. Several BRAMBLING were also spotted whilst watching the redpoll. Lynford Arboretum was relatively quiet apart from displaying male SISKIN and a highlight, which was to find a superb LONG-TAILED TIT’S nest and to watch the parents going in and out to feed the young. Brimstone and Comma butterflies were seen, flying around in the sun. We then drove on to the first of our sites for Stone Curlew. At the first site we watched five COMMON BUZZARD soaring above the birch woodland and a pair of WOODLARKS, which showed really well. Whilst there the heavens opened with heavy rain and hail, not ideal conditions to find Stone Curlew, although a flock of 60 FIELDFARE kept the winter theme going, most in their striking breeding plumage. On our way out of the reserve a pair of GREY PARTRIDGE gave us excellent views. At our next site we struck gold with STONE CURLEW and an American Air Force transport plane also showed very well overhead! We finished the day at Lackford Lakes where we managed to dodge a downpour of rain, whilst sitting in a hide and here we had brilliant views of a KINGFISHER, which flew across the lake and perched for all to see.

Rutland Water - 6th April 2008

We started off driving through heavy snow and very gloomy conditions but not far north of Essex the weather started to clear and we could see blue sky in the distance. We decided to check out the dam at Rutland Water to try and see some long staying Scaup and these failed to show but we managed to see some SWALLOWS and SAND MARTINS as compensation. We arrived at the Egleton Birdwatching Centre and from the car park got good scope views of a TREE SPARROW. We obtained our permits from the centre and went up to the viewing gallery, where we watched a variety of species including REDSHANK, TEAL, POCHARD and LAPWING. After a while we walked to the hides, south of the centre, noting more TREE SPARROWS and a singing male CHIFFCHAFF. Whilst watching the CHIFFCHAFF a tit landed in the tree and once the scope was on it, revealed pale panels on the wing. It promptly flew into deep cover where it called, identifying it as a WILLOW TIT. Over the next few minutes we all got good views of this scarce bird as it sung and called from nearby trees. A fantastic start to the day. From the hides we noted a pair of WIGEON, GADWALL and a single CURLEW, whilst a very distant COMMON BUZZARD soared over some woodland. With the day now sunny, a lot of species were singing and it wasn’t long before we had located our first WILLOW WARBLER singing from some, surprisingly enough, Willow. Some boxing Hares caught our attention and small parties of LONG-TAILED TITS flitted from bush to bush. We then enjoyed lunch in the sunshine, followed by a walk in the opposite direction. From the first hide we visited three LITTLE RINGED PLOVER were seen, two of which showed really well allowing all diagnostic features to be noted. Reserve Manager Tim Appleton was also in the hide and informed us of the new project creating lagoons and new habitats at the reserve. SNIPE, REDSHANK and plenty of GOLDENEYE were also seen. From our last hide, the only species of note were a superb pair of displaying GREAT CRESTED GREBE and several EGYPTIAN GEESE. We then travelled the short distance to the Lyndon Nature Reserve and after a brief introductory chat from one of the wardens, which was interrupted when an OSPREY was seen circling the bay, we headed in that direction, albeit briefly stopping to sample some Wild Garlic leaves – beautiful! As we headed down the path, the male OSPREY flew over our heads soon to return with a stick for its’ nest. From the hide we were given a rundown on the ospreys by several volunteers, who were very knowledgeable and helpful. The female osprey just sat on her perch as the male flew backwards and forwards collecting nesting material. A WATER RAIL called constantly from some reeds in front of the hide but refused to show itself. As we walked back we were caught in a snow shower and it was very strange to watch SWALLOWS and OSPREYS in the snow. After a chocolate fix in the centre we drove south to Eyebrook Reservoir in the hope of relocating two Green-winged Teal. Numbers of TEAL were low, although we managed to see two DUNLIN, LITTLE RINGED PLOVER, a RED KITE and a distant PEREGRINE. With time now getting on we headed home after enjoying a cracking day.

Osprey

Short-toed Eagle

Kentish Plover

Great-spotted Cuckoo

The Camargue - 14th - 17th March 2008

Friday
After picking up the vehicles at Marseille we headed the short distance to Berre L’etang, the site where France’s second GREEN HERON was present. This bird winters in Provence and spends the summer in Amsterdam, certainly a well-travelled bird! We also saw our first GREATER FLAMINGO’S of the weekend as well as AVOCET, MEDITERRANEAN GULL, CRESTED LARK and COMMON SANDPIPER. We then travelled west to our base in the Camargue where we enjoyed a great meal washed down with some of the local wine in anticipation of the next few days.

Saturday
A pre-breakfast walk produced SWALLOW, HOUSE MARTIN, GREAT WHITE EGRET and BLACK REDSTART, the latter being very common throughout the areas we visited. After breakfast we were soon on our way to our first site of the day with our main target being WALLCREEPER, stopping only to see a flock of over 150 TREE SPARROW. On arrival it took us just five minutes to spot this fantastic bird, now moulted into summer plumage since our last visit. We enjoyed good views as it flicked its way over the rock faces, the crimson wings showing up really well. On a couple of occasions it was joined with up to three ALPINE ACCENTORS. Overhead, up to 16 ALPINE SWIFT and good numbers of CRAG MARTIN were seen whilst in the scrub SARDINIAN WARBLERS showed well. A walk up into the village yielded a fine singing CRESTED TIT along with SERIN and the ubiquitous BLACK REDSTART. Within the castle walls we found a superb flock of up to 16 ALPINE ACCENTOR and at least five SERINS. We also managed to find time to visit a café for the customary coffee and cake. As we walked back down to the vehicles we had stunning views of two SHORT-TOED EAGLES just hanging in the thermals. We made our way to our lunch stop where we enjoyed a four course packed lunch! Suitably refreshed we made our way towards a radar station situated high on a limestone mountain. The walk up produced several species of Orchid including Giant Orchid and Rainbow Ophrys. Near to the summit we had brief views of an adult BONELLI’S EAGLE and two BLACK KITES, whilst DARTFORD WARBLERS sang from the scrub. With time getting on we made our way to the last site of the day in search of EAGLE OWL. As we parked the vehicles a CIRL BUNTING sang from nearby scrub, although could not be located. We walked the short distance to the cliffs and saw a superb BONELLI’S EAGLE hanging in the updraft. We watched this bird for over 10 minutes getting fantastic views! As the light dropped we caught our first view of an EAGLE OWL, which eventually flew right in front of us and landed on a rock. We all enjoyed scope views before it flew off. Fantastic! We enjoyed another superb meal during the evening and discussed what a great day’s birding it had been.

Sunday
The pre-breakfast walk produced KINGFISHER, MERLIN and several COMMON BUZZARDS, which were enjoyed in the early morning sun. On this day we explored the wetlands of the Camargue. One of the first birds we saw on our way there was a HOOPOE, which flew across a field and into the distance. A little further down the road we found an OSPREY that flew right over the vehicles. We reached the Petit Camargue and could hear PENDULINE TIT but by now the wind had got up and made locating small passerines difficult. A flock of 20 BLACK-WINGED STILTS flew by along with 2 GARGANEY and extremely good numbers of MARSH HARRIER. 3 COYPU were also located. We headed back towards the Camargue and started our search for KENTISH PLOVER and it did not take long before we were enjoying great close views along with LITTLE STINT and DUNLIN. Out to sea we saw several SANDWICH TERNS and a small flock of GANNETS. We enjoyed lunch watching several thousand FLAMINGO. The afternoon was spent in the eastern Camargue, where amongst the highlights were BLACK-NECKED GREBES,HEN HARRIER, WHITE STORKS and up to 8 GARGANEY. We enjoyed a great meal and finished up with a cake to celebrate Steve’s Birthday.

Monday
Our last pre-breakfast walk produced 2 MERLIN, male GOSHAWK and a single BLACK KITE. We packed up the vehicles and headed to La Crau, a stony desert like area to the east of the Camargue. From here we saw hundreds of BLACK KITES, 2 GREAT-SPOTTED CUCKOO’S, SOUTHERN GREY SHRIKE and up to 70 LITTLE BUSTARDS as well as STONE CURLEW, HOOPOE and HEN HARRIER before heading down to Marseille to catch our flight home.

The Brecks - 9th March 2008

At our first site of the day we were treated to views of a male GOSHAWK almost immediately on arrival and managed to pick out all the I.D. features. WOODLARKS and SKYLARKS sang from around us and we managed very good views of both species. Up to 5 CROSSBILL’S were seen and a very distant HAWFINCH was seen very briefly. A RED-TAILED HAWK was spotted and gave us good views, this bird has been present in the forest for over 10 years! Moving on to Santon Downham, a walk along the road produced great sightings of 4 NUTHATCHES, TREECREEPER and amazing views of 2 MARSH TITS. A female BRAMBLING also showed well. During lunch over 200 REDWING flew over and a few SISKIN were noted. We then headed the short distance to Lynford Arboretum where a walk around the paddocks produced several GREENFINCHES and GOLDFINCHES. We looked for the FIRECREST but there was too much disturbance by dogs, cars, motorbikes and children. Several GOLDCREST sang and we saw another pair of MARSH TITS. As we reached the paddock a HAWFINCH was seen miles away and this had the decency to fly much closer so we could have brilliant scope views. Up to 5 birds were seen in total. After a tea stop we finished the day at Lackford Pits where TEAL, SHOVELER and SNIPE were among the notable species seen. Just after we left Lackford a LITTLE OWL perched on a tree by the road. We had a superb day and had been lucky with the weather, as on the journey home we drove through areas where there had been downpours.

Cranes & Raptors in the Norfolk Broads - 23rd February 2008

We again started our trip at Ness Point, Lowestoft where we all enjoyed great views of seven PURPLE SANDPIPERS and up to four ROCK PIPITS. In Hamilton Dock we found a stunning BLACK-THROATED DIVER that we watched feeding around the new marina. Eventually it swam off towards the south pier and was lost to view, We headed north to the Broads and as we drove slowly along the roads we spotted a large flock of PINK-FOOTED GEESE and within this flock was a white morph LESSER SNOW GOOSE, MARSH HARRIERS and a small flock of GREYLAG GEESE. At Horsey we found 3 COMMON CRANES, 2 adults and an immature bird, which all seemed quite content feeding in a grassy field and again we enjoyed good scope views. Several SKYLARK and a male STONECHAT were also seen. Further north we found a HARE keeping low in a field and 2 EGYPTIAN GEESE. With lunch calling we headed to our lunch stop and had a brief seawatch. Up to 4 RED-THROATED DIVERS, 3 GUILLEMOTS and a few COMMON SEALS were spotted. A chap informed us of a small flock of CRANES, which he had seen, just a short drive away and we were soon watching up to 14 of these beautiful birds feeding in a field. We soon arrived at Hickling Broad and found a party of about 27 SNIPE sitting camouflaged in a field. We spent the rest of the day at Stubb Mill Raptor Viewpoint and were not disappointed. CHINESE WATER DEER fed in front of us and MARSH HARRIERS were ever present. A superb female MERLIN kept us entertained, as she flew around mobbing everything in sight, including CARRION CROW, SPARROWHAWK, BARN OWL and even MARSH HARRIERS. A large flock of geese turned out to be WHITE-FRONTED GEESE and numbered at least 400, whilst another large flock of PINK-FOOTED GEESE contained a ROSS'S GOOSE and a leucistic PINK-FOOT, whose colour was the shade of milky coffee. A female HEN HARRIER was seen distantly and up to 32 MARSH HARRIERS, which were seen all in one flock, amazing! One of the highlights of the afternoon was a stunning male HEN HARRIER, which flew over all of us and out towards the reedbed. Wow! Another great day in Norfolk and Suffolk.

Purple Sandpiper

Cranes & Raptors in the Norfolk Broads - 17th February 2008

A fantastic day weather wise, light winds and good clear visibility. We arrived at Lowestoft and made our way north to Ness Point, the most easterly point in the UK and a great place to spot Purple Sandpipers. We found our first PURPLE SANDPIPER feeding with a TURNSTONE and a little further on a flock of seven birds all showing well in the brilliant sunshine. Two ROCK PIPITS gave us good views as they fed on the seaweed-covered rocks with small numbers of TURNSTONE. We drove around to the South Pier where the harbour was very quiet and after coffee and cake headed towards the broads. A large flock of PINK-FOOTED GEESE were seen from the road, although the heat haze (in February!) somewhat hampered viewing. Then SPARROWHAWK, MARSH HARRIER and some GREYLAG GEESE were seen and another SPARROWHAWK flew past along with two ringtail HEN HARRIERS. As we carried on a KINGFISHER flew from a roadside ditch. From our lunch spot in the dunes we had distant views of good numbers of RED-THROATED DIVER, up to three COMMON SEALS and two BRENT GEESE, whilst inland we had views of up to 12 COMMON CRANES which soon flew off whilst getting scopes on them and several MARSH HARRIER. We decided to get round to the Stubbs Mill Raptor viewpoint in good time and arrived to find it empty – sheer bliss! We enjoyed great sightings of up to three CHINESE WATER DEER along with good numbers of MARSH HARRIER. As the afternoon progressed we saw the following: four STONECHAT, up to 35 MARSH HARRIERS, 1000 PINK-FOOTED GEESE, 30 SNIPE, two SPARROWHAWK, KESTREL and the best of all, five COMMON CRANES (4 adults and a juvenile) that flew right in front of us giving stunning views in the evening sun. As we walked back to the car park an incredibly large female SPARROWHAWK flew low across a field followed by a MARSH HARRIER. Our drive out of Hickling village produced seven WHOOPER SWANS that flew towards Hickling Broad, presumably to roost.

Common Crane

Wallcreeper

Alpine Accentor

Black Redstart


All photos by
Liz Huxley

The Camargue - 2nd - 5th February 2008

Saturday
After a good flight we landed at Montpellier and were soon on our way to the Camargue. The journey to our hotel produced good numbers of GREATER FLAMINGO’S, CATTLE, LITTLE and GREAT WHITE EGRETS and many COMMON BUZZARDS. Whilst dropping our bags off we found BLACK REDSTART and TREE SPARROW next to the hotel. With the sun shining we headed south and soon found BLACK-NECKED GREBE, CRESTED LARK, numerous YELLOW-LEGGED GULLS and a good flock of over 20 KENTISH PLOVER. After lunch we travelled a short distance to some lakes where over 1200 RED-CRESTED POCHARD were seen, along with 2 SPOTTED EAGLES and several MARSH HARRIER. With time getting on we carried on to the eastern Camargue and found our first COYPU, also a male HEN HARRIER and a small flock of more BLACK-NECKED GREBES. Other notable species included GREEN SANDPIPER, 3 KINGFISHERS and stunningly close views of a GREAT WHITE EGRET. The evening meal at the hotel was fantastic and we thoroughly enjoyed the local wine.

Sunday
The main target for the day was WALLCREEPER and it only took 5 minutes to find it. We had great views as it moved up the cliff face flicking its crimson wings for well over 30 minutes. What a start! SARDINIAN WARBLER, RAVEN and BLACK REDSTART were seen and a short walk produced a pair of BLACKCAPS. Within the town walls we had stunning views of 2 ALPINE ACCENTOR, a brief SERIN and another SARDINIAN WARBLER. As we were feeling a little peckish, we enjoyed a coffee and cake stop (the pear tart was gorgeous!). We then walked down the road and a male BLUE ROCK THRUSH gave us great views. After moving on to our next site, we enjoyed our gourmet packed lunch under some pines before continuing. A brief FIRECREST, SHORT-TOED TREECREEPER, GOLDCREST and 3 CRAG MARTINS proved the highlights. Our last site was to look for EAGLE OWL and eventually we heard 2 males calling, but the light beat us to a sighting. Yet again we enjoyed another great meal before getting a good nights sleep.

Monday
We awoke to find a torrential downpour and thunder and lightning – not ideal conditions to spend the day out on the open plains north of the Camargue and as we drove along the main road we noted snow on the verges. As we got close to the site we watched over 100 CATTLE EGRETS feeding in the damp fields, whilst further on up to 7 STONECHAT and JAY were spotted. At our destination we immediately found our target – RICHARD’S PIPITS, up to 8 fed in the short grass allowing all diagnostic features to be studied and calls to be heard. A distant bedraggled raptor turned out to be a BLACK KITE and some distant birds were identified as CORN BUNTINGS and TREE SPARROWS, 3 ROCK BUNTINGS were spotted and up to 7 SOUTHERN GREY SHRIKES, HEN HARRIER, MERLIN and a very brief FAN-TAILED WARBLER were seen. We headed north for lunch noting 2 MEDITERRANEAN GULLS and a RED KITE along the way and whilst eating, 2 more ROCK BUNTINGS were seen and 2 WOODLARK heard singing. Later we stopped for a coffee before heading back into the Camargue, highlights included 2 WHITE STORKS. We enjoyed a final meal that evening at our comfortable hotel with a TAWNY OWL calling opposite.

Tuesday
We rose early to head for the airport. BARN and TAWNY OWL were seen on the journey and from the plane on the runway, over 100 GREATER FLAMINGO’S. A great end to a fantastic weekend, good birds, good fun and most of all good company.

Winter birds in North-West Norfolk - 20th January 2008

We could not resist starting our second trip of the year in Norfolk at Cley where Britains 4th WHITE-CROWNED SPARROW was present. We all obtained great views of this dapper little sparrow as it fed on the ground and in a nearby bush. The local pub, the Three Swallows were doing a roaring trade in bacon rolls and teas. We soon moved on to Salthouse where we enjoyed absolutely stonking views of up to 75 SNOW BUNTINGS, whilst overhead a female MERLIN shot by and a STONECHAT sat on a nearby bush. After a brief stop at Cley visitor centre, we made the short journey to nearby Langham where we enjoyed views of a LESSER SNOW GOOSE with 2000 PINK-FOOTED GEESE. Moving along the coast we found a flock of up to 75 WHITE-FRONTED GEESE at Holkham before arriving at the RSPB reserve at Titchwell. After tucking into lunch we walked towards the visitor centre stopping to have a look at a WOODCOCK that was asleep in the tangle of damp willow scrub and we were all able to scope this cryptically plumaged wader. In nearby Alders we watched 4 LESSER REDPOLLS and up to a dozen SISKIN as they fed. The walk along the path was brightened by the sight of a distant BARN OWL quartering the marsh and up to 100 RUFF. SPOTTED REDSHANKS numbered 6 on the freshmarsh and good numbers of GOLDEN PLOVER were present on the islands. The sea was very quiet with only singles of RED-THROATED DIVER and GREAT-CRESTED GREBE seen amongst small parties of GOLDENEYE. With the light fading we drove back to Holkham to watch the geese coming in to roost. Unfortunately this coincided with the rain starting to fall, although we did manage to pick out a ROSS’S GOOSE amongst the flock of about 70,000 pink-feet. Another thoroughly enjoyable day in great company.

White-crowned Sparrow By David Preston

Southern Sweden - 12th - 14th January 2008

The birding on this weekend break to Southern Sweden did not disappoint. The weather during the weekend was dry but cold with sunny spells. On Saturday we spent time visiting a lake not far from Malmo, which produced 2 WHITE-TAILED EAGLES and a single GOLDEN EAGLE, along with a small flock of TAIGA BEAN GEESE, BARNACLE GEESE and GREYLAGS. The hills surrounding the area produced good numbers of RAVEN, RED KITE and COMMON BUZZARD, along with the very common HOODED CROW. On the lake itself several GOOSANDER and MALLARD were present. On our journey to the accommodation a single PEREGRINE was spotted flying north. After a good meal we all enjoyed a good nights sleep.

We awoke Sunday morning to find good clear conditions, although after breakfast the cloud rolled in off the sea. Our first site was a tiny fishing harbour not far from our accommodation, which produced GOOSANDER, RED-BREASTED MERGANSER and GREAT CRESTED GREBE. Further along the coast a stop at the Falsterbo canal produced some good birding with 38 SCAUP, 6 SMEW including 4 males, EIDER, RED-BREASTED MERGANSER and a small flock of COMMON CROSSBILLS, which included a single PARROT CROSSBILL. A visit to Southern Sweden would not be complete without a visit to our favourite cake shop, so after sampling a few good treats we drove inland for a spot of raptor watching. We did not get far when 3 WAXWINGS were seen in Trelleborg and we had good views as they fed in roadside trees. It wasn’t long before a GOLDEN EAGLE flew in front of the vehicle and a little further on we were treated to an immature WHITE-TAILED EAGLE sitting in a field and whilst watching this, an adult WHITE-TAILED flew over. Fantastic! A herd of WHOOPER SWANS were seen on some flooded fields, along with the common MUTES. With time getting on we had lunch and spent some time scanning the area. We had up to 4 WHITE-TAILED EAGLES, 2 of which talon-grappled in the air, much to our delight. ROUGH-LEGGED BUZZARD, WHITE-FRONTED GEESE and a large flock of TAIGA BEAN GEESE were also seen. We then decided to head to some nearby woodland in search of other species. When we reached the woods they were earily quiet, with only WREN, GOLDCREST and GREAT SPOTTED WOODPECKER seen. After a while we drove a little further to a vantage point overlooking the woods. 2 more GOLDEN EAGLES, 2 WHITE-TAILED EAGLES, SPARROWHAWK, a small flock of YELLOWHAMMER, but best of all a fly-by BLACK WOODPECKER! A great end to the day, rounded off with a lovely meal at a nearby restaurant. Another trip with good birds and great company.

White-tailed Eagle

Winter birds in North-West Norfolk - 5th January 2008

Our first trip of the new year got off to a cracking start at Salthouse where we enjoyed stunning views of 2 LAPLAND BUNTINGS along with a flock of approximately 60 SNOW BUNTINGS. Further along the coast at Cley we watched up to four WATER PIPITS along with RUFF, SKYLARK and MEADOW PIPIT, which gave us a good comparison of the two species. At Wells harbour we had great views of three SHAGS and several species of wader. With time getting on we headed to Holkham and found GREAT SPOTTED WOODPECKER and a male and female LESSER SPOTTED WOODPECKER, these diminutive birds gave us good scope views as they fed in the tops of the trees, calling occasionally. We flushed a WOODCOCK from the long grass and also found COAL TIT, TREECREEPER and NUTHATCH in the woods. On the lake good numbers of POCHARD and TUFTED DUCK along with a first winter SMEW were seen. We headed to Lady Anne’s Drive for lunch where we located a BLACK BRANT amongst the many BRENT GEESE along with good numbers of PINK-FOOTED GEESE. Our last destination was the RSPB reserve at Titchwell, where we saw four WATER RAILS, BARN OWL, 4 SPOTTED REDSHANK, BRAMBLING and good numbers of the commoner wildfowl and waders. The beach and sea were a little quiet, though SANDERLING and BAR-TAILED GODWIT were nice additions to the days tally. A fantastic day with good weather and some great birds!

Lapland Bunting

Raptors, Wildfowl and Waders - Isle of Sheppey, Kent – 9th December 2007

The weather forecast was horrendous, with heavy rain and gale force winds. Not ideal for a visit to one of the most exposed places in the south. We left Colchester and after several pick-ups were winging our way to Kent. As we arrived at the motorway services it started to rain and this kept up until we reached our first destination, Elmley Marshes RSPB reserve. Along the entrance track we found our first Marsh Harrier, Stonechat, Wigeon and a covey of Grey Partridge, which gave us excellent views from the vehicles. From the watchpoint adjacent to the ladies loo we had good views of a Little Owl. The rain persisted as we walked down to the hides, although there were plenty of birds to see, including more Marsh Harriers, Kingfisher, Pintail, Golden Plover and Kestrel. The first hide produced a fine male Peregrine, Grey Plover, Knot, Turnstone, Black-tailed Godwit, Dunlin and Snipe. A large mixed flock of Pintail, Wigeon, Teal and Shoveler took to the air every time a Marsh Harrier strayed too close and a small flock of Bewick Swans were good to see. With the rain now easing off we headed to the next hide, hoping to see a Short-eared Owl and saw Red-breasted Merganser and Great Crested Grebe, but not a Short-eared Owl in sight. With time getting on, we started the long walk back to the vehicles and as the first hide came back into view we were treated to fantastic views of two Short-eared Owls, brilliant! We enjoyed good views of these winter visitors, as they quartered the rough grassland in front of us.

After a well-deserved lunch we headed east to Harty Ferry where we spent the rest of the daylight hours. Up to 3 Hen Harriers, 2 Barn Owls, Merlin, over 40 Marsh Harrier and a Common Buzzard were seen all from one spot. With cold setting in we headed back to Essex, getting stuck in traffic along the way. All in all a good day, the sight of those beautiful Short-eared Owls more than making up for the bad weather and traffic jams!

Short-eared Owl

Lammergeier

Black Wheatear

Thekla Lark

Spanish Pyrenees - 24th - 26th November 2007

After a good flight we landed at Zaragoza airport and made our way north to Loporzano, home of the Boletas Birdwatching Centre. As it was late in the day we enjoyed a fantastic meal in the beautiful 16th century building, this washed down with a glass or two of the local wine. We awoke the next morning to find it clear, bright and cold and a look around the village produced both Common and Spotless Starlings and a Merlin. A visit to the nearby cemetery yielded over 50 Serin, Rock Sparrow and Chough and with the air warming we drove a short distance north to a dam. Here, our first Griffon Vultures appeared over the rocky crags and soon these numbered over 50 birds. White Wagtail, Blue Rock Thrush and Rock Sparrow also gave us good views. It wasn’t long before we spotted 2 Lammergeiers, this scarce bird is a speciality of the Pyrenees and we were delighted to have fantastic views before they drifted off. We also saw Firecrest, Long-tailed Tit, Sardinian Warbler and Crag Martin.

Driving back along the road we found two more Lammergeiers and once again had stunning views as they flew over our heads, good for a few photographs! We then drove to our next site where Dartford Warbler, another 60 Griffon Vultures, Peregrine and Serin were seen. After tucking in to our packed lunch we headed to a ruined castle and on the way had great views of 2 Golden Eagle and yet another Lammergeier. At the castle we found 3 Black Redstart, a juvenile Golden Eagle, Peregrine, Blue Rock Thrush, plus 5 superb Black Wheatear of which we had brilliant views and more photograph opportunities. Later in the afternoon we headed to a nearby lake where we saw Southern Grey Shrike, 10 Red Kite, Marsh and Hen Harrier, Yellow-legged Gull and over 100 Cranes. On our return to Loporzano Cemetery, Chough, Hen Harrier and another Blue Rock Thrush were spotted. Then as the sun dropped we drove the short distance back to Boletas, where we enjoyed yet another great meal.

After a good nights sleep and a very hearty breakfast of cereal, toast, jams and honey, mostly local produce, we spent our last morning exploring the Steppe area around Zaragoza, where 3 Southern Grey Shrike, 6 Cattle Egret and 10 fantastic Black-bellied Sandgrouse gave us good news. We then headed to the airport and back to Stansted late afternoon. A fantastic short break with many brilliant birds and great accommodation.

Southern Sweden - 17th - 19th November 2007

Saturday
Due to changes to flights, we flew into our new destination, Copenhagen and crossed the twelve mile Oresund bridge, a spectacular engineering feat. As soon as we reached Sweden we saw our first Rough-legged and Common Buzzards, not to mention Hooded Crows. Our first port of call was to coastal meadows near Falsterbo where we found 5 Whooper Swan, Peregrine and Hen Harrier. The hedgerows also contained a good number of Fieldfare and a single Sparrowhawk. After a while the cold set in, so we retreated to our favourite coffee and cake shop for welcome refreshment, we then headed inland where driving through a small village we found 43 Waxwings, Brambling and Fieldfare, a good start! Further down the road we found another Rough-legged Buzzard and Red Kite. During the next hour we were treated to Raven, Hen Harrier, 3 White-tailed Eagles and 40 Brambling. With the light rapidly going we headed for an eagle roost, but due to weather conditions the light beat us, although another White-tailed Eagle was seen briefly. We spent the evening relaxing at our accommodation, with a good meal and a few celebratory drinks.

Sunday
Black Woodpecker is high on everybody’s ‘wanted’ list and with this in mind we headed to a favoured area. On our way a male Snow Bunting and 2 Twite were surprise finds so far inland. Whilst driving down a track the shout ‘Woodpecker’ went up! A Black Woodpecker had landed on a tree near the vehicles, but unfortunately it didn’t linger and flew over nearby hills. Deeper into the wood we listened for more woodpeckers and eventually heard another Black and Great Spotted. Another White-tailed Eagle flew past in the mist and a small flock of 100 Siskin landed in roadside Alders. Our destinations for the day were several lakes further north, although our journey was waylaid by sightings of Mealy Redpoll, 3 Great Grey Shrikes, 800 Taiga Bean Geese, Red Squirrel, White-fronted Geese, ‘Northern’ Nuthatch and several hundred Yellowhammer. After lunch we headed to a supermarket for refreshments and were treated to the sight of another White-tailed Eagle nearby. On reaching the first of our lakes we found a huge flock of Goosander, which numbered at least 200, also 250 plus Great Crested Grebe and best of all a flock of 18 Smew. Whilst in the wood a Crossbill flew over and another Red Squirrel was spotted. Our next venue was an area of flood meadows and here we saw a fine male Hen Harrier and a Peregrine and whilst watching the Harrier a Black Woodpecker flew in the distance. We had heard the woodpecker calling from at least a mile away. Again with the light dropping we headed to our last site where we were treated to a Great White Egret, a rare bird in Southern Sweden, an adult White-tailed Eagle, Goshawk, Lesser Spotted Woodpecker, Bullfinch and up to 1000 Greylag Geese. The eagle provided a spectacular sight as it unsuccessfully tried to catch a Coot for its’ dinner. The evening was spent enjoying a fine meal at a nearby restaurant.

Monday
We awoke to find strong winds and so decided to head down to the Falsterbo area. Seconds after leaving our accommodation a 3rd year White-tailed eagle flew over and a Rough-legged Buzzard hunted over the fields - what a start to the morning. On arrival at Falsterbo 22 Waxwings and a few Wood Pigeons flew over. At the point at Nabben another White-tailed Eagle was spotted, plus redhead Smew, Snow Buntings, Twite, 26 Red-throated Diver, Black-throated Diver, Eider and a few Mealy Redpoll. We stopped again for a warming coffee before picking up our bags and heading inland for our only missing raptor – Golden Eagle. We had great views of several Rough-legged Buzzards, Red Kite and Hen Harrier before a sub-adult Golden Eagle was seen perched on a telegraph pole – we all had good but distant scope views of this cracking bird before heading back over the Oresund Bridge to Copenhagen for our return flight home. It was a thoroughly enjoyable weekend with great birds and company, all in brilliant scenery.

Rough-legged Buzzard

Hawfinch

Bewick's Swan

Pochard x Tufted Duck Hybrid

Ouse Washes, Welney and a little bit of the Brecks – Sunday 11th November 2007

After a breakfast/comfort stop at Mildenhall, we travelled the short distance to Lynford Arboretum near Mundford. As we drove along the approach road, we were treated to good views of two Goldcrest in a Hawthorn bush along with Blackbirds and Chaffinches. We decided to walk around ‘the paddock’ and it wasn’t long before we found a female Hawfinch sitting in a Blackthorn bush and we enjoyed prolonged scope views. A flock of approximately 70 Siskin were seen distantly whilst a female Sparrowhawk flew over and around the lake we found two Little Grebe, several more Siskin and a large flock of Canada Geese. On our return leg we had good views of Redwing and Mistle Thrush before we saw a distant passerine approaching us that turned out to be a superb male Hawfinch. What a start! We had excellent views and even took some photographs. We also heard a Marsh Tit calling deep in the undergrowth.

We then drove across the fens towards the Ouse Washes noting several large flocks of Fieldfare, Red-legged Partridge, Golden Plover, Lapwing and Snipe on our travels. We arrived at the RSPB reserve at the Ouse Washes and our first priority was lunch. Sitting in the warmth of the visitor centre we had good views of both, Tree and House Sparrows, Chaffinches and Greenfinches. After lunch we walked to one of the many hides on the reserve. Water levels were lower than we had seen them in recent years and the emergent vegetation allowed the many ducks to feed in safety. By far the most common duck was Wigeon, with Gadwall, Teal, Mallard, Pintail, Tufted Duck and a single Great-crested Grebe being noted. A female Marsh Harrier caused panic amongst the ducks as she cruised silently overhead whilst a few groups of Whooper Swan flew north. A Green Woodpecker flew past the hide and Kestrels were seen in the distance. An immature female Peregrine caused mayhem as she flew low over the water after her lunch scattering everything in the vicinity. Our walk back to the minibus produced a very brief female Brambling at the top of an Alder tree.

We then drove the short distance to Welney WWT reserve, where we found the car park packed on arrival, no doubt helped by the recent publicity on ‘Autumnwatch’ and features on the local TV news. After obtaining our permits we headed onto the reserve and to one of the northern hides. Pintail, Shoveler and 3 adult Bewick’s Swans were seen along with another Marsh Harrier, Snipe and a single Great Black-Backed Gull. With time getting on we headed back to the main observatory hide where a swan feed was due to take place. Pochard, were by far the most common species and we had great views of them along with a Tufted Duck x Pochard hybrid. There were quite a lot of Whooper Swans in front of the hide allowing good photographic opportunities. Up to 8 Snipe, 3 Black-tailed Godwit and Lapwing were also seen. After an introductory talk we enjoyed the spectacle of the wildfowl being fed right in front of us, but decided it was a good time to make a quick dash to the tearoom, whilst most of the visitors were in the hide to enjoy a warming cup of tea! With the light dropping we headed back to one of the wing hides adjacent to the main observatory to watch the Whooper Swans come in to roost. The sight and sound was absolutely amazing and with the sunset in the background made this one of the highlights of the birding year. After more of Annette’s cake back in the minibus we headed home after a brilliant day’s birding.

Late-Autumn Migration in Coastal Suffolk - 4th November 2007

Our day started at Minsmere RSPB reserve where in the North wall bushes we found good numbers of Blackbirds and Redwings along with a few finches and a Reed Bunting. As we walked along the North wall we had a fleeting glimpse of a Kingfisher as it flew like a rocket over the reeds and near the sea we found a fine male Bearded Tit that sat in a Hawthorn bush for all to admire. We soon reached East Hide and it wasn’t long before we were watching a superb juvenile Lesser Yellowlegs, a first for many. It fed alongside Redshank and Ruff and gave us good comparisons. 2 Little Stint, Dunlin and up to 80 Snipe were seen on the newly refurbished scrape and a flock of 60 Black-tailed Godwit flew in after being flushed from South scrape. Also on the scrape were good numbers of Wigeon, Teal, Mallard and a single Little Egret. After enjoying these species we walked south along the top of the shingle bank stopping near the public hide. Out to sea we found a small flock of Common Scoter and a smaller bird flying behind them, at first we thought it was a wader but as it got closer we could see it was a Little Auk. These tiny seabirds breed in the high Arctic and get blown down the east coast from their North Atlantic wintering grounds. Small flocks of Brent Geese, several Gannets and a Red-throated Diver were also seen and then two more Little Auks flew past slightly closer than the previous one. Behind us on South Scrape were a nice flock of 11 Bewick’s Swans along with Shoveler and more Wigeon and Teal. Surprisingly we only saw a single Marsh Harrier.

We walked back to the centre where we enjoyed a cup of tea and a late breakfast before moving the short distance to Sizewell. From the beach we found four Kittiwakes, whilst out to sea several Red-throated Divers were spotted and some more distant Gannets and Brent Geese. On our way back to the minibus we were stopped by the Civil Nuclear Police and asked what we were doing. After a brief chat we carried on, obviously we looked a bit dodgy! We then headed south to the RSPB reserve at Boyton Marshes, a lovely spot not far from Woodbridge. The walk to the seawall produced Stonechat, Snipe, Curlew and Reed Bunting and from the seawall we managed to see small flocks of Redshank, Avocet, Marsh Harrier and the highlight, three Barn Owls, one of which gave us excellent views. With time getting on we headed to our last site, Shingle Street. As we reached the village we had brief views of a Little Owl perched on roadside bushes and across the marshes we watched a Kestrel mob a female Sparrowhawk. As the light dropped we had yet another Little Owl perched right in front of us and as we were leaving another Barn Owl quartered the fields. A fine end to another smashing day.

Lesser Yellowlegs

Migration in North Norfolk - 21st October 2007

Our first port of call was Holkham Pines where on arrival we noted good numbers of Pink-footed Geese on the freshmarsh along with 2 Marsh Harriers. The walk along the southern edge of the pines produced various passerines including Goldcrest, Long-tailed, Blue, Great and Coal Tits and Treecreeper whilst overhead Redwing, Jay, Starlings, Siskin and a few Redpoll sp. flew over. From the Washington hide we watched hundreds of Pink-footed Geese flying in to bathe and preen, a fantastic spectacle. Several Egyptian Geese were seen, along with Curlew and a single Golden Plover. We searched the dunes at the western end for a Great-Grey Shrike but with no luck, although Stonechat, Razorbill, Red-throated Diver and 2 Grey Seals were spotted. With our stomachs rumbling we headed back to the minibus, some of the ‘stragglers’ saw a Yellow-browed Warbler in the sycamores along the track. After lunch we headed for the sea, the fine weather brought hundreds of people and as a result there were few birds about, although we enjoyed a Wall Brown butterfly basking in the sunshine.

We then drove to Cley, where from the old visitor centre we added Pintail, Ruff, Golden Plover and Dunlin and various other species to the list. At Salthouse, Annette’s group managed to find a decidedly dodgy Red-crested Pochard on the duckpond. On the marsh there were good numbers of Brent Geese and these included a good proportion of juveniles indicating that they had a good breeding season. On the sea we found up to 12 Razorbill, 5 Guillemot and 2 Red-throated Diver along with 3 female Common Scoter and brief views of a Harbour Porpoise. A Kingfisher was found in a ditch and along the beach we found Stonechat, Meadow Pipit and a Wheatear, a late date for this species. It was wonderful on the shingle bank with the sun dropping, we had enjoyed a great day in superb company with some good birds.

Pink-footed Goose

Where the pager takes us - 23rd September 2007

Our first port of call on "Where the pager takes us" was to the RSPB reserve at Titchwell in Norfolk. On arrival we saw a small flock of Pink-footed Geese that flew over the car park and we had great views of a confiding Chiffchaff, that sat sunning itself, also in the car park. It wasn't long before we enjoyed watching a juvenile Long-billed Dowitcher. We had prolonged views of this North American wader, as it fed with both Black-tailed and Bar-tailed Godwits, Ruff and Dunlin. Up to five Little Stint and three Curlew Sandpiper were amongst the more common waders present. On the sea we saw a single Arctic Skua, up to 100 Gannets, Peregrine, three Red-throated Divers in full summer plumage, Razorbill and Eider.

After lunch we moved east along the coast to Holkham, where up to 20,000 Pink-footed Geese were on the grazing marsh. Along with them was a white morph Lesser Snow Goose, which spent most of the time asleep and also seen was a White-fronted Goose. Whilst scanning over the area we found a single Spoonbill and another Peregrine. We continued our journey east, noting an escaped Sacred Ibis on the flood at Stiffkey. After a brief stop at the new visitor centre at Cley marshes to use the facilities, we travelled the short distance to Salthouse where we bumped into fellow Swallow Birding leader Andrew Thompson and his wife. Andrew informed us that a reported Pectoral Sandpiper had not been relocated. We checked out the area and found four more Little Stint, Turnstone, Ringed Plover and a single Little Egret. A scan of the sea produced a small number of Gannets, Common Terns and a Guillemot. Just as we were going to leave, a message came through on the pager saying that the 'Pec' had been re-found at Kelling Quags. We raced there, but the sandpiper was nowhere to be seen, although instead were two Knot, a single Dunlin and a Spotted Redshank. Even though we missed the Pectoral Sandpiper we had all enjoyed a great day out with some cracking species seen.

Bar-tailed Godwit

Honey Buzzard

Nutcracker

White-tailed Eagle

Southern Sweden – 8th – 10th September 2007

We flew into Malmo Airport to find a steady drizzle falling, but this did not stop us from finding Red Kite and Hooded Crow from inside the plane! As we drove towards Falsterbo the weather brightened and after a brief stop for coffee and cakes we arrived at Skanor’s Ljung to find a good number of other birders present. Good numbers of Common Buzzard and Sparrowhawk were seen and a single male Goshawk flew close in front of us. Hobby, Merlin and Red Kite were also noted and only a single Honey Buzzard was seen. Skeins of Greylag Geese filled the sky and totalled nearly 1,000 birds. After lunch we drove along the coast and a flock of 40 Barnacle Geese were seen close to the road, amongst them were 4 Red-breasted Mergansers, Pintail and Eider. We then headed inland to one of our favourite sites for raptors and it certainly did not disappoint, as it wasn’t long before the first of four Golden Eagles were seen, one in the same view as a Montagu’s Harrier. A little later a White-tailed Eagle was spotted, along with an Osprey and a male Goshawk, which was seen briefly. Common Buzzards and Red Kites were common in the area and several Hen Harriers were seen amongst the many Marsh Harriers present. Moving on to a nearby lake, a female Scaup was located, amongst the hordes of Tufted Duck, more Pintail, Teal and Goldeneye, whilst feeding around the edges of the lake, were a Common Sandpiper and 2 Ruff. With time getting on we headed to the supermarket in Trelleborg before settling in with a great meal, which was washed down with a few drinks.

We awoke on Sunday morning to find clear skies and a south-northerly wind, good conditions for migration. We headed to Nabben and almost immediately had cracking views of a juvenile Honey Buzzard, while Sparrowhawks were everywhere and zoomed past us incredibly closely. As we scanned the sky it appeared that there were raptors everywhere. On the sea 9 Little Gulls, Eider, Red-breasted Mergansers and an immature Pomarine Skua flew past. A small selection of the more common waders were present on the beach and a small flock of Tree Sparrow was seen. We decided to walk north to the Falsterbo Fyr Lighthouse to have a browse in the shop and to warm up with a coffee. Whilst we were in the shop, co-leader Andrew Thompson saw a Nutcracker fly in and land on a pine tree next to the lighthouse. Then panic set in as the group rushed out and Steve had to run to the nearby toilets, to alert the rest of the party. Luckily, all managed to arrive in time to get great views of this bird. Absolutely Fantastic! Elated, we walked back to the vehicles and as we drove up the road another Nutcracker flew over. Highlights for the rest of the trip were 2 Golden Eagles, 8 White-tailed Eagles, 2 White Storks and 119 Common Cranes, another Nutcracker and a stunning Black Woodpecker!

Southern Sweden - 1st - 3rd September 2007

Saturday
On arrival in Sweden our first sightings were of Red Kite, Common Buzzard and a sprinkling of Hooded Crows. After a brief stop for take-away coffee and cakes, we headed to the heath and it wasn’t long before we picked out our first Honey Buzzard. Sparrowhawks were by far the most common raptor, with a minimum of 300 birds seen. Honey Buzzard totalled over 40, with small numbers of Marsh Harrier, Osprey and Red Kite. We had good views of a single Black Kite – a rare species at Falsterbo. Whinchat, Yellow Wagtail and Siskin flew over. With migration slowing up, we headed inland. At our next site we saw good numbers of Raven, more Whinchat, Marsh Harrier and Common Buzzard. We then drove to a nearby lake and as we got nearer all the Greylag Geese panicked and we spotted an immature White-tailed Eagle flying over. It promptly disappeared into a nearby wood never to be seen again. On the lake we found Wood Sandpiper, Goldeneye and most of the common wildfowl and with time getting on we headed to our accommodation for a well- earned meal and drink.

Sunday
The weather had changed and a strong south westerly was blowing – not ideal conditions for migration. We headed to Nabben and on arrival a Merlin flashed in front of us and a few Sparrowhawks were seen. On the golf course were Wheatear and Whinchat. On the pools at the far end, good numbers of waders were seen, including Curlew Sandpiper, Knot, Spotted Redshank, Greenshank and Ruff, whilst some Eider were on the sea and an Arctic Skua flew past. We visited the lighthouse where the staff were ringing a Blackcap. After buying a few souvenirs at the lighthouse shop, we headed to the heath, where hundreds of Swallows hawked insects. Small numbers of Honey Buzzards flew down the northern edge, so we decided to move to a closer spot, where Redstart and Spotted Flycatcher frequented the woods and several Honey Buzzards gave us superb views. After another stop for coffee and cakes, we headed inland, where we saw Osprey, Marsh Harrier and more Ravens, but with the weather against us we headed to a good site for White-tailed Eagle. Another Osprey, Hobby and Black Tern were seen and it wasn’t long before 2 fine adult White-tailed Eagles flew in and landed in some trees next to the water. A fantastic sight! We headed back towards our accommodation, before going out for our evening meal.

Monday
The only new species seen were 6 Golden Plover seen flying over on the way to the airport before flying home back to England. Another successful trip with great birds and great company.

Honey Buzzard