Killy Birder

Red Kites in the Sunset

2012-01-29T06:42:00.000-08:00

Frozen Lake in Derwent Valley

Pair of Dippers later found singing.

One of many Red Kites

Nice to see the Snowdrops.

Nine Arch Bridge, Derwent Valley.

Sunset as the Red Kites come to roost.

28^th Jan. I’d agreed with Sam (Under the Hood) to go and take a look at the Red Kite roost in the Derwent Valley today. We didn’t want to waste any part of the day so we left for Winlaton Mill in the morning, giving plenty of time to explore the river area and visit Far Pastures, before making for the Nine Arch Bridge to hopefully view a few Red Kites. Cold air and icy roads had welcomed us in the morning and the pathway leading from Winlaton Mill remained icy. The sun was shining however and we soon warmed up.

It wasn’t long until we caught sight of our first Red Kite flying above us. Year tick number one for the day. Year tick number two came in the form of an overhead Peregrine Falcon. A brief, but welcome sighting. Several Kestrels and a Sparrowhawk added to the raptor list for the day.

The small pond was completely frozen so all that was found here were a couple of Mute Swans. Jays were heard and then eventually seen. Time spent by the river was productive. Sam was keen to get some photographs, and I not having the scope today took the camera, although I had no intention of competing in the photography stakes. We soon had good views of a pair of Dippers. A txt came through on my mobile and I checked it (bad decision). It was a regular txt from a friend in Perth, about Scottish football club St Johnston. I looked up from reading the txt to be told by Sam that a Kingfisher had just flown by at very close range. I thought ‘oh dear’ or something along those lines, and congratulated Sam on his sighting, feeling no jealousy at all (if you believe that you’ll believe anything). Sam was polite enough not to remind me too many times that I’d missed the bird.:-) A Grey Heron flew over the river. This little session by the river reminded me of the benefits of taking time just to stop look and listen and let things come to you, rather than chasing after birds and wildlife. I really enjoyed that peaceful time by the river.

As we headed for Far Pastures, Roe Deer were seen in the woodland. There was no sign of the Firecrest when we arrived at Far Pasture and the pond here was frozen solid so there was nothing about. We did get chatting to a couple of birders, one of them Simon who is often found watching at the Rising Sun CP. He has spent some time looking for the Firecrest. The hide was handy to take lunch in before we moved on again. Sam knew this area better than I did as he visits here for photographic reasons. We found another pair of Dippers. I’m certain that they were another pair in a different territory. Walking along the river bank took us to underneath the Nine Arch Bridge which we had crossed earlier. I’d never been down here before. It was nice to see Snowdrops in flower although perhaps they may yet be covered in snow!

We arrived at the Red Kite viewing area early. It seemed quite warm at this point in time, but that was to change by the time we left and my feet had almost frozen to the ground. Wonderful view from this are, spoilt only by pylons and wires across the valley. The pylon to the south did serve well as a perch for the Red Kites, with three of them on the top of it at one point. We were well rewarded with Red Kites coming in from all directions with their distinctive calls filling the air. Sam reckoned we saw more than twenty and I wouldn’t argue with that, although getting a definite count proved impossible. I could never tire of watching such magnificent birds and the view and sunset to the west added to the enjoyment. By now there were only a few keen observers around. Hopefully these birds will never be taken for granted.

As the cold started to hit us we managed to pull ourselves away from the Nine Arch Bridge and head back towards Winlaton Mill. I had hoped for Siskins today and we had seen a small flock of maybe fifteen of them whilst we waited for the Red Kites to display. Nothing on the scale of the large flocks I saw last winter in this area, but nevertheless year tick number three. W took a final look on the river and found another pair of Dippers. This is likely to have been the pair we had initially seen in the morning. This time we heard Dipper song. Not something I have heard often and I had mentioned this to Sam previously. A Goosander flew down river as we watched.

We thought an owl or two would finish the day off very well, but agreed that this might be being too greedy. We had been surprised not to have seen Grey Wagtails in this habitat. I’d been talking to Sam about how this bird is so often associated with Dipper and Kingfisher and that all three have evolved high pitch songs and calls in order to be heard over the sound of the running water of rivers and streams. The weather was perfect for the time of year and I had really enjoyed the day. Thanks Sam, your knowledge of birds and nature is coming along very well indeed.

Pond, Dene and Coast

2012-01-23T09:57:00.000-08:00

23^rd Jan. I had intended to visit Holywell on Sunday, but instead stayed in and watched the football. Having heard that the weather is about to deteriorate I decided that today’s sunshine was too hard to resist, so completed the Holywell to St Marys Island walk.

First stage, the pond. I have rarely seen it so quiet. Others are saying the same thing. Where has all the waterfowl disappeared to? I understand that concern has led to NWT planning on taking some water samples for examination. I only have that as hearsay, but never the less, reliable hearsay. I’d hoped for some geese today, but had only one lone Greylag Goose (which flew over the pond) all day. Apart from six Gadwall, there is little to report on the pond. I did see Common Buzzard briefly west of the pond area and I think it likely that it had been disturbed by the movement of Wood Pigeons from north of the pond. There was no shortage of Wood Pigeons. A Sparrowhawk in territorial dispute with a corvid had been seen as I approached the pond and a Kestrel was seen as I made my way to the dene. The feeding stations weren’t that busy either. A Reed Bunting was seen at the now very quiet area near the hide and Tree Sparrow was amongst birds seen at the newer station. I’m not too sure how many Tree Sparrows were about as there was some movement within the hedge. I know I saw at least four. At least two Grey Herons on the edge of the pond and gull flock was made up of Black Headed, Common and a few Herring Gulls. A single Grey Partridge was seen in the fields and I think perhaps more were behind it in the dip.

Second stage, the dene. This was quite productive today. I decided to stop and wait to see if I could catch a sighting of the Dipper/s. In fact I found it almost immediately on what I’ve come to realise is a favourite rock of the bird within its territory. Thankfully a couple decided against letting their dog have a bath today and the Dipper remained undisturbed while I was there. As I watched, Nuthatch calls seemed to echo through the trees. There were certainly at least two of them calling, but such was the movement of the birds and echoing calls, I couldn’t find them in the binoculars. I did find two a little further through the dene and a Grey Wagatil was nearby on the rocks in the burn. At this point I got chatting to another birder as we watched the Grey Wagtail. Nuthatch calls soon began again. Long Tailed Tits were numerous.

Before I left the dene I had a good sighting of male Bullfinch looking very stunning in the sunlight. Just before I reached Seaton Sluice I found two Little Grebes on the burn. The fish and chips were given a miss today and I made do with a packet of crisps and a Satsuma. No wonder I’m feeling tired! I found no sign of Stonechats behind the Astley Arms, where I had been told a pair had been seen recently.

Third stage, the coast. The sea was very quiet. One Guillemot, Cormorants, one Goldeneye, Eiders and gulls being about the sum total of what was about. I got into conversation with another birder who was about to make off to Hauxley. It wasn’t until I was approaching St Marys Island that I got my first and only year tick of the day, this being Rock Pipit. The Golden Plover flock kept flying behind the lighthouse and then landing in an area that was hidden from view on the seaward side. Other waders seen were Oystercatcher, Lapwing, Knot, Sanderling, Turnstone, Redshank and Curlew. I didn’t find my first Lapwing until right at the end of the walk. The wetland held thirty Teal, but little else.

I was home shortly after 2:30pm, so that shows the day had been a quiet one, although I was quite pleased to find the day list of species had come to fifty-nine. If it hadn’t been so cold I could have fooled myself into thinking it was summer.

Iceland and Glaucous

2012-01-21T09:17:00.000-08:00

A canny bird, but not as canny as the ones mentioned below, although I'm sure she is 'armless!

I'll leave the proper photos to others. The sighting will do me.

21^st Jan. I’d approached North Shields fish quay having heard that an Iceland Gull had been seen in the area earlier in the week, so I was hoping rather than expecting. As I was watching small flotillas of Eider Duck I got my eye on what was clearly an Iceland Gull. I saw a couple of photographers around by the sheds and decided that they were in a better position so quickly walked around to that area. I had great views of the bird on the water, but even better when it began to fly up and down past us in the gut of the quay. One of the photographers mentioned that there was a Glaucous Gull (2^nd winter) on the roof above us. Moving along to find a better viewing point I had a fine view of this bird as it sat next to Herring Gulls and thus giving a very good contrasting sighting. Even better was to come when a first year Iceland Gull joined the adult bird and flew in the gut of the fish quay. Quite away to begin the day and giving me two year ticks and I have to admit a lifer in Glaucous Gull. Yes I know, how I can live where I do and not have seen a Glaucous Gull before. I’ve been saving it up. My thanks to the two photographers who offered advice as to the plumage patterns of the different species and putting me onto the first year Iceland Gull. I’m no expert on gulls so welcomed their advice and information. Not so sure I would have that first year easily without their help but the other two birds were very obvious. No one seemed interested in the numbers of Turnstone feeding near the boats. I was pleased to see some of the boatmen showing real interest in the white winged gulls.

After the excitement with the gulls I doubted that anything was going to beat that, and nothing did. I did walk up Tanners Bank to Northumberland Park where the highlight was my first stunning Grey Wagtail of the year. The Great Spotted Woodpecker put in an appearance as did numbers of Stock Doves and woodland species.

The tide was high so I didn’t walk right along to Tynemouth, but instead returned to the fish Quay. The first year Iceland Gull and Glaucous Gull weren't found again, but the adult Iceland Gull continued to fly to and fro along the quay and again gave excellent sightings. I’m sure there will be good photos popping up soon on a number of blogs, although not mine.:-) Shortly before I dragged myself away, Great Black Backed Gulls were having a tussle over discarded fish and it didn’t seem any of them were going to back down easily. Common and Black Headed Gulls were also seen. The flotillas of Eider Duck were still about. Great stuff

Help Save Gateshead Countryside Management Team

2012-01-17T10:44:00.000-08:00

I started to explore the Derwent Valley in a little more depth at the time of the Red Kite Reintroduction Scheme. I've since been very impressed by the area and how it is managed for wildlife. You just have to listen to someone like Keith Bowey talk about this area to get excited about it. Sadly I learn the Wildlife team is lined up for the chop. A petition is being collected and you can help by signing it HERE. (sorry link appears not to work but you can find it by Google E petitions + Gateshead) I believe they have 900 names up to now, but need 2,000 before it will be taken up by the Gateshead Council. Please spread the word.

BTW Keith Bowey is giving a talk for the NHSoc at the Hancock on Friday 20th Jan (7:00pm). The title is The Birds of Durham

Frozen!

2012-01-17T09:52:00.000-08:00

17^th Jan. A non birding day, but I took a look at the lake as I came past on my return from Forest Hall. I wanted to track down the Grey Wagtail seen by Sedgedunum Warbler. I failed. Most of the lake is frozen and all of the Goosanders appear to have fled. The gull flock on the ice was made up primarily of Black Headed and Common Gulls along with a few Herring Gulls.

To my surprise I found a pair of Shoveller at the far end of the lake. Believe it or not that is a patch tick for me! I had been alerted by Sam that they had been around at some point last year. At least one pair of Goldeneye remains and Pochard numbers appear to have grown. The Mute Swans, Canada Geese and Greylag Geese were tightly flocked at the far end of the lake.

Owls Aplenty

2012-01-16T09:48:00.000-08:00

Not a Dipper on patch, but one from Jesmond dene yesterday.

16^th Jan. With a very hard frost overnight and temperatures not seeming to rise very much as the day went on it was a time to leave your brass monkeys wrapped up at home and next to the central heating. Cold though it might be, it was another wonderful winter’s day with clear skies and clear light. The past few days have been fantastic and if all winter days could be like this I’d gladly pass on the wet damp days of a British summer. I felt I ought to get out and about this afternoon. Harry Potter can wait. I’m well into the third volume now anyway so well on target to finish the lot before the end of spring.

Alerted yesterday to the fact that a couple of Short Eared Owls were still about I made for the frosty paths of the wagon-ways wrapped up for Arctic conditions. How some people manage to wander round in light jackets and tee shirts in weather like this beats me. Maybe its years of practice of a Friday night in the Bigg Market.

All was quiet until I came across a small flock of Yellowhammers and then my first Short Eared Owl seen on patch this year (I’ve not been looking). I watched it at length until it dropped behind a hedge. I moved on and further down the wagon-way passing only a couple of Great Tits, Dunnocks and Pheasants. I looked back across to where I had seen the Short Eared Owl and it had been joined by another. I watched them meet in the air. One was distinctly pale in colour. The light was perfect for watching these birds. Then I found another Short Eared Owl, although it was becoming difficult to count them as they were hunting over a wide area, I was sure I had three owls. Then I got my eye on another and found that they seemed to be staying in two pairs. One of the birds eventually flew very close and almost over my head, and it was clearly watching me. It flew off into the more distant fields and into the sun. Three Short Eared Owls remained in the air to my left. I’d watched at least four Short Eared Owls then, and I just don’t know if there were more in the distant fields. I accept that it doesn’t match the show that has been put on at Prestwick Carr this winter, but for me, to find these birds on patch and watch them like this is every bit as exciting and rewarding. I’m surprised, although not overly concerned, that more people aren’t out watching them. It’s good to have the place almost to myself. As the light began to dim a flock of circa thirty Golden Plover flew towards the east and Mute Swans seemed to be returning to the lake in the opposite direction.

So I left for my return home very pleased with myself. By the time I approached the village the sun was a ball of fire in a colourful sky. The clear skies have led to some wonderful sunsets of late as well as minus degree temperatures. As I left the village behind and approached home the Jackdaws flew overhead and give their unmistakeable calls, underlining that the day was not quite over yet

Fisher, Dipper and Rail

2012-01-15T10:33:00.000-08:00

A frosty walk

15^th Jan. I’m reliably informed it was minus five degrees early this morning. It certainly felt bitterly cold as I left for Heaton Park and Jesmond Dene. The frost was still thick in places in the dene at noon and despite being wrapped up like a Christmas parcel, I never felt warm at any point during my walk. A thin layer of ice was forming along the side of the burn that was the most shaded.

Unusually there were few birds near the entrance to Heaton Park but I did eventually find a male Blackcap along with the tits and Blackbirds. A little further in to the park and at least two Nuthatches were found, heard before seen, along with the first Treecreeper of the day and Great, Coal, Blue and Long Tailed Tits. Quite a few Stock Doves were around, but I saw no sign of woodpeckers. Three Mistle Thrushes flew from the tops of the taller trees.

The first Dipper of the day was found under the road bridge next to Armstrong Bridge before entering the dene proper. I watched the white of the blinking nictitating membrane as the bird dipped on a rock. At least three Goldcrest were found near to Pets Corner, as was the next Treecreeper and flock of Long Tailed Tits, but after that apart from Mallards, of which there were many, and a couple of Moorhens things went very quiet.

It wasn’t until approaching the South Gosforth area that the Kingfisher was seen and then at least one more Dipper showed very well. The surprise bird of the day was a Water Rail which showed really well before running along the bank of the burn and disappearing. I went most of last year without finding Water Rail, and so far this month I’ve had two fine sightings.

As I say, the dene was very cold, but picturesque in the frosty atmosphere. I perhaps ended the walk a little earlier than I have in the past. The cold and thoughts of the match on TV quickened the footsteps I think. I was back in time for kick off and the score warmed me up even if the match itself had not been too hot.

Bittern X Two

2012-01-14T12:36:00.000-08:00

Another room with a view. This time with sunny, frozen outlook and Bitterns!

I can remember when you rarely saw anyone in this area!

Wonderful habitat

14^th Jan. More great sightings of a Bittern today. This time initially half hidden on the edge of the reeds (a sighting at anytime I would be very pleased to have recorded) then fully exposing itself on the frozen pond at Gosforth Park N R. As this Bittern was being watched another flew across the pond from the far reeds. I hadn’t been able to pick this one up in my binoculars as it too had apparently been standing at the edge of the reedbed. I’ll let Sam’s photo’s (up in the next day or two) say the rest. Not a bad sighting for your first Bittern Sam!? All of this when the Common Snipe seemed to have remained in the exact same position that I saw it two days ago! A Reed Bunting was seen in the reeds. Attention taken by the Bitterns, I didn’t spend to much time looking at the ducks but most were once again Wigeon, which had been heard whistling as we approached the pond

Whilst watching the Bittern I was asked by a fellow birder who joined us, everyone else had left, if I had lost my wallet. My first reaction was to say no. Then I felt my pocket and realised I had lost the wallet! Thanks to reserve warden Paul Drummond for taking this to my home. I’m very grateful.

The reserve was at it best today. An icy but sunny day with clear skies. The feeding station was busy with birds and bird watchers. We were all asked to show our membership cards this morning and I guess that was when the wallet went. It seems non-members have been filling the hide at the feeding station and members have not been able to get in. Cheek of it! Joining the NHSoc is quite easy, as is paying the subs! I actually had a conversation with someone a while back who told me that he had every right to enter the reserve and enjoy nature without becoming a member of the society. Sadly attitudes like that are not unusual in society.

Anyway once the wallet business had been sorted a trip was made to Prestwick Carr. That damn Great Grey Shrike eluded me again. I apparently missed it by minutes if not seconds. Not to worry, as the show put on by the Short Eared Owls more than made up for it. Once again flying north, south and east of the bumpy road. I remain in love with the Bittern, but those Short Eared Owls know how to pull at my heart strings.

Bittern By Love!

2012-01-12T10:42:00.000-08:00

My thanks to Cain Scrimgeour (Holywell Birding) for allowing me to use his images.

12^th Jan. I visited Gosforth Park today with Cain (Holywell Birding). It had been a long time since we had the chance to take in a days birding together (and quite some time since I had been to the reserve), but today was well worth waiting for. The previous nights wind had departed and the heavy shower of this morning had soon passed over to leave sunshine and clear skies.

The new feeding station was quiet on our arrival, but soon picked up and several Nuthatches were seen. Other birds visiting included Great Tit, Coal Tit, Blue Tit, Long Tailed Tit, Blackbird Robin, Dunnock, Goldfinch, Greenfinch, Magpie, and Stock Dove. I reckon the cost of seed must be quite substantial! It’s an excellent station though with a nice view through the woodland. God forbid that Newcastle City Council allows planning permission for houses on the land next to this reserve. It would be an absolute disgrace if such a plan is allowed to go through and ruin this reserve!

We next headed to the pond and hide with thoughts of Bittern on our minds. I remember when you walked through this reserve and never saw a soul. It seems that the long needed modernisation of the Natural History Society has brought with it many new members who now visit the reserve. We arrived at the hide having negotiated the very muddy pathway. A Common Buzzard was quickly found in the bordering tree line and I thin k I caught a fleeting sighting of a Sparrowhawk before it dropped into the reeds. A Common Snipe was picked up along one of the channels, although not showing well. Wigeon had overtaken the pond although a few Teal were there, along with five Shoveller.

Patience eventually paid off and the Bittern made a momentary appearance at it flew out and then straight back into the reedbed. It was only a few yards from the hide. I wanted more, but settled my mind to the fact that at least I had taken in the briefest of sightings and had myself a year tick of one species I rarely see. After some time the Bittern reappeared and gave a far better sighting as it stood at the edge of the reedbed in typical Bittern posture with neck stretched. It eventually came further out of the reeds although it was very much on guard and nervous. We had several minutes watching before the bird took off and flew to the other side of the pond. This is without any doubt what so ever my best ever sighting of a Bittern both on the ground and in flight. A guy who had joined us in the hide told us he had been a casual birder for forty years and had never seen a Bittern. He had not realised that Bitterns were in the reserve, so the sighting had come as a complete surprise. He was over the moon and delighted that we had initially pointed the bird out to him. I was over the moon too and very pleased for him. You could almost feel the delight within the hide. Already this year I have another top birding experience for 2012. Great to share it with Cain and others.

We completed the circuit of the reserve, ‘plodging’ through the mud, during which we found Jays and a number of relaxed Roe Deer which watched us through the trees as we watched them. Unfortunately the only squirrel we found was of the grey variety.

Next stop was Prestwick Carr. The sun was bright by now and the area had again attracted numerous birders. We’d hoped for the Great Grey Shrike and did do a careful search for it up and down the bumpy road. We chatted to PCW and a number of other birders. The shrike was being seen, but it was one of those days when we arrived just a few minutes too late. The sun didn’t help when scanning the area and like a number of other people we just had no luck in finding this bird at all. We did find at least six Common Buzzards, too many Kestrels to remember, Great Spotted Woodpecker, Willow Tit and Mistle Thrush.

The Short Eared Owls were what had attracted most people of course and they did put on a wonderful showing on both sides of the road, both perched and in flight. We reckoned that we had seen ten birds by the time it was going home time. Another Roe Deer appeared in the tall grass. It had been a really grand day. Great stuff! I’m now in love with a Bittern

Cresswell Walk

2012-01-09T12:34:00.001-08:00

Photos taken my walk participant

Atmospheric Day

7^th Jan. I’d had my fingers crossed since arranging this RSPB walk, as I had hoped we would avoid the icy conditions of last year. Not that I would have minded too much, but I think participation may have been limited. In the event we had twenty-one participants come along on a rather breezy, but otherwise wonderful January day. A day which offered very good lighting conditions. After we had picked up our youngest participant Sam we headed for Cresswell, catching a glimpse of a Sparrowhawk as we left Killingworth. Sam is a keen photographer and also gaining a keen interest in birds and nature and has provided some good photographs from the day on his blog, which is well worth following. We met everyone in the car-park at Cresswell and before beginning the walk enjoyed coffees, cakes and mince pies provided by members. It was a very nice way to begin what was to be a good days birding and I thank those who contributed the goodies and their time.

Sam has provided a report on his blog so I’ll keep mine short. Well short in a relative sense. :-) We picked up divers auks and waders as we walked along the beach, but got back onto the road as I felt the inlets about to flood with the incoming tide. I was pleased to have found a small flock of Twite even though they were very flighty in the windy conditions. Tree Sparrows were found at Bells Farm as were four Grey Partridges.

The birds of the day were undoubtedly the three Short Eared Owls. I initially caught site of one in the dunes as we returned towards the pond hide. Three Short Eared Owls went on to perform for us for about ninety minutes. This gave me some of my best ever sightings of this species and was a grand way to end the day. They were certainly catching the attention of passing motorists some of whom stopped to ask what species they were. A Kingfisher also put in an appearance and at one point circled in front of the hide. The pair of Stonechats also entertained us as we watched the Short Eared Owls as the sun began to set. With several hundred Pink-footed Geese keep taking to the air and flocks of Wigeon and Teal on and over the sea the day could not have worked out better. It provided fifty-four species. After my trip to Norfolk and this walk I was cream crackered on Saturday night.

My all weather birder mate Tom is back in Yorkshire for the time being at least. His blog is another that I reckon is going to be well worth following in the longer term so I hope you’ll consider following if you don’t already do so.

Postcard from (a Golden) Norfolk

2012-01-08T07:47:00.000-08:00

Photo Provided by Andrew Kinghorn (The Fog). The Golden Pheasants were seen remarkably well and at length.

What would you think if I sang out of tune,
Would you stand up and walk out on me.
Lend me your ears and I’ll sing you a song,
And I’ll try not to sing out of key.
Oh I get by with a little help from my friends,
Mmm,I get high with a little help from my friends,
Mmm, I’m gonna try with a little help from my friends.

Beatles Lyrics

5^th and 6^th Jan. Military manoeuvres began at 2.00am on the 5^th when I was picked up by Andrew (The Fog) and we set of for Sheffield to meet Tom (Flat Cap Birder). Tom took over as driver and we headed for Norfolk with a stop at the Wolferton Triangle shortly after light had appeared. It wasn’t too long before we were watching two Golden Pheasants. A great start and highlight of the trip which brought me a lifer. Having visited once before and never having had a sniff of these birds I hadn’t been overly confident that they would appear let along give the long and stunning showing that they did. A Muntjac Deer was also seen. A return was made to Kings Lynn railway station to pick up Oliver who had been slightly delayed by falling wires on the rails as he had travelled from London. We then set off from Buckenham Marshes.

I remember the last time I visited Buckenham Marshes, it was windy and cold. This time it was windy and cold and wet. I didn’t let this nor the fact that for a time I felt I was about to throw up at any second take my mind off why we were here. The main objective was the Lesser White Fronted Goose and it was eventually seen. I’m told the one I saw here last year was in fact a hybrid so I’ve made sure that I now have this species legitimately on my life list. Pink-footed Geese had been seen on the journey and I’m now pleased that I have seen Taiga Bean Geese and in some number, if somewhat distant. There were numbers of Egyptian Geese around with a few Barnacle and Canada Geese too. In between watching the geese we were entertained by flocks of waders and ducks, the large flocks Golden Plovers being the highlight. I’d like to say they looked good in the sun but there wasn’t too much of that, although it did appear eventually!

It was onward to Hickling Broad and Stubbs Mill. The entry fee into Hickling Broad Reserve began to make me think that Norfolk birding doesn’t come cheaply. As it happens the spectacle that was to come later was a birding treat that I would have paid a great deal more to see. The reserve itself was quiet with only the odd Marsh Harrier to be seen so we made off towards the raptor roost viewing point. I remembered the area vaguely from a visit some years ago. We soon picked up the three Common Cranes on the ground as another two flew in. Then the Marsh Harriers began to arrive in numbers. They just kept on coming and I thought they were never going to stop. Thirty plus were counted up in the air at one time and we reckoned in total that there were more than fifty of these birds. Two ringtail Hen Harriers put in an appearance along with two Merlin. I had not anticipated how fantastic an experience this would be and it is one of my top birding experiences in the UK. If I have anything like this again during 2012 I’ll be well pleased. By now I had shaken of the earlier feelings of sickness and enjoyed the walk back to the car in the fading light. A great way to end the day before heading to accommodation in Great Yarmouth, some fish and chips and a well earned pint before sleep came at last.

Off after a good breakfast on day two we had hope to find the Great Northern Diver, but that wasn’t to be although Andrew picked up a Kingfisher whilst we were looking for the diver. A Harris Hawk flew over head, but no guys I haven’t put it on the list. The Bewick’s Swans at Ludham had disappeared too but we did find a flock of Whooper Swans and watched a Merlin chasing a bird up in the air.

Snow Buntings were found in the car park before we moved on for what was to be the big one, the Western Sandpiper at Cley. Tom and Andrew had watched this bird last year and I wasn’t able to join them, so I was anxious to get it on my UK list. Having shelled out more cash, we entered the busy reserve. I had been confident of seeing this bird but the confidence began to drain quite quickly. I’m patient when watching for birds, but the general atmosphere was suggesting to me that this bird was not going to show easily. I found the behaviour of some birders in the hide completely out of order and the type that gets birding a bad image. I nearly had my eye pushed into my eye piece on one occasion, I was stood on and pushed around and have felt safer in the crowd at a football match. Never mind, my thanks to Tom for getting me onto Western Sandpiper. I had a very acceptable sighting of the bird which is a UK tick for me. I sure I would have felt a bit down if I’d missed this one. By now we had seen many waders and added Brent Geese to the list also. Cetti’s Warbler was heard. It was time to leave.

We moved on to Holkham where the fields held thousands of geese and a Barn Owl appeared content sitting out in the open. In places the flocks were packed closely together. On the whole they were Pink-footed Geese, but we picked up two Ross’s Geese, and Barnacles and Greylags were also easily picked up. We parked at St Annes Drive and walked into Holkham Gap hoping for Shore Lark, but had no luck with them. Flocks of Skylark were on the marsh. When we returned we heard Jay and then had a rather nice sighting of one of them. Oliver especially wanted to find the Rough Legged Buzzards which would be a lifer for him. It was good that it was he who eventually picked the first bird up. We saw two Rough Legged Buzzards really well. One of them an especially pale bird. Then it was off to Titchwell.

The Coue's Arctic Redpoll was quickly found along with Lesser Redpoll. I’m still struggling with these Arctic Redpolls! Also had a close sighting of a Water Rail at this time. We found a number of waders near to the sea including a group of circa forty Grey Plover. Long Tailed Duck and Red-Breasted Merganser were also amongst birds seen. The sun was almost gone by now on what had been a far less windy day with really good light. On return walk to the centre a pair of Pintail was seen on the marsh and two Avocets were on the pool. As our second day was ending a ring tailed Hen Harrier flew over the marsh and passed over our heads.

It was time to head for home now at the end of two great days in equally great company. Good birding is always made even better if the company is good too. I want to thank Tom for the driving throughout the birding days and Andrew for getting me to and from Sheffield. The bird list for the trip came to 103 on my reckoning. I’ve certainly never started a years birding so well as in 2012. My mission has begun. All this after the Magpies walloping the Reds of Manchester!

The following day I led an RSPB walk and that was pretty good too. More of that later.

Leaving the Dentist's Chair for a Lesser Scaup

2012-01-04T06:11:00.000-08:00

4^th Jan. Unfortunately it was one of my now regular dental visits today. I’m beginning to think that only concrete will prevent my fillings from dropping out. My dentist wondered why I had not joined the surgery Christmas party, so well does he know my face and mouth. Can you imagine a Christmas party at the dental surgery? Never mind the party poppers, let’s get the needles and drills out. Every drill has a silver lining however and I took the chance to nip down to Marden Quarry to tick off the long staying Lesser Scaup. It was found without any problem at all as it dived near to the centre of the pond. Maybe against my principals chasing after a bird already seen, especially this Lesser Scaup just to get it on my year list, but I’m on a mission this year so principals may have to be cast aside occasionally.

Some very odd looking specimens of bird in that quarry I must say. I did find a single male Goosander and my first Greenfinches of the year. A flock of Goldfinch where making quite a noise. Although I was there at mid day it was dark and miserable.

I’d taken another short walk on patch on 2^nd January and found the place devoid of most bird life. Never the less I did manage to add Sparrowhawk, Mistle Thrush, and Bullfinch to the list. My horizons may now be going to widen a little from the patch.

And Another List Begins

2012-01-01T11:11:00.000-08:00

All alone on the wagon-way

This reed-bed is doing ok, attracting birds and in my opinion should be extended.

1^st Jan 2012. I was going to title this post ‘Dreaming of Birds’ but thought that this may bring unsavoury readers to my blog and we don’t want that do we? I have been dreaming of birds recently and it is a while since this has happened! In December I had a very vivid dream of me sighting a family of Quail from the office I used to work in. A family of them were seen on the grassy area opposite the office. In my dream I even rang all weather birder Tom and asked him to inform Birdguides as I didn’t have the number with me. I awoke at this point and was very disappointed that I hadn’t actually seen what would have been a lifer. I have heard Quail, but never seen them, although I have tasted them! :-) Now last night, I began 2012 dreaming that I had Tree Sparrows on the bird table. I saw them very vividly in my dream as I had done with the Quail. I’ve never seen Tree Sparrows anywhere on patch so was delighted. Sadly on waking I found it wasn’t to be a garden tick!

No Tree Sparrows but the first birds of 2012 seen in the garden in order were Blackbird, Black Headed Gull, Starling, Dunnock, House Sparrow, Wood Pigeon, Blue Tit, Carrion Crow, Long Tailed Tit and Chaffinch. So that was to be my opening for 2012. It was in fact quiet so I soon got out for my annual New Years Day walk on patch.

I made for the wagon-ways and it began to rain. Thankfully that soon blew over and left clear skies again. It was again very quiet but one of the hedges and the area beside it was covered in Blackbirds and Redwings and an odd Fieldfare or two. It was nice to get these two winter thrushes so quickly. One of the playing fields was covered with Black Headed, Common and Herring Gulls. There was few small passerines about although I picked up the likes of Wren, Robin, Goldfinch and Linnet.

The Short Eared Owl/s was/were no where to be seen, and my eyes where not the only ones looking for it. I stopped and had quite a chat with another guy out walking his dog, but hoping to find the owl. I suggested that if he didn’t find it that he take a trip to Prestwick Carr! Well another birder up there won’t make a vast difference. :-) There wasn’t much to be seen at all in this area today, but I heard two Pheasants calling and eventually saw one of them in the centre of a field.

I decided to walk through the village and onwards to the lake as this was an easy way to boost my list. The usual birds were there of course and included Little Grebe, Goosander and Goldeneye. I bumped into a friend from the local group and we exchanged pleasantries as the light began to go.

As I walked home the air was full of flocks of corvids, mainly Jackdaws, Wood Pigeons and Gulls, and a small flock of Goldfinch flew near the school. The sky was clear and it seemed that it may indicate a chilly night ahead, although it had been very mild again for the time of year. I had thirty-seven species on my list, beating the three previous years. I’d begun the year getting some real exercise too.

I set myself targets last year and beat them all, so will be setting some for 2012. I’m determined to enjoy my birding to the full.

As for resolutions. I have made only one, and only one other person knows what it is and that is the way it will remain.:-)

Another Year Ends

2011-12-31T06:23:00.000-08:00

They think it’s all over…….well it is now! Well almost. I’ve never known a year go so quickly. In fact I think this is some Government plot and I think they have interfered with the clocks so as to make the pain of the recession seem shorter. I swear it is still only June! Unusually I have not had a holiday this year and all of my birding has been confined to Northumberland and Durham, apart from a couple of days in Norfolk and a couple of day visits to Yorkshire. It’s been a great year and my shaking off the shackles of the RSPB L G leadership has done wonders for my personal birding, in that I have far more time to myself. I thought I’d reflect on a few experiences during 2011.

Coldest Moments…..Quite a few moments to choose from, but I think maybe the hours I stood with Andrew and Tom on top of the hill at Rainton Meadows in January just about clinches it. (Not sure I ever recovered from treks up that hill :-)). My feet almost froze to the ground at one point. Worth it to watch three species of Redpoll though. The Coue's Arctic Redpoll being a lifer. I did see it (three of them I reckon). I think perhaps a few people left thinking they had seen it and actually hadn’t, but I guess they left happy. :-) After all the hours I spent up there I ought to know my Coue's from my elbow. Time will tell. Some beautiful birds amongst that flock.

Patch Highs…..I have without doubt spent less time on patch this year, especially during the latter months. I lost my spark for a while. Still had some interesting walks and hope to get back into stride come 2012. The two Tundra Bean Geese have to be the high. The return of the Short Eared Owls were another high spot and I hope to start the New Year with a sighting. Also very special watching the Great Crested Grebes raising two broods this year and having my first sighting of the likes of Green Woodpecker and Reed Warbler on patch. Thankfully areas of patch so far escape brick and concrete, although one small productive area has now been lost to housing.

Most Surreal Moments……Has to be the Twitching circus at Hartlepool headland for the White-throated Robin. Not being too used to this twitching lark I thought I was going to have to invest in a set of ladders this year. Happily I have avoided that expense and also avoided too much standing around in large groups being directed by self appointed ‘leaders’ and avoiding mega sized cameras, telescopes and their owners. Not my style at all and never will be really, but having said that, I did enjoy the day and I was in very good company, (Cain, Phil and Tom) so we had a laugh. Cain and Tom seemed to brush up on their business skills whilst negotiating with a builder over borrowing his ladders. I confess I was up a ladder on three occasions. I wasn’t gonna go home having been the only one to miss out. We all thought the Red Backed Shrike seen late in more peaceful surroundings was the bird of the day, and a stunner it certainly was! That was more my kind of birding and whilst I can’t really speak for others I think it was theirs too.

Most Rewarding moments……Has to be being involved with youngsters who come along to the occasional walk and talk I give for families and beginner birders. I find that they just like watching and talking about birds with no real thought as to lists, rarity alerts and all that goes with this. It’s a breath of fresh air. I’m especially pleased to see local Killy lad Sam getting involved. Mind you my own lists continue and this year has seen my best ever UK list. It’s always good to watch the knowledge and skill grow of some of the younger birders and bloggers. That has been very noticeable this year. Birding and wildlife will be in some safe hands in the future.

Biggest coincidence…..Having to visit the bushes at Holywell (not wise to have a pint or two whilst birding, in my case anyway) and have a Lesser Whitethroat pop out right in front of me. I didn’t need the bins (just as well) as it was within touching distance. One of several Lesser Whitethroats seen this year.

Longest Birding Trip…..Two days in Norfolk in February with Andrew, Derek and Colin (DBC members)brought some great sightings including Northern Harrier and Ferruginous Duck. The chase for the latter bird was an interesting one. I was just as happy with the flocks of Snow Bunting and Shore Lark. The trip got my year list flying and thanks especially go to Andrew for the arrangements.

Best Birding Day…..Impossible to say really. However the Holywell and coast walk which brought Tom and me a self found pair of Temminck's Stints remains firmly in mind as does the trip to Harthope along with both Cain and Tom, which brought us some great sightings.

Best Birds…..Again impossible to say however a few did bring much pleasure and include the likes of The Tundra Bean Geese on patch, Greater Yellowlegs in the company of Grey Phallarope, (I saw the G Yellowlegs on four occasions), the Desert Wheatear seen when I visited with John quite recently, Red Backed Shrike, the Coue's Arctic Redpoll (in fact all the Redpolls), Northern Harrier, the numbers of Short Eared Owls and I could go on and on. Seabirds have to be in there too as I’ve done more than my usual amount of sea watching this year and have had good sightings of Storm Petrel, Manx and Sooty Shearwaters. Sadly Long Tailed and Pomarine Skua still elude me. Maybe next year? As I’ve said on more than one occasion, the birding just gets better and better the more that time moves on.

My hopes for 2012? Well, good health and being happy will do me fine, with some good birding with good mates thrown in along the way. I wish that for everyone. Oh, and I hope to have plenty of opportunity to walk between Holywell and St Mary's Island and of course stop for fish and chips.

My thanks to everyone who has helped and inspired me throughout 2011.

HAPPY NEW YEAR, AND ALL THE VERY BEST.

Underthehood with Killy Birder

2011-12-28T10:37:00.000-08:00

28^th Dec. No, no, no, I haven’t suddenly given up birding and began a new interest in the mechanical workings of American cars. I wouldn’t know one end from the other of one of those. Cars I mean! I do know one end of a bird from the other, on a good day I do anyway. No, the post title only reflects that Underthehood Sam recently participated in an RSPB walk and we afterwards promised one another that we would meet up to take a closer look at waders. Today was the day. Sam had checked the weather forecast and it was a good one. I think he checked it before the warning was made about strong winds.:-) To be fair I’d checked it too! I can vouch for the fact that the wind was strong and whilst crossing St Mary’s Island causeway I had thoughts that I might see myself playing Quidditch along with Harry Potter and his Hogwarts gang. Well ok so I haven’t been reading classical literature (it may be one day) over the holidays. Good stuff though, and I’ve got the boxed set so you may hear more from the wizard in 2012! You never know it could bring a whole new style to my blog!

Wind or no wind, waders it was going to be! Off to a good start at Seaton Sluice with at least ninety Knot present along with Oystercatchers, Redshank and Turnstone. I couldn’t find any Purple Sandpipers, but the rocking of the telescope didn’t help matters. Eider Ducks seen on a rough sea, but little else. In my case too much Christmas pudding ensured lunch was a quick one before setting off towards St Mary’s Island. The wind was getting stronger.

A Kestrel was seen near the cliff edge, as at one point it struggled to hover in the wind and seemed to give up. Everything else appeared to be keeping a low profile. The winds did ensure that we saw few people about.

I wondered why people seemed to be struggling on the causeway to the island. I soon found out when we got on there! At times it was difficult to keep grounded. Sam seemed to be having a problem keeping his camera steady and stabilised lenses weren’t made to be stable in such conditions I guess. Not to worry, and we didn’t, we did eventually have good sightings of Oystercatchers, Knot, Lapwing, Golden Plover, Sanderling (in large numbers), Turnstone, Dunlin, Redshank and Curlew. There weren’t many opportunities for close up photography. Sorry Sam we didn’t get as close as I had hoped, but there will be another time. However a few Turnstones did eventually oblige and I believe a few other shots were taken. Hoping to see them on Sam’s blog. As we departed the winds were getting even stronger.

Despite the winds it was a very good day. Thanks Sam, I enjoyed your company.

I’m now off to finish the last chapter before I begin The Chamber of Secrets. This lot should fill in a few hours until the lighter nights, and yes I’m going to watch the DVDs too! I’m certainly hoping Hagrid continues to be part of all this as he seems a down to Earth chap to me.

Nearly forgot the single Barnacle Goose spotted by Sam at Seaton Sluice.

Treecreeper again and a Merry Christmas to all.

2011-12-23T08:10:00.000-08:00

23rd Dec. Having seen Treecreeper on patch for the first time this year on 22^nd Dec I was really pleased to find a Treecreeper (probably the same one) in the garden on 23^rd Dec. This is only the second time I have ever seen this species in the garden and it was in the exact same spot as the last one I saw. It made for a nice Christmas present.

Anyway, just like to wish all birders, bloggers and everyone else for that matter a very

Merry Christmas!

Said the night wind to the little lamb
Do you see what I see
Way up in the sky little lamb
Do you see what I see
A star, a star
Dancing in the night
With a tail as big as a kite
With a tail as big as a kite

Said the little lamb to the sheppard boy
Do you hear what I hear
Ringing through the sky sheppard boy
Do you hear what I hear
A song, a song
High above the tree
With a voice as big as the sea
With a voice as big as the sea

Said the sheppard boy to the mighty king
Do you know what I know
In your palace wall mighty king
Do you know what I know
A child, a child
Shivers in the cold
Let us bring him silver and gold
Let us bring him silver and gold

Said the king to the people everywhere
Listen to what I say
Pray for peace people everywhere
Listen to what I say
The child, the child
Sleeping in the night
He will bring us goodness and light
He will bring us goodness and light

Short Walk on Shortest Day.

2011-12-22T11:22:00.003-08:00

Great Lime Road runs on the other side of the buildings. The road was built in 1793 when Killingworth Moor was enclosed. The name 'Lime' is derived from the Latin term for boundary.

Greylag Geese with a few of the Canada Geese seen on a previous visit.

22^nd Dec. In stark contrast to any walks I took in December 2010, it was warm and sunny around by the lake today. It was difficult to imagine the frozen conditions of last year. The shortest day, but not really at all like winter today, so long may it continue.

As I passed through the park area a flash a white caught my eye as it flew across my path. It was a Treecreeper which I watched climb the beech tree in typical fashion. As far as I remember the only Treecreeper I’ve seen on patch this year. The church grounds held decent size flocks of both Goldfinch and Greenfinch. I’ve seen no Nuthatch or Goldcrest in this area this year.

The sunlight was being reflected off the surface of the lake and the birds were shown to great effect today, especially the Goosanders, as their colours were shown perfectly. There were four male Goosanders on the small lake and a total of thirteen Goosanders altogether. The way the females were closely following the males seemed to suggest that the warm day had them thinking of courtship! I counted four Goldeneye, two male and two female. Initially I found only eight Pochard, but later saw more at the top of the lake, but only at distance as it’s an area I rarely bother to visit. Playgrounds, car-parks and a mass of birds waiting to be fed is not really my thing, so I usually avoid it! Thank goodness for the relative tranquillity of the smaller lake. I counted eighty-four Canada Geese and noted that the Greylag Geese remain.

The only other thing of significance was the flocks of corvids on the playing fields. Gathering before going to roost. Gulls included Black Headed, Herring and Common Gull.

Winter Thrushes and Short Eared Owl

2011-12-18T10:29:00.001-08:00

Watching a patch isn't only about the birds!

18^th Dec. Not having spent much time birding during December, and no real time at all on patch, I shook off the lethargy to spend a couple of hours along the wagon-ways this afternoon. The iced pathways came as a bit of a shock to the system, as did the cold air, but it was a fine day to be out. In places the broken ice lay like bits of a jigsaw puzzle and showed just how thick the ice had become last night. Flocks of Wood Pigeon and Magpies seemed to be everywhere.

It wasn’t long before I began to find small flocks of Redwing in the hedge ways near to the wagon-way. Three or four flocks, no larger than perhaps fifteen birds to a flock I reckon. Single birds flew along by the wagon-way. This is the largest number of Redwing by far that I have seen on patch so far this winter. One of the flocks also included a small number of Fieldfare. All of these birds were quite active. Searching for food no doubt, as I didn’t see many berries left on trees. Further along the wagon-ways towards Holystone I found a further small flock of Fieldfare. Nothing like the numbers I had found in the fields in the latter part of November.

I had hoped to find Short Eared Owls and I wasn’t to be disappointed. On this occasion only one bird, but it showed really well as it hunted the longer grass area which looks to me to be a likely roosting area. I watched it for some time and it appeared not to be phased at all by the dog walker who passed quite closely with two large dogs. Both dogs well controlled. I noticed the guy got straight onto his mobile when he spotted the Short Eared Owl, so perhaps he was informing someone of its presence. I informed a mate too and found he was watching a Short Eared Owl not that far away! A Kestrel also hunted in the area. I eventually moved off, but kept looking back as the owl continued to hunt. I thought I might find other Short Eared Owls in another area but I was to see only this one bird. Maybe its companions have dispersed to a wider area now.

I heard a Pheasant calling at some point, but there were few other birds about apart from tits, Blackbirds, Wren and Starlings. I did also find a male Bullfinch.

The sky at this time of year can be wonderful and this afternoon was no exception. The patch being on high ground gives a very good vantage point for watching the sky. I heard Mistle Thrushes in one of their favoured areas of the village as I made my return home to thaw out. The Short Eared Owls have been a special highlight of my patch birding this year. Not sure if I’ll get back out before Christmas, hopefully I will, but in any event I’m looking forward to planned trip out between Christmas and New Year.

.....Tide Waits for no Man!

2011-12-09T10:35:00.000-08:00

My feet didn't know what was going to hit them!

A small proportion of the total number of geese disturbed by gunshot.

Beginning a flight further north.

9^th Nov. I took the chance today to reccy a walk planned for early January, given decent weather. The weather today was certainly more than decent and I can only hope that it is something like this come January.

Approaching Cresswell Village the skeins of Pink-footed Geese in the air looked like murmurations of Starlings. I later had fine sightings of the geese in the fields just south of the pond area. They took off at the sound of gun shots and filled the skies above as they flew north. Always a fine sight to see such numbers of geese. Having roughly counted the number in one of my photographs I would estimate that the totals number was around eighteen hundred. Three Grey Partridges lifted from the fields and Lapwing, Redshank and Curlew were all seen there to before I had reached the pond.

The pond was once again taken up with Wigeon and I’d estimate numbers at circa fifteen hundred. Golden Plover numbers seemed to total circa three hundred and Lapwing circa four hundred. The only other birds of significance were a handful of Dunlin near the causeway and one Black-tailed Godwit. The water of the pond remains very high.

On heading to the path through the dunes to the sea a pair of Stonechat were found. I’ve had no Stonechat on my list for sometime and then this week come across them twice.

A walk along the beach in fine conditions, as the tide was high and once again waves giving off sea-spray, was cut short as I misjudged the incoming waves and my feet and lower legs were soaked. As if I wasn’t cold enough! I watched the water raise from my boots. I’d done enough to ensure the route to be taken in January would be timed well. Not the first time that I have had my feet wet here and I’m wondering if I could arrange this to happen in January just so as to add a bit of excitement for participants!:-)

I enjoyed watching a hunting Kestrel before heading back (squelching) to the village and once again passing a male Stonechat. A quick look at the sea before heading home brought two Red-throated Divers and two Guillemots flying north. Earlier three auk (sp) had been seen also flying north. Only one Eider Duck was in the vicinity. The Pink-footed Geese had definitely been the highlight of the day.

A Wheatear, a Warbler and a Killy!

2011-12-08T07:58:00.000-08:00

A sunny Newbiggin coast line.

Wind, high waves and sea spray. It was near here that the warbler nearly took to flight!

Yet another room with a view. This time at Hauxley.

It was getting cold in Warkworth gut by now!

7^th Dec. The warbler was John, Sedgedunum Warbler who had asked me if I’d like to join him on a trip up the coast. Having been lacking a little in motivation recently I found it a golden opportunity to get moving again. The wheatear was the Desert Wheatear which we hoped had remained at Beacon Point, Newbiggin, and which was to be our first target of the day. Of course, there is only one Killy. John picked me up before the sun had risen and despite the wind and cold air we set off dressed for a Siberian winter, as as it turned out, it was just as well we were!

The sun was rising from the sea as we trekked along to Beacon Point. We seemed to be sheltered a little from the winds, although I believe John was nearly blown away on one occasion. Despite the wind the day was blessed with perfect lighting conditions, except when facing the sun. Flocks of Ringed Plover, Dunlin, Sanderling, Golden Plover, Turnstone and Redshank entertained us as we walked. The target was found quite easily and the Desert Wheatear give us good and close sightings as it stayed near to the coastal edge and out of the wind. A very nice bird, although I did notice the displaced alula as mentioned elsewhere. It was a good start to the day. The Desert Wheatear became flighty and flew off northwards along the land edge. We did continue to sight it, but unfortunately not well enough for John to get a good photo opportunity. Full marks to John for putting sighting and study of the bird before getting a photo! A life tick for both of us. It didn’t appear to return to the area we first came upon it so I hope the late comers who we spoke to later got to see it. On the return walk we found the lone Snow Bunting which I almost dismissed, as initially any distinguishing markings were washed out by the sun. Rock Pipits were about and a lone Guillemot was picked up at sea. I found Mediterranean Gull before setting off towards Cresswell.

The pond at Cresswell was more like a sea today and it’s a while since I saw the mud area so deeply covered. The whole area was monopolised by large flocks of Wigeon with far fewer Teal. The first Lapwings of the day were seen here. Incidentally, I’ve just had a flock of Lapwing over the garden today! One Lapwing remained in situ all of the time we were at Cresswell. A lone bird, and I began to wonder if it was injured. Amongst other birds seen at the pond were Cormorant, Shoveller, Redshank, Curlew and Common Gull.

As we made off towards East Chevington I saw no sign of the flock of Twite. A rare sighting these days of Stonechat was made on the walk to the viewing point at north pool. I realised something of importance was about when I saw the line of birders outside of the ‘metal box’. It was of course the Greater Yellowlegs that had drawn attention. It was nice to get yet another sighting of this bird. I must be honest and say I was even keener to find the Smew as I required it for my year list.:-) I did eventually find the redhead Smew, but not before finding a Long Tailed Duck, also a year tick. The pool provided some good birding today. Birds counted included fifteen Gadwall, at least twelve Goldeneye, three male Pintail, a Red-breasted Merganser, and again, numbers of Wigeon and Teal.

Perhaps the star turn at East Chevington was in fact the Otter which provided great sightings as it tussled with and ate an Eel out near the islands. At one point it was on the island. It seemed to be enjoying itself in the water as Otters so often do. It was pointed out again later and so we had great opportunities to watch. I have seen many Otters but confess this is my first sighting in Northumberland. Great stuff indeed. This visit and my previous visit to East Chevington have both been very rewarding.

Next stop Hauxley, was very quiet in comparison to what had gone before, but did provide the only grebe of the day in Little Grebe. A few Greylag Geese were seen (we saw no other geese species today, although someone mention large flocks of geese, probably Pink-footed Geese in the fields south of Hauxley) and more Wigeon and Teal. Some of these ducks were showing really well in the lighting conditions. Near to the entrance numbers of Tree Sparrow were seen along with Chaffinches, Wren, Great Tit, Coal Tit, Blue Tit, Long Tailed Tit, Song Thrush and Blackbird.

Last stop of the day was at Warkworth gut. The previous occasion I was here I saw very little because of thick sea mist and hail blowing into my eyes. It has to be said, even though conditions were very different today there wasn’t that much around in the way of birds. It was an enjoyable walk none the less and by now the sun was setting. It was very cold. More Wigeon and Teal were around, along with Redshanks and gulls. Curlew too, and their haunting calls added to the atmosphere as the light began to depart. I confess I don’t know whether the small flock of birds flying quite near to us were Linnet or Twite, although I tend to think Linnet. The wind was by now making it difficult to hear any calls at all. We did find another Song Thrush and Wren.

The day had included some very good highlights including a lifer and three year ticks. Sixty-one bird species in total, on my reckoning anyway. The wind had not spoilt a very good day at all. It certainly cleared my head which occasionally needs clearing! My thanks go to John and also the people we came across who were all friendly and keen to chat about the birds and area. The Desert Wheatear was a real bonus as I had thought my chances of getting to see it were slim.

Prestwick Carr

2011-12-01T08:34:00.000-08:00

1^st Dec. I spent a short time on the ‘carr’ this afternoon with a friend from the local group who had never seen Short Eared Owls before! I thought there would be a good chance that this duck would be broken and so it was. Enjoyed a chat with both PCW and Sedgedunum Warbler and one or two other folk I couldn’t put a name to.

The short light showers I was expecting turned out to be quite heavy ones, but at least four Short Eared Owls put on a good display between the bouts of rain. My friend went home very happy and had been treated to some close up views of the owls. Some wow moments for her I think.

I had no time to track down the Bean Geese or Great grey Shrike. Just enjoyed the atmosphere of the area, with Kestrel and Willow Tit calling, four Common Snipe overhead and the flock of Fieldfare moving between the roadway and trees just to the south. A pleasant way to kick off December even if I did get wet during my short visit! The skies to the north were clear of rain cloud, but I couldn’t capture the colour with my camera.

I remembered that until I visited to see the Ruddy Shelduck at Prestwick Carr a few years ago I barely knew of the area's existence or importance for wildlife. I’m sure most people pass by the area without giving it a second thought. However, judging by the number of cars up there today, there are certainly more minds tuned into the area these days. I’ll have to try and get back up there soon.

Holywell to St Mary's Island

2011-11-28T10:09:00.000-08:00

Autumnal dene. In stark contrast to this time last year.

28^th Nov. Having heard a not so good weather forecast for the next few days I thought I ought to make the most of today’s bright skies. I made for Holywell. It seemed to me quite a while since I had actually completed the whole of my regular walk, especially beginning it at Holywell. What a difference a year makes! Almost to the day, last year the all weather birders were almost frozen and had initially thought that shovels might be needed to even get out of the thick snow in Killingworth. No sign of snow today and very mild by comparison. I was all alone so only one all weather birder today. It was a quiet day people-wise so for much of the time my only company was the birds! I was nearly flattened by a cyclist, but as he didn’t mean me any harm, I’ll let that pass!:-)

I was soon looking at two Tree Sparrows as I took the path towards Holywell Pond and I later found four of them at the new feeding station. There may have been five, but I couldn’t be certain of that. A mixed flock of gulls lifted from the fields to the west of the pond. The two feeding stations soon supplied sightings of Wren, Robin, Dunnock, Blackbird, Great Tit, Blue Tit, Chaffinch and Great Spotted Woodpecker. Once in the hide I found a female Sparrowhawk that flew across the pond and seemed to be heading straight for the hides open shutter until taking avoidance action at the last minute and flying through the feeding station. I also quickly had my eye on the European White Fronted Goose. I was to get a very close sighting of this bird later at the public hide. The bird’s pinkish bill, size, wide white ending to the tail and light colouring distinguishing it from its Greenland relative. Mind you, on colouring alone one could fall into a trap quite easily as in different lighting conditions the bird appeared to change quite quickly from light to dark.

The pond was generally quiet, with all of the Teal seemingly vanished! There were several Grey Herons about, Little Grebe, Pheasant, Mallard, Moorhen and Coot. A single male Goosander was also on the pond. I seem to think this is a first for me on this walk, along with the White Fronted Goose. Perhaps I’m wrong about the former. A small flock of Lapwing were unable to settle and flew over the pond on occasions. Gulls were the usual Black Headed, Common, Herring and Great Black Backed Gulls. A small flock of Greylag Geese also flew over the pond.

I eventually made my way down the avenue in the company of three Bullfinches which stayed a few yards in front of me until I reached the dene. Their white rumps had immediately caught my attention. I hadn’t found any geese in the fields to the east but did find a small flock of six feeding Stock Doves.

Once in the dene it seemed more like autumn than winter. There is still quite a bit of colour about the place and the water in the burn was almost still in places. All seemed at peace with the world. Near the culvert I glimpsed a ‘dipping’ Dipper and as I raised my binoculars to my eyes to get myself a better look it vanished into the culvert. It did fly past again, this time giving out a call. In the same vicinity was a Grey Wagtail. This beautifully coloured bird is wrongly named ‘grey’ in my opinion. In comparison to my recent trips into the dene, today was beginning to throw up some good birds. My luck continued when I found at least two calling Nuthatches and a Treecreeper. Great, Coal and Blue Tits where at the feeding station, along with Wren Robin and Dunnock. A pair of Great Spotted Woodpeckers where close by too. Further into the dene I found a party of eight Long Tailed Tits, another Bullfinch and a Kestrel which was constantly being mobbed by crows at it attempted to hunt out in the open. As I reached Seaton Sluice I found my first Redshank on the mud of the burn.

I found little on or over the sea apart from gulls, two groups of them appearing to be in a bit of a feeding frenzy, Cormorants and my old friends the Eider Ducks. I hoping for a bit more luck come December.

Below the Tower Hide I counted forty-four Knot. Other waders today were Oystercatcher, Ringed Plover, and overhead displays of Golden Plover, good numbers of Lapwing, Sanderling, Turnstone, Purple Sandpiper, Dunlin, Redshank and Curlew. The bay north of the lighthouse held good numbers of feeding waders. Disturbed on occasions by a couple allowing their two dogs to run into the flock.

I found Rock Pipits, Pied Wagtail and of course the flocks of Starling, but on the whole, the coastal area seemed to be devoid of small passerines. I can’t remember the last time I saw Stonechats in the area I used to come across them regularly.

The wetland was a pleasant surprise as it held numbers of Teal, Wigeon and at least seven Gadwall. I looked at it from different viewpoints, but the birds were half hidden and therefore difficult to count.

It was still quite early, but the cloud was coming in, temperatures were dropping and the wind was getting up more strength, so rather than search the willows and hedging around the wetland I made for home. I had a species count of sixty-two today, in comparison the list last year was sixty-seven. It was interesting to go back and check. Last year the list had included two Brambling, (I remember Tom had seen a Woodcock fly overhead in Heaton), and I remember vividly the rather tired Brambling that was attempting to feed on the pathway to Seaton Sluice. As I journeyed home the sun was low in a yellowing sky. When I had arisen this morning the sky was red. I reckon I had made the right choice to get out today!

Short Eared Owl Remains on Patch

2011-11-27T11:29:00.001-08:00

Don't let the sun go down on me
Although I search myself, it's always someone else I see
I'd just allow a fragment of your life to wander free
But losing everything is like the sun going down on me
Lyrics Elton John

Ok, Ok you have to start somewhere. Just included to let you see there is still a Short Eared Owl about.:-)

27^th November. I decided to make for the wagon-ways this afternoon rather than the lake, as I thought it might still be rather windy.

I was down on the Killingworth to Holystone path before seeing much at all. I counted only six Linnets today, although I suspect there was a larger number down on the ground. The numbers of Fieldfare have risen from last week and I estimate at least one hundred and thirty were present in the fields and hedges today. Over head I had at least one hundred and fifty Golden Plover breaking into two then three smaller flocks.

Short Eared Owl was not on my expected list of birds, as I had thought they had moved on. I was very pleased when I saw one flying low over the ground some distance away. I had better sightings as I moved closer and I watched a single bird for sometime. It eventually seemed to take a breather and the cold was starting to get to me by now anyway.

The sun disappeared as I began my return walk, but not before large flocks of corvid lifted in front of it and flew off in the direction of Gosforth Park

Tribute to a Gentleman.

Not often I would stray from birds and wildlife on my blog, but I was really saddened to learn of the death of footballer Gary Speed (42) this morning. Football is a professional game with more than its share of over paid numb-skulls involved in it, and much cynicism. Never the less, I love the game and Gary Speed has always stood out as a decent guy and a gentleman. He served and represented every team he was involved with extremely well, including Newcastle United for several years. Very, very sad.

Friends of Killingworth Lake

2011-11-22T12:59:00.000-08:00

22^nd Nov. I had been told of an inaugural meeting by Sam and Brian R concerning the Friends of Killingworth Lake http://www.killingworthlake.co.uk/ which was to take place this evening. I’ve not long been back from it and I’m pleased to say it was very well attended. Naturally there are interests in the lake coming from various viewpoints, but all in all everyone seemed keen to ensure good progress was made.

Yes, the now dead and unsightly floating reed-bed was mentioned on more than one occasion and it seems there are some plans to restore it. Wonder if we can get a larger one? I think you can be assured that Sam and the two Brian's will have something to say about conservation matters in the longer term.

Beside the Lake

2011-11-20T07:55:00.001-08:00

Sun coming down on swan lake

20^th Nov. I spent a short time down by the lake today. It was good to see growing numbers of Goosander. I counted thirteen, seven of them male. Most of the Cormorants were standing on the bare floating ‘thing’. There were seventeen of them in total. I counted sixty-one Canada Geese, nine Greylag Geese which includes the family of seven still staying in one party, and only one Goldeneye. There seems still to be few Pochard this year. There were of course the regular inhabitants. Gulls seen were Black Headed, Common appearing to grow in numbers, Herring and the odd Great Black Backed Gull.

On my walk to the lake I remember only seeing and hearing, Blackbird, Wren, Dunnock, Robin, Great Tit and Blue Tit and of course the usual corvids and pigeons. A small flock of Goldfinch was seen on my return.

Down to Earth, Back to Patch.

2011-11-19T10:22:00.000-08:00

19^th Nov. I took a walk down the wagon-ways today. The usual garden birds where to be seen with Goldfinch flocks growing. The flocks of Black Headed Gulls were joined by a few Common Gulls. Collared Doves sat on the overhead wires. Once past the first farm the fields were very quiet until I found lots of Feral Pigeons and feeding nearby them at least six Stock Doves.

I found no Short Eared Owls today. I know Holywell Birding was down there earlier in the week and didn’t find any then either. It seems that the birds may have moved on. I’ll continue to keep a look out.

There was still some interest to be had with a flock of about forty, very active, Linnet and I estimated about sixty to seventy Fieldfare showing very well on the fields and in the hedges. A flock of sixteen Lapwings flew across the area. The only other bird I saw in the hedge on the Killingworth/Holystone wagon-way was Dunnock.

After a while, despite the bright sun, the cold started to get to me. I watched the sun lower in the sky as I walked home. The light was as it can be in winter and shadows were long. A Pheasant crossed the road in front of me and went under the hedge of someone’s garden. Maybe it gets a regular feed there. The trees were being burnt out by the sun as I almost reached home.

European White-fronted Geese

2011-11-18T06:48:00.000-08:00

The rising sun

18^th Nov. I had a meeting to attend at the Rising Sun Country Park today so took the opportunity to go along there early and hopefully check out the European White Fronted Geese. I wasn’t disappointed. Eight of them showing nicely.

A party of seven Long-tailed Tits moved through the hedge as I arrived at the park. Swallow Pond held four Shoveller, three Gadwall and Little Grebe amongst the usual birds. Eleven Moorhens wandered around the field north of the pond.

What was I saying about becoming soft with all this good weather? I got soaked on my walk to the Country Park this morning, but still managed a shot of the sun rising over the Rising Sun.

Best Birding, but a 'Carr too Far'.

2011-11-16T11:01:00.000-08:00

15^th Nov. I feel at my best when birding and this past few days the birding has been at its best! Wednesday saw me at Pestwick Carr amongst the flocks of Fieldfare. Persistence meant that I ticked off the Great Grey Shrike, seen at distance, but very well. Only my second sighting of this species in the UK and a county tick.

Equally rewarding was watching the Short Eared Owls, four up in the air at one time in very good lighting conditions. I heard mention of someone sighting thirteen Short Eared Owls and one Long Eared Owl, all up in the air at one time earlier in the day. It seems they had likely been disturbed by a predatory fox.

16^th Nov. This morning I was back to Prestwick Carr, this time with Tom. Sadly we did not find the Great Grey Shrike on this occasion, but it was not for want of trying. Never the less we were rewarded for our efforts in the cold, with flocks of Fieldfare and Redwing. Tom also picked up a perched Marsh Harrier. We both then watched it fly off to the south of the Carr. Bumped into PCW and regrettably didn’t think to tell him of that sighting. Apologies for that, but pleased to meet.

Great atmosphere on the Carr as we listened to the calls of Willow Tits whilst catching sight of a single Short Eared Owl which flew very low before dropping onto the ground again. Common Buzzards and Kestrels were also seen well. A male Bullfinch showed up well in the hedge. Unable to track down the Great Grey Shrike, we decided to head of towards Holywell Pond and to come back later in the afternoon.

Holywell Pond was at its most quiet with little about apart from Teal, Lapwing and gulls which comprised of Black Headed, Common, Herring and Great Black Backed Gulls. The new feeding station was bare of food, so not even the Tree Sparrows were about today. Work was being done at the members hide by volunteers in preparation for a walk down there on Saturday. We did find Greenfinches and a Treecreeper at the old feeding station. Neither Tom nor I had seen Treecreeper there before.

It was now time to head for Seaton Sluice and a much needed lunch at the fish and chip café. Well satisfied we headed towards the Tower Hide area where there were numbers of waders including a flock of thirty-one Knot. Other waders seen on the coast today were Oystercatcher, Ringed Plover, Grey Plover, Golden Plover, Lapwing, Sanderling, Purple Sandpiper, Turnstone, Dunlin, Redshank and Curlew. Just like Holywell Pond the sea was at its most quiet. Two or three Guillemots were picked up, as were four Red Throated Divers, Eider and Wigeon. Cold though it was the hide wasn’t required, as there was little wind and by now the sky was almost clear of cloud. There was a mist far out to sea. Rock Pipit was seen.

We were on four wheels today so the walking was limited and we set off towards St Marys Island. The wetland, which on first appearance seemed very quiet, was checked out and we did eventually find numbers of Teal, two Wigeon and nine Gadwall. A male Reed Bunting was seen in a bush someway off in the fields. We gave the area a good searching eventually finding the likes of Song Thrush filling itself with berries (the first one I’ve seen for a while) Chiffchaff and Goldcrest. A small bird dropped into the willows, but we never did trace that one.

Both cream crackered today, me with my birding activity and Tom with his, plus some rather more serious commitments in his case, we decided that a return to Prestwick was going to be a ‘Carr too far’, so we contented ourselves with our achievements of the week so far and headed for home.

We’d clocked up sixty-seven species during our few hours out today and very pleasing that was. Never the less even more pleasing has been the quality of the birds seen this week. Birding doesn’t come much better than this and it hasn’t rained at all! The all weather birders (we’ll be getting soft with this ongoing good weather!) have decided to try and crack the one hundred species in a day record sometime in the future. Watch this space. I think I may be having a rest day tomorrow, but I shall dream about that tonight however!

All Weather Birders Make Dawn Raid!

2011-11-14T11:53:00.000-08:00

Please believe me, there is a Green-winged Teal down there!

Before the rising sun we fly
So many roads to choose
We start our walking
And learn to run
And yes! We've just begunLyrics by the Carpenters

14^th Nov. Tom and I had a date with two birds this morning and I was hoping that my success of the previous day would be repeated following Tom’s journey up from Yorkshire. We had arrived at Hauxley before the sun had risen and had not been enticed away from our date, even by the Barn Owl seen as we passed Widdrington. It was nice to be the first arrivals and our birds had not let us down. We shared the Greater Yellowlegs and the Grey Phalarope with the guy who had originally found the former bird and who had followed us into the reserve. It was nice to have close up views of both species and to finally see the Greater Yellowlegs in flight. It was an exciting start to the morning with Pink-footed Geese, Curlews, Black-tailed Godwit and a close fly by from the Kingfisher adding interest. Having found our target birds we could relax. I was delighted that Tom had met with success. Well satisfied we eventually set of for East Chevington with me suggesting that it probably wasn’t worth stopping at Druridge Country Park as time was limited today.

Our attempt at finding the Green-winged Teal amongst the large flocks of Teal was without success. There were plenty of other species to keep us happy including seven Pintail, fourteen Gadwalls, Wigeon and a Great Crested Grebe. Tom had being looking forward to experiencing the metal box hide. I’m sure he won’t forget it in a hurry!

Druridge Pool was our next stop, as the temperature seemed to go down rather than up. There was pretty much more of the same here, including another eleven Gadwalls. A lone Common Snipe was found plus a lone Canada Goose and Goldeneye. Little Grebes were also on the water. Great Spotted Woodpecker was seen as we were leaving. On the drive to Creswell Pond we passed by the flock of circa one-hundred Twite which seemed lively today. We decided not to attempt to check the flock for other possible species.

As we approached Cresswell Pond we could sense that it was frequented by a good number of birds today. Birds in the hedge included Tree Sparrows. Reed Bunting flew from the reeds. Lapwing numbers were in excess of four hundred I reckon and there were at least two hundred and fifty Golden Plover. The mixed flock was edgy and lifted several times but I saw no sign of predators. Other waders included Oystercatcher, two Sanderling, Dunlin, Redshank, Curlew and five Common Snipe. There were large numbers of both Wigeon and Teal.

Whilst at Cresswell we heard that Slavonian Grebe had been reported at Druridge Bay Country Park. What was I saying earlier about it not being worth a visit? Then we also found that the Green-winged Teal was on South pool and not north pool which we had searched earlier. A decision was made to do an about turn and forget about our planned sea watch and visit to Newbiggin. There’s always another day.

On arrival at the park the Slavonian Grebe was found almost immediately. A very nice bird, and quite a close up sighting of it. We made off to look for the Green-winged Teal. As we were searching a couple of guys stopped in their car and told us exactly where it was. Thanks guys. We were able to get another very good sighting of this bird.

Somewhere along the way today we had two Sparrowhawks and two Kestrels.

It was reaching late morning now and we had to get back home. Just as we were getting ready to go I got my eye on a bird over the other side of the pool and I called ‘wots that?’ We both came to see at the same time that it was a male Hen Harrier. It flew over the tree-line and the fields before disappearing, not to be seen again. A fantastic sighting with which to end our morning’s birding. At least we were able to return some of the help we had received and raise other birders attention to the fact that the harrier was about. They watched for it as we left.

The all weather birders birding days are always great ones. Today was no exception and in fact rather exceptional, with some fantastic species seen, and all giving really great sightings. It had begun with the Barn Owl, my favourite species, and ended with the Hen Harrier, which is Tom’s facvourite. Come to think of it he had his favourite duck today as well, Pintail. I know he was more than happy. We had met some very friendly and helpful birders along the way which is always an added bonus. That early start had been well worthwhile. My thanks go to Tom. The week has only just begun!

Greater Yellowlegs after both Frustration and Enthusiasim

2011-11-13T07:26:00.000-08:00

11^th Nov. The weekend started with frustration as I made Pestwick Carr just before darkness set in. I was told on arrival that the Great Grey Shrike had not been seen since morning and had been chased off by two Magpies. I’ll have to try again I thought. It wasn’t a completely wasted short visit as it gave me one of the Short Eared Owls sat on the post. However I have my own in Killy!:-) Thanks to the guy who put me straight on it. Flocks of both Redwing and Fieldfare lifted from the hedges as I walked the long bumpy road. My brother had given me a lift up there and he didn’t even bother to get out of the car. Can you believe that?

12^th Nov. This was to be a very different type day as I had a talk to give and walk to lead at St Marys Island. I was very pleased with the turn out which attracted thirty-three participants. One of them was a very enthusiastic UndertheHood Sam. It was great to have you along there Sam and I hope to get you closer to the birds the next time! Your photos are good anyway.

I was down to the island early so as to suss out what might be about later. I was rewarded with Woodcock which flew in off the sea and over the rocks and beach just north of the lighthouse. Come on get your bearings correct, it was actually just south of the lighthouse! It was also seen by at least one member of staff at the lighthouse. A great start for me and a year tick. I’m wondering if I should begin an off the sea list!

The presentation seemed to go down well, although I always feel it is difficult to judge when you’re the one doing the talking. I don’t set off with any thoughts off attempting to give minute identification details, but more a general feel of the waders to be seen in the area, along with some more less common ones that I especially like, and I like to throw in some information such as the naming of birds. I reckon after owls, waders and geese give me the most satisfaction. I like to try and get that feeling of excitement and exhilaration over to people who are usually lesser experienced but genuinely interested. Waders seen yesterday were Oystercatcher, Ringed Plover, Golden Plover, Dunlin, Sanderling, Turnstone, Purple Sandpiper, Knot, Redshank, Curlew and of course my very own Woodcock. The Golden Plovers put on an excellent show right at the end of the walk and at about the same time a Sparrowhawk flew overhead. Here’s a fascinating fact I picked up from a talk earlier in the week from Tom Cadwallender. A cubic foot of UK estuarine silt contains more biomass than a cubic foot of Amazon Rainforest ground!

After the Walk and Talk I headed for the wagon-ways in Killingworth hoping for Short Eared Owls. I met up with the enthusiastic Sam again, and on this occasion also his dad. I’d found a distant flying Short Eared Owl just before their arrival. It was Sam’s sharp eyes that picked up another two birds in the fields nearer by. Sightings were not as close as they are on some occasions, but never the less very good ones. Sam’s first sighting of Short Eared Owls I believe. Great stuff, and good to share the sheer enthusiasm. It made me remember why I watch birds!

13^th Nov. Txt from Cain (Holywellbirding). ‘Have you been up to see the Greater Yellowlegs’. Reply ‘No, are you going up’. From Cain ‘Yes in fifteen minutes if you want to come’. Reply, after giving it half a seconds thought. ‘Yes can I have thirty minutes?’ From Cain ‘OK.’ From Cain again. ‘I’ll be there at 11:30.’ A quick bit of mental arithmetic made that twenty minutes rather than thirty, so I guessed he was eager to get away and thought I was dragging my feet. I hope he didn’t think I was still in bed! I was ready in ten minutes as it happens, so I guess I was eager too. The result was an excellent sighting of Greater Yellowlegs with the added bonus of a Grey Phalarope right next to it. Both UK ticks for me and I believe the Greater Yellowlegs is a first for Northumberland. It was a WOW moment for me. Would have, and I see has made a great photo. The poor Snow Bunting on the other side of the pond was almost forgotten in the excitement. Thanks a lot Cain. Much appreciated.:-)

So all in all, a good weekend. I’m looking forward to some more great birding this week. I wonder if I can catch that Great Grey Shrike!

Short Eared Owls Begin and End the Day.

2011-11-07T10:50:00.001-08:00

There were few positives to World War 1, but at least it did bring to an end the idea of making Seaton Sluice a large holiday resort.

Morning sunlight

Morning advances

Gradual thaw

Frozen dipping pond

Open space

Reflecting at Holywell.

7th Nov. The most severe frost of the winter so far didn’t stop me taking a trip to Seaton Sluice, but by, it was chilly. The morning light was wonderful until eventually cloud began to appear from the south. I was taking note of the waders below the Tower Hide when up popped a Short Eared Owl which appeared to have been taking a rest on the side of the cliff. I assume it had come in from the sea this morning or maybe last night. After circling two or three times it flew off in the direction of Blyth. It was a nice beginning to the day. These Short Eared Owls seem to be everywhere at the moment.

The waders below the hide were being drawn closer together by the incoming tide. Represented were Oystercatcher, a single Grey Plover, Turnstone, three Purple Sandpipers, twenty-five Knot, numbers of Redshank and Curlew. I stayed out of the hide to admire the views towards St Mary’s Island and found my first Red Throated Diver of the day, close in. I eventually gave in and moved to the hide, but found that I was colder and damper in there than outside today, as there was no wind. Before I left, my score on Red Throated Divers was six, all individual birds. Four of which were flying north. Otherwise sea passage was vey quiet with only Cormorants, Eider and gulls. A single Rock Pipit was seen.

I decided that even if I stayed in the hide all day I wasn’t going to see much sea passage, so it was decision time. Do I walk to St Mary’s or take the longer walk to Holywell? I decided on the latter. It was still only mid morning. The hard frost seemed to have put new life into the area as bird sound was everywhere, but predominately the calls of Jackdaws, and it was nice that there was so few folk about. Redshanks were numerous in the saltmarsh area and Grey Herons stood motionless as their shape was reflected perfectly in the still and clear water. It’s at times like this that I wish I had a decent camera, but I can’t carry everything! I felt the sun’s warmth each time I moved from shaded areas and noticed that the frost covered plants were quickly being thawed by the sun’s rays. In places, droplets of water sparkled like jewels. A Great Spotted Woodpecker was heard chipping before flying off towards the east.

I was surprised at how many Coal Tits I saw today amongst the Great, Blue and Long Tailed Tits, the latter only heard. I guessed that the dene would be far livelier than of late, but still decided today to take the high path that dissects the treeline and farmland. I was half hoping for a sighting of a disturbed Woodcock, a bird that I haven’t seen this year, but my hope remained exactly that! I did catch sight of a butterfly and assumed it to be a Red Admiral.

It wasn’t long before I had reached The Avenue and then Holywell Pond. The pond seemed to have been taken over by gulls which after checking seemed to consist of Black Headed, Common, Herring and Great Black Backed Gulls. I shared my time between the public and members hides. Moving from one to the other I found Tree Sparrows in the hedge. I eventually saw four Tree Sparrows together, nervously attempting to feed along side the rather more daring Greenfinches, at the new feeding station. The station has been a success and thankfully not vandalised.

Birds on the pond included Little Grebe, Mute Swan, Moorhen, Coot, Mallard, Wigeon, Teal and Tufted Duck. Grey Herons were at the edge of the water. Two Great Spotted Woodpeckers flew high over the water. I was told that Red Kite had been seen near the obelisk yesterday. This was where they were seen two or three years ago and they hung around for a while on that occasion, so I shall keep a lookout.

I decided it was time to head for home as I was intending to take a look for the Short Eared Owls in Killingworth in the afternoon. I suddenly realised that I couldn’t find my keys. A search brought nothing until I eventually found them in one of my many pockets, but a pocket I never use!

After a very short break at home I headed off along the wagon-way. It was cloudy now and already showing signs of darkness even though only 3:00pm. I was almost into Holystone when I thought I might as well give up the search. It was turning dark and I could feel dampness in the air. To be honest I don’t feel relaxed down there once the light begins to go. I began to retrace my steps, content that I had seen an owl this morning, and just as I set out I had a wonderfully close up sighting of a Short Eared Owl as it flew low down by the hedge that divided it from me. It was a good, but short sighting, as it dropped into long grass and didn’t come back up. It was the only owl I saw this afternoon, but at least it shows the likelihood is that we still have more than one Short Eared Owl on patch. I headed home pleased with my success and to nurse a cold. An early night tonight I think.

I'm always glad to see young people taking an interest in wildlife. Take a look at Sam's blog and website. Some great photos!

North Shields and Tynemouth

2011-11-05T12:16:00.001-07:00

And when your fears subside
And shadows still remain,
I know that you can love me
When there's no one left to blame
So never mind the darkness
We still can find a way
'Cause nothin' lasts forever
Even cold November rain
Lyrics...Guns and Roses

Maybe the lack of birds raised my interest in pub signs.

A bit colder down here.

I have my eye on this block for a luxury riverside development. If you would like to join me in this venture please send cash deposit in large plain brown envelope to Killy Birder, C/O Box 666, Cuba. You know that you can trust me!

5^th Nov. I began my walk from North Shields in rain this morning and the rain continued until I had reached Northumberland Park. I was planning the route for a walk to take place in the spring which seems a long way into the future at present. There wasn’t too much around in the form of birds in the park, although the autumnal look of the place was rather nice even in the dampness. The Mandarin Drake appears to have left, but at least I had a sighting of Great Spotted Woodpecker, heard before seen, and a party of Long Tailed Tits.

I took a walk down Tanners Bank keeping an eye on the tree area, but found little. I did find a Carrion Crow with deformed bill and some which were partially leucistic. The smell of raw fish was not pleasant and almost put me off my lunch, but not quite! I took an interest in the pub signs. Lots of gulls, but nothing out of the ordinary.

Just before I reached Tynemouth I spotted a skein of forty-five Pink-footed Geese just off the river mouth flying south. I took a look around the tree area at the foot of Collingwood’s monument and Priory Park. A pair of Blackcap was the highlight and in amongst the party of tits, Chaffinch and Greenfinch.

The tide was high, but I still managed to find Oystercatchers, Turnstones, and Redshank to add to the Lapwings I had seen in the fields as I passed through Shiremoor earlier in the day. Eider Duck and Cormorants made up the cast. Someone told me that Twite had been reported near the priory during the morning, but I saw none.

It is always an atmospheric walk down there and today was no exception. When I returned home there were three noisy Mistle Thrushes near the berries where I had seen a Redwing in the morning.

Short Eared Owls Back On Patch.

2011-11-03T11:22:00.000-07:00

3rd Nov. A txt from Cain alerted me to the fact that Short Eared Owl/s had been reported on patch. The afternoon light was just beginning to fade a little but I reckoned if i stepped out I could be along the wagon-ways and still have time for a good sighting before dark. So off I went.

There wasn't time to take much interest in what else was about. That's not normally my way, but the cloud seemed to suggest that darkness would set in quickly. As I neared the area a passing dog walker confirmed that she had been watching owls in the area that I had expected to find them. As I walked down the pathway a Short Eared Owl flew from the hedge and across the field to join another hunting Short Eared Owl. Both were very active and giving good sightings. They eventually flew off across the fields. On my return I found that one had perched in the hedge again, not very far from the footpath.

By now the light was really going, but a lone Kestrel still hovered over the fields. With all the activity at Prestwick Carr I had more than half expected Short Eared Owls to turn up on patch again this year. After the good sightings of two years ago I had kept a close look out over last winter, but found nothing. I'm hoping we have over wintering birds here.

I couldn't beat the darkness home, but I did manage to out pace the downpour of rain.

All Weather Birders Avoid Arrest at Spurn!

2011-11-01T09:45:00.000-07:00

31^st Oct. I was up before the larks and down in Yorkshire meeting up with fellow all weather birder Tom before the light of day had fully developed. Before traveling to Spurn we had a date with a great bird. We just had to find it first which in the event didn’t take too long. It was the Great White Egret at Sprotbrough Flash, just outside of Doncaster. It gave us a very nice sighting to begin the day. I’ve been on foreign trips where this bird is often passed over as birders search for other interest. I don’t understand why! As well as the Great Egret other interest included good sightings of Kingfisher as it flew across the water and perched in the reeds, at least forty/fifty Gadwall, two Little Grebes and Grey Herons. We both agreed to re-visit this site in the future and give it a little more attention. It was a very nice area.

We were soon heading in the direction of Spurn, passing through Hull and past the Humber Bridge. It was during this journey we saw a small skein of Pink-footed Geese and started counting our first Kestrel sightings. At least nine Kestrels were seen during the day. It was now we began to notice a police presence which seemed to remain with us throughout the day. Even during the quietness at Spurn we were passed a few times by police cars, and call me paranoid if you want, but I could swear they were weighing us up. Surely it isn’t unusual in the area for guys to be seen prowling in the bushes with binoculars and telescopes?:-)

We searched Easington Village thoroughly for Firecrest and Pallas’s Warbler, but had no success. We did have a Lesser Redpoll calling as it flew overhead and landed giving us a good sighting. We walked the hedges of the terminal as well hoping for Yellow-browed Warbler, again with no success. The hedges were busy with tits, Blackbirds and Goldfinch. Driving along to Spurn we found Merlin flying near to the road.

Once down on the shore we were impressed by the wader flocks which included thousands of Knot, some of which took to flight in typical Knot fashion. Some Grey Plovers (a favourite of the all weather birders) gave fine sightings along with the likes of Oystercatcher, Golden Plover, Dunlin, Redshank, Bar-tailed Godwit and Curlew. In the distance, a Little Egret was seen.

The scrape was quiet, as was the area in general, but we did get a brief view of Water Rail and good sightings of Redwing. Although there were no large numbers of migrant birds, this didn’t take away anything from being in this area. It is a very atmospheric and to my mind a mysterious spot. I could feel a novel coming on, but I believe that has been done before! The now dark clouds overhead added to the atmosphere and mystery as we watched some individuals working out on the sand and mud flats with the sun occasionally breaking through the clouds and adding patches of light to the wide expanse of wilderness. It recalled a scene from Dickens. Calls of Curlew and other waders were occasionally picked up, all adding to the atmosphere. It’s several years since I was last at Spurn. I don’t think it will be so long before we go back!

We did watch the sea from the hide for a short period but there appeared to be no passage of seabirds. Reed Bunting, Linnets and Meadow Pipits were all picked up as was the odd Red Admiral Butterfly.

We came back to Easington to search the hedges again. I’ve done a lot of hedge watching in October! We did see at least three Great Spotted Woodpeckers during the day. Fertiliser had been added to the fields and I commented that it wasn’t the sort I’d like to use as aftershave. Goldcrest was heard calling from deep in the hedge way and some excitement was caused when we found a warbler. After some patient watching it turned out to be a female Blackcap and we also found the accompanying male bird. Another bird which teased us from deep in the bushes, turned out to be a House Sparrow.

The time came for us to return to Doncaster via industrial Hull. I thought Hull looked nicer in the dark! Seriously, I like industrial sites, especially when lit up at night. By now we seemed to have shaken off our police escort although I wondered whether I might be followed onto the train.

It had been a great day and I had added a couple to my year list in Great Egret, which in fact is a UK tick, and Merlin. I’d like to thank Tom for the driving and company and also keeping me updated as to the Magpies progress during my journey back to Newcastle. The second goal went down very well with my can of lager. I was home in time to see the victory sealed.

Killingworth Lake Floating Reed-bed!

2011-10-30T09:34:00.000-07:00

30th Oct. Yes, it appears to have 'floated away' and left only a gulls paddling pool!

The information board by the side of the lake gives us all information on the benefits of the reed-bed. This includes the removal of pollution and hence the cleaning of the water! mmmmmmmmm!

I can't blame North Tyneside Council for the two savage winters we have had over the past two years and maybe they have not acted to try and restore the reed-bed because they are expecting another savage winter. If they are I hope that they have plenty of salt for the roads, unlike last year. (I can blame them for just leaving this in an awful state). Hopefully we will see some work done on this now pathetic looking structure in the future. Great shame if it is just forgotten as it had attracted some decent birds including Water Rail last year and sheltering migrant Common Sandpiper, my first seen on patch two years ago. I think I shall write to my Councillor as they always like to write to me, at least they do when there is an election coming up. I've already reported it to someone in the Parks Department.

Out for less than an hour today. Just enough time to find that the two Little Grebe are still on the lake. I couldn't find the Goldeneye today and found only two of the four Goosander seen a few days ago. A Sparrowhawk flew over the smaller lake.

Looking forward to a nice trip tomorrow to end the month on a high.

Yellow-browed Warbler in the Rain

2011-10-27T10:26:00.001-07:00

Another room with a view. The pool at Low Newton.

27^th Oct. Alerted to the fact that Richard's Pipit and Yellow-browed Warbler were being reported at St Mary’s Island today, despite the threatening rain, I set off mid afternoon to take a look. On arrival I bumped into both Northumbrian Birding and Sedgedunum Birder. The pipit had flown, but after a bit of a wait the Yellow-browed Warbler was found. Not a brilliant sighting, as it wasn’t showing well, and accompanying Goldcrest and Blue Tits were not making it easy to track. I did finally get a couple of sightings that I was satisfied with before the area seemed to go very quiet indeed. So I have finally caught up with the Yellow-browed Warbler this year.

Despite the rain I decided to walk to Seaton Sluice. As the light was going and I was soaking up the rain I called a halt at Hartley. I don’t mind walking in rain and the atmosphere was good this evening with only the flocks of Golden Plover and Lapwing in the fields as company for most of the walk. I disturbed a large squealing Brown Rat near the mounds. I took a short look over the sea and found a Red Throated Diver flying north but little else apart from Cormorants, Gulls and a flock of in flight Eider Ducks. There was little to no wind and the quietness allowed me to take in fully the sounds of the pounding sea and calling birds.

I was at Low Newton yesterday, 26^th Oct, in very different weather. I’d forgotten that it was half term and so the area wasn’t quite as peaceful as I had expected, but walking the area was enjoyable. Hoped for migrant birds were not about. There was little to be seen over or on the sea although Gannets and Common Scoter were found. Waders seen were Oystercatcher, Ringed Plover, Golden Plover, Lapwing, Sanderling, Purple Sandpiper, Turnstone, Dunlin, Redshank and Curlew. I found five Purple Sandpipers on the edge of the rocky area and the Golden Plover were a splendid sight in the sun, on one occasion flying low directly overhead.

The bird of the day was a first winter Little Gull watched from the hide as it landed on the pool.

I was told by someone visiting the area and sporting expensive binoculars that they had found an Olivaceous Warbler down the track from the church opposite the car park. I took a look, but I found nothing more than a Chiffchaff. It does look a good little area to look at however.

Two Hundred and Fifty Up!

2011-10-24T11:41:00.000-07:00

Autumn leaves under frozen soles,
Hungry hands turning soft and old,
My hero cried as we stood out their in the cold,
Like these autumn leaves I don't have nothing to hold.
Paulo Nutini Lyrics

Clifftop abode offering fine sea views. May need a little restoration.:-)

24^th Oct. That’s blogs, not my year list! I think my arithmetic is correct. I always write my blog for myself, but hope at least an odd few people get some pleasure from reading it. I follow a few blogs myself, usually ones where the authors love of birds and nature shines through, so thanks to the authors for them. (If you don’t already do so take a look at Geltsdale Wildlifewarrior blog. Always a good read, informative and someone who doesn’t take himself too seriously). You can blame Cain (Holywell Birding) for encouraging me to start my own.:-) It’s fitting that today’s blog focuses on my favourite walk which includes Holywell. Over the past year or two there is someone who has fired my enthusiasm for birding more than I can ever express and I want to dedicate this blog to him. I don’t need to name the guy as he knows who he is, but he has my thanks and more importantly my complete respect. I’m pleased to say, just like me, he enjoys chips and occasionally the odd beer, so if that is not the basis of a great friendship I’m not sure what is!

I was alone today and headed for the Rising Sun Country Park with Jack Snipe in mind. Failed again. At least up to now I haven’t come home and found it on Birdguides. The little detour did bring me a nice sighting of a hunting Kestrel, a few Teal and several healthy looking Greenfinches in the hedges. I didn’t hang around to look for anything else so left after a chat with Graham the caretaker who I have come to know very well.

Soon at St Mary’s Island I got a bit of a shock when I found how strong the winds were and even worse was the fact that it looked quite misty out at sea. I was intending on doing a bit of a seawatch. Fortunately it wasn’t misty enough to stop me, and before I reached Seaton Sluice I had found a couple of sheltered spots to watch from. Top bird of the day was a close up Manx Shearwater heading south just off Hartley. My hopes rose when I found this bird, but they didn’t stay that high for long as there wasn’t much through passage of sea birds whilst I was around. I did find Common Scoters, two or three flocks of Teal and a single Guillemot. Let’s not forget the Eider Ducks!

Is that someone asking ‘what about the Yellow Browed Warbler in the willows at St Mary’s’? All I can say is, what Yellow Browed Warbler?!

As usual the waders saved the day. Just before I entered the luxurious tower hide at Seaton Sluice I found one Purple Sandpiper, two Knot, one Turnstone and several Redshank along with the Oystercatchers just below the hide. A flock of Ringed Plover flew past once I had my position in the hide itself. Other waders seen were Golden Plover, Lapwing, and Curlew. I could swear that hide was rocking with the wind. Oh, and yes two rather late Sandwich Terns were still about. One resting on the rocks and one over the sea.

I have to say the main excitement at sea was not avian, but that which was caused by a sea search. The lifeboat had been out on my arrival at St Mary’s Island and at Seaton Sluice I found folk looking over the sea and was stopped by one of the guards and asked to keep an eye out for a body! It seems a Jet Ski had been washed ashore with no sign of an owner and it was thought that some one was missing. It wasn’t long before the Helicopter arrived to join in the search. This is the second time I’ve been asked to keep an eye out for a body whilst I’ve been out birding. The first time was at Killingworth Lake when someone had gone missing. I have to say I’m pleased that I didn’t find a body and hope no one has been lost at sea.

I decided after lunch to carry on and walk to Holywell pond via the dene. It would make a fitting blog in the circumstances I thought. I met someone along the way who tells me he walks from Holywell to St Mary’s and back on a regular basis. I find one way tiring enough. Mind you, the person I spoke to doesn’t do the walk carrying his backpack, telescope and tripod!

The dene was once again very quiet. The winds were ensuring the pace of the fall was hotting up. I did have a good sighting of Sparrowhawk. I may have seen more if I had not power walked to get out of the way of the dog walkers. I’m sure Charlie is a very nice dog, but to have the owner blaring out his name every two or three seconds was not what I was after. I think Charlie had earplugs in his lugs as he took not a blind bit of notice. Both dog and owners were friendly and polite (can a dog be polite, I’m not so sure on that one). In fact everyone I met today was polite.

The Avenue, surrounding fields and Holywell Pond were all devoid of much bird life. I did find Stock Doves in the fields and Skylark flying overhead. There was a couple of Grey Heron at the side of the pond, Teal, Mallard and gulls upon it. Lapwings flew to and from the pond area.

I was surprised to find so many Great Black Backed Gulls. Probably taking shelter from the winds at sea I would think. In the fields left of the path to the members hide were over four hundred Great Black Backed Gulls, and yes I counted them.:-) The pond held at least another thirty. In total I reckon over four hundred and fifty Great Black Backed Gulls. In amongst them were Common, Herring and Black Headed Gulls.

As I was chatting to the only other person in the hide I found the air turning colder and the skies turning darker as if a storm was brewing. I decided it was time to head for home. My favourite walk had not brought the excitement that it does on occasions, but I had enjoyed it and it had cleared my head of clutter. The Manx Shearwater had shown as well, if not better, than any I had seen earlier in the year.

Cheers to all enthusiastic bloggers, passionate birders and polite dog owners.:-)

Eye on Patch

2011-10-20T09:08:00.000-07:00

20^th Oct. I’m very much aware that I have neglected the patch recently, but now that we are well into autumn and I can almost feel winter on the way, I took an hour’s walk around the lake.

The first thing that struck me was the growing numbers of Common Gulls. There is still the odd Lesser Black Backed Gull about along with Herring Gulls and the flocks of Black Headed Gulls. The second thing that struck me was the Goosanders are back. At the moment there are four of them, three female and one male in eclipse. The past couple of icy winters have ensured that Goosanders have never been on the lake in any number and have come no where near to reaching the twenty-five plus of three or four years ago years ago. I guess it is too much to hope for a milder winter this year!

I noted that the two Little Grebes remain and there is now one Goldeneye. I was surprised to see so many Cormorants, eighteen in total. Seventeen of them were in a line, some drying out, and one sat in the centre of the lake on some sort of buoy. They all eventually formed a small flotilla on the lake.

The family of seven Greylag Geese remain and stick very closely together, along with circa forty Canada Geese and I counted one hundred and twenty-four Mute Swans. The record breaking total of Mute Swans was circa forty more than this in the middle of last winter when most of the lake was frozen solid for week after week.

Tufted Duck numbers seemed to have risen and Pochard numbers fallen. Mallards, Coots and Moorhens made up the total.

Whooper, Pink and Marsh

2011-10-19T11:04:00.000-07:00

19^th Oct. I stood in the wind at the Rising Sun yesterday and the cold at Cresswell today and on both occasions failed on my quest for Jack Snipe. I have concluded that I am fated to be a Jack Snipe failure, or am I?

Despite no show form Jack Snipe, today did have some rewards. On approaching Creswell Pond today I was greeted by flocks of Lapwing flying in the sunlight. I soon got my eyes on the flock of Whooper Swans on the west side of the pond. It was the 6^th November last year when I had watched 70 plus Whooper Swans on a misty Creswell Pond, and I remember that day as if it were yesterday. A quick count today came to sixty-four, but it was a quick count and I no doubt missed one or two. Could it be the same birds passing through I thought. In the distance, dots in the sky, rather like dots that I joined up as a child to make a picture, soon proved to be circa eight hundred Pink-footed Geese. The skeins were initially spread out across the distant cloudless sky to the north. The geese were seen on a number of occasions during the time I was at Cresswell and Druridge Pool, and on one occasion flew directly overhead, although by then the skeins had broken up somewhat. We are reaching the time of year when wader and geese watching is at its best. At one point I moved to the end of the hide and looked to the west and was rewarded with a good sighting of Marsh Harrier flying quite low over the tree line. The pale head of the bird was lit by the sunlight. A scan for other raptors, I was hoping for Merlin, brought no reward.

The flocks of Lapwing were edgy and flew in front of the hide soon to be followed by a smaller flock of Golden Plover. Once the plover had landed on the sand bank I counted eighty birds. A lone Dunlin appeared to be lost in amongst this flock. The Dunlin is known as the 'plovers page' because of its close association to the Golden Plover and other tundra plovers, although I think this more likely on the breeding grounds. Two Knot and numbers of Redshank were at the west side of the pond. Wigeon and Teal were there in high numbers and four Little Grebes were seen on the pond along with four Shoveller, Mallard and Tufted Duck. I caught sight of a Lesser Black Backed Gull flying over the fields to the north of the pond. The strong winds of yesterday had disappeared and although still to some extent windy there was perfect conditions for birding today and I was surprised that there were few people about.

The area in the vicinity of Druridge Pool threw up little other than Curlew. The hide over looking the pool was made uncomfortable by the wind and cold, not that it is a comfortable hide even on the best of days. The pool itself held amongst others, at least five Little Grebe, Gadwall, Wigeon, Teal, Goldeneye and a lone female Scaup.

I saw at least three Kestrels today, but few passerines. I did eventually catch sight of a Skylark flying over the dunes to the east of Cresswell Pond and found a sizeable mixed flock of Linnet and Goldfinch in the vicinity of where I watch Twite in winter. I did try and get my scope fixed on the flock, but the birds were constantly on the move and dipping down behind the hummock. If there was anything else within the flock I was unable to see it. One Red Admiral Butterfly seen flying in the cold today.

It had been a pleasant way to spend a few hours and I had almost forgotten that I remain a Jack Snipe failure……….. for now!

Putting Something Back

2011-10-16T07:54:00.000-07:00

Comma Butterfly

15^th Oct. I mentioned in the previous blog just how much importance I place on putting something back into birding. I recognise that there are many ways that this can be done. One such way I use is to lead walks under the banner of the RSPB. These are especially aimed at introducing relative newcomers to the joys and excitement that can be had form watching birds and taking an interest in nature generally. As I usually include a little history, it has also helped me brush up my own local history knowledge.

The walk yesterday was a round trip of seven plus miles from Monkseaton and Holywell Dene, Hartley and St Mary’s Island. We didn’t find a great deal of birdlife on much of the walk if I’m honest, but Yellowhammers, Treecreepers, Kestrels and Sparrowhawks go down well with relative beginners. They go down well with me too! There was a good show from the waders yesterday and once again it was especially the Golden Plover flocks which drew the attention. A single Grey Plover is still about near to St Mary’s Island. There was some added entertainment from some adult clowns who had a child out on the rocks near to the island and had ignored completely the tide coming in. The sea rescue guy had to walk down to the beach to call them in. I heard that one had to plodge in with water up to his thighs at one point. Someone in our group suggested that they may have eight brain cells between them. I suspect this was a gross over estimate.

The dene had been quiet but very atmospheric as the sunlight passed through the thinning vegetation. I’m pleased to see that in the dene there is never too much rush to ‘tidy up’, and fallen trees are left as they fall, unless of course they are causing any real problem. Butterflies made up for the lack of birds on this sunny October day. Double figures were easily reached by both Red Admiral and Speckled Wood Butterflies and a single Comma Butterfly was found. Over lunch we watched a Sparrowhawk taking some stick from a Carrion Crow, as a Kestrel also flew nearby. Everyone seemed to leave content after our five and a half hour session. I was left with little time to look for the Yellow-browed Warblers so they still elude me. I’d began in the cold and ended very hot indeed!

I’m off to watch the Magpies now.

Lesser Scaup Revisited

2011-10-14T06:53:00.000-07:00

13^th Oct. After meeting up with Tom at Killingworth Lake, where there was little of note, we headed straight for Marden Quarry and for me a second and longer look at the Lesser Scaup, and for Tom another lifer. There are some weird and not so wonderful waterfowl in Marden Quarry. One, a hybrid Barnacle/Canada Goose with some more rather strange looking Canada Geese and one of them small, skinny and with stump for a leg. We were soon walking down to Priory Park, Tynemouth.

Initially the park seems devoid of life, but it pays to have patience. We eventually found a female Blackcap and numbers of finches. Finding out that a Yellow-browed Warbler had been seen in the morning consorting with a tit flock, we spent best part of the morning searching the area. We did find the flock of Great, Blue and Long Tailed Tits and I almost become cross eyed checking them all out. Amongst them we found Goldcrest and Goldfinch, but no Yellow-browed Warbler. A couple of Grey Herons flew over head as did Mistle Thrush. It was an enjoyable morning and made us hungry. The call of the fish and chip shop at Seaton Sluice could not be resisted, so off we went.

The sea was at least visible today so we did some watching from the vicinity of the Tower Hide and the hide itself. We had some hope of finding Velvet Scoter as they had been reported earlier in the morning so the Common Scoter flocks were checked carefully, but to no avail. Three Red Throated Divers, a small flock of Teal and a single Guillemot were the pick of the birds seen on and over the sea. A Grey Plover was found in amongst the Oystercatchers and Turnstone below the hide. Three Redwings were seen flying in off the sea.

There had been little passing by over the sea so we decided to head of towards St Mary’s Island in the hopes of perhaps picking up a migrant bird or two. Waders seen today were Oystercatcher, Ringed Plover, Grey Plover, Golden Plover, Lapwing, Knot, Sanderling, Purple Sandpiper (I’d especially wanted to find this one), Turnstone, Dunlin, Redshank and Curlew. We had caught the waders at the best time, as the tide was reaching a high point and the light showed the Golden Plovers, especially, at their best.

Ten plus Rock Pipits were seen in the vicinity of St Marys Island and others had been seen earlier at Seaton Sluice. We again spent time looking into bushes at the wetland. Another Goldcrest was found, but little else. We did have an unexpected sighting of two Common Terns feeding just south of the island.

We eventually decided to head off to take a break before heading to the NTBC meeting in the evening. On the way home we found out that Yellow-browed Warbler had been found in the willows at St Mary’s. Never mind this took no gloss off our birding and in any event there is always another day.

Some discussion took place at the meeting last night as to what constitutes a ‘good birder’. I certainly agree to the points raised about good birders contributing something back into their interest and also still being turned on by the commoner birds. I hope the club succeeds in attempts to involve more youngsters. I have never subscribed to, and will never subscribe to the thought that young people cannot be drawn into an interest in nature. Young people are often very excited by nature. I reckon it’s their views that need to be sought however, more so than the views of their elders. As was mentioned last night it is also the parents and carers who need to be encouraged so that this will rub off on the young. That was such an important point to be made. It’s not until they can be bothered that progress will be made with the youth around them.

The all weather birders ended the evening with a pint and a laugh. Another great day. More days to look forward to as well before the month is out.

A Lifer in the Day of Killy

2011-10-12T11:29:00.000-07:00

12th Oct. Persistence does pay dividends.

Leaving the dentist to his duties I made for Marden Quarry in the rain. I suspect the dentist wondered what I had in my bag, but it's not the first time I've arrived with binoculars etc in tow. I can't have been to the quarry for many a year as I couldn't remember where it was! Once found I decided that it's definitely worth keeping an eye on in future although today was not a day to be searching the bushes and trees for possible migrants.

If anything was going to make me forget the dentists chair it was going to be a lifer. I have to say the Lesser Scaup is unlikely to make my bird of the year short list, but a lifer is a lifer and I don't get that many.

I'll be back soon.:-) Looking forward to a dryer day tomorrow and some good birding I hope. Been an interesting week so far so hopefully it will continue.

Colourful, but Quiet

2011-10-11T13:45:00.000-07:00

'Who you calling a flashy bird?'

'Does my bum look fat in this outfit?'

A pot of gold, but few birds

Autumnal burn

This almost became a 'pressed' butterfly.

11^th Oct. I couldn’t resist nipping into Northumberland Park this morning for a look at the Mandarin Drake, so my day began colourfully to say the least. I don’t really go for flashy birds, or flashy anything to be honest, and this bird played a little hard to get as it hid shyly at the side of the pond. Not too large a pond however, so I could hardly fail to have some success. Pretty amazing bird, but I think I prefer the less garish and flashy female of this species. Anyway I pulled myself away from this little stunner and made for Tynemouth Boating Lake. The bird I was after here had flown (this has happened before on occasions) and I spent my time checking out Tufted Ducks and oddly enough boats! Someone asked me about the differences between Tufted Duck and Lesser Scaup. I was pleased I’d checked the ‘Collins’ the night before! I know now where this bird has flown and so have not given up on the Lesser Scaup. I may not have the wheels, so necessary to capture so many birds and I lack the technology, but I do not lack persistence and energy. Well the persistence anyway.:-)

I soon moved on to St Mary’s Island. Waders were about in numbers and the Golden Plovers performed very well. Certainly 1,000 + and most up in the air at the same time on occasions. They lined the tideline along with Lapwings. When in Northumberland Park I had found few birds and this was to continue through the day. The wetland at St Mary’s was silent. As another birder said, well ‘there’s nowt here but the Magpies’ and that just about summed things up. I did hear and catch sight of Skylarks and Linnets in the fields opposite the wetland.

The next bit of colour came in the shape of a rainbow which I was unable to digitally capture completely, such was its size. I did see where the pot of gold lay in the sea, but I didn’t see many seabirds. By now it was windy, but the wind was in the wrong direction. Does this sound like an excuse for the lateness of a train? I did find the usual Eider Ducks, but not very many of them, and had sightings of two divers which I’m more or less certain were Red Throated Divers. There were a few auk species, too far out to identify with certainty. I had little time to sea watch and hope to put that right later in the week.

The dene was as devoid of bird sightings as I’ve ever known it although there was a large party of tits moving through the trees at one point. This included Great, Coal, Blue and Long Tailed Tits. The latter seeming to be the most numerous, or perhaps the slowest moving and easiest to see. I found a little more colour along by the burn as the autumnal changes take place.

I was feeling tired by now. I think my energy saps more easily when there isn’t the excitement of birds to keep me going. I decided that a sit down was in order. I almost sat on a very lethargic Red Admiral Butterfly. I don’t do ‘tattoos’ and I’m pleased that I didn’t end up with this very colourful butterfly on my backside. After taking its photograph I decided to keep moving and leave it in peace.

Holywell Pond and surrounding fields were very quiet too. Great Spotted Woodpecker and Teal being of the greatest interest.

I reckon this is the quietest it had been on me completing this walk. Considering that the all weather birders clocked up 80+ species earlier this year the 48 of today bore little comparison. I’m resting tomorrow (I might have to sneak in a look for the Lesser Scaup after a dental appointment), preparing and looking forward to a further outing on Thursday when this little bird will definitely be back on the agenda if it sticks around.

Turtle Dove

2011-10-10T08:27:00.000-07:00

Another 'room with a view', and all to myself for a while.

One of many Tree Sparrows

10^th Oct. I couldn’t let the chance of a year and county tick pass me by, so I braved the drizzle of the morning and headed for Big Waters. By the time I reached the reserve I was bathed in sun! As I walked down the road a local group acquaintance stopped his car and told me that the bird was showing well. My step quickened in anticipation. With little seen before I reached the car park the Turtle Dove was almost the first bird I saw. There were a handful of birders with scopes pointed to trees in the car-park. I was soon on the bird which sat un-phased in the tree, occasionally being lit by sunlight. It was a good sighting and as I say a first for me in the county. In fact, only my second in the UK. The last time I had watched Turtle Doves was from a fire watch hide, high in a tree in Hungary, as I tried to dry out from a soaking I had received from a torrential rainfall.

I had intended to walk to the hide, so after taking in the Turtle Dove, I moved off, soon to find a lone Stock Dove in the field and a Kestrel hovering in the area. I took a look along the pathways into the scrubland but found little. As I walked to the hide I counted one hundred and four Greylag Geese on the pond. By now the sun had brought out Red Admiral Butterflies and dragonflies.

This was my first visit to Big Waters since I had visited earlier in the year after a trip to Kielder. I found a healthy population of Tree Sparrows at the feeding station along with Great Spotted Woodpecker, Chaffinch, Goldfinch, Dunnock, Great Tit, Coal Tit and Blue Tit. I never tire of watching Tree Sparrows. The birds seemed quite edgy and I found out why when I later watched the Sparrowhawk fly over what is I’m sure a regular route. As if to remind us that winter is hopefully along way off yet, two Swallows flew overhead.

With so many visiting to catch sight of the Turtle Dove I was surprised to find that I was alone in the hide until joined later by a couple I am acquainted with, who didn’t know about the Turtle Dove at all. I think they will have had a look now! Numbers of Wigeon and Teal were near the hide and birds nearby also included, eight Gadwall, and a Great Crested Grebe. I relaxed in the comfortable hide for a while before retracing my steps. I bumped into a guy who was looking for the Turtle Dove and had come along towards the hide thinking it would be in that area. I walked back with him towards the area I had seen the bird. I think he was surprised and pleased at how easily he then found it, as now it was sitting out in the open on the fence. I was pleased too, as this gave me an even better sighting of it than earlier.

So I had spent a good three hours out this afternoon. I'm trying to remember if I have had Feral Pigeon, Wood Pigeon, Collared Dove, Stock Dove and Turtle Dove on the same day before. I’m hoping the Turtle Dove is a sign of more interest to come this month!

Killy Hit by Blue Green Algae

2011-10-01T14:00:00.000-07:00

Red Admiral Butterfly

Speckled Wood Butterfly.

Autumnal 'Conker'.

Autumnal changes.

1^st Oct. That’s the lake, not the birder! I assume that the very hot days of late have contributed to the cause of this, although I’m uncertain as to when the notices went up! The notices are not especially noticeable, if you know what I mean, so I’m not sure how seriously North Tyneside Council has taken this! Approaching the smaller lake I saw no notices until I reached the road between the two lakes. It advised that the water not be touched and that pets should be kept out of the lake. So anyone approaching from the direction I did may well have had their dog into the lake or maybe had children fishing before seeing the notice! I don’t know that much about blue/green algae, but I do know it can be very dangerous so I decided against any skinny dipping today. I’m assuming if it continues the lakes will be taped off, as I think this has happened on previous occasions.

Despite it seeming like the height of summer the leaves are beginning to fall. There were two Little Grebes on the larger lake, but little else of special note. Gulls included Black Headed, Herring, Common and Lesser Black Backed. On my return I watched the Sparrowhawk in flap and glide flight over the playing fields and adjoining estates.

Both Speckled Wood and Small Tortoiseshell Butterfly were seen near the reeds of the larger lake. White species were in flight too and I later spotted a Red Admiral Butterfly.

I’m pleased I took a walk out today before listening to the match, as rain is approaching from Scotland and is forecast for tomorrow.

The All Weather Birders Face the Saharan Heat!

2011-09-30T07:28:00.000-07:00

Sun Rising in the mist. The sun was in the east as I looked out of the window so I realised if I was on the wrong train, at least I was going in the correct direction!

The mist had cleared at Blacktoft.

Reflecting at Potteric Carr.

29^th Sept. Yorkshire was the destination today and I was up at 4:45am in order to catch the 6:22am train to Doncaster where I was meeting fellow all weather birder, Tom. We had planned visits to both RSPB Blacktoft and the Yorkshire W T Reserve at Potteric Carr. We were soon on our way towards Blacktoft as the sun began to burn off the early morning mist. I really like this area of Yorkshire.

You may think my blog title is a little over the top, but I can tell you that walking around the reserves today certainly did not feel as though we were in the UK on a late September day. Hot it certainly was and we were pleased that we had splashed on the sun cream, if perhaps in my case a little too much! We walked for many miles today so liquid refreshment was important too. The white sandy pathways at Blacktoft along with the glare of the sun gave an exotic feel to the day. Blacktoft is a favourite reserve of mine and it didn’t disappoint today, although I was surprised to see some areas completely dry and even more surprised at not finding any Green Sandpipers or Ruff! However there were numbers of Spotted Redshank, well into double figures. One group of eleven feeding in typical style in quite deep water. The other three species of wader very well represented were Black-tailed Godwit, Redshank and Common Snipe. Good sighting was made of a young Water Rail, a year tick.

On arrival at Blacktoft we had been greeted by a fly over of a skein of Greylag Geese and an even larger skein was seen later in the day. Bearded Tits were well represented, but we didn’t get a really good look at any of them. We did hear them and have fleeting fly overs of a few small flocks. Ducks included the likes of Mallard, Gadwall, Shoveller, Wigeon, Teal and Tufted Duck.

Tom spotted Common Buzzard and there were Kestrels in the area. The real pleasure was in watching the Marsh Harriers, often at close range. There were four birds up in the air together for a good time. I never tire of watching harriers. I remember very clearly the first time I saw a Marsh Harrier, which was at Leighton Moss. As we watched the harriers we spotted four Little Egrets flying far away.

We enjoyed a walk up to Ousefleet where there was water. I think the first time I have actually seen water in this particular area. Small Copper Butterflies were seen on the walk and of course many of the local population of Tree Sparrows were seen.

By mid day both Tom and I were hot, thirsty and hungry so we were pleased to find a table in the car-park which was under the shade of the trees. After my lunch I could have happily taken a nap.:-) We decided to leave for Potteric Carr instead.

The last time I had visited Potteric Carr there was conservation work going on over a vast area. I was amazed to see the very positive results and also find some very nicely built new hides. Take note Northumberland! There are at least fourteen hides at Potteric Carr. One of them built in similar style to the all round viewing hide at North Cave, another favourite reserve of mine. The Yorkshire W T is to be congratulated on their achievement here. The other positive point about Potteric Carr is that it is not overly worked. It covers a vast area and some of it has the appearance of being left to nature. The sign of good management and a good reserve.

One of the first birds we sighted was a Green Sandpiper. It didn’t move throughout the time we watched it. I was pleased to be able to show another visitor this through the telescope. Then we set off to walk what seemed miles by the time we reached dusk. Grey Herons and Little Grebe were around in numbers. The newly managed area brought us the largest flock of Lapwing I have seen for many years. Several hundred of them. Very impressive each time they took to the air. We had a fine view of a Kingfisher. I shall be a dude and say that this was my star bird of the day, although the Marsh Harriers closely challenge for that title. The Kingfisher sat initially in the reeds before making the occasional dive, flying off to sit on a post and then flying off into the distance. Two more Little Egrets were found, on this occasion at closer range.

As dusk approached we walked in an area of the reserve which I had not been to before and this meant crossing the railway lines. It was a strange feeling walking through woods on the outskirts of Doncaster and near motorways, with the sounds of passenger and goods trains coming through the trees from several different directions. If it had been darker it would have been really spooky. One of the hides had the main eastern line running right next to it and between it and the pond! We returned to watch the Willow Tits seen earlier but this time had to be content to listen to their calls. We’d also seen Great, Coal, Blue and Long Tailed Tits. We’d begun to hear the calls of Jays and we did eventually see them. Speckled Wood Butterflies were seen and many dragonflies flew with us around the reserve the entire time we were there. Grey Squirrels were also about in large numbers. We returned to see if the Green Sandpiper had remained. It had left. This time of the evening, just before sunset is wonderful on a day like today had been. It was good to watch the sentinel Grey Herons as they watched the water. Now was that bird that flew in the Sandhill Crane (which had been monitored all day) coming into roost or was it just another Grey Heron? Sadly we may never know! :-)

A quick count of the day’s bird species came to sixty. It had been a great day spent in Tom’s locality. Thanks Tom. Its often who you bird with that really matters, and we always have a great day. By the time I was dropped off at Doncaster Railway Station, both all weather birders were cream crackered.

Tired, thirsty and bitten, but unbowed I managed to find my correct seat on the correct train. Not always a simple task at Doncaster I have found. The last time I visited having been given free first class tickets by someone I ended up in Leeds and had to fork out about thirty quid to get back to Newcastle in standard class. That’s another story! The main thing is, Killy has his spark back.

It Might as Well be Spring

2011-09-27T06:51:00.001-07:00

27^th Sept. Walking back from Forest Hall I decided to divert towards the lake. Two Chiffchaffs were singing in the trees near the church grounds as the heat of this autumn day began to build. I thought it rather spring like again as I watched a Coot carrying sticks to add to a nest in the centre of the smaller lake. Two grown young were sat on top of the nest. Lesser Black Backed Gulls and Common Gulls were in amongst the large flock of Black Headed Gulls.

I found a both single Little and Great Crested Grebe on the larger lake and at least seven Cormorants. Two of the latter were looking for fish whilst the others dried out, looking distinctly reptilian.

The eleven Greylag Geese in groups of seven and four out numbered the nine Canada Geese remaining at the lake. The group of seven Greylags were the two adults that had bred here earlier in the year and their still thriving offspring. Did all of the other Canada Geese move to Holywell? There was a fair number down there the last time I looked.

On Sunday I noticed large numbers of Red Admiral Butterflies on the wing. I noticed only one today. I did spot a first for the garden yesterday, in the form of a Speckled Wood Butterfly. This butterfly has began a colonisation of the area in recent years, but this was certainly the first one I have seen in the garden.

After an exciting pelagic at the beginning to September the rest of the month seems to have been a bit of a damp squib for me. I need to re-find my spark and will hopefully do so with a trip before the month is out.

Garden Birds

2011-09-23T11:57:00.000-07:00

23^rd Sept. I’m perhaps guilty of not watching the birds in my garden as much as I once did. However, I never let myself forget that this is how my interest in bird watching really began. I still remember ‘discovering’ Coal Tits in my garden many years ago and feeling at the time that I had found something really special. I had of course, and all these years later and in the intervening years I have had a pair of Coal Tits, which obviously breed nearby, visit the garden on a regular basis. Today was no exception and I found the garden to be especially busy with birds this morning. Interestingly enough, having purchased Birdwatch magazine this afternoon I found a reminder about the basics of garden feeding amongst many other interesting articles. I don’t buy the magazine, or any magazine, on a regular basis as I tend to think that for the cost of maybe four of them I could buy myself a half decent book. I do still prefer the feel of a book or magazine in my hand, despite the ease of gaining information from the internet.

I’ve often wondered how many twitchers feed the garden birds and take an active interest in them! I simply wonder because I find that some, not always twitchers to be fair, seem to find the commoner birds too mundane to warrant much attention. I’m pleased that Birdwatch magazine highlights David Lack’s works on the ‘simple’ Robin, including The Life of the Robin which I have to confess I’ve not read. It did remind me of the work done by John Buxton whilst a prisoner of war. His studies whilst in a prison camp resulted in a highly regarded monograph on the Redstart. I’ve not read that one either! I probably would if I could get a decent copy for a reasonable price. Birdwatch magazine did remind me however that there is a new monograph concerning the Kittiwake to be released by Poyser soon, so that sounds like a likely new read in the near future.

As I mentioned, the garden was busy today. My garden is small, but blessed with a tree/hedge lined pathway which is an encouragement to bird life. I consider myself quite lucky when I note the bird-less areas of often open plan gardens in the nearby vicinity. Years ago the tree/hedge lined pathway was far less disturbed. The pathway leads from the old village up to the wagon-ways and I suspect that it was once used by pitmen. I need to look into the history a little more. It’s still a pleasant walk and area despite the best attempts of some of the residents and council gardeners at destroying it. Parts of the hedge have been replaced by ugly wooden garden fences, and the gorse was ripped up years ago to be replaced by such. I feel that gardening to some minds is simply ripping things up and chopping things down. I guess that is how the environment as a whole is treated by many.

The birds in the garden today included two very active Chiffchaffs which had had drawn my attention to the garden in the first place. Between gleaning of the bushes they flew on numerous occasions to the bird bath. They hung around for quite some time. Greenfinches and Chaffinches were the other notable birds. Thankfully all looking fit and not apparently troubled by Trichomonosis (had to look that up!). http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-14974236 Sadly I had a Greenfinch fly into the window yesterday and it is flying no more. It did give me a chance to look very carefully at its pristine plumage before giving it a burial. The Wren also appeared to be pristine. The hedging always ensures numbers of House Sparrows are about although the few Starlings are a fraction of the number that used to attend. Other birds seen in the short time I watched were Robin, Dunnock, Blackbird, Blue Tit, Great Tit, Wood Pigeon, Collared Dove and Magpie, with gulls flying overhead. There are definitely more Lesser Black Backed Gulls in the area than in years gone by, although I’m not sure any were around today.

I heard the other day that there is to be another cold winter. Not so sure I place much faith in these forecasts as yesterdays forecast for a fine sunny weekend changed today to include some rain showers! However if it is to be cold again I’ll be keeping an eye open for some scarcer garden visitors. Best ‘do’ autumn first though!

A Short Outing

2011-09-21T09:47:00.000-07:00

20^th Sept. The morning had an clear autumnal feel and smell to it and although I had business to deal with and thus no time for birding the walk down to Forest Hall was a refreshing experience and I did notice the amount of weak song from Robins.

Later in the day I had the opportunity to make a quick visit to Prestwick Carr, but not before having lunch at the Cannon, Earsdon. Incidentally I’d recommend the food there. In stark contrast to the ‘lite bite’ I’d experienced in Killingworth recently, I was treated to a ‘real’ good lunch in a ‘real’ pub atmosphere and for only a couple of quid extra. I’ve just read this about the Cannon on the internet. ‘It used to be called The Spread Eagle and the name was changed to Cannon Inn during the Napoleonic wars , presumably because a ship full of French soldiers was captured along with at least one of their cannon in the river Blyth about 1805.
The soldiers were held prisoner in Earsdon where there was a garrison stationed. One of the houses in the village was always referred to as the Barracks’.

I saw from the local news today (21^stSept), that there is a man sat up in a mature tree in Earsdon attempting to prevent it being taken down. I think he must have just gone up there today as I saw nothing of that sort yesterday.

Anyway, I was unable to spend very long at Prestwick Carr (I have it down for some winter visits) and I was unable to watch the owls although a number of birders were about in wait for them. A walk along the road did bring small flocks of birds moving through, including Willow Tits, Long Tailed Tits and Bullfinches. The Kestrels were active and Common Buzzard was seen in the distance.

Correction...I hope no one has dashed to Earsdon to look for the man up the tree. The gent is still up the tree as I type, but the tree is in Irton, Yorkshire! I could have sworn they said Earsdon earlier!