Bird Lover

For the first time in 14 years today's class was postponed because of the threat of heavy snow.  We were supposed to be visiting the high wolds to observe large birds of prey.  Hopefully, we can catch up on that the week after the course was officially due to end.  Meanwhile 2 Friday morning stalwarts risked a visit to Ness End/Far Ings in the snow.  They were rewarded with excellent views of a Water Rail, and a Bittern - allegedly! All photos (c) 2018 Jane Robinson Water Rail  Ditto  Ditto  Ditto  Ditto  Ditto  The photographer insists that there is a Bittern in this photo.  I remain to be convinced!

Last week was rather cold, but nothing like the near future apparently.  Goodness know what next week's photos will be like if there are any.   Female Kingfisher on Friday (c) 2018 Mike Woods  On Tuesday because of the terrible forecast we detoured to Tophill Low, and for a change we tried the northern end.  We encountered 37 species.  One of the highlights was the Glaucous Gull, which has now been in the area for over 50 days - the longest-staying scarce Gull.  We also saw our first Tuesday Barn Owl of the year, although it remained concealed in deep cover.  A mysterious black bird was sheltering one the far side of the wall of D reservoir.  We were eventually able to see it was an Oystercatcher.  When we reached Hempholme the best birds were a pair of Stonechats, as the nest-building Kingfishers remained out of sight.  Other birds seen included Great Crested Grebes, Little Grebes, ...