It was bloody cold this afternoon. I almost didn't go to the patch today (foot again), but the painkillers were kicking in by midday and I set out out into the teeth of a eye-wateringly cold northerly wind.
Since my last visit, a couple of other birders have paid visits, with promising results. In particular, Neil Duggan flushed a Woodcock (on Feb 6 according to Birdtrack), and also counted 70 Lapwings and three Stonechats.
My chances of relocating the Woodcock were negligible, and sure enough I didn't find it. A few large gulls flew over, including a couple of Herring Gulls, but the main interest was provided by the flash field.
The Shelduck had been seen again on the 6th by Neil D, and it was still present this afternoon.
 |
| Shelduck |
As usual, it is the male which is first back, no doubt staking out its territory in preparation for the arrival of its mate. Also present in the flash field were 29 Greylag Geese, 12 Mallard, 20 Teal, at least 53 Lapwings, and a couple of Snipe. Just beyond the field the Little Egret was still present.
Apart from this, the visit was mainly notable for the shortage of birds. At least 60 Redwings were at Netherstead, and one of the seed feeders at the barn conversion properties was busy with Blue and Great Tits.
For the next few days I'll be sticking to the garden.
No comments:
Post a Comment