CityBirding

Prestwick Carr

2012-01-18T18:10:00.000Z

Thought I'd better visit Prestwick Carr this afternoon, since PCF has had less numbers of visitors of late.
The Short-eared Owls were up from the start and provided a couple of half decent pic
opportunities

Total number was difficult to set since they seemed to be appearing all over the area. I reckon at least six

Peter, Bill and myself were standing chatting when this fellow below popped up not three feet way. Peter shared some of his multigrain bar.

Prestwick Carr

2012-01-10T17:56:00.000Z

Heading North up the bridle path, I soon spotted four or five Buzzards perched on isolated bushes on the edge of the wood. This one had a smart light coloured bib.

On the other side of the path a Kestrel perched on a fencepost.

and there were good numbers of Fieldfare and Redwings. A couple of Song Thrush brightened the walk

I had been giving every hedge line bush a good thrashing with the bins as I walked up and down the bridle path, to ensure I didn't miss anything, but when I got back to the crossroads I could see PCF scanning the same hedge line and sure enough the Great Grey Shrike had been there all the time

As the light faded I managed to catch sight of two perched Short-eared Owls before heading home

Short and sweet

2011-12-12T17:33:00.001Z

Its been a while since I was last out, so I was pleased to be able to catch the final half hour of today's sunshine at Prestwick Carr this afternoon.
Had a bit of luck when a Short-eared Owl perched on a tree top not far from a gate upon which I was leaning.

There were possibly five or six about before the sun went behind the cloud

Many Blackbirds were in the hedgerows including Fieldfare after a large flock flew over towards the wood

As I made my way back along the bumpy road I had a close but brief view of the Great Grey Shrike before it dived off its perch before disappearing in the reeds

Prestwick Carr trumps again

2011-11-11T15:55:00.001Z

On wednesday evening PCF pointed out that there was a Great Grey Shrike on patch. Soon it was spotted in the distance and I managed to see a grey shape drop out of a bush and out of sight. At that time, it was so distant, I would have had difficulty identifying as a bird without having it pointed out first.
So this afternoon presented the first chance to have a search. First stop beside the gate on the top road did not produce anything and I could see the searchers on the bumpy road were not faring any better. I moved to the first gate on the way down to the cross roads and bingo there it was.

Distant but clear views this time. Watched it for half an hour before it dropped out of sight

Fieldfare and Redwing

2011-10-26T19:07:00.000+01:00

This afternoon I walked up the bridlepath at Prestwick Carr and was fortunate to see a large flock of Fieldfare, Redwing and Thrushes. I was unable to get within 150 yards of them as they kept ahead of me.
Two or three set down for a drink from the path pools

There were also many Kestrel and Buzzards whose numbers seem to be growing rapidly.

As a footnote one of our family members dropped in to see us today and said that they had been watching Snow Bunting at the top of the beach at Hauxley a couple of days ago.

Sanderling - colour ringed from Iceland

2011-10-21T20:05:00.000+01:00

Yesterday's visit to St. Mary's Island produced a nice flock of around 40 Sanderling on the South beach waterline. I managed to spot that one of them was colour ringed and took a few photos of it.

Last night I sent the images and details off to Jeroen Reneerkens who is heavily involved in the Sanderling ringing and sightings reporting.
Within an hour he replied and attached the full log of 66 sightings of this particular bird.
It was first ringed at Sandgeroi - first beach, Iceland during May 2009,
and since then it has shown a remarkable consistant loyalty to its summer and wintering locations
Sept 2009 St. Mary's Island
May 2010 Sandgeroi- first beach
Sept 2010 St. Mary's Island
May 2011 Sandgeroi- first beach

August 2011 St. Mary's Island
I noted from the log that I had seen and reported this same bird in Jan 2010

St. Mary's Brent

2011-10-20T14:20:00.000+01:00

We took the opportunity this morning to go to St. Mary's Island just as the tide was dropping and just about clearing the walkway to the island. Lots of birds around including this Brent Goose which appeared to be all on its lonesome.

I understand that the lack of white neck patch, and the upper-wing coverts tipped with white, indicates that it is a juvenile

Dragons and others

2011-10-14T18:31:00.000+01:00

An afternoon wander along the bumpy road and up the bridal path brought some surprise dragonfly sightings

AND

a Golden-ringed Dragonfly which I was unable to photograph

Bullfinch, Great Spotted Woodpecker, and Buzzards were among some great bird sightings

Popular Prestwick

2011-10-07T19:20:00.001+01:00

Had a couple of hours before the takeaway opened so another visit to Prestwick Carr. When I arrived Bill was all on his lonesome but before long carloads were arriving.
I managed to spot a distant perched owl, which I was unable to distinguish between Long or Short since there were no eyes to be seen.
However after many pairs of human eyes it seemed to be agreed as a Long-eared Owl.
Over the period we caught sight of three other perched Short-eared Owls but it was soon time for me to head towards the Queen Vic and the New Bengal.
Not having seen an Owl in flight on this particular visit I thought I'd add this painting on which I'm still working.
Am trying to record my memory of watching them taking off to hunt, from their well used fenceposts.

A bit of variety

2011-09-30T21:19:00.000+01:00

Just for a change this evening I wandered up the bridle path at Prestwick Carr. After a few yards beyond the x-roads I caught sight of three Tree Sparrows. The walk up to the second gate was quite uneventful as I noted that there has been a lot of grass cutting taking place.
At the second gate I watched a couple of Kestrel and a party of about ten Long-tailed Tits. Then in the gap between the north corner of the wood and the stand of dead trees a large bird hunted low and just above the vegetation. It was too far for me to identify but the upper wing colouring was rufous with the end primaries clearly black. It appeared a couple of times before I lost sight of it.
As the light was going, I headed back down the bridle path and was stopped at the sentry box by a couple of Emperor Dragonfly hunting back and forth under the trees. The evening was so quiet I could hear their wings clattering as they flew past
Back at the cross roads I could see that the Short-eared Owls had plenty of visitors so I wandered so far along the road and soon there were four of them heading my way and hunting both sides of the road.
On returning a couple of bats flew just above my head beside the goat field.

Kestrel vs Owl

2011-09-27T20:48:00.001+01:00

On a couple of recent visits to Prestwick Carr I have watched the Short-eared Owl display where they spiral upward in groups and drift away to the west. I was a bit annoyed the last time because I failed to watch where they drifted. So tonight's plan was to observe from the gate on the main road and if they spiral again I'd be into the car and give chase. You've guessed it - they did get into a five bird spiral just before seven pm, but it was over the wood and they went off north.
Still there's always tomorrow.
However I did get some good sightings when one landed onto a fencepost at the bottom of the slope in front of me.

As I watched it through the bins a Kestrel came into view directly beyond the Owl, just above reed height, low and fast, and heading straight for the perched Owl. It kept coming and actually hit the Owl knocking it off the fencepost.
The Kestrel perched on the post, looking pleased with itself, and the Owl took off at a rate of knots.
There are many Kestrels and Buzzards to be seen also.
One bizzare sight was of four female Pheasants high up in an elder picking berries.

Still more SEO

2011-09-26T20:25:00.000+01:00

I was unable to spot any perched owls at Prestwick Carr tonight but by 6.30pm the SEO were up in force. Six in a group, spiralling up into the night sky and a couple hunting low. Another reported on a fenceline but unfortunately I was unable to spot it, but a good total anyway.

Still there

2011-09-19T18:10:00.000+01:00

Went for a wander, around lunchtime today, along the bumpy road at Prestwick Carr. We managed to spot three Short-eared Owls and three Long-eared Owls.
The three LEO were all perched in different bushes and none of them gave a decent view - the tinkers!.
Two of the SEO were perched together in the middle of the copse

The eyes have it

2011-09-17T20:09:00.000+01:00

Prestwick Carr came up trumps again. Up to six Short-eared Owls and three Long-eared Owls.
The three Long-eared Owls were perched in the same small bush, whilst one of them was quite photogenic.

The Short-eared Owls gave us, a quite magnificent aerial display

Another brilliant visit.

The long and the short

2011-09-15T22:00:00.001+01:00

Title credit to PCF on whose patch at Prestwick Carr, I had another great couple of hours tonight
First stop was to view a single Short-eared Owl as it sat on a fencepost where they had recently taken up shelter when the strong westerlies were blowing.
Tonight was quite still with evening sunshine so I wondered if they might be on the other side of the tree line basking, so off I trotted to the next gate.
Set up the scope and started to scan the bushes and quickly spotted some familiar colouring but then the ticker accelerated as I spotted what I considered quite long ear tufts.
Now, not having seen a perched Long-eared Owl, ever, I was in a bit of a dilema. I new Peter and quite a few others were just along the road, watching the Short-eared Owl, so a quick call and he arrived to confirm what I believed I was looking at.
I was a bit chuffed to say the least.
Not a movement for two hours other than to give the occasional squint out of the characteristic orange eye.

I think Brian may have managed to get a better digiscope shot.

There were some good views to be had of a Short-eared Owl hunting, where there appeared to be three or four about tonight by the time I left.

Short-eared Owl bonanza

2011-09-14T21:41:00.002+01:00

Thanks to PCF, and his persistence a few of us have benefited greatly at Prestwick Carr.
I arrived between 5.30 and 6.00pm this evening where Peter pointed out a single Short-eared Owl sitting on a fence post behind a protective tree line. It shuffled and preened for about twenty minutes then it was up and hunting. I find it surprising how a bird that looks short and stubby whilst perched, can have such long wings

Not much longer and there were another couple, possible three in the copse.
This was great.
Then it was clear when there were four as two pairs quartered the fields giving some great views. Then as they do, they seemed suddenly to vanish, so I wandered along the road to get a clearer view of the fenceline.
I nearly fell into the ditch in amazement - there were four perched owls.

It was not much longer before they were all hunting again and eventually we all caught sight of a total of eight in flight at one time.

Look into my eyes

2011-09-11T19:40:00.000+01:00

This corker paid the garden a visit this morning. I dont think more words are necessary.

Prestwick Carr Owls

2011-09-10T22:43:00.001+01:00

Friday and Saturday evening were spent in the company of PCF , loads of midges, and Short-eared Owls.
Friday had three owls showing well on the north side of the bumpy road as well as at least a couple more to the South. There must have been plenty of prey about since they had few wingbeats between dives

Saturday evening, most of Friday's crew arrived complete with assorted but numerous midge bites and it was proving a bit more difficult, but after enduring a spell of rain we had some horizontal rays of sunshine and soon enough there were four SEO perched along the same row of fencing posts.
Brilliant, just brilliant!

St. Mary's friday

2011-09-10T14:56:00.000+01:00

After a spot of friday lunch at Castaways cafe Seaton Sluice which included carrot cake plus cream, we headed down to St. Mary's Island.
Tide was well up so the Golden Plover, Turnstone and Lapwings were all close to the promenade.
There were a couple of Bar-tailed Godwit on the rock ends and then this one appeared at the North bay

A lone Guillemot passed quite close

and I wasn't to sure about the light coloured giant amongst the Golden plover but I guess it is just a winter plumaged fluffed up

Ident help request

2011-09-09T21:29:00.000+01:00

First time out for quite a while today with a visit to St. Mary's at lunchtime and then an evening visit to Prestwick Carr.
But before all that however, on my way to Prestwick Carr I stopped at the elevated viewpoint and caught sight of this bird which I thought at the time was a Common Buzzard but now I'm not so sure, so I would appreciate any opinions.

On the way back.

2011-08-27T18:51:00.000+01:00

Following three or four weeks when the garden birds seemed to have taken flight, they have started to show once again. We had a party of Great, Blue, Coal and Long tailed tits spend ten minutes on the feeders, which was nice to see.

Newcastle Great Park

2011-08-20T19:21:00.000+01:00

After securing all three points this afternoon, what a relief, I went for a wander around around Newcastle Great Park ponds. I'm not sure how these will end up once the park is fully developed but currently there are more than a dozen patches of open water. Not all of much size, since I understand that is a sore point with the airport. However they are sufficient to support a growing dragonfly and damselfly population.
The processing of surface water drainage from the development is providing an interesting situation. It appears that the, run off is gathered into reed filled ponds and then filtered into the Ouseburn. It appears to work well having seen a pair of Kingfisher, Dipper and Grey Wagtail in the Ouseburn immediately downstream of the collection from the run-off. Although I have not seen fish in the Ouseburn they are in the ponds.
There are some significant areas of mud around the water but have not seen any waders at all to date.
I have recorded Common Blue, Azure, Blue-tailed and Emerald Damselfly. Four spotted chaser, Emperor, Southern Hawker and Common Darter dragonfly.
Today there were no hawkers but quite a few Common Darters and was unable to resist a few more pics.

Clara Vale pond

2011-08-18T19:04:00.000+01:00

Clara Vale pond held only Common Darter and what I believe to be a non stop Southern Hawker female.
Just managed to spot this teneral Common Darter which had good camouflage on top of a gatepost.

Big Waters & Great Park pond

2011-08-17T18:17:00.000+01:00

A wander around Big Waters and Newcastle Great Park pond resulted in exactly the same sightings in both locations.
Common Darter male

Common Darter female

Emerald Damselfly

Its Question Time

2011-07-25T18:09:00.000+01:00

Having a pint in the County the other night when one of the lads asks
"Why is it that Killy lake can be stuffed with swans and Big Waters rarely has more than one pair? "
I was unable to satisfy his curiosity.
I need a sound answer to this one, before I meet up with him again at the beginning of next week , 'cos my mate is not one to be fobbed off with any old rubbish.
Thanks in advance.

Newcastle Great Park

2011-07-24T19:35:00.000+01:00

After three or four hours plumbing work earlier today I just had enough time left to wander around the pond whilst there was still heat in the sun
However the only dragonfly on show were Emperors
Male

Female

This female was wing beating so hard it created ripples radiating outward

After watching one male hawking up and down the edge of the reeds for about fifteen minutes it suddenly dived through a gap in the reeds and I guessed settled somewhere in that area. So I did my Ray Mears bit and circled around it so that I was between the sun and the presumed basking dragonfly. I edged forward to where I guessed it would be perched, scanning every possible spot. After ten minutes of inching forward I thought, enough, I'm off for tea. Took one step forward only to have both male and female rise a yard in front of me and hover a foot in front of my nose before heading off over the pond.

Still there's always next time.

Is summer finished?

2011-07-22T19:40:00.000+01:00

Earlier today, St. Mary's Island, wind from the North, Sanderling, Knot, Turnstone, Golden Plover and Dunlin all present - it must be autumn. But no, they are all in their summer kit.
What a spectacle!

Shibdon Pond

2011-07-21T22:20:00.000+01:00

A late evening visit to Shibdon was rescued by a single Green Sandpiper

Big Waters Dragons

2011-07-19T20:09:00.001+01:00

A pre lunchtime visit to Big Waters outlet stream gave us sightings of

Common Darter

and what I believe to be an immature male Southern Hawker

and of course loads of Damselfly

Newcastle Great Park

2011-07-15T20:07:00.000+01:00

A walk around the main pond at the south end of Newcastle Great Park produced five male and two female Emperor Dragonfly.

Hartley cliff tops

2011-07-14T19:48:00.000+01:00

We left Seaton Sluice to wander along the cliff top path at Old Hartley. The number of butterfly about was quite remarkable. These included-
Common Blue male

Common Blue female

Meadow Brown male

Meadow Brown female

Six-spot Burnet. Don't think I have seen so many on the wing

There were dozens of Small and Large Skipper, and of course the Hartley Alpaca herd

and it was a pleasant surprise to bump into Howden Blogger - John and his better half.

I've left the bird sightings for him to report, apart from this shot

Big Waters

2011-07-10T21:26:00.000+01:00

An early evening wander around Big Waters produced a sighting of a single Banded Damoiselle at the east end of the water.

At the hide it was a surprise to see three Great Spotted Woodpeckers in the feeder area all at the same time

Big Waters

2011-07-04T12:58:00.000+01:00

During a brief walk around the east end of Big Waters this morning we watched an Emperor Dragonfly, Four spotted Chaser and a female Common Darter which is a first for me this summer.
The place was alive with Damselfly.

Hummingbird Hawkmoth

2011-07-03T22:23:00.000+01:00

This afternoon in a Sunniside garden we watched a Hummingbird Hawkmoth working its way around the garden flowers probing for nectar.
Its only the second I have ever seen. This first being in an Algerian garden, thirty-five years ago.
I understand that while some are resident near the south coast, most make their way here from the continent.

Wot no Dragons

2011-06-28T17:51:00.000+01:00

Had a wander around Big Waters and Newcastle Great Park in search of Dragonfly, resulting in no sightings.
However there were plenty of Azure and Blue-tailed Damsels to keep me entertained

Although I've yet to see a Dragonfly at the Great Park I know they are there after spotting this quite large exuvia

Big Waters

2011-06-24T14:20:00.000+01:00

Another lunchtime wander around Big Waters outlet produced another Four-spotted Chaser and plently of Azure and Blue-tailed Damselfly

Clara Vale

2011-06-21T18:50:00.000+01:00

Can't pass Clara Vale LNR without a quick whizz around. I thought it would be a 'nailed on' for a Dragonfly or two, but was wrong -again. However just past the pond we spotted a Jay panting in the bright sunshine.

There was an impresive display of orchids in the area around the pond

and loads of Azure Damsefly

a quick visit into the hide produced only Blue, Coal and Great Tit.

Weetslade Country Park

2011-06-17T18:25:00.000+01:00

Had a wander around part of Weetslade CP this afternoon. I was hoping to spot some Dragonfly activity and I did watch a large blue Dragonfly patrolling back and forth but could not identify it. There were small numbers of Large Red Damselfly.

There were, however, some stunning orchids on show. The flower head on this first one was at least 6" tall

A Common Buzzard rose from the adjacent woodland and soared into the sky

Four-spotted Chasers

2011-06-14T15:13:00.000+01:00

A lunchtime wander around Havannah and Big Waters produced a couple of nice sightings of newly emerged Four-spotted Chasers, and loads of blue Damselfly.

Very nice indeed

Banded Demoiselle

2011-06-03T17:20:00.001+01:00

Its thanks to PCF for giving us the 'heads up' to visit Bellasis Bridge this morning and be able to watch these fantastic creatures in full sunlight.

I find it amazing that they appear in the same spot at the same time each year

Kibblesworth Ponds

2011-06-02T19:12:00.001+01:00

Thought it was time to review Kibblesworth Ponds for Dragons and Damsels, so we ambled over there about 11am this morning and it was red hot.
There were about 40-50 Four-Spotted Chasers and countless Azure, Blue-tailed, Common Blue and Large Red Damselfly

Talking to a regular visitor to this pond, he said that the chasers had first appeared about 2-3 weeks ago, agreeing that was much earlier than normal.
I also checked out the two Hedley Ponds near Birkheads where there were numerous Damselfly but no Dragons.
Later in the afternoon did a quick circuit of Newcastle Great Park pond where again there were many Blue-tailed, Azure and Large Red Damselfly
and quite a number of newly emerged Damselfly

Garden colour

2011-05-31T11:01:00.000+01:00

Hows about this for colour.
On the garden feeder taken thro the glass so its actually better than this

Rising Sun CP

2011-05-27T14:41:00.000+01:00

We had a wander around Rising Sun Country Park this morning and was pleased to see quite a few Large Red Damselfly.

and there are good numbers of flowering orchids. I believe this to be a Northern Marsh Orchid

and of course Red showing off his new, fast growing 2011 antlers

Isle of Mull

2011-05-22T16:52:00.002+01:00

Have just returned from a visit to the Isle of Mull. We have been there before twice and know that you cant expect a week of fine weather. Nothing changes and the first Sunday and Monday were complete washouts literally, but started to improve from the Tuesday morning.
Tuesday was our first encounter with White-Tailed Eagle as it flew across the road ahead of us at the head of Loch Na Keal.

We parked up to see two of them being harassed by gulls before making their way to a favourite perch

It was later in the week that we watched one of these birds returning from down the loch with a fish

We had many separate sightings of this huge creature with another near Lochdon as it crossed ahead of us and another sitting quietly on its nest in a different location.

We also had great views of a Golden Eagle as it came over the top of a hill and then proceeded to traverse back and forward across the face of a cliff in front of us before soaring up, up and away.

On a trip from Dervaig to Torloisk we felt very fortunate to be able to watch a Short-Eared Owl hunting

Some of the birds mentioned above are the symbol of Mull but I am always surprised at the numbers of Common Sandpiper, Wheatear and Snipe which are to be seen all over this island. This Snipe caught our attention when driving to Tobermory one afternoon only for it to be in the same area as we drove back down the same road the next morning

Conditions were not conducive to loch watching but we did see Great Northern Divers in quite a few locations. A very enjoyable week.

P.S.

Spotted this Harrier directly above but was unable to decide Hen or Marsh?

Newcastle Great Park

2011-05-11T19:51:00.000+01:00

Had a wander around one of the many patches of water in the Newcastle Great Park.

My primary interest was to establish if there were any Damselfly present.
Despite the poor windy conditions there were good numbers of Blue-tailed and Azure Damselfly.

There were also quite number of exuvia to be seen just above the water level.

There were also a number of these which I have yet to identify

and a few of these Small Copper butterfly

Derwent valley delights

2011-05-05T14:31:00.000+01:00

We visited Thornley to fix the location of a dragonfly pond suggested by SW , and the directions were spot on. At the time of visiting there were half a dozen Large Red Damselfly and a spot of reproduction going on -

Then it was up to Highfield where we were royally entertained for three hours by low flying Red Kite trying to master the art of chicken leg gathering.

This one below has its eyes firmly fixed on the target.

Shibdon

2011-05-04T13:33:00.000+01:00

I paid a visit to Shibdon Pond in the late evening and Managed some nice views of Greenshank, Shoveler, Common Sandpiper, Grey Wagtail as well as the many current residents

Rising Sun Country Park

2011-04-30T20:21:00.000+01:00

A recent wander around Rising Sun Country Park on the lookout for Damselfly there was plenty of distractions along the way. Birds were giving it full throttle from the rooftops, with Willow Warbler and Wren making the most of the sunshine

There were dozens of Orange Tip Butterfy alighting on the Lady's Smock which is their caterpillar's food source. I didnt realise until I zoomed into the pic below that this pair were about to do what comes naturally and the perched female is actually offering up herself to the approaching male, by bending her abdomen skyward

There were good numbers of Speckled Wood in the sunlit areas

Damselfly hunt continued

2011-04-28T19:12:00.001+01:00

I'm in the process of trying to establish when Damselfly emerge in different locations.
I have seen some of the first arrivals at Havannah and Big Waters so today, around lunchtime and early afternoon, I visited -
Rising Sun ponds at North end - none seen
Gosforth Park NR - none seen
Pond near Gosforth Park Aquatics - none seen
Big Waters outlet stream - many as follows

Common Blue - immature male

Common Blue - immature female

Azure Damselfly - female blue form

Large Red - male
difficult to estimate but there must have been more than 50, although I have yet to spot a female

Then 'lo and behold' have just realised I got this Large Red female without realising

Damsels galore

2011-04-27T17:10:00.001+01:00

At last the Damselfly are emerging.
After lunch today we had a stroll along North side of Big Waters outlet stream, and the streamside vegetation held lots of Large Red and the first (for me) blue damselfly.
This is a maturing male Azure Damselfly - Coenagrion puella

and a pair of Large Red males

The wings are not quite fully open yet

Whittle Dene

2011-04-22T17:17:00.000+01:00

After drawing a blank on my first Yellow Wagtail hunt last week we decided to have another go 22 April 11
Went straight to the dam wall but not a wagtail of any sort to be seen. Wandered down the road past the other reservoirs and the only birds of note was this Song Thrush

and a distant Tern, perched on one of the buoys

So back to the dam wall before leaving, and we were in luck

and was a little surprised to see this orchid flowering so early

Damselfly

2011-04-21T15:48:00.001+01:00

I have been visiting a lot of the local ponds, over the past couple of weeks, hoping to catch an early Damselfly sighting without success, but thanks to Tim's tip we wandered around Havannah NR and sure enough a first for me for this year. It was spotted a couple of hundred yards from the nearest open water.

Large Red, Pyrrhosoma nymphula

Nuthatch

2011-04-20T21:02:00.000+01:00

Paid a visit to Gosforth Park NR today to see if there were any Damselfly appearing but drew a blank.
However it was nice to see this Nuthatch on the walk back.

The latest poser

2011-04-14T21:29:00.000+01:00

A pair of Jackdaw are quickly becoming residents in the back garden, one of them has taken a fancy to the fat balls while the other plods around underneath picking up the scraps dropping from above.
This one is posing on top of the washing line post.

Garden visitor

2011-04-14T10:04:00.000+01:00

A pair of Blackbird set up with a nest only a foot above our bins, so to avoid disturbance we have moved the bins to another location. There appears to be three pair visit the feeding station in the back garden.
One of which appears below.

Persistence Pays

2011-04-12T22:29:00.001+01:00

Another visit to Prestwick Carr has at long last produced for me a sighting of a Tawny Owl. It sounds like I am about the last one to connect with this one, but its now done. At least I now know that I had been looking in the correct spot on my many previous attempts.

Further up the bridle way there were about twenty Fieldfare in the field and a cracking Yellowhammer lit up by the sunset. Three or four Willow Warbler occasionally called from the hedgerow but the cold breeze seemed to take the edge off their enthusiasm.
On the walk back down the bridle way, the large flock of Golden Plover were moving across the horsey fields.

They are all dressed up in their summer outfits

In all I saw three Wheatear in the field North of the second gate and a further two in the horsey field

Then just as I was getting into the car these Curlew came over and settled in the adjacent field

Prestwick Carr

2011-04-10T16:36:00.000+01:00

Following Peter's posting regarding the Tawny Owl at Prestwick Carr I set off determined to get a sighting and hopefully a pic. So armed with scope, tripod, camera, bins, and a copy of Peter's photo I headed for the bridle path. I quickly identified the roost branches in the photo and could even see the droppings on the branch below but result as normal - zero.
Last year it totally evaded me and I'm still not convinced that Peter and Bill don't have one of the plastic owl thingies.
Visited the spot three times over the next couple of hours with the same result.
However I was pleased to watch Buzzard, Roe Deer, Golden Plover, Mistle Thrush, Curlew, Long-tailed Tit and the return of Willow Warblers and Wheatear

Druridge Pools

2011-04-09T21:56:00.000+01:00

Little Grebe was very successful at finding fish just in front of the hide with little else of note in view

Peacock and Small Tortoiseshell butterfly were numerous along the walk to the hide. If this weather keeps going ther could be dragonfly in four weeks time, but no doubt there will be a sting before that.

Shovelers were still present in the flooded fields along with Teal and Wigeon

Cresswell Avocet

2011-04-08T16:09:00.000+01:00

With this sort of weather the coast had to be worth a visit, so we headed up to Creswell. On the way north we could see eight Avocet on the west bank of Cresswell pond.
A little later two had made their way to the North end of the pond.

Cracking birds on a cracking day.

Tawny Mining Bee

2011-04-05T12:52:00.000+01:00

It was on the 16 April in 2009 and 17 April in 2010 that the Tawny Mining bees appeared in a specific two metre square in the front garden. This year they have appeared early -5 April2011.

Tawny Mining Bee, Adrena Fulva

This is typical of their nests which they mine

and as on previous visits these creatures, pictured below, which I believe to be Andrena Bimaculata outnumber the Mining bee by ten to one and are particularly aggresive towards them

and even more strange these hang around the perimeter of the activity as they have done on previous years

Its all very puzzling.

St Mary's North Bay

2011-04-01T17:18:00.000+01:00

A brief visit to St Mary's Island this morning. On the North Bay beach, only a Bar-tailed Godwit and a single Sanderling. There had been three but two departed.
Turnstone, Oystercatcher and Curlew were taking shelter, from the ever increasing wind, in the rock gulleys with a few Eider offshore, in the bay.

Costco delights

2011-03-30T19:55:00.000+01:00

We had stocked up with provisions at Costco this morning when I suggested having a walk across the road to see what was on the river. Three pairs of Shelduck, and a single bobbing Common Sandpiper were a pleasant sight.

Red Kite Carnival

2011-03-28T18:41:00.000+01:00

A visit to see family today presented the opportunity to spend a bit of time Kitewatching in the Derwent Valley. Now, having a coffee, sitting in the conservatory might not be everyones idea of birdwatching but the Kites were soaring over the houses time and time again.

I've read where there is some doubt as to why they have not spread away from the Derwent Valley more quickly. Well I can tell you why, and its because they are too well fed where they are. Left over chicken seems to do them nicely.
Seeing seven or eight of these birds together makes quite a sight.

Whilst walking between Rowlands Gill and Highfield along the roadside path we spotted a Kite scouring the roadside verge, ahead of us, from no more than ten to twelve feet above ground which was how high it passed over our heads.
During a walk over the old Garesfield Colliery site, which is having a makeover by Gateshead Council, we saw Roe Deer and heard Tawny Owls.

The makeover work is involving removal of non local broad leaf and conifers and the hard topping of footpaths, and is making for an interesting location for a wander, with fantastic views over the Derwent Valley.

Colours!

2011-03-25T12:25:00.000Z

Finally managed to capture a shot of one of many butterflies which have appeared over the last couple of days.

Peacock

Ladybird

2011-03-23T16:49:00.000Z

Today's fine weather has brought out a few butterflies and this, first for me, Ladybird

Up the Coast

2011-03-22T18:43:00.000Z

Taking advantage of the super weather this morning we headed for Creswell first stop where there were Pink-Footed Geese in the field west of the hide.

On the pond things were a bit quiet. Teal, Wigeon, Lapwing, Shelduck, Tufted Duck, Curlew and Grey Heron

So it was up to Druridge Pools where, in the flooded fields, we spotted a pair of Pintail

amongst the numerous Teal and Wigeon

A couple of pairs of distant Gadwall were on the pond

and fleeting glimpse of distant butterflies were still nice to see.

Lunch at The Barn and then up to Hauxley.
Amongst many Redshank and Curlew was a single Bar-tailed Godwit and two or three Dunlin

Lots of Shelduck, Wigeon, Canada , Greylag geese. Again four or five fleeting glimpses of butterfly - none identified
At Amble approx 30 Eider were gathered in the harbour

A passer by said that he was quite sure that he had seen a Swallow on the wires at Creswell.

Buzzards over Town Moor

2011-03-14T17:30:00.000Z

Was out in the back garden this afternoon when I heard a Buzzard call.
Managed to spot it high, very high, so grabbed the bins and was pleased to see three of them soaring above the Town Moor.
Then they suddenly went into losing altitude at some rate in a S.W. direction and out of sight.
This one below is from a different sighting a couple of weeks agao.

Grange over Sands

2011-03-08T17:35:00.000Z

We had spent the day near Windermere and were returning to our lodge when I realised that Grange over Sands was a place I knew nothing about, so the first sign I saw we turned right. I had in my mind to get to the shore to look out over Morcambe Bay but realised that the railway ran between the town and the waters edge. While looking for a route under the railway I spotted a park pond with a lot of birds on it, so parked up a soon a possible.
We wandered into the public park and toward the small pond when I saw, a female Mandarin. This could be good I thought as I spotted a Male, then another, and then many more unusual birds, by which time the penny dropped.
It turns out that this Public park pond is populated with unusual birds through the efforts of a local individual who we were unable to identify.
Although captive through wing clipping, I still felt they were worth a mention.

Apparently they lost five female Mandarin as a result of Foxes and Badger during the winter.

This was where I secured my Pintail photo which I included in an earlier post

More of last week

2011-03-07T20:46:00.001Z

Further to my last post we had a short visit to Leighton Moss with a particular target of the female Marsh Harrier. We had wandered down to the Public Hide where there were small numbers of Goldeneye, and Wigeon but not having the time to sit and wait I suggested we do a bit of walking. Just as I got off my seat and had one last look out there was the Harrier, just above the reeds. It turned away from us and up over the crest of adjacent hills and out of sight. At least we saw it.
Away from the hide I thought I heard the 'ping' of a Bearded Tit but did not get a sighting as half a dozen Buzzards circled above.
We moved to Jenny Brown's Point just south of Silverdale. What a cracking area for coastal walks. A group of at least one hundred Pintail feeding near was a memorable event.
I didn't take this photo there but I'll tell you where I did later

Just North of here at Know End Point the walk at the head of the beach included Great Spotted Woodpecker, and a couple of Nuthatch in the trees at the head of the beach.
The walk was nicely finished at the Bakehouse at Silverdale with a hot pastie, cream and jam scone and a huge coffee. Nice.

Trip away-back in the groove

2011-03-05T21:38:00.000Z

We were very fortunate to be given the opportunity of a week's break with Ann and Lon in the Carnforth area of North Lancs.
Prior to visiting I had been watching the Lancaster Bird Club sightings which a few days before included a Little Egret and female Marsh Harrier at Leighton Moss RSPB, which I noted as targets together with their Bearded Tits.
We arrived at Pine Lake, where we were to stay, about half an hour earlier than planned so we headed for the area to the south end of Leighton Moss RSPB site, only about three mile away, where I understood the Eric Morcambe hide was located and seemed to have seen some action. Unbelievably the first patch of marsh we drove past, there was the Little Egret. (I understand there are now three)
So it was a good start, and back the the lodge to check-in.
We stayed at Pine Lake in one of the lodges, number 51 to be precise which was first class. I had never realised how warm and comfortable these pine lodges are.

The lodge was on the shore of Pine lake and with good numbers of Goldeneye, Wigeon, Goosander, Tufted Duck, Pochard, Oystercatcher, Mallard, Coot, Canada goose, Mute Swans on the water and Treecreeper, Blue, Great and Coal Tit, Chaffinch, Buzzard, around the lodge there was always plenty to watch, even from the armchair.

We planned to see as much of the area as we could in the following week.

Getting there.

2011-02-24T14:27:00.001Z

Two or three months of distractions are hopefully coming to an end so I've been charging the camera batteries, cleaning the boots, and looking forward to start getting out and about.

In the meantime we currently have this quite tame Blackbird occupying the back garden. This bird goes about its business whilst constantly singing with a very quiet, almost inaudible call. Whilst I have read about this call somewhere in the past, I have forgotten its name so would appreciate a reminder if anyone can help.
It also sings full throat whenever I'm tripping across to the bathroom through the night. 3am, 4am, anytime. (not because I'm tripping to the bathroom I might add)
Its mate however is very shy.

Short and sweet

2011-01-27T19:42:00.000Z

We had not been out walking since the middle of November so last week on a cold but sunny afternoon I thought Gossy Park might be sheltered and warm. Wrong - it was freezing.
We only walked up the east side of the reserve and saw a couple of Nuthatches before we turned tail for home.

Nice start

2011-01-02T15:30:00.000Z

I was surprised to hear the Waxwing trilling high up in the tree on the opposite side of the road to our front door. They were dropping down to strip the berries off a shrub growing against the wall.

Merry Christmas

2010-12-23T11:42:00.000Z

A Merry Christmas and a Healthy New Year to you All

Still here

2010-12-20T19:58:00.000Z

Its been some time since my last post which has had more to do with, demolishing a brute of a garden wall and replacing it by a retaining structure and fence above, than the weather. But I'm getting there, and I digress.

You will see that the 'back garden' will need a serious makeover once I'm rid of the bricks, sometime next year.
So ideas on how I can improve bird visits are starting to come to mind. In the past we have had plenty of visits but as soon as they pick up food they were off next door to consume it.
One of my current jobs was to prune next doors tree and I chucked all the twiggy bits into a heap beside the bricks. Almost at once Blackbird, Dunnock, Robin, BlueTit started to use the 'twiggyhut' as a place to linger. There now seems to be at least one bird or another in there all the time.
So the new garden layout is going to contain a 'twiggyhut', perhaps with a honysuckle holding it all together.
Its going to be quicker than waiting for a twiggy shrub to develop.
Dreams of ponds and Damselflies are also drifting about. My current pond being a sunken black plastic dustbin, which with one plant in the water, stays gin clear all year round and is used by birds and frogs.

More Snow, more birds

2010-11-28T15:19:00.000Z

These snowfalls seem to be driving the birds in close to feed.
Today has brought many Great, Blue and Coal Tit, Pied Wagtail, Blackbird, Mistle Thrush, Starling, Robin, Dunnock and House Sparrow onto the garden feeders. Also spotted half a dozen Waxwing when out for a newspaper this morning.
Grabbed the camera but they had moved on before I returned.

Desperate Times

2010-11-27T11:35:00.000Z

The amount of snowfall only a couple of miles north of Newcastle city centre is remarkable.
6"+2"earlier nights +4" Last night has really got the birds struggling.
This Wagtail this morning is only the second we have had in the back garden.

Watching and Waiting

2010-11-15T17:50:00.000Z

This afternoon I had a wander at Prestwick Carr.
The shooting range was in operation so my planned walk up the bridle path was scrubbed. Pity because there appeared to be a large Redwing flock on the Hawthorn between the first and second gate.
However a walk along the bumpy road brought a couple on nice sightings, both of birds just sitting waiting for some bait to appear
This Buzzard did pounce once onto the field below without success.

and the Kestrel had to take flight in search for its next meal.

No sign of Owls

Seems a bit tame but....

2010-11-13T20:57:00.000Z

With all of the news about exotic Herons, it seems a bit low key to post a pic of a Blackbird,
but the reason I grabbed the camera was because I had twice watched this bird hovering while plucking cotoneaster berries from the bush, unfortunately it didn't perform for the camera. It is the only time I have ever seen a Blackbird manage to hover.

Third time, catchy time

2010-11-06T18:50:00.002Z

Following our two sightings of Waxwing earlier in the week, with poor light, and no camera anyway, it was nice to see some more this morning.
Driving through Prudhoe was just approaching the fire station when I spotted them flying across the road. So a quick park up in the swimming pool car park and sure enough there were seven or eight of them flying from one tree top to another in the area of the Fire station, and I had the camera.

Its always worth dropping in for a look at Sled Lane pond if you are in the area, particularly when you can enjoy a Blagdon Burger at the garden centre cafe which is adjacent to the pond.

On the water were two male Shoveler with one female

Wigeon and Tufted Duck were present in good numbers as well as this, which at first I thought a Scaup

With reference to Collins the white band just behind the black bill tip suggests it may be a Tufted / Scaup hybrid. But most likely I've just read that female Tufted sometimes exhibit the broad white band.

Any opinions?

More of the same Waxwings

2010-11-04T16:00:00.000Z

Had to return to Kirkharle today and sure enough there is still a flock of Waxwing feeding on the elderberries along the side of the approach road. However they have appeared to have consumed 80% of the berry harvest so I reckon they will be gone sometime tomorrow.

Waxwings

2010-11-03T13:35:00.000Z

We visited Kirkharle Courtyard this morning and finished off with a nice lunch. On the way out a Buzzard was seen coping with a strong westerly and as we exited the site there they were, getting stuck-in to elderberries.
I managed to edge the car slowly alongside the bush without spooking them, so we were able to watch about three dozen Waxwing feeding at low level no more than ten feet away.
Magic.

Clara Vale

2010-11-01T14:58:00.000Z

Its been almost a year since we last visited Clara Vale LNR, so we popped along there this morning.
A Water Rail was not long in putting in an appearance. Just look at the length of those toes! No wonder it appears to walk on water.

and it was quickly followed by a Kingfisher. It looked like a neon sign.

A couple of Redwing dropped down from collecting holly berries to take a drink

There were also Coal, Great and Blue Tit, Wren, Goldfinch, Greenfinch.

Nice place.

Slavonian Grebe

2010-10-25T16:25:00.000+01:00

We were at Drurudge Pools around midday today and whilst most things were far far away, this little cracker drifted past in front of the hide.

Which I am taking to be a winter plumage Slavonian Grebe. I'm sure corrections will come in if I've got that wrong

Higher and higher

2010-10-17T13:07:00.000+01:00

Was just finishing off a bacon sandwich at lunchtime, gazing out of the window, when this bird appeared high over Salters Road, in the west sky, soaring in circles while drifting east. I'm assuming a Sparrowhawk?

New tenants move in

2010-10-13T19:29:00.000+01:00

Up until about three weeks ago we had a pair of Blackbirds who had reared young throughout the summer and were looking decidedly worse for wear with bald patches on their brow and upper breast. Then we had a week away and they must have found a new feeding patch because we have not seen them since.
This morning a new pair arrived looking all bright eyed, shiny and ready for anything.

Whether they will hang around we will have to wait and see.

Bridle path

2010-10-12T22:36:00.000+01:00

With the unexpected sunshine this afternoon we decided to have a saunter up the bridlepath at Prestwick Carr.
A flock of Goldfinch flew ahead of us as we walked, followed shortly by about fifteen Mistle thrush lifting up from the hawthorn bushes. There were plenty of Great and Blue Tit darting from bush to bush but all were a keeping low profile. Chaffinch, Wren and Robin all doing the same.
We walked as far as the second gate and stood with the sun on our backs, scanning the east field for something special, but in vain.
On the return a Roe deer broke cover and crossed the path. The horizontal willow seemed to be chock full of small birds providing only the briefest of glimpses.
Back at the cross roads a Buzzard was spotted on top of one of the dead trees, seemed to sense us watching and was off

Not a lot seen but a very enjoyable wander

Migrants

2010-10-11T18:25:00.000+01:00

It seemed ungrateful not to give the most recent migrants a visit so after lunch today we had a trip to St. Mary's.
Leaving the car at the first carpark we headed for the path down the west side of the reserve. Within 10 yards Goldcrest were tumbling out of the hawthorn hedge. We stood within three feet of them feeding totally unconcerned

You just could not be anything but entranced by them - I mean, just look at it......

A Blackcap was feeding on the elderberries

and a female Redstart was insect catching

There were Robins everywhere, and being watched by about a dozen others this female Red-flanked Bluetail

Small picture but enough to confirm what we were watching. Then this bird below which I don't know what it is so comments welcome.

A very enjoyable visit - thanks birds.

'Ower the wata'

2010-10-07T16:23:00.001+01:00

It was necessary to head south of the Tyne today so on the return trip we stopped at Whitburn and had a walk along the cliff top path.
The tide was well on its way up so was starting to push the birds toward the cliff face.
A couple of Bar-tailed Godwit bickered at the waters edge

There were good numbers of Redshank, Turnstone, with Sanderling and Dunlin present

A huge flock of Golden Plover were gradually being pushed off the rock ends and they gradually made their way to the old shooting range fields

Goldfinch fed on the seed harvest

and I don't have a clue what this was on the sea surface, being mobbed by gulls for 3-4 minutes

Then it was time for ice cream and coffee next to the car park

Watergate Park

2010-10-06T19:40:00.000+01:00

Following a trip to Sunniside earlier today " to fix me Mams telly" we had a walk around the lake in Watergate Park . I had visited this reserve only once before.
The idea to visited was sparked by a pair of Kingfishers flying across in front of the car at Watergate, between Lobley Hill and Sunniside, only 2 or 3 days earlier.
We wandered down the side of the water toward the bridge at the South end and watched a Buzzard being very seriously mobbed by a dozen Corvid. Whilst standing on the bridge a couple of Little Grebe were diving out of sight, and a Kingfisher call alerted us to the same heading towards us, under the bridge and into the sheltered reeded area behind. There must be 10-12 Little Grebe on this stretch of water. A single male Pochard rested amongst Tufted Duck and Mallard.
At the north end there are a couple of Dragonfly ponds. Don't know why I had not visited these during the summer, but not to late as a pair of Southern Hawkers and I think a male Migrant were still present.
Quite a nice outing.

Ruff?

2010-10-02T20:03:00.000+01:00

I have just remembered that on our way to St. Mary's Island a couple of days ago that I stopped at the Beehive flash and took a couple of shots of a pair of birds which I could not identify at the time. So I have just had a look and although I'm not totally confident I think they were Ruff.

Pics should enlarge on click

Comments welcome

St. Mary's Brent

2010-09-30T17:37:00.000+01:00

A visit to St. Mary's this afternoon was quite productive.

In the North Bay a single Brent Goose fed on the green seaweed

A couple of Bar-Tailed Godwit moved uneasily from patch to patch

While the Dunlin were heads down getting stuck-in while they could

Small numbers of Sanderling mixed with the Turnstone, Redshank and Ringed Plover

and Curlew

Large numbers of Lapwing and Golden Plover gathered in the South Bay rock ends as the tide came in.

Rock Pipits and Wheatear were also present

Fen Bog

2010-09-25T20:59:00.001+01:00

On the A169 Whitby to Pickering road, there is a reserve called Fen Bog. I have only ever visited during the month of September but feel that I must try to visit mid summer when the dragonfly season should be at its peak.
Parking is at the entrance

Fen Bog

This Adder was quite unconcerned at me being there.

There were good numbers of Black darters but no other dragons.

Black darter, male

Black darter, female

There is always plenty of steam loco action alongside the reserve

Still plenty of Dragons

2010-09-16T15:47:00.000+01:00

I was wondering how the Dragonfly would react to the recent cooler nights so we had a walk around Big Waters outlet stream around mid-day. The raised boardwalk was alive with Common Darters. There must have been 25 - 30 on the timberwalkway alone . Even more along the path on the North side of the stream as well as 2-3 Migrant Hawker male. At least thats what I believe it to be. Corrections will be gratefully received.

Migrant Hawker? - this one has lost part of its rear right wing

So its now off to Whitby for a week.

St Mary's Island

2010-09-09T22:35:00.000+01:00

We found time to go to St Mary's Island after lunch today. As we approached there was a large flock of Golden Plover above and it was not long before they settled on the rocks in front of the promenade. Amongst them were a few Redshank, Oystercatcher, Curlew - and loads of Starling

A small number of Sanderling lingered on the outskirts of the group

and a few Dunlin and Turnstone fed as the Golden Plover watched

Once the causeway was flooded a reasonable number of Sanderling gathered on the island rocks

I'm pleased to see these birds returning

Shibdon monday evening

2010-09-06T20:38:00.000+01:00

With the wind from the south east, Shibdon seemed a decent bet since the area at the hide end of the pond would be sheltered. There were about a dozen Snipe feeding with this one posing. Those markings are spectacular.

This group were just to the right of the hide

A Water Rail wandered past, for a few yards then took flight for the reeds

Grey Heron sheltered at the foot of the reed belt

Greenshank, Little Egret, Green Sandpiper, Shoveler, Redshank were also present.

Although I was quite certain that I had seen the Spotted Crake on earlier visits I finally convinced myself on the sighting tonight. The clincher was seeing the relative bill sizes of the Spotted Crake and Water Rail together in the scope.

Cragside nuthatch

2010-09-03T18:36:00.000+01:00

On our recent visit to Cragside we paid a visit to the formal garden and noticed that a brand new birdwatching hide had been erected adjacent to the entrance for the formal gardens, so we had five minutes inside. Nuthatch, Bullfinch, Chaffinch, Great Tit, Coal Tit, and Blue were in abundance.

and in the garden summer house the young Swallow were taking every morsel the parents could provide. Won't be long before they are off

Cragside dragons

2010-09-02T17:57:00.000+01:00

I'm trying to pack some dragon time in before its too late for this year and thought there may be something different at the Cragside lakes, to those I have been seeing recently at other lower elevation locations.
Sure enough a first time sighting of a Black darter.

A walk around Nelly's Moss North brought half a dozen into view. They don't seem to have much time for Common darters as they chased them whenever their paths crossed. We watched two of them having a go at a Common and you could hear their wings clattering together during the conflict

The only other species were Common darter, but there were loads of them. They were lifting off the sunlit path every couple of yards as we walked.

The rock outcrops were also hosting the darters as they gathered warmth and energy.

Along the Wall

2010-09-01T18:45:00.003+01:00

We ended up along Hadrians Wall this morning and decided to visit Housesteads since the last time was about 40 years ago. All very interesting stuff but so was a little pile of feathers on a grassy mound, one of which is shown below.

My guess is a Grey Wagtail, or maybe Goldfinch, but would appreciate any other views.
Onward to Vindolanda, which was last visited, by us, about as long ago as Housesteads where we spotted this Common Hawker in the garden area outside the coffee shop

This was a Dragonfly tick for me.

Also saw this Southern Hawker perched alongside the only piece of litter we saw all day

........and the Roman remains were good to see also.......

Finished off at Grindon Lough where I was surprised that there were no waders present. Plenty of Pied Wagtail, Teal, Lapwing, Canada and Greylag geese.

Shibdon again

2010-08-30T20:33:00.000+01:00

Shibdon pond is having a great run at the moment and with that near horizontal evening light looking so good we could not resist another visit this evening.
This Kingfisher was quite content to pose for a while.

A Greenshank took a rest while its mates were busy feeding

This Grey Wagtail kept looking at us and posing

Apparently there are currently two Spotted Crake in the pond margins

This Snipe was right in front of the hide

There were also a couple of Little Egret, Water Rail, a Green Sandpiper, and a Spotted Redshank.