Leighton Moss

A few nights at Arnside, Cumbria  gave us the opportunity to visit a few wildlife locations and first up was Leighton Moss on Sunday.
I had hoped to target Dragonflies but whilst it was warm,  there was no sun, we did however watch a few Four-spotted Chasers over the water, but we had to make do with Marsh Harriers. In less than a couple of hours we had at least eight sightings. Up to five had fledged so far this season.
At the Morecambe hide there were still at least 30 Avocets including young. There has been in  excess of 70 on the saltmarshes. A single summer plumage  Spotted Redshank showed briefly along with a Little Egret. There were reports of a  Spoonbill in the area which I think I saw flying over whilst driving but couldn't stop to confirm it.

It seems a strange place to find Red Deer but they are there, with young,  right in the middle of the reed beds.

Northumberland coast

It was intended to be just a short trip to Cresswell this morning but turned into a bit more.
Within a few  miles further north we were treated to good views of these fine birds


Spoonbill at Hauxley

Two Little Egrets. Only one in this photo with the Spoonbill.

and this corker

This clutch of Shelduck chicks  were nice to see

Cragside lakes

First of all let me advise you where we bought the best steak and kidney pie and the best cornish pastie we have ever tasted. Go to The Rothbury Family Butchers - you will not be disappointed.
Then up to the lakes in Cragside Estate to see if there were any damsels and dragons to be seen.
On arrival there was no sun hence no dragonfly, but after half an hour out came the sun as well as Large Red, Blue-tailed and Azure Damselfly. Not far behind were the Four-spotted Chaser Dragonflies. With a bit of a breeze blowing they were all located in the more sheltered lakeside spots.

Oh, and this strange flying object........

Bee bonanza

We have gradually been trying to put plants into the garden which may be useful to bees and so far I was thinking I had wasted my efforts but with this mornings sunshine the flowers were covered with bees of one sort or another.
Note to self: start trying to identify them
So I have posted here a few pics of them busy at work

Kirkharle

Had to make a trip to Kirkharle Gallery  to deliver some work and while we were there a pair of Grey Wagtail were flycatching in the adjacent stream.
Although the light was poor their colours shone out like a beacon. Very smart birds.

and these were the two I delivered

Tynemouth Haven Fulmars

Further to the previous post I did manage to sneak a few images of the Fulmars flying across the cliff face.
Their  nasal passages  attached to the upper bill as well as the bills' pronounced hooked end make it quite unique in appearance

Apparently they can produce a stomach oil made which is used against predators, which can lead to death, as well as an energy rich food source for chicks and for the adults during their long flights. 

Tynemouth Haven

The intention had been for a stroll along the pier but due to the recent heavy seas the gate was shut.
However whilst standing looking over the wall this Kestrel appeared just above.

It then flew down to a nearby lighting standard