The Final Birds of 2018

Filby - 21st Dec

Just before Christmas I found myself not far from Filby so stopped in to look for the red head Smew. Agnes was very excited but once I had wrestled my scope off her I couldn't locate the Smew on Filby Broad. A walk down to the viewing platform over Ormsby Broad also was unsuccessful, but while walking back through the trees I saw a small duck land. Finding a better view we watched the Smew diving for a few minutes before it swam out of view.

North Walsham - 30th Dec

With Christmas and work commitments I wasn't expecting any birding before January 1st, but news of possibly my favorite British bird a Dipper a few miles from home couldn't be turned down.  I popped out at first light calling first at Ebridge Mill without luck. I drove the short distance to Briggate Mill no Dipper but at least I meet a fellow birder. I also came across two Red Deer stags by the roadside. I drove home via Ebridge, again I found myself alone, and initially I saw no bird. A final quick look by the mill pool overflow and the Dark-bellied Dipper was only a few meters away. The bird was very confiding allowing me close enough to get photos with my small compact camera. A delightful bonus bird to end the year.

Happy New Year and Happy Birding.

More Christmas Shopping

Each year work permit us one extra day off at Christmas, on Thursday (6th) we attended Agnes' first Nativity, she was 'The Star'. By about 10am I was free to go and try to finish my Christmas shopping and planned to head to Holt.

News of an unseasonal Red-rumped Swallow, meant a detour via Cley was inevitable. Luckily I could see the RRS as I pulled in by the East Bank. The bird hawked away over my head for 10 minutes, before I decided I should actually do some shopping. A couple of the shops I planned to visit were closed so I was soon heading off again. I'm not a great fan of shopping and after another brief stop I somehow found myself at Titchwell RSPB! Driving via the lanes near Choseley I came across two Corn Bunting my first of the year, but little else worthy of note.

Titchwell reserve was very quiet, on my stomp out to the beach I passed only 2 or 3 people. The tide was out so I walked out to the gun platform to view the sea. I soon found a group of Goldeneye just beyond the surf, followed by a lone juvenile Eider and two Great Crested Grebe. Over the next 30 minute a few auk passed distantly, I found a few Long-tailed Duck, a passing Great Northern Diver and a Red necked Grebe. It always amazes me how you miss birds scanning a relatively flat sea, as from nowhere a Slavonian Grebe appeared close inshore. By the dunes a kind gent pointed out a Black throated Diver towards Brancaster, it's been a while since I've seen one on the deck and it surprised me the definition on black and white. Back on the fresh marsh I located a Water Pipit in the cut reed margins and a Water Rail called unseen by reception.

Heading toward Norwich to have dinner and late night shopping with Laura a Red Kite drifted by between Fakenham and Guist.

I have just about completed my Chrismas shopping now and also don't expect to add more birds to my year list. Atleast I won't have to by petrol station gifts on Xmas eve after going on a twitch!

Christmas shopping for Beans

Sea Palling - 24th November

On Saturday we visited a Christmas Fayre in Martham and Hicklong. We came back via Waxham and Sea Palling allowing me to look for the Tundra Bean Geese in the area. Luckily they were on the edge of the larger goose flock and not far from the road so only took a brief 10 minute stop between Fayres.

Wroxham/Buckenham - 29th November

By 9.30am on Thursday I had dropped Agnes at nursery, done a quick Lidl shop and brought some Christmas presents in Wroxham. I decided to check out Wroxham Broad, a few Tufties, Little and Great Crested Grebe were a litle disappointing. With plenty of time I decided to call in at Buckenham to look at the recently returned Taiga Bean Geese. Upon arrival the wind had whippied up something rotten and standing by the gate my scope was rocking. Luckily the small clump of bushes on the track gave enough shelter to scan the grazing marsh towards Cantley. 6 Pinkfeet initially excited me and 5 Barnacle geese were with the large flock of Canada Geese. However at the back of the marsh I spotted a dark head appear followed by a second. Eventally 7 Taiga Bean Geese appeared from behind a bank/grassy hollow, distant but distinct.

Sheringham - 3rd December

Today I headed for Sheringham after the Nursery run for a couple more presents, but as most shops opened at 9.30 I had almost an hour sea watching. The sea was quite calm, good for viability but not good for close in birds. I managed c25 Red-throated Diver, 1 Great Northern Diver, 3 Brent Geese and a decent number of auks. Many where distant and mainly Guillemots, but at least 2 Razorbill could be IDed and a surprise Puffin briefly landed just beyond the pots. Also a delight to see was the returning Black Redstart, wintering again by the old hotel. While I was there it spent most of its time on the railings and hopping about on the prom at times only a few meters away as I sea watched.

Barton Birdfest

Yesterday (22nd) despite the overcast weather I decided on a morning jaunt around Barton Turf, as I hadn't been out for a week or so. Walking down the lane between the carpark and board walk, a large group of thrushes passed over mainly being Redwing but also a few Fieldfare, good numbers of Chaffinch and Blue/Great Tit where in the road side hedge. The carr woodland was rather quite but a group of Siskin/Redpoll flitting about the Alders were worth note. Scanning the Broad most of the ducks seemed distant but after a while a boat passed through and many came closer. 50+ Goldeneye were surprisingly the dominant wildfowl, but also 3 Scaup, 16 Great Crested Grebe, a Long-tailed Duck and lone Pochard, plus the expected Mallard, Tufties and Teal. A Kingfisher whizzed past and just as I was about to leave when two female Goosander drifted into flew before flying towards the back of the Broad. Walking back the lane was even busier than before. The Redwing had settled in the ivy by the board walk entrance along with 3 Song Thrush and I followed a family of Long-tailed Tit along the hedge. A Roe deer then ran across the road heading into a strip of maize, birds scattered. I counted 8 Bullfinch (6 male), 30+ Brambling, Siskin, Goldfinch, Greenfinch, Chaffinch, 2 Reed Bunting, Blue Tit and Great Tit, as the birds settled in the hedge. A Marsh Tit also called and the Thrush flock (or another) joined the throng. I had a quick drive/wander around the village/staithe area finding to further large Redwing/Fieldfare flocks but little else.

A Little Birthday Birding

On Thursday (8th), my Birthday  Laura and I started off at Sheringham having a full English Breakfast. Before this we had a quick look for the King Eider from the Lifeboat slope. It didn't take us long to locate the bird on a calm flat sea, we both had good scope views before heading off for breakfast. Walking back to the car a Red-throated diver was seen close in and a Purple Sandpiper flew past.

Next stop was Felbrigg, and parking up by the back gate we first had a wander in the woods seeing the usual suspects. We then bumped into some old neighbours, so had a coffee and a chat, sitting it the warm sun of the courtyard before walking the lake loop. A female Mandarin on the water meadows was the only note worthy bird.

Walking to work in the morning I have started to see wildlife and birds start to move back into the city centre for the Winter. On the 26th October I saw a dog Otter near New Mills Yard and in the same area a Water Rail on 5th November. The Grey Wagtail are now a regular sight but not so the regular Kingfishers of last year. Also on the 5th November a Black Redstart was seen singing at the top of Lower Goat Lane.

Today (12th) after the Nursery drop off I headed to Horsford to see if I could catch up with the Parrot Crossbill as I,m busy for the next few days. After a short while I heard and located a small group of Crossbill in the pines. Among their called I could hear a deeper sounding call and after 30 minutes of watching in the dense tree tops got brief views of a male Parrot Crossbill. I continued my wander hoping to locate a larger group of Crossbill that might hold the additional reported Parrot Crossbill and hopefully better views. This I failed to do however the woods were full of interesting fungi and numerous groups of small birds including a lone Brambling and a Siskin flock.

After typing up this post I noticed that yesterday's Pallid Swift from Sheringham had been relocated near Overstrand, and with 55 minutes before pickup at Nursery I decided to attempt a 'Swift' Twitch in more than once sense. Driving towards Cromer I got stuck behind a bus and then a tractor, so it was almost 11.30am when I parked. A quick jog across the golf course and I was viewing the Pallid Swift cutting along the cliff edge in the company of a House Martin. Five minutes of decent views and I had to rush off again. This bird would be a Norfolk Tick hence the rush, having seen one other Pallid Swift in Suffolk, but half way home I remembered seeing a Pallid Swift at Cley, whoops! 

Late October Update

Salthouse - 22nd October

On Monday I collect James from Norwich for our regular half-term bird watching catch up. With two new birds for Norfolk in the Weybourne/Salthouse area we knew where we were heading. Weybourne's Brown Shrike of the previous day had not been relocated so we first stopped at Salthouse. Parking by the Duck Pond we soon found ourselves looking at the probable Stejneger's Stonechat, if a little distant. Over the next 15 minutes the bird showed well in the scope but never came to close, perching in the reeds and sheltering from the worst of the blustery wind. A Wheatear also flitted about the marshes. We decided to move onto Weybourne despite no news on the Brown Shrike, parking up we were met by a stream of returning birders. No only had the bird not been re-found but access to the core of the site had been temporarily at least revoked. It is a military and tank demonstration area so I guess you don't want to get in the way! James and I spent a short while looking in from the periphery, but after further news the finder had given the site a good walk though decided, it had probably moved on over night and we moved on to.

Gun Hill - 22nd October

James and I decided to head towards Holkham always a hot spot for migrant, parking up on the Coast Road we headed down towards Gun Hill. Surprising the hedgerows alongside the track often bristling with Thrushes held few birds, but a few Pink-feet and Brent Geese head in the meadows. By the board walk a Stonechat was chirping and we could see a few birds along the saltmarsh margins. Made up of Linnet, Meadow Pipit and Reed Bunting the little group came and went when walkers passed by, but among them one bird drew our attention. With strong chestnut head colours and quite a clean breast a juvenile bunting had us debating Rustic Bunting, unable to get a photo and on balance we decided it was most likely a Reed Bunting. A late Whinchat uncharacteristically skulked around the sueada, before perching up as we had a snack lunch. A few Redwing flew over and a Chiffchaff was the only migrant warbler seen as we walked West. Walking back along the seaward side, we spent time looking for specialist dune fungi and insects.

A quick stop at a favoured site for Tree Sparrow was fruitless, with extensive development on site likely to moved the birds on. Also the nearly set a side fields, often full of wintering birds as yet seemed quiet.

Paston Cliffs - 28th October

With the clock changing we dove to Great Yarmouth along the coast waiting for the shops to open. Between Hickling and Potter Heigham a pale looking buzzard flew over the car and pulling over we could clearly see it was of the Rough-legged flavour. While shopping I heard of a King Eider at Sea Palling, a bird I've missed a couple of times and it looked like I would be missed again as it had flown off by the time I returned home.

I decided to call in at Walcott in the hope the King Eider may still be in the area. The waves were still rolling in and I soon realised with my low elevation by the sea wall I was probably missing many birds between the waves. Gannets steamed through and a few auks were seem cutting through the waves, I was about to leave when I saw a small bird disappear behind a wave, I was surprised to see a Leach's Petrel emerge, an not the half expected Little Auk.

Despite this success I still packed up the scope and headed to Paston Cliffs in the hope of finding a migrant Owl perched up. Upon arriving I could see a heavy shower hanging offshore and heading my way, so I stayed in the car, and sea watched from the back seat! This higher elevation made seeing the bird much easier and I could see large numbers of Gannet, Guillemot and Razorbill passing distantly, also smaller numbers of Kittewake and Red-throated Diver. A Great Northern Diver was my first of the Autumn, before I got very lucky. The King Eider earlier seen at Sea Palling flew through heading North and to help with identification was followed 5 minutes later by a group of 17 Eider, a mixture of juvenile and adult bird. 2 Little Auk also flew through close to the breakers completing a rather hectic 40 minutes or so of sea watching. A quick lap of the scrub and holiday camp gave up little, the hoped for migrant owls were not seen but the sea watching more than made up for that. A group of 12 GBB Gull on the beach were of note along with c600 Starling new in. Just before I left a Rainbow appeared out to sea, slowly drifting toward the cliffs with a rain shower and appeared to pass right through me!

Paston Cliffs - 3rd November

A late afternoon walk offered little bird life in the quickly gathering dusk. The resident Linnet and Dunnock bar a few gulls the only birds until 3 Redpoll flew over calling. As I left a mass of corvids gathered by the windmill ready to roost.

More North East Norfolk Birding

Norwich - 14th Oct

In my last post I failed to mention my flying visit too Cotessey to see the Rosie Starling. Having to visit Longwater Retail park it would have been silly not to look despite the light drizzle in the air. I got out of the car and Laura parked just around the corner. Within seconds the bird popped up over a rooftop ridge. I watched for a minute before realising Laura could see just as clearly from the opposite side of the house. So we watched for 5 minutes from the car before the bird dropped from view and we went shopping.

Trimingham/Paston Cliffs - 16th Oct

See previous post.

Happisburgh - 17th Oct

After the success of Tuesday I felt optermistic about Wednesday so after finishing physio at 10am I killed two hours at Happisburgh. Parking by the village hall, the cricket pitch hedge held a couple of Goldcrest and the church yard 2 Blackcap, a Chiffchaff and mixed tit flock. I took a slow walk along get beach road knowing a Pallas Warbler was nearby on Tuesday, I probably took 45 minutes to walk 150m. But picking through the tits and finches present I was rewarded with my favourite stripy sprite, a Pallas Warbler near the Manor's orchard gates. 2 Blackcap, 4+ Goldcrest and a Chiffchaff were nearby. Redwing streamed overhead just as on Tuesday and grounded Blackbird were evident. By the track to the long gone lifeboat shed c15 Brambling fed in the sycamores and a skulky Dunnock held my attention too long. Along the cliffs by the old coastguard's a good number of Skylark and Meadow Pipit were probably mainly migrants. A smallish looking bunting among these drew my attention but I was a ready running late to collect Agnes. I did however manage a grainy record shot which on reviewing at home looked larger and was probably just a strangely marked Reed Bunting, rather than something rarer.

Paston Cliffs - 18th Oct

A flying visit found the cliff top patch surprisingly quite. Tuesdays 2 Lapland Bunting flying over again the only highlight. A 20 minute sea watch only produced a steady stream of Gannet East, a few lingering Red-throated Diver off shore and few Wigeon West. Friday meant a return to work and the deminished chance of more autumn migrants.

Local Birders in the mist

The forecast didn't look like much, but this morning I woke to a heavy mist shrouding the house, always good for a fall of migrants. I decided to head to Trimingham knowing that a Lapland Bunting had recently been present. I parked up near the church and noted a few Chaffinch and Brambling around the church yard. I then spotted Mike Lawrence (Back in Birdland) with his camera suggesting something might be about. Behind the Pottery Mike was waiting for an illusive warbler in the scrub, after a brief chat I continued further on to the clifftop wood. The mist was slowly clearing and Redwing streamed in, in small groups along with the odd Fieldfare and Song Thrush. The clifftop wood was full of Goldcrest 30+ but I couldn't make out anything rarer than 2 Chiffchaff and a Blackcap. Joining to other birders we walked the cliff and small copse, Redwing and Goldcrest topped the list, but Skylark and Meadow Pipit appeared to come in-off the sea. Walking back we flushed the Lapland Bunting present for a few days, c400 Starling passed over in two groups and the fields seemed alive with Meadow Pipit and Pied Wagtail.

Back by the Pottery the illusive Dusky Warbler found earlier was still being illusive, I was directed to it's last known location and left alone to wait. After 30 minutes or so the bird finally called and I managed brief views, clearly showing its bright supercilium. Despite the bird continuing to call on and off I only managed a couple of typical skulking views.

After the success of Trimingham I decided I should check the patch at Paston Cliffs. Getting out of the car incoming Thrushes were obvious, especially Redwing. 5 Goldcrest flitted about by the cliff edge track. I then spotted 2 Lapland Bunting drinking from a small puddle only feet away. The now resident Stonchat flitted in the Brambles, and a very large Goldfinch/Linnet flock was on the fallow field. I then meet Bob Cobbold, another local birder and over the the next hour we chatted and walked the small area.

A Lesser Whitethroat, 2 Blackcap and a Chiffchaff were seen along with a decent amount of grounded Song Thrush and Blackbird The Lapland Bunting flew over again, before we were both drawn to an unusual bird for the patch, a Coal Tit. With gingery flanks and a slatey blue back the birds showed characteristics of the continental race. That capped of a very pleasant morning spent unexpectedly in the company of some local birders, whom I know I share my patch with but we very rarely bump into.

Horsey Ortolan

Yesterday I was out early has I had a list of jobs I should have been doing, but still wanted to have a look at Horsey for the previous days Ortolan Bunting. I arrived at Horsey Corner just after 7.15am early enough for free parking a good start (the pay machines is locked away overnight), and headed towards Waxham Sand Holiday Park. I had briefly stopped a Happisburgh for a sunrise photo.

A theme of the last few days, a pair of Stonechat just south of the Caravan Park were still delightful to watch. I set up in the dunes to scan the short turf of the caravan park, and on my second pass I spotted the Ortolan Bunting feeding on the edge of a track way. I watched the bird for 3/4 minutes before a dog ran across the grass, the OB flew directly over my head and appeared to drop in the dunes a short distance away. I spent a short while looking, succeeding in only flushing the bird before losing it again, but a Richard's Pipit flew over calling. I returned to scan the caravan park but added only a Chiffchaff in the brambles. I walked north scanning the bushes and scrub before turning back to the car park via the dunes. At the northern edge of the caravan park a Yellow-browed Warbler was calling and a Richard's Pipit was seen in the dunes not far from the car. The peace and quiet of the morning walk was soon replaced by the whine of the petrol strimmer, as I gave our hedge its annual major hair cut now the birds have stopped nesting.

Blyth's Reed Warbler and other Migrants

I had decided to head out to Blakeney Point after dropping Agnes at Nursery at 8am. I though this would be my best chance to see the bird, rather than wait for news and then set off. The day started in shambolic style, putting Agnes in the car I realised my walking boots had just been driven to Norwich with my wife, rushing for Nursery I grabbed my sandals to drive in and threw my wellies in the boot, not ideal footwear to tackle the Point! Then halfway to Blakeney for some reason I glanced onto the back seat, S**T no binocluars, driving back home I found them by the boot rack.

After a very brief pull into Walsey Hills, where a Jack Snipe was on view from the road, I belatedly arrived in Cley's Beach Road car park about 9.30am. At least by this time a report had just come out that the Bylth's Reed Warbler had stayed overnight. Knowing the tides was going out I took the long slog out on the shingle, reserving sandy beach for my walk back.

Not far beyond the fishing boats I had a female Brambling emerge from the sueada, but I was almost at Halfway House before the next notable bird, a male Ring Ouzel. Near the Hood a Yellow-browed Warbler skirted the saltmarsh margins, flitting a few more yards every time I approached. There seemed good numbers of Meadow Pipit and Linnet around and 4 juv. Gannet passed close to the shore, along with groups of Wigeon and Teal.

Approaching the Plantation 4/5 Wheatear frequented the short grass, but no birder watchers. I made myself comfortable and had only been seated 5 minutes when the Blyth's Reed Warbler was chased from the brambles by a Yellow-browed Warbler. This diminutive bird must have suffered from Napoleon complex as preceded to chase everything. The Blyth's Reed showed on and off for 5-10 minutes before again being chased. I watched the Plantation for the next hour as a few other birders arrived. The Blyth's failed to reappear, but 2 Lesser Whitethroat, 2 Blackcap, a Chiffchaff and Goldcrest all showed on and off.

I wandered over to the Old Lifeboat House and soon located a smart pair of Stonechat, while watching these I noticed a thrush disappear behind the toilet block. Further investigation revealed a lone Fieldfare and 6 Redwing in the brambles, but also another Lesser Whitethroat and a Barred Warbler. The Barred Warbler showed well as it ate blackberries before being disturbed by the Redwing. After a further 10 minutes by the Plantation I decided to walk back via the Dunes. A second Brambling of the day was in the dunes and a couple of Chaffinch appeared a little out of place on the beach.

A slow amble back along the surf was easy on the feet and gave me a chance enjoy the warm sun that had broken through. A couple of species jellyfish were on the beach, I only photographed one but have no idea on ID. Back at the car by 2.30pm I though about going to Waxham for the Ortolan Bunting, but my legs said no!

Patch-tastic

This morning (7th) Laura, Agnes and myself decided to have a wander around Blickling NT. While walking the park land and around the lake 3 groups a Redwing flew overhead my first of the Autumn. A Green Woodpecker was seen a very close quarters, and 2 others more distant. 2 Mistle Thrush were by the formal gardens and a probable Hawfinch briefly in the beeches by the lake.

Laura offered too cook an evening roast, but that meant I couldn't paint the kitchen ceiling so by 2pm I found myself once again at Paston Cliffs.

On getting out of the car the patch felt and sounded different, with the resident Dunnock families rather adjatated, there were extra birds about. By the cliff edge track I soon located a tit flock unusual in itself here, with Long-tailed, Blue and Great Tit together, but also a Yellow-browed Warbler in tow.

Close by another warbler drew my attention, it appeared to be a Lesser Whitethoat but with more extensive brown tones, possible 'Siberian' characteristics now I'm looking in a book, but I'll never know as it dissopeared into the scrub and re-emerging as my second Yellow-browed Warbler!

A group of pipit appeared to come in-off and all looked like Meadow Pipit. A very grumpy Dunnock alerted me to a striking male Stonechat perched on the cliff face gorse, and this was quickly joined by a female partner. Chiffchaff and migrant Robin were also seem along the cliff. I then spent a few minutes having a stare off with Stoat only a few meters away. The potato field has been lifted and held 2 Stock Dove and a number of Skylark.

Retracing my steps I scanned the scrub and cliff face. The grumpy Dunnock was still calling but this time on the short turf nearby a Snow Bunting was yet another surprise. The YBW was still with the tit flock along with a Chiffchaff. Walking towards Mundesley there is much less scrub and thus fewer birds but a couple of Redwing appeared exhausted near the paddocks.

With earlier news of  RB Flycatcher at Trimingham and a few GG Shrike appearing along the coast I detoured home via the quiet lanes of Gimingham and Trimingham taking it slow. No GG Shrike and the RB Flycatcher had not been seen again, however a flock of c.20 Brambling where in Trimingham church yard. A lone Fieldfare was seen drinking from a puddle near Trunch to complete my migrants for the afternoon.

I now have 10 days off work, with only a kitchen ceiling to paint and migrants arriving, maybe this year I've timed my Autumn holiday right?!

A bit more sea watching

Paston Cliffs - 26th September

Again the winds were not ideal, but I was able to start sea watching at Paston just after 7am, so I was hopeful of at least a few birds passing through early. Shortly after arriving I heard the unmistakable 'wink-wink' call of Pink-footed Geese and soon saw my first returning birds of the Autumn with c60 heading east. With relatively strong north-westerly winds the day before most bird seen seemed to be passing back west. During the hour I watched the sea only 5 Gannet, 3 Sandwich Tern and 4 Cormorant headed East. These were joined by 4 Pink-footed Geese low over the sea and a small skein of 14 Brent Geese also heading east. Birds were heading West in slightly larger numbers, highlights being 3 Velvet Scoter among 23 Common Scoter, a lone Arctic Skua harassing Sandwich Tern and single Balearic and Manx Shearwater. A group of c15 Teal also headed west.

While sea watching two further skeins of c70 and c60 Pink-footed Geese flew overhead. Scanning the paddocks and scrub were very unproductive with only resident birds seen, a late House Martin flew East and a lone Stock Dove was on the freshly drilled field.

Trimingham - 26th September

After popping home and applying a second coat of paint in the kitchen, I was left with the choice of watching paint dry, food shopping or another walk. I opted for a second walk followed by shopping.
Walking the cliff top fields and the clifftop woods failed to turn up anything of note, and the scrub behind the Pilgrim Shelter only held a couple of Chiffchaff.

Cley Marshes NWT - 27th September

With a day off from DIY I headed for Cley after dropping Agnes at Pre-School. I wasn't expecting much but decided on a change of scenery from the patch. The daily sightings board was still empty so I headed for the main hide cluster. An educational group had taken over Dauke's Hide, so positioned myself looking over Simmond's Scrape in Avocet Hide, but I could see no waders. The reason for this was soon obvious, with a male Peregrine sitting in the middle of one of the small islands. After 10 minutes and only a flyby Marsh Harrier I relocated into Teal Hide looking over Pat's Pool. A few Ruff and Dunlin were on show if a little distant, but before I could scan for anything more interesting, the Peregrine flew through scattering everything. A Common Sandpiper bobbed along the far bank once the birds eventually settled and after further scanning the previous days Pectoral Sandpiper was found feeding with the Ruff and Dunlin. A small flock of Golden Plover were a sign of the changing seasons. The Peregrine's third appearance was my cue to head back to the visitor center for a cup of tea. Driving down Beach Road I hoped to see the reported Purple Sandpiper by the sluice however maintenance work on the West Bank meant there was lots of heavy machinery about so I couldn't park. I contented myself with a leisurely drive home, via the back roads.

Paston Cliffs - 2nd October

Today I managed to catch an hour or so sea watching between 8.00am and 9.10am. The previous days winds had subdued but there was still a strong movement of birds East. With my first Red-throated diver, Great Skua and Pomarine Skua of the Autumn. The scrub gave up no raraties to note however 4 tired looking Blackbird and 5 Robin were probably birds passing through.

Gannet x52 (e) x4 (w)
Sooty Shearwater x2 (e)
Red-throated Diver x11 (e)
Sandwich Tern x4 (e)
Cormorant x9 (e) x4 (w)
Great Skua x1 (e)
Arctic Skua x1 (w)
Pomarine Skua x1 (e)
Shelduck x1 (e)
Common Scoter x5 (w)
Wigeon x36 (w)
Great Crested Grebe x1 (e)
Guillemot x2 (w)

September in Norfolk

Paston Cliffs - 6th September

After dropping Agnes at Nursery for her first day I headed to Paston Cliffs in the hope of a few migrants or a maybe a passing sea bird. The wind wasn't ideal but I started off sea watching using the car for shelter, after 40 minutes I had a modest total of 6 Sandwich Tern, 5 Gannet, 2 Guillemot and a single Manx Shearwater, before managing to swash a wasp between my finger and scope. With a swollen finger I gave up looking at the sea and hit the bushes. The resident Linnet were about and to my delight I also found 3 juv. Yellowhammer. The nearby fields are being ploughed and had attracted lots of gulls, many of which flew overhead and landed on the beach. Scanning through I managed to find a single Little Gull but little else. However sitting on the end groyne post was a 'small' Cormorant, on second inspection it was an unexpected Shag. Back at the car the male Sparrowhawk of the resident pair was perched close by and I got within feet before if flew off.

Waxham - 11th September

A mild head cold was good enough excuse not to paint the new kitchen, so I decided to 'take some air' at Waxham. Parking behind the church I headed East towards the Pipe Dump (or as it should be called the area previously known as, because the area has now been cleared). With the winds not the most favourable it was unsurprising the lack of migrants, with only a few 5 Swallow East and a few Whitethroat that could all have been resident seem among a group of commoner species. Beyond the Pipe Dump the birds picked up with a group of Swallow (c12) and 2 House Martin hawking over Waxham Sans campsite, a Wheatear on the grass and a female Stonechat close by. Walking back via the dunes 2 Meadow Pipit flew over high going East and a Reed Bunting was flushed. Looking inland a flock of 18 Common Crane where flying towards Horsey Mill. By the board walk path I watched a family of 4 Kestrel hunting and squabbling together, before finding 2 Whinchat perched up. The trees and scrub around Shangri-La chalet held no new birds but in the sheltered sunny spots dragonfly and butterfly enjoyed that later summer warmth.

Happisburgh - 16th September

After a morning shopping trip the wife encouraged me to go for a walk while little one slept. The winds were westerly so I wasn't hoping for much. Parking by the village hall at Happisburgh I wandered out past the paddocks to the Old Coastguard Lookout. A silent Chiffchaff was in the hedge by the paddocks but it seemed very quiet. Checking out the old buildings a Wheatear in the field beyond caught my eye. I was pleasantly surprised that sitting in the Elders out of the wind was the Barred Warbler seen here by others a few days earlier. Typically I had no camera but watched the bird at close quarters for 5 minutes before it was spooked by a dog walker. 4 Swallow flew south and 2 House Martin were still around the village. Just as interesting as the bird life was the Odonata species among the old building, rather surprising considering the lack of nearby fresh water. Common Blue Damselfly, Common Darter and  Migrant Hawker were all seen but most surprising considering the habitat was at least 2 Willow Emerald Damselfly. Excuse the poor picture taken on my phone in blustery wind and strong sunlight!

Bacton Woods - 22nd September

In the morning as a family we had a pleasant walk around Bacton Woods, collecting pine cones for Christmas and hiding in dens! As ever bird life was limited in the primarily pine woodland, but Goldcrest were present in high numbers, and Coal Tit and Treecreeper were nice to see. Also despite the very dry summer fungus are starting to emerge this Autumn.

Paston Cliffs - 22nd September

In the afternoon I headed again to Paston Cliffs, with westerly winds it was a walk of hope rather than expectation. Walking west I scanned the scrub on the cliff face and happened to look up to catch a lone Black-tailed Godwit flying West. While following the bird I noticed a few Sandwich Tern passing offshore so had a 15 minute impromptu sea watch. 9 Sandwich Tern and 2 Common Tern headed west but little was passing by, however I found 2 new patch birds on the sea in the form of a Red-necked Grebe and immature Eider. A juvenile Yellowhammer sulking in the bracken gave hope of something rarer, but the cutting of the set-a-side field has lead to a much quieter feel, with most of the large Linnet and Goldfinch flock absent. Walking back to the car a Tree Pipit flew East through calling, continuing towards the Gas Terminal.

Birds & Beer back on Tour

Earlier in the Summer I had invited James, Gary and Jim on a nostaligic birds watching tour of the pubs of North Norfolk, when I heard this may be the last summer the Coasthopper Bus service may Run. On the 31st August (Nine years after the original tour) James arrives to collect me at 10am. James had volunteered to be our designated driver after deciding against using the bus with our offer of a lift to the start point just too early.

I had a short target list of Pubs to visit, first was the King's Arms in Blakeney, initially this looks a poor choice being on the main street however I knew it backed onto the grazing meadows and onward towards the outer harbour and Morston. With stong heat haze already scoping towards the more distant areas was out of the question, but we soon had a tally on 20 species. With a new pub birding tick in Reed Warbler seen in the adjacent Hawthorn hedge.

Next stop was the Three Swallows at Cley, a pub offering bonus birds in it's title! A large group of hinderines swooped about over the marshes and a Sparrowhawk also flew through.

Moving onto the Dun Cow (the Birds and Beer Mecca) we soon abandoned our plans for lunch, it was just too posh. We stayed long enough to add a few more birds, including Avocet flying towards Cley. In truth it was disappointing with the dry summer and current weather the marshes were dry and heat haze prevailed.

Un-deterred we headed to Sheringham, as much for food as the birds. However the Two Life Boats on the seafront gave us the opportunity to watch the sea and eat. Jim picked out 3 Gannet then a few Sandwich Tern. A flock of Ringed Plover flew east before we decided to leaves the crowds.

The Gunton Arms was out final stop, set on the edge of a deer park it offered the potential of many birds still absent from out pub lists. Sadly this proved an bit of an anticlimax with only a few additional common birds. We finished the day with 42 species a modest total but still a pleasant day spent with friends none the less.

Early Morning on the Patch

I haven't really ventured onto the patch much, but with a few migrants starting to pass through Paston Cliffs seemed a good place to visit after waking early on Thursday (23rd).

Arriving at 6.15am the site was very quiet, just a few Dunnock and the resident Linnet viable on exiting the car. I had walked only a few yards and a large spot of rain landed on my head. I had a quick scan of the scrub by the car and spent a few minutes rooting out a juv. Whitethroat before the shower forced me back into the car. I re positioned the car had 10 minutes sea watching while the shower quickly blew through, my reward a single distant Gannet and unidentified small wader.

Walking towards the Gas Terminal everything was rather subdued, with the highlight being a very smart Greenfinch unusual for the site. A few Swallow drifted east seemingly with purpose, and a Kestrel hoovered over the cliff edge. Back near the car a female Sparrowhawk cut along the hedge boardering the path coming within a few feet, and near the holiday chalets a male was also perched up (the reason for a lack of bird life?). A secretive warbler could not be teased out of the Blackthorn and I soon found myself back at the car, minus any early migrants. A further 15 minutes of sea watching gave up my first Manx Shearwater of the year, two Auks both almost certainly Guillemot and few distant Tern, a mixture of Sandwich and probably Common. With little passing within reasonable distance of the shore I headed home.

A Summer Update

Since my last update I haven't been out birding much with only a few local walks between the blistering sun, a family wedding in Wales and fitting a new kitchen.

During June a Cuckoo seen at Coltishall on the way to work on 5th has been my only Cuckoo sighting of the year until a Juv. bird at Potter Heigham on 7th August. Also in June I stumbled across a Honey Buzzard near Stalham on the 10th. While in Wales I caught up with a Wood Warbler (15th June) after missing the Mousehold Heath bird earlier in the year.

July was written off with the blistering heat, although a boat trip on Malthouse Broad did allow Agnes so close views of Terns and young Great Crested Grebe she really enjoyed. Most days while going to work I have seen Black Redstart in Norwich city center with at least two broods appearing to have fledged.

August brought a bit of a rest bite from the blistering heat, but also a delivery van containing a new kitchen on the 1st. Installing the kitchen is almost complete, but a family bereavement has also left me with little time. Being stuck at home did have one highlight a Spotted Flycatcher briefly in the garden on the 5th. I have also noted more butterflies and dragonflies in the garden than previous years, with Banded Damoselle and Red-eyed Damselfly new for the garden list. The moth trap hasn't had many outing after getting boxed at the back of the garage behind boxes of kitchen parts. In the last few days I have found Elephant Hawk Moth and Lime Hawk Moth caterpillars in the garden.

The allotment has been parched so I haven't been there as often as I would like, abandoning many of my crops due to the lack of water on site. The Badgers are still very active in the area with young seen on the trail cam, Hornets have started nesting in the old shed, Lesser Whitethroat have bred and I have seen Slow Worm and Grass Snake.

On the 7th August I put the kitchen aside for a few hours and arrived at Potter Heigham at 7am before any heat haze. Walking the river bank I kind birder directed my further along with directions to the Spotted Crake, I soon found both birds present. 5+ Wood Sandpiper, 2 Green Sandpiper, 1 Common Sandpiper and 7+ Ruff  were the wader highlights. Juvenile birds seemed to be flitting everywhere among the reeds, with Sedge, Reed and Grasshopper Warbler all seen. A Sedge Warbler was also seen feeding a fully grown juv. Cuckoo. Also worth note were the 20+ Little Grebes and 5+ Gargany on site.

Late May Update

Since my last last update on the 8th I haven't been out birding much in Norfolk, the main reason being a weeks family holiday to Cornwall. It looks like i missed out on the influx of Black Tern and a few later migrants but I may get a chance to see a few if they linger before heading to Wales for a few days and a family wedding.

With the influx of Black Redstart on the coast it wasn't a massive surprise to find one singing in Norwich City Center. What was a surprise was i was sitting on the canteen terrace at work when I heard and then saw the Black Redstart in 10th. In fact at least two and probably 3 males have been singing in the city over the last month, and before seeing the Black Redstart at John Lewis (work), I had looked for another just of Rose Lane that morning. Since then the 'John Lewis' bird I have seen 3 times and heard most days until 16th, also heard the 'Rose Lane' bird on 11th and since returning from Cornwall see the 'Castle Meadow' bird 3 times.

Continuing on the bird watching on route to work note on the 11th I heard a singing Cetti's Warbler near to Cow Tower and also watched the Peregrine hunting over the playing fields. Lost of large fish, bream? were also feeding under the willows along Riverside walk. Today 31st a Yellow-legged Gull was another surprise being near New Mills Yard by the sluices, my 100th bird seen on route to work.

While in Cornwall we were blessed with delightful weather and although not a bird watching trip, and with no rare birds arriving while i was there I was lucky enough to catch up with a few special birds. The biggest piece of luck came while travelling down to Cornwall. The (out of date) Sat Nav plotted us a bizarre route around Salisbury Plain, after I asked it to avoid a particular road closure (it turns out the road wasn't even closed), and while on this detour of small lanes that we chanced upon a Great Bustard, although obviously part of the reintroduction scheme, a bird I never imagined we would see.

Staying not far from Truro we visited The Lizard on the 18th and saw my only 'target' bird of the trip a Chough, we also saw two Turtle Dove for the year list as well as Razorbill, Shag and other resident birds. On the 23rd I added my first new 'Pub List Bird' for a few years with a Whimbrel from The Ship Inn in Devoran. (I must try harder to visit a few pubs while on my bird watching trips). A singing Wood Warbler withing the gated holiday complex we stayed at on the 24th was very unexpected. After missing the Mousehold bird I wasn't expecting to catch up with one until my South Wales visit.

On Tuesday 29th after visiting the opticians and waiting in for a delivery I found myself with a few hours to kill so decided on a trip to Potter Heigham Marshes (I also bought a new strimmer in Latham's). It was rather blustery but still I found lots of waders many with chicks and other water fowl on the pools. Pick of the bunch were two Curlew Sandpiper, two Common Sandpiper and a Greenshank, c30Black-tailed Godwit, 9 Dunlin and 1 Grey Plover were also of note. A Great White Egret flew over and a pair of Pochard with 2 chicks were an unusual sight.

Taking a Dip on a Hot Day

Today (Tues 8th) after spending most of Bank Holiday Monday replacing a couple of rotten sections of our conservatory I finally had a list of jobs that could at least wait half a day, so I decided a trip to Cley NWT was in order to look for the Purple Heron, not a 'lifer' but a Norfolk tick none the less.

Agnes and I left after an early breakfast as I didn't want to be out in the full heat with her. We first stopped at Salthouse Heath to look for Nightingale, although not the ideal time of day after a short wander around I located a single bird giving short often incomplete bursts of song. A Garden Warbler was also heard but not located.

Moving onto Cley NWT, from the bottom of Old Woman Lane I could see a group of birders on the West Bank all looking in different directions, I guessed the Purple Heron wasn't showing. Agnes and I therefore first tried the hide cluster. Reed and Sedge Warbler serenaded our walk, and after greeting the birders in the hide Agnes sat down to watch her 'birdies'. From Daukes Hide Avocet, Godwit and a summer plumage Ruff came very close to the hide exciting Agnes, but I mistakenly it appeared had swapped my camera bag for her change bag! Two Little Tern were my first of the year and a Sandwich Tern briefly stopped in. I checked the log book and noted that a Spotted Redshank was apparently still around so had a second check of the back of the scrape with the scope. A Common Sandpiper wandered the margins and two Little Ringed Plover were nice to see as always, I then found the Spotted Redshank, a bonus bird for late spring. We spent a short while in the Avocet Hide scanning Cricket Marsh for the Purple Heron but without luck. The Common Sandpiper did however come within feet of the hide and some Avocet displayed almost as close. By the Warden's House the call of a Cetti's Warbler perplexed Agnes, I could see the bird but she couldn't. While listening to its calls a Swift wheeled away overhead another new bird for the year. Parking up on Beach Road we joined the small group looking for the Purple Heron, it hadn't been seen all morning. We waited about 25 minutes with the only birds of note a couple of Wheatear.

It was only just after 10.00 we stopped on Kelling Heath to look for the resident Dartford Warbler. Linnet seemed to be the bird of the moment, seemingly singing from every bush, being joined by the occasional burst of Whitethroat. We found a couple of Common Lizards one of which kept Agnes amused as it popped its head in and out from a tussock of grass. I only saw one Adder, which although not approached closely reared up and hissed before slithering away. At least one Woodlark was heard singing but not seen, and a couple of Blackcap were in the Silver Birch. I had given up on Dartford Warbler when walking back past an area already checked, I heard the mechanical song from a stand of Gorse, rounding the corner I briefly saw the bird, before it saw me and dropped down from its perch. Back in the car park a Garden Warbler was calling in the scrub, after a few minutes and changes of viewing angle, eventually I could see the source. Although I was feeling the heat I think Agnes would have wandered the Heath all day but I needed to get back to those not so important jobs at home.

Despite dipping on the target bird of the trip and at times the heat, it proved a worthwhile morning out which I think we both thoughtfully enjoyed. At some point Agnes is sure to rebel or if not become a bird watching maestro, either way I lovely she wants to share my passion.

On Sunday (6th) after work I called into Mousehold Heath to look for a singing Wood Warbler, still in shirt and trousers (there's nothing wrong with formal birding). Upon arrival I met Ricky and a few other local birders, who informed me I had missed the bird by 5 minutes and it was being a bit illusive. I spent the next 45 minutes wandering the area without luck, before duties at home meant I had to head off. It was great to catch up with a couple of birders I've not seen for a while even if I missed the bird. After I left the bird was eventually found, having relocated across the road closer to the pitch and putt.

Winterton and Hickling NWT

Last Thursday (26th April) I headed off to Winterton hoping that the Pallid Harrier of previous days would still be present. On route a Yellow Wagtail was noted with the grazing sheep as we approached Waxham. I had decided to walk just the North Dunes, despite the south section often being more rewarding, I didn't think Agnes at 2 1/2 years would manage a full lap. Glancing out to sea at least 4 Common Tern were fishing, my first of the year and a couple of Wheatear where in the car park. Agnes enjoyed climbing the highest of the dunes in our attempts to find the Pallid Harrier, but without success. We did however see 25+ Wheatear, 2 Chiffchaff, a Willow Warbler and numerous Meadow Pipit and Linnet. The best moment of the day however was Agnes finding a Ring Ouzel. While I was inspecting a couple of very confiding Wheatear, Agnes shouted out 'Blackbird' and pointed to a male Ring Ouzel in the dune grasses. Walking back via the beach, a couple of Ringed Plover and the for mentioned Common Tern the only birds of note.

With rain forecast for the whole day on Wednesday (2nd), Agnes and I where at Paston Cliffs by 7.45am ahead of the rain. In the 45 minutes before the drizzle migrants finally seemed to be arriving. Getting out of the car I peered over the cliff edge checking the grassy slopes and scrub, expecting a Ring Ouzel, but not expecting the female Pied Flycatcher perched on the gorse. I thought this was a new patch bird but I had one here a few years back. Whitethoat have suddenly appeared in force with at least 5 singing on territory. 2 Chiffchaff were also calling including 1 individual that kept singing on the ground. Only 2 male Yellowhammer remain and the Linnet flock seems to have broken up with a few males spread out singing throughout the site. Despite the large numbers of Wheatear clearly finally on the move, we were walking back to the car before we saw 2 males perched on the remains of the chalets currently being upgraded. Also of not was the unusual sight of a Canada Goose on the sea.

Later in the afternoon, driving home after a trip to Sea Palling amusements a Hobby flew across the road close to Cart Gap in Happisburgh.

Today (3rd) we continued Agnes' birding education with a trip to Hickling NWT. Arriving around 8.30am we had the reserve to ourselves Agnes was very excited by the hides, whispering as she looked for birdies. Sedge Warbler and Reed Warbler were singing in good number, the former much easier to see. A Cetti's Warbler uncharacteristically sang out in the open and a Grasshopper Warbler was heard distantly. From the Observation Tower a few Tern could be seen out over the Broad, with at least 2 perched up closer being Arctic Tern. The Bittern Hide, like the Cadbury Hide only offered up the common waterfowl, but at least gave Agnes some practice separating ducks, geese and swans. Walking back along the raised bank a Hare slowly hopped along ahead of us, always remaining just out of photographing distance. A Bittern was briefly seen skimming the reed bed before again taking cover. After a picking a large toy dragonfly from the shop, a treat for walking the whole loop, we removed our muddied boots and headed home. Spending the rest of the day in the garden, a singing Whitethroat on the wasteland behind the house was a new garden tick.

Migrant Waders and Wheatears

Yesterday (22nd) after having an adventure with Agnes at BeWILDerwood, I had a couple of hours to myself so headed for a bit of birding. I decided to first head to Norfolk Wildlife Trust's newest reserve, and part of my patch Pigney's Wood. The screen by the scrape has now been removed, it had been vandalized on my last visit but now there's no cover to view the scrape. This combine with the over grown margins in the conservation area meant I had no chance of seeing any migrant waders if present. The site was full of singing Blackcap and Chiffchaff, but no Whitethroat as yet. During my relatively quick lap of the site, although few birds were seem butterfly numbers were good, with Large White, Small White, Comma, Small Tortoiseshell, Brimstone, Peacock, Holly Blue and Red Admiral all seen.

After a very quick lap of Southrepps Common I headed to Trimingham next, determined to fine a Wheatear, my nemesis of recent weeks! At Southrepps the site was very quite the only thing of note being 2 delightful flowering Fratillaries. Approaching the clifftop to the West of the Clifftop Woods, I spotted my foe and then a few of his friends. In total at least 7 Wheatear (6 male/1 female) were close by, also lone House Martin and 7 Swallow flew West. In the Wood I found 3 Chiffchaff and a Willow Warbler, before heading home. Going via the 'Quiet Lane' I found a small group of 6 Whimbrel in a field south of the village. While driving through Gimingham I noticed the fishing lake have almost been drained, an about turn and I was soon watching two Common Sandpiper enjoying the recently exposed mud.

Today (23rd) I had noticed that two Dotterel had be found near Happisburgh. So after arriving home from work and popping to the chippy I was able to park up at Happisburgh by 7pm, after a quick detour via Gimingham. Id been told a Green Sandpiper had also been present at the fishing lakes and luckily it only took me 5 minutes to locate it. West of Dogget Lane off Cart Gap, a lone birder soon guided onto the male bird in the plough in the closet field to us. I soon located the more striking female, as she slowly walked towards us, halving the distance. I spent about 30 minutes watching the birds before they settled back down towards the rear of the field. Without doubt the best views I have had of these delightful birds, I'm used to hazy distant views at Choseley. Typically I had no camera, but I managed a couple of record shots with the phone. Walking back to the car I was serenaded by two Yellowhammer to top of a delightful evening wander.

More Badgers at the Allotment

On Tuesday (21st) after a busy morning helping dad cut and split firewood ready for next winter, I had a wader around Paston Cliffs. Towards the Paddocks a couple of Meadow Pipit and Pied Wagtail were all of note, still no Wheatear! Walking East a small group of Meadow Pipit flew through, among them a rather dark individual looked like it may have been a Rock Pipit, the birds only briefly alighted on the cliff face and I couldn't get a decent view. At least 8 Yellowhammer are still present and the Linnet flock surprisingly seems larger than during the winter. The field closest to the Gas Terminal was being ploughed and planted with potatoes, most of the gulls normally on the beach had headed up top. The Glaucous Gull present in the area for a while was unmissable, joined mainly by Herring and Black-headed Gull but also 2 Lesser Black-backed Gull. 5 Stock Dove joined in the feast.

Early Tuesday morning I had set up the camera trap while at the allotment, and after collecting it on Thursday as further images of badgers. These looked smaller/slimmer than previous clips so I wonder if these are younger individuals? During day light hours the camera was set off at regular intervals by a steam of small birds coming in to collect nesting material from the detritus of old bedding spread by the badger's sett. Blue Tit, Great Tit, Dunnock, Robin, Chaffinch and more interesting Long-tailed, this means i must now lookout for the delight of a Long-tail Tit nest nearby.

Mystery Pellet

Last while walking back along the track from the allotment I picked up a small bird pellet. Until this morning I forgot it was in my bag (in a pot). The pellet was very compact and had hardened since collecting so I only managed to pull out the largest bones. These I believe belonged to a Field Vole, with distinctive zig-zag set teeth, seen at x30 magnification.

I realised that most raptors produced pellets, but only recently discovered in fact almost all birds produce them. Does anyone have an option on what bird this came from? My thoughts are either Kestrel or Tawny Owl.

Wheatears In The Mist?

After taking Agnes to the in-laws, doing some shopping in the city and pottering at home, by 1pm the thick mist I had awoken to still persisted. I had considered going to look for the American Bittern after shopping in Norwich, so really wanted to do some sort of birding despite the murk.

I decided to have a wander around Happisburgh, an area I've not yet visited this spring. Parking at the Village Hall a few Pied Wagtail were around the Cricket Pitch and more flew over calling, but out of sight in the mist. Walking towards the Old Coastguard Lookout this greeted me, and viability seemed worse in person.

Before reaching the Pill Box my eyes were drawn to a small silhouetted bird atop the muck heap, finally a Wheatear? As I crept closer to investigate 2 female Ring Ouzel burst from the scrub to my right and quickly disappeared in the mist, flying inland. Turning back to the muck heap my 'Wheatear' was actually a male Black Redstart. He was showing very well, but in the poor light I couldn't get a photo. While I followed him around the buildings though I flushed 2 Goldcrest that seemed rather tired and in no hurry to move off.  Four Redwing and two Fieldfare then got up from the very edge of the plough, I must have walked past them once at least. I left the Black Redstart atop the Pill Box and walked the coast path towards the church. Some Linnet and Redwing flew over calling but I saw no birds until I was beyond the caravan site. Here I disturbed a third Ring Ouzel this time a male, I seemed to be on top of the bird before noticing because of the poor viability. Walking back along Beach Road and through the village I saw the usual Tits, Finches and common birds.

Typically as I return to the car the mist started to lift a little. This enabled me to participate in some drive by birding, slowly scanning the fields and meadows between here and Walcott from the car. No sign of that illusive spring Wheatear or a transient Yellow Wagtail, but a dozen or so Fieldfare were near Witton as I returning home and the mist again descended.

Effort Rewarded

On Thursday 5th after a short stop at the allotment I called in to have a cuppa with mum. Agnes wanted a nap while there, so I had an hour to kill. I headed off to East Ruston an area in the past I have seen Osprey in the spring. I had no luck, with a pair of Buzzard and lone Kestrel the raptors on display. On the pools a few Teal and Tufted Duck remain and a Canada x Greylag goose was with the Greylag flock. Walking the small heath area I saw 2 Adder in the sun and a couple of lizards I could't quickly identify as they scuttled off.

After grabbing some food shopping on Friday morning Agnes and I had a short walk at Paston Cliffs. The Black Redstart from Wednesday was not around and migrants seemed thin on the ground, in fact two singing Chiffchaff were the only migrants. The resident Linnet, Yellowhammer and Skylark were however in full song and 2 Meadow Pipit were om the cliff face. Driving past Stow Windmill on the way home, 2 Swallow on the wires were the first on the patch this year.

On Saturday 7th I headed to Waxham in the search for a 'Spring Wheatear' and some migrants. Parking up behind the church a heavy shower passed through, so I started my search in light drizzle. Just East of Shangri-la a Tit flock held 4+ Chiffchaff and 1 Willow Warbler none of which were calling. A fellow birder highlighted a Firecrest further East which I soon located. It was then rather quiet until just before the Pipe Dump, except for regular small groups of Linnet flying East. A lone male Siskin in some scrub was unusual and briefly had me dreaming of a Serin. Flushing a Male Ring Ouzel it flew inland over the chicken sheds and pair Stonechat seemed to be on territory just East of the Pipe Dump.  Next I found the bird of the day a male Whinchat just beyond the Poplar Farm Gap, with the naked eye I thought Stonechat, but on raising my binoculars could not miss the striking supercilium. 2 House Martin were hawking over the flooded area of Pipe Dump and were new for the year. On wandering through the dune slacks 4 Roe Deer at close quarters were a bit of a surprise. 50+ Seals were by Polar Farm Gap and 4 additional Ring Ouzel (3 Female and 1 Male) flew from the dunes. A single Swallow flew North as I approached the car. During the morning 15+ Chiffchaff were seen most being silent, and 250+ Linnet has passed East mainly in small groups of 5-10, a further Swallow was near Sea Palling driving home.

Saturday afternoon I again found myself at Cley NWT, this time with the family meeting a friend for lunch. Agnes got very excited looking for birds from the old visitor center mound. Little was on the sighting board I hadn't seen earlier in the week, so we decided on a walk in the quieter surrounding of Kelling Heath. The walk was dominated by the call of Chiffchaff and Linnet enjoying the warming sun. I did hear a distant Dartford Warbler but on getting closer all had gone quiet, and with non-birding friend I couldn't spend long looking. We popped back to Cley village to get some smoked fish and nibbles, from here looking West I saw my first Sand Martin of the year.

During a quick stop at the allotment to collect some spring greens tops for the chickens later on Sunday, I was surprised to hear the unmistakable call of a Ring Ouzel in the neighbouring meadow, sadly though with limited viewing I couldn't see the bird.

The previous week is probably the most concerted effort I have made for Spring Migrants in many years, but with a few nuggets it was very rewarding and made me realise I should get out more even for a hour or so.

Migrants at Cley

What a difference a day makes, yesterday at Minsmere I saw limited evidence of spring migration but today was more productive, for migrants at least. After dropping off Agnes and catching up with James in Norwich I arrived at Cley NWT in time for lunch in the cafe. Refueled I headed out to the main cluster of hides, in contrast to yesterday at Minsmere all 3 hides were empty (although the Cley car park was full?!) From Daukes Hide I had a good view of both scrapes. Simmons Scrape had 58 Curlew, 8 Ruff and two Little Ringed Plover among the other common waders, Redshank, Avocet, Bar-tailed Godwit and Dunlin. A White Wagtail was in front of the hide, but no sign of the reported Wheatear. Walking back a Sedge Warbler could be heard but not seen and a Cetti's Warbler was calling and briefly seen near the Wardens House, also more surprisingly a Brambling flew over calling. 8 Eider had been reported on the sea so I drove down Beach Road, on route 3 Swallow flew over heading West. With a land wind the sea was calm and I soon located 2 Teal close in and further out 2 Eider. A pair of Marsh Harrier wheeled over the Eye Field Pool, but after much scanning I still couldn't find a Wheatear. The reported Black Redstart couldn't be seen by the Coast Road/Beach Road junction so I decided to head homeward, but not before pulling in at the Iron Road, Salthouse Duck Pond and West Runton to scan favourable fields for Wheatear. That would have proved fruitless if it wasn't for a couple of Bearded Tit at Salthouse that at least made my Norfolk Year List.

I was aware that a Ring Ouzel had been seen near Mundesley, so upon leaving Cley NWT thought I would give the patch at Paston Cliffs a quick once over. I scanned the cliff tops and face but had no luck with any Ring Ouzel (I found 3 here last spring), but 2 Reed Bunting have joined the Yellowhammer flock and the small flock of Stock Dove were again present walking East. The Yellowhammer were singing from 3 or 4 spots so I assume the flock will soon disperse hopefully leaving a couple of pairs to breed. As I walked towards the Paddocks and grass cliff top, the preferred areas for Wheatear a squally shower passed through, plummeting the temperature and soaking me with a few minutes. No Wheatear were present just the resident Linnet and a couple of Meadow Pipit. Walking back, through my murky glasses I noticed a small bird hopping about by the parked cars on the holiday camp. I lost the bird under the cars and assumed it was probably just a local Pied Wagtail, but seeing a White Wagtail earlier at Cley decided to give it a second look. The bird reappeared sheltering in the wheel arch of a car, it was a Black Redstart. I managed a poor record shot with my phone through binoculars before as the rain eased and it hopped off between the chalets.

Birding East Suffolk

About 2pm om Monday I heard of Penduline Tit nr Lowestoft, but with rain still hammering down I waited. I had already got soaked shopping in Cromer and I failed to see the 2 Black Redstart by the Pier. By 3pm I had decided with the rain easing to go and walk the patch at Paston Cliffs. The Penduline Tit I would look for on Tuesday and head onward to Minsmere RSPB afterwards.

The patch was as expected, quiet with drizzle still heavy in the air. I found no migrants but the small flock of Yellowhammer seen last week now numbers 30+, a large group of Corvids (300+) mainly Carrion Crow were on the plough by the Gas Terminal and 2 Stock Dove were nearby. Walking west I hoped for a Wheatear by the Paddocks but could only turn up a lone Meadow Pipit, a finch flock and handful of Starling. After conducting an emergency stop near Knapton, with the window down I heard a singing Blackcap, and saw the bird just yards from were I had pulled up. Typically the rain finally stopped for the day as i pulled back into the yard at home.

Tuesday (3rd) was my set aside bird watching day of a few days off work, so after dropping off Agnes I headed for the Penduline Tit site near Lowestoft. I soon found the site and had to walk only a short distance before finding a gathering of people. After waiting 20 minute there was no sign but birders present had seen it earlier so i wasnt worried, I did walk the short distance to the railway bridge and scan Lake Lothing (Lowestoft's Inner Harbour) and soon located the Shag and Common Scoter present. Back at the Penduline Tit there and been movement seen deep in the rushes, and although initially I saw a Chiffchaff I eventually saw the Penduline Tit. The bird then flew into the willows giving great views is to silhouetted for a photo. The bird showed well on and off for the next 20 minutes, but sadly most of my attempts at photography were poor, but I was more than satisfied with the great views of the bird.

I arrived at Minsmere in good time, and after having my wallet emptied to enter, checked the sightings board and headed off to add a few birds to the year lift. At North Hide I spent quite awhile locating one of 2 Jack Snipe present, while seeing lots of commoner species. I heard Bearded Tit pinging while walking to the beach but failed to see any. Looking out to see a few gulls drifted past and 2 Red-throated Diver headed North. From the East Hide 2 Sandwich Tern were found while of was there and are probably new arrivals and a guide pointed out the sleeping female Goosander that has been present most of the winter. Mediterranean Gull number must have been 30+ and along with Black-headed Gull they dominated the scrape. A quick poke around the infamous 'Sluice Bushes' soon turned up one of the reported 3 Firecrest present, before a waded along the flooded path to the South Hide. I spent awhile looking for the 2 redhead Smew reported the evening before, but after scanning lots of sleeping Teal decided they must have moved on. Up to 3 Sandwich Tern could be seen and may have been in addition to the birds seen earlier, a drake Pintail the only other highlight apart from more immaculate Mediterranean Gull. The West hide offered little new as it over looks the same scrape as North Hide, although it does have some lovely graffiti style artwork, and 2 Bearded Tit flew through. Bittern Hide was very busy, much like most of the hides and with little to see and no seating I wandered down to Island Mere. The hide was empty and I got point blank views of Little Egret in front of the hide and up to 6 Marsh Harrier displayed over the reeds. A Little Gull was also present. Back at the Visitor Center I grabbed a rather nice Date Slice and cuppa, and admiring the Marsh Tit on the feeder before heading off.

I left the reserve via the Eastbridge exit keen to see the Glossy Ibis of the flood there and maybe go onto Aldburgh to look for an illusive Night Heron. I soon found the 'flood' but it covered the road to knee height (a walker waded it), I couldn't see the Ibis so turned around. Aldburgh is quite a detour so I decided to pop to Dunwich Heath for Dartford Warbler. As I arrived hour a squally shower passed through, and reluctant to pay the National Trusts £5 parking for a short walk, conducted a slow drive by bird watch without success before heading home. Undecided on the best route home I pulled over at Wangford to check the map, and spotted a raptor being harassed by some crows. It turned out to the the escaped Black Kite that frequents the area, a nice bird if untickable.

Birding the Brecks Alone

I had set aside today (27th) as my bird watching day of my 10 days off work. With very few migrants on the coast I decided on a trip to the Brecks in the hope of catching up with e the recently re-emerged Parrot Crossbill at Santon Downham. After a sunny day on Monday it was no surprise that Tuesday was cool, dull and damp again. With the heaviest rain set to ease off by 10.30am I decided to set out a little later at 8am and call by a couple of other sites on route.

First stop was Bintree Mill where a drake Gargany has been present the last few days, luckily with its still drizzling hard I could pull up in the car and scan the flood without getting out of the car. Wigeon, Tufted Duck, Shoveler and a few Teal were all I could see. After checking my route to the next stop I had a second scan, and to my surprise the Gargany had appeared all be it along the reedy back edge of the pool but still a pretty little bird to see. While here a Little Egret came into the dyke only a few meters away, but he spotted me just as I raised my camera.

Next stop was Cockey Cley to look for Willow Tit, now a Norfolk rarity, but thanks to a local birder setting up a feeding station I was hopeful that with a bit of patience I would catch up with one. It started raining heavily again so I was in no hurry to reach the Brecks, this was lucky as I missed my turn off and ambled through the back roads without reception before Google maps came back online. Once back on the main roads I soon found the village and with a grid ref and directions soon found were to park. Walking up track FR110 I soon found the two feeding stations that had been set up, just before that I rather promisingly heard a Willow Tit call. The drizzle was still hard enough to soak me so I hid up under the trees in view of both feeders. Blue Tit and Great Tit came regularly to the tables, but the bird most predominate was Coal Tit which was nice to see. 2 Nuthatch came in along with a few Chaffinch and Robin. After 20 minutes of so a Willow Tit dropped in, grabbing a sunflower seed and disappearing, luckily it soon came back. I topped up the feeders and headed back to the car, also seeing 3 Yellowhammer.

Driving to Lynford I tried a few fields that looked good for Stone Curlew but without any luck. At Lynford although more mizzle than drizzle I still got wet. I walked the area near Lynford Water and got lucky with 2 Woodlark unintentionally flush from close to the path. The pools held a few Tufted Duck, Great Crest Grebe, Greylag Geese and 2 Oystercatcher on the rafts. A Nuthatch was near the car and a Mistle Thrush was nearby, but with another heavy shower I decided not to walk the arboretum.

Parking up by the Railway Crossing a Santon Downham, I had a good look around the nearby pines with no sign of any Crossbill. By the river bridge a Grey Wagtail flew down stream, I too walked down stream seeing 2 Marsh Tit at close quarters before a pair a Mandarin flew over. A further 2 pair of Mandarin, Nuthatch and Treecreeper were seen before reaching the Lesser Spotted Woodpecker site. It was dry now so I hung around for 30 minutes or so, and just before leaving a LSW flew over from the Suffolk side of the river, over my head and over the railway line. Having seen a LSW locally near home I didn't wait around for better views instead heading off to look for Parrot Crossbill. Walking back a Kingfisher whizzed by and I saw my first singing Chiffchaff of the spring. I searched the tracks both side of the railway line and also the clearings opposite the car park with little success. A drive down to St Helen's Picnic Area gave up a Great Spotted Woodpecker, 2 fly-over Common Crossbill and a small Redwing flock. Driving back up the track a Sparrowhawk flew through. Feeling rather hungry I realised it was almost 2pm and I hadn't had any lunch so headed home, grabbing a sandwich on route.

I always enjoy a visit to the Brecks, with its mixture of habitat very different to North East Norfolk. Today was my first solo visit to the area, with my main bird watching friends now living in Norwich company is sometimes hard to come by, any birders local to North Walsham feel free to email me, an extra pair of eyes always welcome. Sorry about a lack of photos, with the persistent rain I left the camera in the car.

Alderfen NWT

With a couple of hours free on Saturday I decided to visit a reserve I've never call in on before despite it being only a 15 minute drive away. Alderfen Broad is between the villages of Neatishead and Irstead, but despite knowing exactly where the  reserve was I couldn't locate the car park so parked up on the road to the SE of the reserve and walked in along a public footpath. The car park is down a long unmarked dirt track.

Walking through the wet woodland I saw Blue Tit, Great Tit and a Goldcrest, a small group of Redpoll also flew over. The first signs of spring migrants for the year came in the form of 3 Chiffchaff, none of which were singing though. Making it to the viewing screen, I read in the sightings book a Gargany was present the previous day. I had no luck locating it but there are lots of reedy margins to hide in. 30+ Wigeon, 20+ Tufted Duck, a Great Crested Grebe and a few Coot the birds on the water. With later commitments I wandered back to the car, seeing all the common Tits again. Back by the car I viewed a pair of Marsh Tit interacting at close quarters, a delicate bird I love to see.

A nice little reserve I will definitely visit again, hopefully I'll also find the car park next time, now I knew where it is. It should be noted water levels are high so wellies are advisable as the paths are sticky in places.

When is a Patch Tick not a Patch Tick?

After a morning spent digging the allotment and re-cladding part of the garage, I rewarded myself with an afternoon stroll around part of the patch, Paston Cliffs. I was optimistically hoping for an early migrant but it seems that 2pm is dog walking rush hour, and with most dogs off the lead little was about walking the grassy cliff tops near the paddocks to the west.

There were however lots of gulls on the beach so I spent some time scanning through them, among them I found a Caspian Gull a patch tick I though, but actually I have seen one here in 2015. Most of the gulls were large but with the few Black-headed Gulls I found a single Little Gull, possibly the bird from Bacton earlier in the week? Surprisingly this was a new patch tick, as although I had seen Little Gull here in the past it was before this was my patch!

By now the dog walkers had disperse so I walked towards the Gas Terminal, a group of Linnet and Skylark were in the fields and singing loudly. I thought I saw a female Reed Bunting drive into the brambles but on closer inspection 8 Yellowhammer exploded out from their cover. On the cliff edge 2 Oystercatcher probed the path edge and 7 Stock Dove fed in the bare field, where the Caspian Gull had relocated from the beach with most of the gulls. No Bluethroat, Black Redstart or even a Wheatear but an hour well spent, if no one looks nothing will be seen.