Bird Race - 1st January
The 1st January was the 10th Year that I have joined Gary for an informal bird race, (informal as we are not racing anyone else) aiming to start the year with as many species as possible. Arriving at Titchwell RSPB in the dark the birds started to emerge from the darkness. Sea watching at first light was very productive with 36 species seen as we turn back inland. Highlights being 3 Red-necked Grebe, Slavonian Grebe and a Black-throated Diver. The Fresh Marsh had high water levels so wader numbers were rather limited but we still arrived back at Reception, after picking up some woodland birds along the Meadow Trail with 70 species. A female Merlin chasing a Meadow Pipit over our heads was probably the best bird on the reserve. Fuelling up with a Bacon Bap. Dunnock, Greenfinch and Coal Tit were on the feeders and on a second attempt a Water Rail was found in its regular dyke nearby, before we left Titchwell Reserve.
Choseley Drying Barns in recent years have been disappointing, but we added 10 more species here including Brambling, Mistle Thrush and Yellowhammer, before moving on. Thornham Harbour gave up a Spotted Redshank and Rock Pipit before we eventually saw the c14 Twite that make the area home most winters. A few more common species were added in the Gun Hill/Holkham area so that our 100th bird of the day was Tree Sparrow, at an old site I've not visited for a number of years.
We tried Holt Sewage works on a whim a few years back, and visiting it again this year proved fruitful, with birds including Grey Wagtail, Chiffchaff and Firecrest. The Holkham became our was over run with New Year walkers, so Felbrigg became our favoured site to top up on woodland species. Nuthatch was expected but Marsh Tit was a nice addition.
Our only 'target' bird of the day was the Dipper near North Walsham, a bird neither of us had seen on the 1st January and a uncommon visitor to Norfolk. With the bird located by other birders, it was little more than a drive by sighting as the bird frequented the old lock at Briggate. The day was passing by fast but the Dipper was bird 112 for the day, so we headed towards Hickling and the Stubb Mill roost our traditional days end. On route the Whooper and Bewick's Swan were seen near Ludham, and female Scaup was seen on Hickling Broad. As well as viewing the expected Harriers from the Roost Canada Goose was belatedly added to the day's list, 2 Common Crane fed in front of the view point and in the very last of the days light a Woodcock flew overhead. A grand total of 118 species seen, a good start to the year, if not our highest January 1st total with a few species suspicious by their absence.
Alderfen - 6th January
Laura, Agnes and I had decided on a Sunday walk and with the opportunity of a few birds we headed for Barton Broad. The car park was the full with people obviously walking off thier excesses of Christmas and the New Year, with cars even parked on grass. I'm not one for crowds so we drove onto Alderfen, one of NWT's oldest reserves and one much under visited (we were the only people there). The Broad held c60 Wigeon, plus good numbers Teal and Tufted Duck, as well as the expected waterfowl. Walking the wet woodland surprisingly few birds were seen and none specialised to the habitat. Driving home I decided to call in at Briggate and Ebridge I the hope the recently departed Dark-bellied Dipper may have returned. It hadn't but we did stumble upon a mixed finch flock including c50 Brambling.
Barton Broad - 10th January
After abandoning my visit a few days earlier and with Agnes spending her first full day at her new nursery I had some free time to visit Barton Broad again. Sadly the Black-necked Grebe of previous days had departed, but 2 female Scaup, c60 Goldeneye and a handful of Pochard were on the Broad. Surprisingly a Little Grebe was new for the year being missed on January 1st, along with Great Spotted Woodpecker and Lesser Redpoll also mist on the 1st. Driving on towards Potter Heigham and the coast a Green Woodpecker was another year tick, seen in Neatisthead.
Hickling/Potter Heigham - 10th January
I had planned to look for the Heigham Holmes Cattle Egret from Martham Ferry and then look through the geese near Horsey/Waxham, traffic was queued up and not moving near Potter Heigham so I decided on a walk around the Rush Hill area of Hickling NWT. Parking near Potter Church the walk to Rush Hills was uneventful with a few common birds, but generally quiet. I then stumbled across a mixed Tit flock, holding 2 Great Spotted Woodpecker, 2 Treecreeper, Blue Tit, Great Tit, Long-tailed Tit, Marsh Tit and a Goldcrest.
Spurred on by this or maybe just being blindly optimistic I deiced to walk on to Potter Heigham Marshes, marking my walk quite long. The walk was worth it however when a Great White Egret was found, and then my realisation I could view the area of Heigham Holmes from near Candle Dyke. 3 Otter swam along Candle Dyke oblivious to my presence and after a short while the Cattle Egret was seen distantly by the farm buildings. Also nearby were c80 White-fronted Geese and my second Merlin of the year. Driving home I called by Ludham for a brief look at the wild swan flock although they were rather distant.
Paston Cliffs - 14th January
Having dropped Agnes in Southrepps for Nursery and called in to pay my mechanics bill in Mundesley, it would have been rude not to call in on this section of my patch for the first time this year. The expected Gulls loafed on the beach and a distant Gannet was off shore. A lone Fieldfare fed with a small group of Blackbird on the edge of the set-a-side field joined by a few Linnet and Skylark. Suddenly many more birds erupted from the field c20 Skylark, 3/4 Meadow Pipit, c20 Linnet and a family of Goldfinch, most of whom were hidden from view sent skyward by the resident female Sparrowhawk. The Sparrowhawk left without breakfast and the birds settled again a Mistle Thrush had appeared in the middle of the throng. With a mild NW breeze I had a short 15 minute sea watch, a few birds were closer in than usual with 5/6 Guillemot and numerous Red-throated Diver joining the earlier mentioned Gannet. But the best, two Long-tailed Duck were a new Patch Tick.
East Ruston/Happisburgh - 15th January
A brief stop at East Ruston Common to check for waterfowl on the pools proved fruitless. However in the road side Gorse 6+ Goldcrest were joined by at least 1 Firecrest a bird I will never tire of seeing, and by the water treatment site 2 Marsh Tit were showing well.
Happisburgh was my destination, and although quite a long walk was surprisingly quite with no geese seen in the area or any of the hoped for Snow or Lapland Bunting that often frequent the area in the winter. A mixed Chaffinch/Brambling flock were seen between the water tower and Grubb Street before I parked by the village hall and wandered off through the village. The garden feeders in Blacksmiths Lane only held House Sparrow and Great Tit and I was on Beach Road before i encountered more birds. The Manors orchard held a large number of Blackbird feeding on the fallen apples, and a good number of House Sparrow and Linnet in the boundary hedge but nothing stand out. I walked the cliff top from here to Doggett's Lane, with on 8 Turnstone and 4 Linnet seen in the Lighthouse Field. Rather surprisingly though I watched a Great Northern Diver come in off the sea and fly over my head, heading inland! To complete my lap I walked the clifftop towards the Old Coastguard Lookout and took the track back towards the village hall. I had noticed a few distant Red-throated Diver distantly passing so paused by the old lookout to look out to sea. c40 RTD could be seen with probable other more distant, but also 10+ Guillemot, a Razorbill, Red-necked Grebe and a Shag also seen. The later two additions to the Year List, belatedly giving the walk some credibility.
Tuesday, 15 January 2019
Sunday, 30 December 2018
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.
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.
Thursday, 13 December 2018
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!
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!
Monday, 3 December 2018
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.
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.
Friday, 23 November 2018
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.
Monday, 12 November 2018
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.
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!
Sunday, 4 November 2018
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.
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.
Saturday, 20 October 2018
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.
Tuesday, 16 October 2018
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.
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.
Wednesday, 10 October 2018
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.
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.
Monday, 8 October 2018
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!
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!
Sunday, 7 October 2018
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?!
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?!
Tuesday, 2 October 2018
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)
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)
Sunday, 23 September 2018
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.
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.
Sunday, 16 September 2018
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.
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.
Monday, 27 August 2018
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.
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.
Wednesday, 15 August 2018
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.
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.
Thursday, 31 May 2018
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.
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.
Tuesday, 8 May 2018
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.
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.
Thursday, 3 May 2018
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.
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.
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