Tuesday 18 March 2014

Bits and pieces,,

Just a couple of patch visits last week did result in my first MANDARIN (67) for over a year, when a pair flew passed me as I walked up towards the moat. A brief walk at the weekend had a real spring feel with 6 CHIFFCHAFF counted singing around the grounds, there were also again good BUZZARD numbers with 5 seen together.
Also at the weekend Bec and I headed to Elmley, as I hadn't caught up with SHORT EARED OWL this winter, we weren't disappointed, one bird and briefly two were watched from the track to the hides in some really nice light, occasionally coming close enough for a photo or two. Other birds included good numbers of AVOCET and still plenty of WIGEON and TEAL around the reserve. We were constantly accompanied by the sound of displaying LAPWINGS and treated to their fantastic aerial displays. Three MED GULLS called as they flew along the Swale, later two were sat on the far side of the flood. A few MARSH HARRIERS were present as expected, it was nice to see so many LITTLE EGRET along the entrance track some pretty close too.
Other sightings so far this week include CIRL BUNTING, WOODLARK (several), BLACK REDSTART and SERIN these were all seen on a short walk before breakfast this morning as work took me to Bologna, Italy for a couple of days.
Here are a few Elmley photos
Lapwing

Reed Bunting

Short eared Owl

Short eared Owl

Short eared Owl

Short eared Owl

Mute Swan

Redshank


6 comments:

Greenie said...

Alan ,
Certainly was nice light at Elmley , and you made the most of it .
I've failed to see SEO this Winter , a lot scarcer than last year .
Must admit , was wondering where the CB,W,BR and S sightings was going , nice work if you can get it .

Robs Birding said...

Hi Alan , superb pics especially the SE Owls .

Isidro Ortiz said...

Estupendas capturas.Un abrazo

Marc Heath said...

Great selection Alan, love the Shorty photos.

Maria said...

Wonderful shots!Especially the Owl!
but also the cute Reed Bunting. Love it!

Helma said...

A beautiful bird blog Alan and I'm really envious of those beautiful short-eared owl. Wonderful to have for your lens and you had him still flying. My compliments.