randombirder

Third time lucky after two postponed trips as a couple of named storms battered most of the UK on consecutive weekends. We eventually made it and while an invigorating breeze continued to relentlessly hurl its way along the coastline, we were resolute against the elements. At least Saturday was relatively clear with plenty of sunshine.  Heading over to Sedgeford, the Eastern Yellow Wagtail was present on its favoured dung heap.  Defying the agricultural odour, the bird was observed for around five minutes before abruptly alighting, calling as it headed east.  It did return. Eastern Yellow Wagtail Holkham is a breathtaking place at anytime of the year.  Heading along the pine forest, we sat in the Tower hide for around half an hour sheltering from the wind. Always a great view out across the freshmarsh where at least 100 Russian White-fronted Goose were present grazing on the exposed grass.  Ten Spoonbill were feeding distantly and at least three Great Egret were f

A day out braving the weather that had totally written off Saturday.  By Sunday cabin fever had set in so in haste, I decided to head up to the wetlands reserve at Welney with the promise of a warm comfortable cafe and an equally warm hide for a far more agreeable view than that of my front room. It turned out to be a stellar day. It was dank, and grey, and for the second week running, a named storm spread across the country subjecting large parts to untold misery as a result of the heavy rainfall.  Welney had been impacted too - one half of the trail had been closed due to flooding.  The main hide was open though and the views from the cafe over the fen are always impressive. Swirling masses of Golden Plover and Lapwing filled the leaden grey skies, constantly agitated by passing raptors.  Only Marsh Harrier were noted but others may have fused in with the swarm of waders present.  A large group of Black-tailed Godwit were also present here. Seven Crane were

A fabulous day in the Brecks that started grey and murky but quickly transformed into a fine clear day.  This was definitely the calm before the impending storm that is due to imminently hit our shores. Now just an hour from home, Lynford Arboretum was the first stop.  Numerous Siskin surged through the alder canopy and at least six Brambling were rooting through the leaf litter at the feeding station with a few Yellowhammer and plenty of Chaffinch . It's always great to see the Marsh Tit .  Such busy little birds. There was so much to see.  The frenzied Tit flocks contained Nuthatch and a few Goldcrest zipped within the pines.  A single Firecrest was also seen busily feeding within the conifers. The Hawfinch was a sight to behold.  While a handful were seen feeding on the ground, a burst of spontaneous unease and a flock of at least 30 birds suddenly alighted flying into the adjacent trees.  By far the largest group I have seen in the UK. En route

It has been an interesting week of sightings with after my third attempt this year, I finally caught up with the Great Grey Shrike in fields opposite Brogborough Lake (1st Feb).  It really is an elusive individual with a tendency to go missing for long periods.  At least this time it sat up on a bramble for a couple of minutes before disappearing once again. A trip to Broom GPs on the 2nd proved fruitful with my first Raven for the site.  Two birds flew in and rested in the field on the opposite side of the pit.  Typically I forgot my camera and phone.  Also recorded was my highest count of Shoveler with 14 present on GLE. During a week of surveying round a number of Essex' finest arable fields, I did manage to pick up a Grey Partridge and a sparkling adult Mediterranean Gull among a large mixed Gull flock. ______ So onto today and a late afternoon visit to Broom with the evening drawing in and the chill of the air starting to nibble away as I looked upon a pleasant sc