Caldecotte Lake

7 Goosander and a lot of ice.

2012-02-02T14:52:00.000Z

And it was cold, despite the clear blue sky and sunshine.

Some of the feeders had gone down quite a bit, and even the home made nyger seed feeder, looked to have had some use. I was a bit later than normal, and whilst topping up the feeders, a few of the birds were becoming a bit impatient, flying quite close, and scolding me, to hurry up.

A look at Cormorant island first, to see if I could see any Goosander.

No Goosander, but what I did see was plenty of ice. The cold temperatures of the last couple of days, had frozen some of the water, and a group of gulls were stood waiting for the sun to shine a bit more, and melt the ice.

By now, the feeders were quite busy, and a Great Spotted Woodpecker was enjoying the fat balls.

A group of Bullfinches were highlighted by the sun in the tree tops, as I made my way to the north lake.

A few Mallard and Coots on what water there was, and further along, as I made my way to the next footbridge, more had frozen.

The small areas that run off from the main lake had frozen over, forcing most of the birds into the middle of the lake.

A few Black-headed Gulls were just standing on the ice; probably deciding their plans for the rest of the day.

Up to the top end of the lake, and in the distance, a male Goosander.

I quickly found a second, and then a third, amongst the Pochard, Wigeon and Gadwall.

The arm of water that curves round, towards the back of the pub, had completely frozen over, which meant all the birds were in a small area together. Made it easier to see them though.

The south lake hadn't escaped the cold either.

As I walked towards the far end, the edge of the lake had frozen, and all the way towards the island, with just the middle clear of ice.

A Jay flew past, with what looked like an acorn in his beak.

At the bottom end of the lake, and in front of the island, it had all frozen, except for an area in front of the reeds. It was in this area, I counted 7 Little Grebe.

Round towards the offices, hoping to see some Siskin; but no luck.

I did see four more Goosander though, and out on the ice, a couple of Common Gull and a Herring Gull.

As I stood talking to another bird watcher and photographer, we spotted a pair of Goldeneye. They soon flew up from the water, but then they were lost from sight.

Past the rowing club, and finally back towards the feeders for one last look, before heading home.

Quite a few birds enjoying the food, and a Great Spotted Woodpecker enjoying the fat balls. Maybe the same one from earlier?

And on the Lemonade bottle feeder...........a Goldfinch.

A fine endorsement for my handiwork.

Full list of today's sightings

Mute Swan (Cygnus olor)

Greater Canada Goose [sp] (Branta canadensis)

Eurasian Wigeon (Anas penelope)

Gadwall [sp] (Anas strepera)

Mallard [sp] (Anas platyrhynchos)

Common Pochard (Aythya ferina)

Tufted Duck (Aythya fuligula)

Common Goldeneye [sp] (Bucephala clangula)

Goosander (Mergus merganser merganser)

Little Grebe [sp] (Tachybaptus ruficollis)

Great Crested Grebe [sp] (Podiceps cristatus)

Great Cormorant [sp] (Phalacrocorax carbo)

Grey Heron [sp] (Ardea cinerea)

Common Moorhen [sp] (Gallinula chloropus)

Common Coot [sp] (Fulica atra)

Black-headed Gull (Chroicocephalus ridibundus)

Common Gull (Larus canus canus)

Lesser Black-backed Gull [sp] (Larus fuscus)

British Herring Gull (Larus argentatus argenteus)

Great Black-backed Gull (Larus marinus)

Common Wood Pigeon [sp] (Columba palumbus)

British Great Spotted Woodpecker (Dendrocopos major anglicus)

Pied Wagtail (Motacilla alba yarrellii)

British Wren (Troglodytes troglodytes indigenus)

British Dunnock (Prunella modularis occidentalis)

British Robin (Erithacus rubecula melophilus)

Common Blackbird [sp] (Turdus merula)

Fieldfare (Turdus pilaris)

British Song Thrush (Turdus philomelos clarkei)

Redwing [sp] (Turdus iliacus)

British Long-tailed Tit (Aegithalos caudatus rosaceus)

British Blue Tit (Cyanistes caeruleus obscurus)

British Great Tit (Parus major newtoni)

British Jay (Garrulus glandarius rufitergum)

Eurasian Magpie [sp] (Pica pica)

Carrion Crow [sp] (Corvus corone)

House Sparrow [sp] (Passer domesticus)

British Chaffinch (Fringilla coelebs gengleri)

European Greenfinch [sp] (Carduelis chloris)

European Goldfinch [sp] (Carduelis carduelis)

British Bullfinch (Pyrrhula pyrrhula pileata)

Reed Bunting [sp] (Emberiza schoeniclus)

Total species 42

A quiet morning on the south lake.

2012-01-31T12:47:00.000Z

Pretty cold this morning, and dull with it.

There was a trio of songsters this morning, complete with a backing ensemble. The Song Thrush, a Robin, and a Great Tit, determined to be heard above everyone else. Along with the cawing of the Crows, and the chattering of the Magpies, there were times when they almost drowned out the morning traffic.

I counted eight Reed Buntings at the footbridge, along with a few Chaffinch.

As I made my way under the road bridge, a Kingfisher flashed over the water, from the direction of the pub. One of the regulars.

Blue Tits and Long Tailed Tits were in the bushes either side of the footpath, and up by the footbridge, the Heron in his usual spot.

There were also a group of Mallard; and something I've never seen before, they were eating a fish. I doubt it was one they caught themselves, but interesting to see.

A dozen or more Jackdaws flew over, making their distinctive call, and four Green Woodpeckers were up at the top end of the lake, in the trees that line the water. The most I've seen in one spot before.

The water had the usual Wigeon, Gadwall and fighting Coots, and on the grassy bank, a group of Canada Geese.

Onto the south lake, and the Crows seemed to be there waiting.

Nothing much else, until I reached the far end, and a couple of Little Grebe, along with a few Great Crested Grebe, and Black-headed Gulls.

No sign of any Siskin this morning; in fact the south lake seemed very quiet. Not even the groups of gulls out in the middle.

Out on Cormorant island, the four Goosander were sitting in almost the same place as yesterday. I think they've found a spot they like.

At the feeders, very little activity there, but a pair of Great Spotted Woodpeckers flew up into the trees; and another Green Woodpecker.

Full list of today's sightings

Mute Swan (Cygnus olor)

Greater Canada Goose [sp] (Branta canadensis)

Eurasian Wigeon (Anas penelope)

Gadwall [sp] (Anas strepera)

Mallard [sp] (Anas platyrhynchos)

Tufted Duck (Aythya fuligula)

Goosander (Mergus merganser merganser)

Little Grebe [sp] (Tachybaptus ruficollis)

Great Crested Grebe [sp] (Podiceps cristatus)

Great Cormorant [sp] (Phalacrocorax carbo)

Grey Heron [sp] (Ardea cinerea)

Common Moorhen [sp] (Gallinula chloropus)

Common Coot [sp] (Fulica atra)

Black-headed Gull (Chroicocephalus ridibundus)

Common Gull (Larus canus canus)

Stock Pigeon [sp] (Columba oenas)

Common Wood Pigeon [sp] (Columba palumbus)

Common Kingfisher [sp] (Alcedo atthis)

Green Woodpecker [sp] (Picus viridis)

British Great Spotted Woodpecker (Dendrocopos major anglicus)

Pied Wagtail (Motacilla alba yarrellii)

British Wren (Troglodytes troglodytes indigenus)

British Dunnock (Prunella modularis occidentalis)

British Robin (Erithacus rubecula melophilus)

Common Blackbird [sp] (Turdus merula)

British Song Thrush (Turdus philomelos clarkei)

Redwing [sp] (Turdus iliacus)

British Long-tailed Tit (Aegithalos caudatus rosaceus)

British Blue Tit (Cyanistes caeruleus obscurus)

British Great Tit (Parus major newtoni)

Eurasian Magpie [sp] (Pica pica)

Eurasian Jackdaw [sp] (Corvus monedula)

Rook [sp] (Corvus frugilegus)

Carrion Crow [sp] (Corvus corone)

British Chaffinch (Fringilla coelebs gengleri)

European Greenfinch [sp] (Carduelis chloris)

European Goldfinch [sp] (Carduelis carduelis)

Reed Bunting [sp] (Emberiza schoeniclus)

Total species 38

Shoveler day

2012-01-30T13:54:00.000Z

Dull and cold this morning. Another poor day for taking pictures; but I'll inflict one upon you, at the end.

The Song Thrush was in good voice, and another, further along round the north lake.

At the top end, along with the usual birds, a pair of Shoveler. Good to see them.

The Crows were stalking me, as I made my way round the south lake; and as I made my way towards the far end, a big flock of Lapwing were circling overhead.

A pair of Goosander were swimming just off the island, and a big group of Black-headed Gulls were soon put into the air, as a large juvenile gull swooped low over them. Maybe a Great Black-backed; but not my strong point.........especially juvenile gulls.

By the offices, a very vocal group of Siskin, in one of the trees by the small ponds.

Over on Cormorant island, two pair of Goosanders looked very settled, as they sat on the island,

and back at the car park, the feeders were quite busy.

Short post today, but some good birds, as always.

Full list of today's sightings

Mute Swan (Cygnus olor)

Greylag Goose [sp] (Anser anser)

Greater Canada Goose [sp] (Branta canadensis)

Eurasian Wigeon (Anas penelope)

Gadwall [sp] (Anas strepera)

Mallard [sp] (Anas platyrhynchos)

Northern Shoveler (Anas clypeata)

Common Pochard (Aythya ferina)

Tufted Duck (Aythya fuligula)

Goosander (Mergus merganser merganser)

Little Grebe [sp] (Tachybaptus ruficollis)

Great Crested Grebe [sp] (Podiceps cristatus)

Great Cormorant [sp] (Phalacrocorax carbo)

Grey Heron [sp] (Ardea cinerea)

Common Moorhen [sp] (Gallinula chloropus)

Common Coot [sp] (Fulica atra)

Northern Lapwing (Vanellus vanellus)

Black-headed Gull (Chroicocephalus ridibundus)

Lesser Black-backed Gull [sp] (Larus fuscus)

Common Wood Pigeon [sp] (Columba palumbus)

Green Woodpecker [sp] (Picus viridis)

British Wren (Troglodytes troglodytes indigenus)

British Dunnock (Prunella modularis occidentalis)

British Robin (Erithacus rubecula melophilus)

Common Blackbird [sp] (Turdus merula)

British Song Thrush (Turdus philomelos clarkei)

Redwing [sp] (Turdus iliacus)

British Blue Tit (Cyanistes caeruleus obscurus)

British Great Tit (Parus major newtoni)

British Jay (Garrulus glandarius rufitergum)

Eurasian Magpie [sp] (Pica pica)

Carrion Crow [sp] (Corvus corone)

Common Starling [sp] (Sturnus vulgaris)

British Chaffinch (Fringilla coelebs gengleri)

European Greenfinch [sp] (Carduelis chloris)

European Goldfinch [sp] (Carduelis carduelis)

Eurasian Siskin (Carduelis spinus)

Reed Bunting [sp] (Emberiza schoeniclus)

Total species 38

Foggy morning

2012-01-29T14:25:00.000Z

No pictures today, the weather was crap.

I was hoping to see the gull roost this morning, but it was so foggy, I could barely see the middle of the lake.

I've made a new nyger seed feeder from an old lemonade bottle; something Blue Peter would be proud of. Not sure if I've got the holes in the right place though, so I'll see how it goes for the next couple of days, before I fill it totally.

The white faced Chaffinch was by the footbridge, along with a good number of Reed Bunting and Dunnock. The Song Thrush was singing well, and being joined by a Robin.

A group of Wigeon were grazing, just up from the Heron, who was fishing in his usual spot. The boats were out too. How they know where to go in this fog, I don't know; especially as they are going backwards.

No sign of any Goosander at the top end, but quite a few Wigeon, Tufted and Gadwall.

The old boat that floats up on the arm of water, that goes round the back of the pub, was standing room only today. Cormorant, and Black-headed Gulls were crammed on it.

A lot of Canada Geese grazing on the grassy bank, and the one with the deformed foot was amongst them. A small group of Wigeon joined them too, until I had to walk past them.

South lake was just visible, but the Crows still managed to spot me, as I came down the footpath.

At the far end of the lake five Goosander were swimming amongst the Tufted Ducks, and Coots. A couple of Little Grebe too, along with Great crested grebe.

Past the rowing club, and houses, and over on Cormorant island, were another pair of Goosander, and a couple of Pochard swimming amongst a large group of Great Crested Grebe.

Back at the feeders, good numbers of finches, and Mallards were clearing up the mess underneath.

Despite the foggy conditions, an enjoyable walk.

Full list of today's sightings

Mute Swan (Cygnus olor)

Greylag Goose [sp] (Anser anser)

Greater Canada Goose [sp] (Branta canadensis)

Eurasian Wigeon (Anas penelope)

Gadwall [sp] (Anas strepera)

Mallard [sp] (Anas platyrhynchos)

Common Pochard (Aythya ferina)

Tufted Duck (Aythya fuligula)

Goosander (Mergus merganser merganser)

Little Grebe [sp] (Tachybaptus ruficollis)

Great Crested Grebe [sp] (Podiceps cristatus)

Great Cormorant [sp] (Phalacrocorax carbo)

Grey Heron [sp] (Ardea cinerea)

Common Moorhen [sp] (Gallinula chloropus)

Common Coot [sp] (Fulica atra)

Black-headed Gull (Chroicocephalus ridibundus)

Common Gull (Larus canus canus)

Lesser Black-backed Gull [sp] (Larus fuscus)

Great Black-backed Gull (Larus marinus)

Common Wood Pigeon [sp] (Columba palumbus)

Common Kingfisher [sp] (Alcedo atthis)

Green Woodpecker [sp] (Picus viridis)

Pied Wagtail (Motacilla alba yarrellii)

British Wren (Troglodytes troglodytes indigenus)

British Dunnock (Prunella modularis occidentalis)

British Robin (Erithacus rubecula melophilus)

Common Blackbird [sp] (Turdus merula)

British Song Thrush (Turdus philomelos clarkei)

Redwing [sp] (Turdus iliacus)

British Long-tailed Tit (Aegithalos caudatus rosaceus)

British Blue Tit (Cyanistes caeruleus obscurus)

British Great Tit (Parus major newtoni)

Eurasian Magpie [sp] (Pica pica)

Carrion Crow [sp] (Corvus corone)

Common Starling [sp] (Sturnus vulgaris)

British Chaffinch (Fringilla coelebs gengleri)

European Greenfinch [sp] (Carduelis chloris)

European Goldfinch [sp] (Carduelis carduelis)

Reed Bunting [sp] (Emberiza schoeniclus)

Total species 39

Goosander 8, Siskin 6

2012-01-28T14:53:00.000Z

and Bullfinch 4.

Despite the early cloud, making it very dull, and the couple of rain showers, it was another excellent morning.

The Song Thrush was singing heartily, accompanied by a Robin; and a noisy group of Magpies and Crows, made short work of the biscuits and bread I left, by the car park. They were soon joined by a group of Mallards too, that seem to have latched onto the idea there is food around in the mornings.

The north lake had a pair of Goosander at the top end, along with the Gadwall and Wigeon; and a lot of flying activity by the Canada Geese.

I found a group grazing, as I made my way towards the pub, and noticed amongst them, one poor soul with a very deformed foot.

After looking at some pictures I took, it looks like he has some fishing line wrapped round his leg.

I can only imagine the pain he must have been in; and maybe still is.

Onto the south lake, and a few showers, but thankfully didn't last too long.

The Crows were there, and a few boats going up and down too.

At the far end, Little Grebes, and another pair of Goosander.

By the offices, half a dozen Siskin kept me engrossed for a while, as they searched the trees for food.

Past the rowing club, and soon back at the car park.

A Treecreeper was playing hard to get, but I managed a couple of not so good pictures.

In the surrounding bushes were a small group of Bullfinches,

and the usual finches and tits on the feeders.

A lovely mornings visit.............and now the sun is shining.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I see YouTube has got its new face lift now, and one of the 'tabs' is named 'Copyright'.

Three of my videos infringed copyright apparently. The reason given, was music content, or something. Of course it would be helpful if they'd said what the 'music' was.

I filled in the online appeal form, stating the only music content was bird song, which to the best of my knowledge, isn't copyright.

Hmmm, Google own the tube, and Blogger don't they? Rapidly becoming my most unfavourite organisation at the moment.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Full list of today's sightings

Mute Swan (Cygnus olor)

Greater Canada Goose [sp] (Branta canadensis)

Eurasian Wigeon (Anas penelope)

Gadwall [sp] (Anas strepera)

Mallard [sp] (Anas platyrhynchos)

Tufted Duck (Aythya fuligula)

Goosander (Mergus merganser merganser)

Little Grebe [sp] (Tachybaptus ruficollis)

Great Crested Grebe [sp] (Podiceps cristatus)

Great Cormorant [sp] (Phalacrocorax carbo)

Grey Heron [sp] (Ardea cinerea)

Common Moorhen [sp] (Gallinula chloropus)

Common Coot [sp] (Fulica atra)

Black-headed Gull (Chroicocephalus ridibundus)

Common Gull (Larus canus canus)

Lesser Black-backed Gull [sp] (Larus fuscus)

Great Black-backed Gull (Larus marinus)

Common Wood Pigeon [sp] (Columba palumbus)

Green Woodpecker [sp] (Picus viridis)

Grey Wagtail [sp] (Motacilla cinerea)

British Dunnock (Prunella modularis occidentalis)

British Robin (Erithacus rubecula melophilus)

Common Blackbird [sp] (Turdus merula)

British Song Thrush (Turdus philomelos clarkei)

Redwing [sp] (Turdus iliacus)

British Blue Tit (Cyanistes caeruleus obscurus)

British Great Tit (Parus major newtoni)

British Treecreeper (Certhia familiaris britannica)

Eurasian Magpie [sp] (Pica pica)

Carrion Crow [sp] (Corvus corone)

Common Starling [sp] (Sturnus vulgaris)

British Chaffinch (Fringilla coelebs gengleri)

European Greenfinch [sp] (Carduelis chloris)

European Goldfinch [sp] (Carduelis carduelis)

Eurasian Siskin (Carduelis spinus)

British Bullfinch (Pyrrhula pyrrhula pileata)

Reed Bunting [sp] (Emberiza schoeniclus)

Total species 37

Cold, sunny, and brilliant.

2012-01-27T15:20:00.000Z

Cold and frosty, but the sun shone; what a morning.

By the feeders, and round the footbridge, plenty of Reed Buntings, Chaffinch, Greenfinch, Magpies and Crows.

Under the road bridge, towards the north lake, Mallard, Great Crested Grebe, Mute Swans and flying Canada and Greylag Geese. Up by the footbridge, in his usual spot, the Grey Heron was fishing,

and in the water, a few Cormorants fishing too.

(This was one that got away. Too big for the Cormorant)

A Crow was sitting amongst the trees,

crowing away, and a few Wigeon were grazing on the grassy bank, enjoying the warming sun on their backs, no doubt.

As I neared the top end of the lake, I noticed the first lot of Crocuses pushing through the frosty grass. A lovely sight, and a reminder that spring can't be very far away now.

Bazooka man was on the far shore,

and I wandered down to the river, and found four Goosander swimming along. They were soon airborne, and settled on the lake.

After a few minutes, a pair took off, and headed north.

Walking up towards the pub, I found a Green Woodpecker probing the grass for ants; but as usual, once I'd breached his large comfort zone, he was away.

A Cormorant sat drying his wings, on the launch pad for the boat club, by the pub.

The south lake beckoned, and so did the Crows.

They were soon satisfied with an apple core, and I carried on to the far end of the lake.

Another pair of Goosander in the sunlight, and by the island, in the sheltered spot, a group of Gadwall, Tufted Duck, and a Little Grebe swimming around.

A group of trees have been marked with pink paint spots, that are close to some power lines. I hope they're not for the chop, because they are a favourite for the group of Siskins that regularly frequent them.

After watching them for a while, and a brief glimpse of a pair of Great Spotted Woodpeckers, in the trees by the railway line, I carried on towards the rowing club.

Past a group of Tufted Duck, and a Herring Gull,

sunning himself on one of the buoys, and I was soon back at the car park.

A look round the bushes at the footbridge, and along with some Reed Buntings and Chaffinch, I found a male Bullfinch.

And at the feeders, Greenfinch,

Blue Tits,

Great Tits, Long Tailed Tits,

and a Great Spotted Woodpecker enjoying some peanuts, before heading up into the trees.

Perfect morning.

Full list of today's sightings

Mute Swan (Cygnus olor)

Greylag Goose [sp] (Anser anser)

Greater Canada Goose [sp] (Branta canadensis)

Eurasian Wigeon (Anas penelope)

Gadwall [sp] (Anas strepera)

Mallard [sp] (Anas platyrhynchos)

Tufted Duck (Aythya fuligula)

Goosander (Mergus merganser merganser)

Common Pheasant (Phasianus colchicus)

Little Grebe [sp] (Tachybaptus ruficollis)

Great Crested Grebe [sp] (Podiceps cristatus)

Great Cormorant [sp] (Phalacrocorax carbo)

Grey Heron [sp] (Ardea cinerea)

Eurasian Sparrowhawk [sp] (Accipiter nisus)

Common Moorhen [sp] (Gallinula chloropus)

Common Coot [sp] (Fulica atra)

Black-headed Gull (Chroicocephalus ridibundus)

Common Gull (Larus canus canus)

Lesser Black-backed Gull [sp] (Larus fuscus)

British Herring Gull (Larus argentatus argenteus)

Common Wood Pigeon [sp] (Columba palumbus)

Green Woodpecker [sp] (Picus viridis)

British Great Spotted Woodpecker (Dendrocopos major anglicus)

Pied Wagtail (Motacilla alba yarrellii)

British Dunnock (Prunella modularis occidentalis)

British Robin (Erithacus rubecula melophilus)

Common Blackbird [sp] (Turdus merula)

British Song Thrush (Turdus philomelos clarkei)

British Long-tailed Tit (Aegithalos caudatus rosaceus)

British Blue Tit (Cyanistes caeruleus obscurus)

British Great Tit (Parus major newtoni)

Eurasian Magpie [sp] (Pica pica)

Rook [sp] (Corvus frugilegus)

Carrion Crow [sp] (Corvus corone)

British Chaffinch (Fringilla coelebs gengleri)

European Greenfinch [sp] (Carduelis chloris)

European Goldfinch [sp] (Carduelis carduelis)

Eurasian Siskin (Carduelis spinus)

British Bullfinch (Pyrrhula pyrrhula pileata)

Reed Bunting [sp] (Emberiza schoeniclus)

Total species 40

Quick visit to south lake.

2012-01-26T14:14:00.000Z

Brief visit, because a shopping expedition was required.

The Song Thrush was in fine voice this morning, doing his best to drown out the noisy traffic; and almost succeeding. At least it sounded better.

As it slowly got lighter, I'd hoped to see a bit more of the gull roost, but unfortunately most of them leave in the awkward moment for pictures, between dark, and not so dark. Maybe I need a night vision camera.

I was hoping to see the Goosander again, this morning, after seeing seven of them on the south lake yesterday. I wasn't completely disappointed, there were two; a male and female. After spooking the female, who was right by the edge as I filmed the male, they both flew off northwards.

I found both of them later by Cormorant island, so thankfully they didn't go far.

A Little Grebe was swimming around at the far end of the lake, and a pair of Great Spotted Woodpeckers were high in the trees.

Passing the rowing club, a Grey Wagtail was along the footpath, and further along, a pair of Pied Wagtails.

Three Pochard were swimming in the arc, by the town houses. First ones I've seen here for a while, and at least a dozen Great Crested Grebes by the island.

Quick look at the feeders had a group of Mallard picking up the fallen seed, along with a couple of Moorhen; and then shopping.

Full list of today's sightings

Mute Swan (Cygnus olor)

Greater Canada Goose [sp] (Branta canadensis)

Mallard [sp] (Anas platyrhynchos)

Common Pochard (Aythya ferina)

Tufted Duck (Aythya fuligula)

Goosander (Mergus merganser merganser)

Little Grebe [sp] (Tachybaptus ruficollis)

Great Crested Grebe [sp] (Podiceps cristatus)

Great Cormorant [sp] (Phalacrocorax carbo)

Grey Heron [sp] (Ardea cinerea)

Common Moorhen [sp] (Gallinula chloropus)

Common Coot [sp] (Fulica atra)

Black-headed Gull (Chroicocephalus ridibundus)

Common Wood Pigeon [sp] (Columba palumbus)

British Great Spotted Woodpecker (Dendrocopos major anglicus)

Grey Wagtail [sp] (Motacilla cinerea)

Pied Wagtail (Motacilla alba yarrellii)

British Dunnock (Prunella modularis occidentalis)

British Robin (Erithacus rubecula melophilus)

Common Blackbird [sp] (Turdus merula)

British Song Thrush (Turdus philomelos clarkei)

Redwing [sp] (Turdus iliacus)

British Blue Tit (Cyanistes caeruleus obscurus)

British Great Tit (Parus major newtoni)

Eurasian Magpie [sp] (Pica pica)

Carrion Crow [sp] (Corvus corone)

European Greenfinch [sp] (Carduelis chloris)

European Goldfinch [sp] (Carduelis carduelis)

British Bullfinch (Pyrrhula pyrrhula pileata)

Total species 29

Goosanders Galore

2012-01-25T15:38:00.000Z

Nine of the beauties this morning.

The weather may have been dull, but the birds more than made up for it.

After doing the feeders, I made my way round to the north lake. Hundreds of gulls were on the south lake, leaving their roost. Most were heading north, but a few flew over to the bank, and the grass.

I stopped to watch a Heron fishing, at his favourite spot, under a footbridge, and he was pretty successful.

A couple of Cormorants were fishing nearby, and I think they were driving some of the fish towards the Heron, and he just picked them off, one by one. Teamwork.

A Kingfisher sat in the trees, on the island; one of his favourite spots, and a group of Wigeon were grazing on the bank. Amongst them was a one legged female Mallard, who seemed to be coping fairly well. Sad to see though.

Further along, towards the top end, a Grey Wagtail, searching what shore line is left, and in the arm of the lake, behind the pub, a pair of Goosander.

A favoured spot for these, it seems. Good numbers of Wigeon and Gadwall too.

The south lake had the waiting Crows, and a few airborne Mute Swans, circling round, seemingly undecided where to settle. Another pair of Goosander were soon spotted, swimming out in the middle of the lake, along with a few gulls.

Once I reached the far end, more Goosanders. A total of nine this morning.

A quick look under the railway arch, and sad to see some rubbish left by the railway workers from a couple of days ago. A couple of empty sealant tubes chucked on the ground, from up where they were working, and what looked like a grinding disc, thrown into one of the trees. Dirty buggers.

I searched the trees by the offices, looking for the Siskin that sometimes hang around here. No luck, but a couple of Robins were singing in the trees.

I was soon back at the car park, and checking the bushes and trees, found a couple of Bullfinch; the males red chest standing out in the branches.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I had to shorten the video; I got a bit carried away this morning.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Full list of today's sightings

Mute Swan (Cygnus olor)

Greylag Goose [sp] (Anser anser)

Greater Canada Goose [sp] (Branta canadensis)

Eurasian Wigeon (Anas penelope)

Gadwall [sp] (Anas strepera)

Mallard [sp] (Anas platyrhynchos)

Tufted Duck (Aythya fuligula)

Goosander (Mergus merganser merganser)

Common Pheasant (Phasianus colchicus)

Great Crested Grebe [sp] (Podiceps cristatus)

Great Cormorant [sp] (Phalacrocorax carbo)

Grey Heron [sp] (Ardea cinerea)

Eurasian Sparrowhawk [sp] (Accipiter nisus)

Common Moorhen [sp] (Gallinula chloropus)

Common Coot [sp] (Fulica atra)

Northern Lapwing (Vanellus vanellus)

Black-headed Gull (Chroicocephalus ridibundus)

Common Gull (Larus canus canus)

Lesser Black-backed Gull [sp] (Larus fuscus)

British Herring Gull (Larus argentatus argenteus)

Great Black-backed Gull (Larus marinus)

Common Wood Pigeon [sp] (Columba palumbus)

Common Kingfisher [sp] (Alcedo atthis)

Green Woodpecker [sp] (Picus viridis)

Grey Wagtail [sp] (Motacilla cinerea)

Pied Wagtail (Motacilla alba yarrellii)

British Wren (Troglodytes troglodytes indigenus)

British Robin (Erithacus rubecula melophilus)

Common Blackbird [sp] (Turdus merula)

British Song Thrush (Turdus philomelos clarkei)

Redwing [sp] (Turdus iliacus)

British Long-tailed Tit (Aegithalos caudatus rosaceus)

British Blue Tit (Cyanistes caeruleus obscurus)

British Great Tit (Parus major newtoni)

Eurasian Magpie [sp] (Pica pica)

Carrion Crow [sp] (Corvus corone)

Common Starling [sp] (Sturnus vulgaris)

British Chaffinch (Fringilla coelebs gengleri)

European Greenfinch [sp] (Carduelis chloris)

European Goldfinch [sp] (Carduelis carduelis)

British Bullfinch (Pyrrhula pyrrhula pileata)

Reed Bunting [sp] (Emberiza schoeniclus)

Total species 42

Goosander and Little Egret

2012-01-23T14:53:00.000Z

A bit of a cloudy morning, that always held the promise of some sun.

The Song Thrush was in fine voice this morning, and a few Chaffinch and Reed Bunting around the footbridge, by the car park.

As I began to make my way round the north lake, the sky darkened as a huge Great Black-backed Gull flew overhead.

Slight exaggeration; no dark sky, but he was a big bugger!

Tufted Duck and Great Crested Grebes were all in their usual places, and a group of Wigeon were grazing happily with a few Canada Geese.

A pair of Goosander were up at the top end, where they can usually be found, and more Canada Geese, Wigeon and Gadwall.

A pair of Great Crested Grebes were doing some head waggling, followed by a half hearted attempt at the weed dance.

One rose from the depths with a beak full of weed, and the other just swam away. Maybe next time.

A Kingfisher flashed past over the water, and disappeared into the bushes on the opposite bank.

(Yes, he's the blue blob on the right. Couldn't resist posting this one)

On towards the south lake, and the usual Crow antics kept me amused as I made my way to the far end.

Little Grebe were very vocal, but not quite so visible; and a quick view of a Little Egret on the shore of the island. Sadly he didn't stay long though, and was soon heading north.

A collection of gulls bobbing in the water, along with the usual Coots, and a few Moorhen were probing the shoreline for food.

Along the path by the rowing club, a couple of Mute Swans were busily flexing their feathers, to see off another pair, that had dared to stray onto their lake. A pair of Mallard were making an unsuccessful attempt at mating, (I think the male spent too much time head banging, and the female lost interest), and another pair of Great Crested Grebes out in the distance, were also failing to impress each other fully.

Back at the car park, I watched a group of half a dozen Bullfinch feeding on buds of the trees,

The Song Thrush was still singing his morning song,

and at the feeders, good to see some frenzied feeding activity; or at least until I got the camera out.

Another interesting morning.

Full list of today's sightings

Mute Swan (Cygnus olor)

Greylag Goose [sp] (Anser anser)

Greater Canada Goose [sp] (Branta canadensis)

Eurasian Wigeon (Anas penelope)

Gadwall [sp] (Anas strepera)

Mallard [sp] (Anas platyrhynchos)

Tufted Duck (Aythya fuligula)

Goosander (Mergus merganser merganser)

Little Grebe [sp] (Tachybaptus ruficollis)

Great Crested Grebe [sp] (Podiceps cristatus)

Great Cormorant [sp] (Phalacrocorax carbo)

Little Egret [sp] (Egretta garzetta)

Grey Heron [sp] (Ardea cinerea)

Common Moorhen [sp] (Gallinula chloropus)

Common Coot [sp] (Fulica atra)

Black-headed Gull (Chroicocephalus ridibundus)

Common Gull (Larus canus canus)

Lesser Black-backed Gull [sp] (Larus fuscus)

Great Black-backed Gull (Larus marinus)

Common Wood Pigeon [sp] (Columba palumbus)

Common Kingfisher [sp] (Alcedo atthis)

Pied Wagtail (Motacilla alba yarrellii)

British Wren (Troglodytes troglodytes indigenus)

British Dunnock (Prunella modularis occidentalis)

British Robin (Erithacus rubecula melophilus)

Common Blackbird [sp] (Turdus merula)

British Song Thrush (Turdus philomelos clarkei)

Redwing [sp] (Turdus iliacus)

British Blue Tit (Cyanistes caeruleus obscurus)

British Great Tit (Parus major newtoni)

Eurasian Magpie [sp] (Pica pica)

Eurasian Jackdaw [sp] (Corvus monedula)

Carrion Crow [sp] (Corvus corone)

Common Starling [sp] (Sturnus vulgaris)

British Chaffinch (Fringilla coelebs gengleri)

European Greenfinch [sp] (Carduelis chloris)

European Goldfinch [sp] (Carduelis carduelis)

British Bullfinch (Pyrrhula pyrrhula pileata)

Reed Bunting [sp] (Emberiza schoeniclus)

Total species 39

Weed dance, and Siskins.

2012-01-22T13:08:00.000Z

I got an e-mail from someone last night, asking about the lake, and what was about.

I arranged to meet them this morning, and we had a slow walk round the north and south lake. I mentioned where certain birds could usually be found, and seen; and luck must have been with me. I think we managed to see everything I mentioned.

The Song Thrush was in good voice, by the car park,

and after topping up the feeders, we watched a few Redwings leaving the roost, and some Reed Buntings by the footbridge. Even the white faced Chaffinch put in an appearance; but a handheld shot at 1/15" in poor light, was never going to make it here.

We set off round the north lake, watching a few Mute Swans fly in, and eventually made it to the top end of the lake. 'A good spot for Great Crested Grebes performing the weed dance', I mentioned, ............ and sure enough, a pair obliged.

A female Goosander flew overhead, as we made our way up past the weir.

A group of Canada Geese were good enough to pose for a while,

along with some Gadwall, and Wigeon.

Around the other side, we met a couple of blokes crouched by the edge of the lake, with some serious looking camera gear.

On the other side, was a male Goosander.

I tried a bit of conversation, about some of the visible birds, but they were hard work, bemoaning the fact they were too far away for their bazooka sized lenses.

I'd had an easier conversation earlier, with a couple of Polish fishermen.

We left them to it.

Past the pub, under the road bridge, and on round the south lake.

One Crow turned up for his apple core, and a few joggers were pounding their way past by now. No sign of any boats on the water yet though.

At the far end of the lake, I mentioned it was a good spot for Kingfisher.

And one flew by, just as I mentioned it.

Also good for Little Grebe, I said; and one swam by on cue.

On towards the offices, and we stopped to talk to another photographer. Whilst we were there, a Treecreeper landed on a trunk, not far from us. Always good to see.

As we left him, I mentioned that Siskin are usually up in the trees ahead.

There they were.

We stopped for a while, taking a few pictures, and then carried on towards the car park.

By now the boats were out. Yachts; so not very much out on the water.

A quick check to see what was on the feeders; Greenfinch, Goldfinch, and Mallard clearing up underneath, and then one last look round the footbridge.

"A good spot for Bullfinch", I said, just as I managed to pick some out in the trees ahead with the binoculars.

And as we made our way to our cars, a Sparrowhawk gave us a goodbye fly by.

A great morning.

Full list of today's sightings

Mute Swan (Cygnus olor)

Greylag Goose [sp] (Anser anser)

Greater Canada Goose [sp] (Branta canadensis)

Eurasian Wigeon (Anas penelope)

Gadwall [sp] (Anas strepera)

Mallard [sp] (Anas platyrhynchos)

Tufted Duck (Aythya fuligula)

Goosander (Mergus merganser merganser)

Little Grebe [sp] (Tachybaptus ruficollis)

Great Crested Grebe [sp] (Podiceps cristatus)

Great Cormorant [sp] (Phalacrocorax carbo)

Grey Heron [sp] (Ardea cinerea)

Eurasian Sparrowhawk [sp] (Accipiter nisus)

Common Moorhen [sp] (Gallinula chloropus)

Common Coot [sp] (Fulica atra)

Northern Lapwing (Vanellus vanellus)

Black-headed Gull (Chroicocephalus ridibundus)

Lesser Black-backed Gull [sp] (Larus fuscus)

Common Wood Pigeon [sp] (Columba palumbus)

Common Kingfisher [sp] (Alcedo atthis)

Green Woodpecker [sp] (Picus viridis)

Pied Wagtail (Motacilla alba yarrellii)

British Wren (Troglodytes troglodytes indigenus)

British Dunnock (Prunella modularis occidentalis)

British Robin (Erithacus rubecula melophilus)

Common Blackbird [sp] (Turdus merula)

British Song Thrush (Turdus philomelos clarkei)

Redwing [sp] (Turdus iliacus)

British Blue Tit (Cyanistes caeruleus obscurus)

British Great Tit (Parus major newtoni)

British Treecreeper (Certhia familiaris britannica)

Eurasian Magpie [sp] (Pica pica)

Carrion Crow [sp] (Corvus corone)

Common Starling [sp] (Sturnus vulgaris)

British Chaffinch (Fringilla coelebs gengleri)

European Greenfinch [sp] (Carduelis chloris)

European Goldfinch [sp] (Carduelis carduelis)

Eurasian Siskin (Carduelis spinus)

British Bullfinch (Pyrrhula pyrrhula pileata)

Reed Bunting [sp] (Emberiza schoeniclus)

Total species 40

Goosander, Siskin, Bullfinch and more.

2012-01-20T14:41:00.000Z

The pictures aren't up to much today; my only excuse is the terrible light, and on and off rain.

The Song Thrush was doing his best to be heard above the traffic this morning, and certainly sounded better than the lorries and cars thundering along the road.

The Magpies were quite vocal, up in the trees, and a couple of Robins were joining in with the morning chorus too.

On the footbridge, at the car park, the Chaffinch with the white head, was still around. It seems like he's trying to do an impression of a Snow Bunting, with that white face.

What with him, and the pretend Snow Goose, it could start getting difficult to tell what's about, with all these imposters.

As I passed under the road bridge, a pair of Mallards began to follow me, and were soon joined by more, as they came out of the lake. I'm going to have to start bringing more food out.

A Grey Wagtail was searching the edge of the lake for food, under the bridge, and over by the pub, the Lesser Black-backed Gull was wandering between the Canada Geese, that were busily grazing.

The Heron was in his usual spot, by the footbridge near the bandstand, and a group of Cormorants were fishing in the now thawed waters.

Up towards the top end, and there were good numbers of Tufted Duck, along with the Wigeon, Great Crested Grebes, and Gadwall.

On the old flat topped boat, that seems a resting place for all and sundry, a Cormorant was behaving like a lovesick Goldeneye, throwing his head back, as he presumably made some advances to a female. She didn't seem that bothered, and after a while they flew off.

Up by the grass slope, a number of Canada Geese and Wigeon, were grazing.

I took a slight detour, so as not to disturb them, and eventually started my way round the south lake.

The Crows were soon there, waiting for their apple core, and a few Black-headed Gulls decided to tag along too.

As I got towards the far end, I saw a large whitish blob in the distance, on the water.

The binoculars soon confirmed a male Goosander; and not far away, was a female.

At the now flooded temporary wader scrape, a few Little Grebe could be heard, and eventually seen.

On towards the offices, and I soon found a group of Siskin in the trees.

They seem to love this area, and can be pretty much guaranteed to be seen here.

There are usually Redwing in this area too, in the trees along by the railway line; but not today.

I made my way along the path, towards the rowing club, and out on one of the buoys, a young Grey Heron.

With his head and neck tucked in, he didn't look too happy. Maybe this rain is getting him fed up too.

Round past the town houses, and then towards the car park for a last look at what's on the feeders. A couple of juvenile gulls were flying around.

Gulls are not my strong point, for ID's; especially the young ones. No idea what make and model this is, and not a brilliant picture; but I like it.

A Bullfinch in the bushes, and a few Mallard and Moorhen, under the feeders, closed a great morning.

Full list of today's sightings

Mute Swan (Cygnus olor)

Eurasian Wigeon (Anas penelope)

Gadwall [sp] (Anas strepera)

Mallard [sp] (Anas platyrhynchos)

Tufted Duck (Aythya fuligula)

Goosander (Mergus merganser merganser)

Little Grebe [sp] (Tachybaptus ruficollis)

Great Crested Grebe [sp] (Podiceps cristatus)

Great Cormorant [sp] (Phalacrocorax carbo)

Grey Heron [sp] (Ardea cinerea)

Common Moorhen [sp] (Gallinula chloropus)

Common Coot [sp] (Fulica atra)

Black-headed Gull (Chroicocephalus ridibundus)

Common Gull (Larus canus canus)

Lesser Black-backed Gull [sp] (Larus fuscus)

British Herring Gull (Larus argentatus argenteus)

Common Wood Pigeon [sp] (Columba palumbus)

British Great Spotted Woodpecker (Dendrocopos major anglicus)

Grey Wagtail [sp] (Motacilla cinerea)

Pied Wagtail (Motacilla alba yarrellii)

British Robin (Erithacus rubecula melophilus)

Common Blackbird [sp] (Turdus merula)

British Song Thrush (Turdus philomelos clarkei)

Redwing [sp] (Turdus iliacus)

British Blue Tit (Cyanistes caeruleus obscurus)

British Great Tit (Parus major newtoni)

Eurasian Magpie [sp] (Pica pica)

Carrion Crow [sp] (Corvus corone)

British Chaffinch (Fringilla coelebs gengleri)

European Greenfinch [sp] (Carduelis chloris)

European Goldfinch [sp] (Carduelis carduelis)

Eurasian Siskin (Carduelis spinus)

British Bullfinch (Pyrrhula pyrrhula pileata)

Reed Bunting [sp] (Emberiza schoeniclus)

Total species 34

A meeting

2012-01-19T14:05:00.000Z

Today was the day I had my meeting with Dawn, from the Parks Trust.

A wet, miserable start to the day, with that rain that gets you soaking wet.

I topped up the feeders, and had a quick look round the car park area, while I waited for Dawn.

The roosting Redwing were quite vocal, as they gradually left; and a lot of vocal geese too, as they headed north, for breakfast.

The Song Thrush was belting his song out, from his favourite perch,

and a Robin was dueting further along, in another bush.

Dawn arrived, and we had a wander down to the feeding area. A Treecreeper was slowly climbing the trunk of a tree, as we chatted by the feeders, and after a while we had a slow walk round the south lake.

Pied and Grey Wagtail, Cormorants, and a pair of Goosander. A good start to the morning.

As we reached the far end of the lake, Little Grebe, along with their bigger cousins, Great Crested Grebe. And the rain had stopped by now.

Up towards the road bridge, and across the lake, back to the car park.

A quick chat, and then Dawn left, for work, I guess, and I made my way round the north lake.

By now my knee was giving me some pain, and it seemed a struggle to get right round.

Grey Heron, Gadwall, Wigeon,

and another Treecreeper made it worthwhile though.

And the sun chose to shine at this point.

A large group of Canada Geese, with a few Greylags, were up ahead, and in amongst them, the pretend Snow Goose.

He really is a fine looking goose.

Eventually, back at the car park, a quick look at the feeders, and then home.

An enjoyable morning.

Full list of today's sightings

Mute Swan (Cygnus olor)

Greylag Goose [sp] (Anser anser)

Greater Canada Goose [sp] (Branta canadensis)

Eurasian Wigeon (Anas penelope)

Gadwall [sp] (Anas strepera)

Mallard [sp] (Anas platyrhynchos)

Tufted Duck (Aythya fuligula)

Goosander (Mergus merganser merganser)

Little Grebe [sp] (Tachybaptus ruficollis)

Great Crested Grebe [sp] (Podiceps cristatus)

Great Cormorant [sp] (Phalacrocorax carbo)

Grey Heron [sp] (Ardea cinerea)

Common Moorhen [sp] (Gallinula chloropus)

Common Coot [sp] (Fulica atra)

Black-headed Gull (Chroicocephalus ridibundus)

Common Gull (Larus canus canus)

Lesser Black-backed Gull [sp] (Larus fuscus)

Common Wood Pigeon [sp] (Columba palumbus)

Common Kingfisher [sp] (Alcedo atthis)

Green Woodpecker [sp] (Picus viridis)

Grey Wagtail [sp] (Motacilla cinerea)

Pied Wagtail (Motacilla alba yarrellii)

British Wren (Troglodytes troglodytes indigenus)

British Dunnock (Prunella modularis occidentalis)

British Robin (Erithacus rubecula melophilus)

Common Blackbird [sp] (Turdus merula)

British Song Thrush (Turdus philomelos clarkei)

Redwing [sp] (Turdus iliacus)

British Long-tailed Tit (Aegithalos caudatus rosaceus)

British Blue Tit (Cyanistes caeruleus obscurus)

British Great Tit (Parus major newtoni)

British Treecreeper (Certhia familiaris britannica)

Eurasian Magpie [sp] (Pica pica)

Carrion Crow [sp] (Corvus corone)

British Chaffinch (Fringilla coelebs gengleri)

European Greenfinch [sp] (Carduelis chloris)

European Goldfinch [sp] (Carduelis carduelis)

Reed Bunting [sp] (Emberiza schoeniclus)

Total species 38

The Crow, the apple core, and the thief.

2012-01-15T15:18:00.000Z

Another cold frosty morning; but at least the sun shone.

A lot of the 'arms' of the lake; the little bits that go off, and do their own thing, have begun to freeze over with the cold spell we're having at the moment.

At least the main part of the lake is still liquid though.

The north lake seemed to have more mist, than the south. It also had more boats too.

The sun was a lovely golden colour, as it began to climb the sky.

There were quite a few Herons around on the north lake today, for a change. The last couple of days, they've kept to the south lake for some reason.

Two Kingfishers were a nice sight too.

Up at the top end, on the arm that goes round the back of the pub, most of the water has frozen over. This has pushed all the water birds into a small area near the main lake; and also closer to the boats as they go up and down.

Two male Goosander were briefly amongst the Wigeon and Gadwall, before deciding to head north.

Probably going up to Willen north Lake, where it's quieter.

Eventually passing under the road bridge, to make my way to the south lake, I was confronted by the Crows, waiting for their treats. What happened next, was one of the funniest things I've seen, and certainly never seen happen before.

They had their odd bits of apple each, and then the more dominant Crow gets the core.

He had a few pecks at it, and then decided to bury it, as best he could in the frozen ground. He chose a mole hill, where the earth was a bit softer.

As he finished, and turned away, another Crow flew in, searched around, and then dug up the apple core. First Crow, realising his stash had been stolen began hopping towards the thief. Too late, the damage was done. The thief had decided he'd eat the core. Resigned to the fact it was lost, he just turned away.

Pleased I managed to get it on video too.

More Herons were along the shore of the south lake,

and at the far end, a couple of Little Grebe, with the Coots. Just off from the island shore, a female Goosander, and on the island, another Heron.

A rather co-operative Robin also posed for some video and pictures.

Past the rowing club, another poser, on one of the oil drum buoys.

Finally, back at the car park, a quick look at the busy feeders, and picking up the fallen seed this morning, three Moorhen.

Full list of today's sightings

Mute Swan (Cygnus olor)

Greylag Goose [sp] (Anser anser)

Greater Canada Goose [sp] (Branta canadensis)

Eurasian Wigeon (Anas penelope)

Gadwall [sp] (Anas strepera)

Mallard [sp] (Anas platyrhynchos)

Tufted Duck (Aythya fuligula)

Goosander (Mergus merganser merganser)

Little Grebe [sp] (Tachybaptus ruficollis)

Great Crested Grebe [sp] (Podiceps cristatus)

Great Cormorant [sp] (Phalacrocorax carbo)

Grey Heron [sp] (Ardea cinerea)

Common Moorhen [sp] (Gallinula chloropus)

Common Coot [sp] (Fulica atra)

Black-headed Gull (Chroicocephalus ridibundus)

Common Gull (Larus canus canus)

Lesser Black-backed Gull [sp] (Larus fuscus)

British Herring Gull (Larus argentatus argenteus)

Common Wood Pigeon [sp] (Columba palumbus)

Common Kingfisher [sp] (Alcedo atthis)

Green Woodpecker [sp] (Picus viridis)

Pied Wagtail (Motacilla alba yarrellii)

British Wren (Troglodytes troglodytes indigenus)

British Dunnock (Prunella modularis occidentalis)

British Robin (Erithacus rubecula melophilus)

Common Blackbird [sp] (Turdus merula)

British Song Thrush (Turdus philomelos clarkei)

Redwing [sp] (Turdus iliacus)

British Long-tailed Tit (Aegithalos caudatus rosaceus)

British Blue Tit (Cyanistes caeruleus obscurus)

British Great Tit (Parus major newtoni)

Eurasian Magpie [sp] (Pica pica)

Eurasian Jackdaw [sp] (Corvus monedula)

Rook [sp] (Corvus frugilegus)

Carrion Crow [sp] (Corvus corone)

British Chaffinch (Fringilla coelebs gengleri)

European Greenfinch [sp] (Carduelis chloris)

European Goldfinch [sp] (Carduelis carduelis)

Reed Bunting [sp] (Emberiza schoeniclus)

Total species 39

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

No post for the next couple of days

Cameras were out today.

2012-01-14T14:52:00.000Z

I saw at least half a dozen people out with their cameras this morning.

Sunshine, mist, and quite a thick frost, and cold with it; but it didn't stop the people out and about, enjoying the sunny weather. Joggers, dog walkers, stick walkers, (that strange breed that clip clops along with two metal poles), and the boats.

There were plenty of geese flying to and fro this morning.

The Mute Swans were not going to be left out either.

Or even the Mallards

As I made my way round the north lake, I stopped to feed a pair of Mallards that were determined to follow me, until I did feed them. It's that time of year, when I get my 'duck' followers.

On towards the bandstand, and the footbridge, to check on the Mute Swan that had got himself stuck behind an obstacle the last couple of days.

Yesterday I went back over the lake, to see if I could tempt him around the obstacle with some bread.

No luck though. All it achieved was an argument between him and a few Mallards that were intent on stealing his bread. Oh well, I tried.

This morning there was no sign of him; probably because the water near the obstacle had frozen.

I found him eventually, further round, just waking up; with another swan. Hopefully he'll get back on the main lake soon.

I carried on towards the top end, and saw someone with a tripod and camera, across the lake. It looked as though he was taking pictures of the boats, as they cut their way through the misty water.

And someone else that I recognised, at the top end.

Marilyn of 'travels with my camera'

I eventually got to where she was taking pictures of the rising sun, and then we made our way towards the 'weir' end.

The usual Gadwall, Coots and Wigeon.........and the three Goosander from yesterday.

The two males, and the female.

We stopped and took a few pictures, and then I carried on towards the south lake; Marilyn heading towards a friends, for a warming cup of tea.

I passed another group of people, with their cameras, who had stopped to take some pictures of the pub, and each other.

Once under the road bridge, I was soon greeted by the Crows, who eventually got their reward; an apple core.

By now the sun was shining in a blue sky. A perfect morning, although the frost was still hanging onto the trees, and reeds.

I counted over twenty Mute Swans as I made my way to the far end, and stopped to take quite a few pictures, as they swam amongst the receding mist, and glow of the morning sun.

Once I reached the far end, a couple of Little Grebe were soon diving for cover, and the trees were full of Chaffinch, as they were searching for food.

A couple of Grey Heron sat like sentries on the buoys, seemingly oblivious to all the boats that were now out on the water.

A couple more people with cameras passed me, as I took the path past the rowing club.

Cormorants were flying high, and Great Crested Grebes were swimming in pairs. A couple of Mallard were busily mating, and a group of Coots were........fighting. No surprise there.

Finally back at the car park, and a quick look at the feeders.

A few Chaffinch, Blue Tit, Great Tit, and Mallards picking up the fallen seed.

And at the footbridge, in the bushes, a pair of Bullfinch.

What a handsome male.

I had a great morning.

Full list of today's sightings

Mute Swan (Cygnus olor)

Greylag Goose [sp] (Anser anser)

Greater Canada Goose [sp] (Branta canadensis)

Eurasian Wigeon (Anas penelope)

Gadwall [sp] (Anas strepera)

Mallard [sp] (Anas platyrhynchos)

Tufted Duck (Aythya fuligula)

Goosander (Mergus merganser merganser)

Little Grebe [sp] (Tachybaptus ruficollis)

Great Crested Grebe [sp] (Podiceps cristatus)

Great Cormorant [sp] (Phalacrocorax carbo)

Grey Heron [sp] (Ardea cinerea)

Common Moorhen [sp] (Gallinula chloropus)

Common Coot [sp] (Fulica atra)

Black-headed Gull (Chroicocephalus ridibundus)

Common Gull (Larus canus canus)

Lesser Black-backed Gull [sp] (Larus fuscus)

British Herring Gull (Larus argentatus argenteus)

Common Wood Pigeon [sp] (Columba palumbus)

Grey Wagtail [sp] (Motacilla cinerea)

Pied Wagtail (Motacilla alba yarrellii)

British Wren (Troglodytes troglodytes indigenus)

British Dunnock (Prunella modularis occidentalis)

British Robin (Erithacus rubecula melophilus)

Common Blackbird [sp] (Turdus merula)

British Song Thrush (Turdus philomelos clarkei)

Redwing [sp] (Turdus iliacus)

British Long-tailed Tit (Aegithalos caudatus rosaceus)

British Blue Tit (Cyanistes caeruleus obscurus)

British Great Tit (Parus major newtoni)

Eurasian Magpie [sp] (Pica pica)

Rook [sp] (Corvus frugilegus)

Carrion Crow [sp] (Corvus corone)

Common Starling [sp] (Sturnus vulgaris)

British Chaffinch (Fringilla coelebs gengleri)

European Greenfinch [sp] (Carduelis chloris)

European Goldfinch [sp] (Carduelis carduelis)

British Bullfinch (Pyrrhula pyrrhula pileata)

Reed Bunting [sp] (Emberiza schoeniclus)

Total species 39

Goosander Galore

2012-01-13T15:18:00.000Z

Well, four.

A cold, frosty start to the day, with a little mist hanging over the lake too.

After topping up the feeders, and seeing a new home made fat cake, left by someone, hanging from one of the branches, I had a quick look at some daffodils out in flower across the road from the car park.

Strange to see them out so early.

The fat cake mystery was soon solved too. A gentleman I've seen a few times now, as he walks his two dogs. Thanks.

On the footbridge, the white headed Chaffinch was still around, and quite a few Reed Buntings too, along with the regular looking Chaffinch and Greenfinch.

The Mute Swan from yesterday, was still struggling to get over its obstacle, and get to the main part of the lake. I might go back later, and try to coax him round the edge, with some bread.

Gadwall and Wigeon up at the top end of the north lake, and then three Goosander flew in to join them.

Two males, and a female. Lovely to see them.

On round the south lake, and the Crows soon came along for their apple treat.

The sun had decided to hide behind some cloud by now, and the temperature seemed to drop quite a bit; or maybe it's just my old bones feel it more these days. The knee certainly did.

At the far end, Little Grebe, a couple of Herons, a Pied Wagtail down by the rowing club, and out on the water, a group of Common Gulls, and Lesser Black-backed Gulls.

Past the town houses, and a white goose was with a group of Canada Geese. He could almost pass for a Snow Goose; almost.

As I passed cormorant island, with its Cormorants, there on the shore, was another Goosander. A female. After a quick preen, and wash, she settled down for a sleep.

A group of Mallards were picking the fallen seed from the feeders, and over by the footbridge, the Song Thrush was still singing his morning song; and was soon joined for a duet, by a Robin.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Full list of today's sightings

Mute Swan (Cygnus olor)

Greylag Goose [sp] (Anser anser)

Greater Canada Goose [sp] (Branta canadensis)

Eurasian Wigeon (Anas penelope)

Gadwall [sp] (Anas strepera)

Mallard [sp] (Anas platyrhynchos)

Tufted Duck (Aythya fuligula)

Goosander (Mergus merganser merganser)

Little Grebe [sp] (Tachybaptus ruficollis)

Great Crested Grebe [sp] (Podiceps cristatus)

Great Cormorant [sp] (Phalacrocorax carbo)

Grey Heron [sp] (Ardea cinerea)

Common Moorhen [sp] (Gallinula chloropus)

Common Coot [sp] (Fulica atra)

Northern Lapwing (Vanellus vanellus)

Black-headed Gull (Chroicocephalus ridibundus)

Common Gull (Larus canus canus)

Lesser Black-backed Gull [sp] (Larus fuscus)

Common Wood Pigeon [sp] (Columba palumbus)

Eurasian Collared Dove [sp] (Streptopelia decaocto)

Green Woodpecker [sp] (Picus viridis)

Pied Wagtail (Motacilla alba yarrellii)

British Wren (Troglodytes troglodytes indigenus)

British Dunnock (Prunella modularis occidentalis)

British Robin (Erithacus rubecula melophilus)

Common Blackbird [sp] (Turdus merula)

British Song Thrush (Turdus philomelos clarkei)

Redwing [sp] (Turdus iliacus)

British Long-tailed Tit (Aegithalos caudatus rosaceus)

British Blue Tit (Cyanistes caeruleus obscurus)

British Great Tit (Parus major newtoni)

Eurasian Magpie [sp] (Pica pica)

Carrion Crow [sp] (Corvus corone)

Common Starling [sp] (Sturnus vulgaris)

British Chaffinch (Fringilla coelebs gengleri)

European Greenfinch [sp] (Carduelis chloris)

European Goldfinch [sp] (Carduelis carduelis)

Reed Bunting [sp] (Emberiza schoeniclus)

Total species 38

A quick visit.

2012-01-12T11:28:00.000Z

A dull, cloudy morning; but the birds were still singing.

The Song Thrush by the footbridge was in good voice, as was the Robin close by.

A big group of Magpies were quite vocal too, chattering away.

I made my way round the north lake, intending to do the whole lake, but half way round, my knee was giving me some pain.

I get arthritis in it at times; and this was one of them.

I hate the whole thing about getting old.

A few Mute Swans were busily flying around, as were the Canada and Greylag Geese.

Plenty of Wigeon and Gadwall at the top end of the lake; but no sign of a Kingfisher today.

Down past the pub, and a small group of Black-headed Gulls were sitting on the boat jetty, along with some Cormorants, drying their wings, ready for the next bout of fishing.

A couple of Pied Wagtails were skipping over the grass, and up in the trees, a big group of Wood Pigeon.

I crossed the lake at the road bridge, and made my way down the steps, towards the car park.

A nice sight was a Treecreeper, briefly working his way up the trunk of a tree, before he flew off.

He takes the years bird total so far, for here, to 59.

Full list of today's sightings

Mute Swan (Cygnus olor)

Greylag Goose [sp] (Anser anser)

Greater Canada Goose [sp] (Branta canadensis)

Eurasian Wigeon (Anas penelope)

Gadwall [sp] (Anas strepera)

Mallard [sp] (Anas platyrhynchos)

Tufted Duck (Aythya fuligula)

Great Crested Grebe [sp] (Podiceps cristatus)

Great Cormorant [sp] (Phalacrocorax carbo)

Grey Heron [sp] (Ardea cinerea)

Common Moorhen [sp] (Gallinula chloropus)

Common Coot [sp] (Fulica atra)

Black-headed Gull (Chroicocephalus ridibundus)

Lesser Black-backed Gull [sp] (Larus fuscus)

Common Wood Pigeon [sp] (Columba palumbus)

Eurasian Collared Dove [sp] (Streptopelia decaocto)

Pied Wagtail (Motacilla alba yarrellii)

British Dunnock (Prunella modularis occidentalis)

British Robin (Erithacus rubecula melophilus)

Common Blackbird [sp] (Turdus merula)

British Song Thrush (Turdus philomelos clarkei)

British Long-tailed Tit (Aegithalos caudatus rosaceus)

British Blue Tit (Cyanistes caeruleus obscurus)

British Great Tit (Parus major newtoni)

British Treecreeper (Certhia familiaris britannica)

Eurasian Magpie [sp] (Pica pica)

Carrion Crow [sp] (Corvus corone)

Common Starling [sp] (Sturnus vulgaris)

British Chaffinch (Fringilla coelebs gengleri)

European Greenfinch [sp] (Carduelis chloris)

European Goldfinch [sp] (Carduelis carduelis)

Reed Bunting [sp] (Emberiza schoeniclus)

Total species 32

Weed Dance again.

2012-01-11T12:14:00.000Z

A lovely sunny morning; just a shame I didn't take more pictures.

It seemed to take me forever to leave the footbridge area this morning. The Chaffinch with the white head was around, along with a large group of Reed Buntings; and the Song Thrush was singing quite merrily in the tree tops.

All the usuals around the north lake, and as I made my way towards the south lake, the Crows picked me up, and followed me.

At the far end of the south lake, Little Grebe, Grey Heron, and another treat to the weed dance, by the Great Crested Grebes.

A large flock of Chaffinch were at the far end too this morning, but no sign of the usual Siskin.

A few gulls down by the rowing club;

this Common Gull posing for a while amongst a group of Black-headed Gulls, and then it was back to the car park.

Full list of today's sightings

Mute Swan (Cygnus olor)

Greylag Goose [sp] (Anser anser)

Greater Canada Goose [sp] (Branta canadensis)

Eurasian Wigeon (Anas penelope)

Gadwall [sp] (Anas strepera)

Mallard [sp] (Anas platyrhynchos)

Tufted Duck (Aythya fuligula)

Little Grebe [sp] (Tachybaptus ruficollis)

Great Crested Grebe [sp] (Podiceps cristatus)

Great Cormorant [sp] (Phalacrocorax carbo)

Grey Heron [sp] (Ardea cinerea)

Common Moorhen [sp] (Gallinula chloropus)

Common Coot [sp] (Fulica atra)

Black-headed Gull (Chroicocephalus ridibundus)

Common Gull (Larus canus canus)

Lesser Black-backed Gull [sp] (Larus fuscus)

British Herring Gull (Larus argentatus argenteus)

Feral Pigeon (Columba livia 'feral')

Common Wood Pigeon [sp] (Columba palumbus)

Eurasian Collared Dove [sp] (Streptopelia decaocto)

Common Kingfisher [sp] (Alcedo atthis)

British Great Spotted Woodpecker (Dendrocopos major anglicus)

Pied Wagtail (Motacilla alba yarrellii)

British Wren (Troglodytes troglodytes indigenus)

British Dunnock (Prunella modularis occidentalis)

British Robin (Erithacus rubecula melophilus)

Common Blackbird [sp] (Turdus merula)

British Song Thrush (Turdus philomelos clarkei)

Redwing [sp] (Turdus iliacus)

British Long-tailed Tit (Aegithalos caudatus rosaceus)

British Blue Tit (Cyanistes caeruleus obscurus)

British Great Tit (Parus major newtoni)

Eurasian Magpie [sp] (Pica pica)

Carrion Crow [sp] (Corvus corone)

Common Starling [sp] (Sturnus vulgaris)

British Chaffinch (Fringilla coelebs gengleri)

European Greenfinch [sp] (Carduelis chloris)

European Goldfinch [sp] (Carduelis carduelis)

Reed Bunting [sp] (Emberiza schoeniclus)

Total species 39

A quiet morning

2012-01-08T12:57:00.000Z

Dull and cloudy, and the light didn't get much better.

The Song Thrush was belting out his morning song, trying to make himself heard above the traffic going along the road that crosses the lake. Where on earth is it all going, so early in the morning?

There didn't seem to be so many birds on the lake this morning; what with joggers, cyclists and boats, who can blame them.

A few Herons trying to find a good fishing spot; and a couple of fishermen in a spot that has no fishing. Maybe they couldn't understand the sign that says, 'No Fishing beyond this point.'

The south lake had plenty of Mute Swans at the far end; and three pairs were getting a little friendly. The mild weather seems to have a lot of birds and plants confused.

I had an e-mail yesterday, from someone asking exactly where the Siskin are, that I mention. I gave him as much information as I could, and added a good spot for Redwing too.

Low and behold, this morning, no sign of anything. Typical.

However, a lone Siskin came to the rescue, as I passed the offices.

He perched high in the tree, but the light was terrible. I did managed a little video, and a few pictures though.

He was soon joined by four more, albeit briefly, and then they left, searching for more food.

Past the rowing club, the usual group of gulls out on the water, were nowhere to be seen. I saw boats though.

Down by Cormorant island, a large group of Great Crested Grebes had gathered, I counted 25 just in the one small area.

The bushes by the footbridge, had half a dozen Bullfinches, and the feeders were doing a good trade; with a group of Mallard picking up the fallen seed.

Full list of today's sightings

Mute Swan (Cygnus olor)

Greater Canada Goose [sp] (Branta canadensis)

Eurasian Wigeon (Anas penelope)

Gadwall [sp] (Anas strepera)

Mallard [sp] (Anas platyrhynchos)

Common Pochard (Aythya ferina)

Tufted Duck (Aythya fuligula)

Little Grebe [sp] (Tachybaptus ruficollis)

Great Crested Grebe [sp] (Podiceps cristatus)

Great Cormorant [sp] (Phalacrocorax carbo)

Grey Heron [sp] (Ardea cinerea)

Common Moorhen [sp] (Gallinula chloropus)

Common Coot [sp] (Fulica atra)

Black-headed Gull (Chroicocephalus ridibundus)

Common Gull (Larus canus canus)

Common Wood Pigeon [sp] (Columba palumbus)

British Dunnock (Prunella modularis occidentalis)

British Robin (Erithacus rubecula melophilus)

Common Blackbird [sp] (Turdus merula)

British Song Thrush (Turdus philomelos clarkei)

British Long-tailed Tit (Aegithalos caudatus rosaceus)

British Blue Tit (Cyanistes caeruleus obscurus)

British Great Tit (Parus major newtoni)

Eurasian Magpie [sp] (Pica pica)

Rook [sp] (Corvus frugilegus)

Carrion Crow [sp] (Corvus corone)

Common Starling [sp] (Sturnus vulgaris)

British Chaffinch (Fringilla coelebs gengleri)

European Greenfinch [sp] (Carduelis chloris)

European Goldfinch [sp] (Carduelis carduelis)

Eurasian Siskin (Carduelis spinus)

British Bullfinch (Pyrrhula pyrrhula pileata)

Reed Bunting [sp] (Emberiza schoeniclus)

Total species 33

Saturday, 7th January 2012

2012-01-07T14:04:00.000Z

Dull start to the morning, but some good birds.

As I walked under the road bridge, to make my way round the north lake, two Egyptian Geese flew southwards, after being disturbed by the boats.

Oh well, it is the weekend.

Further round the lake, a Kingfisher, sitting in the bushes, and a large flock of Lapwing flying overhead.

Up at the top end, a male Goosander took to the air; flew round a bit, then headed north. Three females stayed behind though, and gave some good views.

Another Kingfisher in the bushes, and a few joggers running round the lake.

Oh well, it is the weekend.

Onto the south lake, and Crow feeding time.

Maybe he's expecting some bad weather to come, because he spent the time burying it, rather than eat now.

A good sized flock of Siskin, were flying around by the offices, and a large flock of Redwing too, up in the trees by the railway line.

Little Grebes in their usual spot, and opposite the rowing club, with a large group of gulls bobbing in the water, a Yellow Legged Gull.

Back at the feeders, a squirrel was trying his hardest to get some nuts, a few Mallard on the ground, picking up the spilt seed, and the lone Siskin on the nyger feeders.

A good morning, for a weekend.

Full list of today's sightings

Mute Swan (Cygnus olor)

Greylag Goose [sp] (Anser anser)

Greater Canada Goose [sp] (Branta canadensis)

Egyptian Goose (Alopochen aegyptiaca)

Eurasian Wigeon (Anas penelope)

Gadwall [sp] (Anas strepera)

Mallard [sp] (Anas platyrhynchos)

Tufted Duck (Aythya fuligula)

Goosander (Mergus merganser merganser)

Little Grebe [sp] (Tachybaptus ruficollis)

Great Crested Grebe [sp] (Podiceps cristatus)

Great Cormorant [sp] (Phalacrocorax carbo)

Grey Heron [sp] (Ardea cinerea)

Common Moorhen [sp] (Gallinula chloropus)

Common Coot [sp] (Fulica atra)

Northern Lapwing (Vanellus vanellus)

Black-headed Gull (Chroicocephalus ridibundus)

Common Gull (Larus canus canus)

Lesser Black-backed Gull [sp] (Larus fuscus)

British Herring Gull (Larus argentatus argenteus)

Yellow-legged Gull [sp] (Larus michahellis)

Great Black-backed Gull (Larus marinus)

Feral Pigeon (Columba livia 'feral')

Common Wood Pigeon [sp] (Columba palumbus)

Common Kingfisher [sp] (Alcedo atthis)

Grey Wagtail [sp] (Motacilla cinerea)

Pied Wagtail (Motacilla alba yarrellii)

British Dunnock (Prunella modularis occidentalis)

British Robin (Erithacus rubecula melophilus)

Common Blackbird [sp] (Turdus merula)

British Song Thrush (Turdus philomelos clarkei)

Redwing [sp] (Turdus iliacus)

British Long-tailed Tit (Aegithalos caudatus rosaceus)

British Blue Tit (Cyanistes caeruleus obscurus)

British Great Tit (Parus major newtoni)

Eurasian Magpie [sp] (Pica pica)

Carrion Crow [sp] (Corvus corone)

Common Starling [sp] (Sturnus vulgaris)

British Chaffinch (Fringilla coelebs gengleri)

European Greenfinch [sp] (Carduelis chloris)

European Goldfinch [sp] (Carduelis carduelis)

Eurasian Siskin (Carduelis spinus)

Reed Bunting [sp] (Emberiza schoeniclus)

Total species 43

Sunshine, gulls and a weed dance.

2012-01-06T15:07:00.000Z

A gull fest today; and why not. I love 'em.

Sunshine, and no wind; a perfect morning.

At the footbridge, by the car park, I managed to get some brief video of a white headed Chaffinch I've seen around for a few days. Quite a distinguished looking bird.

All the regular water birds were around this morning, and a Kingfisher, briefly posing up on the north lake.

I was very pleased to capture some video of a pair of Great Crested Grebes performing the full reed dance too. I thought they only did this in February. I guess the mild weather is fooling the birds.

By the pub, a few gulls were posing very nicely for me.

A couple of Great Black-backed Gulls, a Lesser Black-backed Gull, and a Herring Gull.

When I looked closely, I noticed he was wearing a ring.

It looks like '533' or '539' to me. It would be interesting to get some history of this bird.

Whilst I was watching this one, a juvenile, (not sure what species), was having some fun with a mussel.

He didn't seem very successful with it though.

On round the south lake, and after feeding my Crows, I found a few Siskin in the trees. I watched them for a while, as they performed their acrobatics in the tree tops, along with some Chaffinch and Blue Tit.

Another Kingfisher flashed across the water, as some Little Grebe were doing their best to be inconspicuous.

A group of gulls were bobbing and washing on the water, not too far ahead, so I stood watching them for a while. Black-headed, some Common Gulls, and a couple of Herring Gulls. Then one left the water, and took off. Yellow legs. A Yellow-legged Gull. A good find.

I made my way past the rowing club, and another group of gulls were making use of the boat jetties while it was quiet. Mostly Black-headed Gulls, but a lone Lesser Black-backed Gull was enjoying their company too.

Eventually I found my way back at the bird feeders.

A Great Spotted Woodpecker enjoying the peanuts, and a group of Bullfinches in the bushes.

I noticed Trevor's car in the car park, so a quick wander under the road bridge, found him way across the north lake.

A quick phone call.....'had I seen the 3 Goosander that flew in about half an hour ago?'

No.

Never mind, always tomorrow.

Full list of today's sightings

Mute Swan (Cygnus olor)

Greylag Goose [sp] (Anser anser)

Greater Canada Goose [sp] (Branta canadensis)

Eurasian Wigeon (Anas penelope)

Gadwall [sp] (Anas strepera)

Mallard [sp] (Anas platyrhynchos)

Tufted Duck (Aythya fuligula)

Little Grebe [sp] (Tachybaptus ruficollis)

Great Crested Grebe [sp] (Podiceps cristatus)

Great Cormorant [sp] (Phalacrocorax carbo)

Grey Heron [sp] (Ardea cinerea)

Common Moorhen [sp] (Gallinula chloropus)

Common Coot [sp] (Fulica atra)

Black-headed Gull (Chroicocephalus ridibundus)

Common Gull (Larus canus canus)

Lesser Black-backed Gull [sp] (Larus fuscus)

British Herring Gull (Larus argentatus argenteus)

Yellow-legged Gull [sp] (Larus michahellis)

Great Black-backed Gull (Larus marinus)

Common Wood Pigeon [sp] (Columba palumbus)

Common Kingfisher [sp] (Alcedo atthis)

British Great Spotted Woodpecker (Dendrocopos major anglicus)

Grey Wagtail [sp] (Motacilla cinerea)

Pied Wagtail (Motacilla alba yarrellii)

British Wren (Troglodytes troglodytes indigenus)

British Robin (Erithacus rubecula melophilus)

Common Blackbird [sp] (Turdus merula)

British Song Thrush (Turdus philomelos clarkei)

Redwing [sp] (Turdus iliacus)

British Long-tailed Tit (Aegithalos caudatus rosaceus)

British Blue Tit (Cyanistes caeruleus obscurus)

British Great Tit (Parus major newtoni)

Eurasian Magpie [sp] (Pica pica)

Carrion Crow [sp] (Corvus corone)

Common Starling [sp] (Sturnus vulgaris)

British Chaffinch (Fringilla coelebs gengleri)

European Greenfinch [sp] (Carduelis chloris)

European Goldfinch [sp] (Carduelis carduelis)

Eurasian Siskin (Carduelis spinus)

British Bullfinch (Pyrrhula pyrrhula pileata)

Reed Bunting [sp] (Emberiza schoeniclus)

Total species 41

Sun, wind, and rain.

2012-01-05T13:00:00.000Z

Up late too; still, I got to top up the feeders with some natural light for a change.

The forecast was for heavy rain, but the skies were clear when I left; but it didn't take long for the rain to arrive. I almost turned back, but then thought, once you're wet, you can't get much wetter.

After a heavy shower, the sun appeared.

But the distant black skies promised more rain. And it was windy too.

A Kingfisher was a welcome sight, as it flew across to the island., and over on the far side of the lake, a couple of Jays flew into the bushes.

A couple of female Goosander were at the top end of the north lake, along with Wigeon, Gadwall, Great Crested Grebes, and Coots.

A few Greylag Geese were about too, and a small group of five made a noisy departure from in front of the pub.

More showers, more sun, and more wind. A sensible person would head back to the car.

Making my way towards the south lake, my trio of Crows appeared, waiting for their apple core.

How could I let them down?

Little Grebe were in their usual place, at the far end, and quite a few Black-headed Gulls too. By now the wind was getting stronger, and more rain on the horizon.

Finally, wet and windswept, a quick look at the feeders, and plenty of Goldfinches around.

It's great to see so many, and a good healthy looking population of Greenfinches too.

The footbridge had a few Reed Buntings around, and in the trees, a pair of Bullfinches.

Full list of today's sightings

Mute Swan (Cygnus olor)

Greylag Goose [sp] (Anser anser)

Greater Canada Goose [sp] (Branta canadensis)

Eurasian Wigeon (Anas penelope)

Gadwall [sp] (Anas strepera)

Mallard [sp] (Anas platyrhynchos)

Tufted Duck (Aythya fuligula)

Goosander (Mergus merganser merganser)

Little Grebe [sp] (Tachybaptus ruficollis)

Great Crested Grebe [sp] (Podiceps cristatus)

Great Cormorant [sp] (Phalacrocorax carbo)

Grey Heron [sp] (Ardea cinerea)

Common Moorhen [sp] (Gallinula chloropus)

Common Coot [sp] (Fulica atra)

Black-headed Gull (Chroicocephalus ridibundus)

Common Gull (Larus canus canus)

Lesser Black-backed Gull [sp] (Larus fuscus)

British Herring Gull (Larus argentatus argenteus)

Great Black-backed Gull (Larus marinus)

Feral Pigeon (Columba livia 'feral')

Common Wood Pigeon [sp] (Columba palumbus)

Common Kingfisher [sp] (Alcedo atthis)

Green Woodpecker [sp] (Picus viridis)

Pied Wagtail (Motacilla alba yarrellii)

British Dunnock (Prunella modularis occidentalis)

British Robin (Erithacus rubecula melophilus)

Common Blackbird [sp] (Turdus merula)

Redwing [sp] (Turdus iliacus)

British Blue Tit (Cyanistes caeruleus obscurus)

British Great Tit (Parus major newtoni)

British Jay (Garrulus glandarius rufitergum)

Eurasian Magpie [sp] (Pica pica)

Rook [sp] (Corvus frugilegus)

Carrion Crow [sp] (Corvus corone)

British Chaffinch (Fringilla coelebs gengleri)

European Greenfinch [sp] (Carduelis chloris)

European Goldfinch [sp] (Carduelis carduelis)

Eurasian Siskin (Carduelis spinus)

British Bullfinch (Pyrrhula pyrrhula pileata)

Reed Bunting [sp] (Emberiza schoeniclus)

Total species 40

Two lakes; just.

2012-01-04T17:06:00.000Z

A stunning sunrise this morning.

I had this idea of walking the north lake, then going over to Willen, for a quick look there, and then back here, for the south lake.

I guess that's why I was prescribed medication after the heart attack, so I could do simple things like that. When you don't take them, it becomes a struggle, as I found out.

The north lake had the usual crowd, apart from the diver; no sign of him.

I did see a Kingfisher though, while I was chatting to an ex work colleague.

I was soon on my way to Willen Lake; a little further north from here. It's always worth a visit, and tends to have a lot more waders than Caldecotte.

After climbing the 70 odd steps up, from the car park, and then down the hill towards the lake, I was beginning to feel a bit tired.

What I saw next made me feel a little deflated too. The local Parks Trust were taking some food over to the island, for the resident goats. Of all the days I choose to visit here, I pick this one. Oh well.

Obviously not much around the island, or the water across to it. A Buzzard flying overhead, and a lot of Coots and Teal in front of the hide; but that was about it.

At least I got to sit down though.

I decided I'd go back to Caldecotte, and just do the south lake.

The wind was quite strong by now, as I plodded along past the rowing club. It was getting to be hard work; especially as I was getting tired, and it was getting harder battling against the wind.

Siskins in the tree tops, and a female Goosander, gave me the kick to carry on though, after I'd had a quick rest on one of the benches.

After watching a Common Gull doing a rain dance on the grass, to attract some worms to the surface, I decided I'd make my way back to the car park.

The sit down had made me feel a bit dizzy.

By the time I'd reached the road bridge, although tired, I felt a bit better.

Maybe a slow walk round the north lake.

Another gull performing a rain dance, this time a Black-headed Gull, who successfully attracted a worm to the surface. A second Kingfisher, and a second female Goosander too.

A couple of quick shots of a Heron in the reeds,

and then thankfully the car park was in sight just ahead.

Made it; just.

Full list of today's sightings

Mute Swan (Cygnus olor)

Greylag Goose [sp] (Anser anser)

Greater Canada Goose [sp] (Branta canadensis)

Eurasian Wigeon (Anas penelope)

Gadwall [sp] (Anas strepera)

Mallard [sp] (Anas platyrhynchos)

Common Pochard (Aythya ferina)

Tufted Duck (Aythya fuligula)

Goosander (Mergus merganser merganser)

Little Grebe [sp] (Tachybaptus ruficollis)

Great Crested Grebe [sp] (Podiceps cristatus)

Great Cormorant [sp] (Phalacrocorax carbo)

Grey Heron [sp] (Ardea cinerea)

Eurasian Sparrowhawk [sp] (Accipiter nisus)

Common Buzzard [sp] (Buteo buteo)

Common Moorhen [sp] (Gallinula chloropus)

Common Coot [sp] (Fulica atra)

Black-headed Gull (Chroicocephalus ridibundus)

Common Gull (Larus canus canus)

Lesser Black-backed Gull [sp] (Larus fuscus)

Common Wood Pigeon [sp] (Columba palumbus)

Common Kingfisher [sp] (Alcedo atthis)

Green Woodpecker [sp] (Picus viridis)

Grey Wagtail [sp] (Motacilla cinerea)

Pied Wagtail (Motacilla alba yarrellii)

British Wren (Troglodytes troglodytes indigenus)

British Dunnock (Prunella modularis occidentalis)

British Robin (Erithacus rubecula melophilus)

Common Blackbird [sp] (Turdus merula)

Redwing [sp] (Turdus iliacus)

British Long-tailed Tit (Aegithalos caudatus rosaceus)

British Blue Tit (Cyanistes caeruleus obscurus)

British Great Tit (Parus major newtoni)

Eurasian Magpie [sp] (Pica pica)

Eurasian Jackdaw [sp] (Corvus monedula)

Rook [sp] (Corvus frugilegus)

Carrion Crow [sp] (Corvus corone)

Common Starling [sp] (Sturnus vulgaris)

British Chaffinch (Fringilla coelebs gengleri)

European Greenfinch [sp] (Carduelis chloris)

European Goldfinch [sp] (Carduelis carduelis)

Eurasian Siskin (Carduelis spinus)

British Bullfinch (Pyrrhula pyrrhula pileata)

Reed Bunting [sp] (Emberiza schoeniclus)

Total species 44

Goosanders.

2012-01-02T13:44:00.000Z

As I made my way to the feeders, in the half light, I disturbed a roosting Pheasant, in the tree tops. I don't know who got the bigger fright; him or me.

I made my way round the north lake first, but stopped under the road bridge, for a quick look at the gull roost, on the south lake. Glad I did; my only glimpse of the Great Northern Diver this morning. He does move around a bit.

A few Tufted Duck, and lots of Coots, as I walked towards the top end.

Canada Geese, a few Herons, and a lovely view of a Sparrowhawk, gliding over the grass, towards some trees.

The sun was now a beautiful golden colour, as it swept over the morning. A lovely start to the day.

Wigeon and Gadwall, up by the weir, and towards the pub, plenty of Black-headed Gulls. I stopped to feed a few Mallards, which attracted the gulls.

Great subjects to practice on.

A Kingfisher was sat in some bushes, as I began my way to the south lake; and apple time. That of course, brings my friends.

Crow

They followed me along the edge, almost to the far end of the lake.

They got their reward, eventually, in the shape of the apple core. I do love these birds. So intelligent, and this little trio are getting so friendly now.

At the far end, a couple of Little Grebes, swimming amongst the gulls, and where the wader scrape was; two female Goosander. I spent at least half an hour, watching them bathe and splash around.

So many pictures taken, and still a lot to sort through yet. A fantastic time, watching these beautiful birds.

Eventually I dragged myself away, and headed towards the car park.

At the feeders, plenty of Greenfinch and Goldfinch, and the lone Siskin.

Another fantastic morning; and sunshine too.

Full list of today's sightings

Mute Swan (Cygnus olor)

Greylag Goose [sp] (Anser anser)

Greater Canada Goose [sp] (Branta canadensis)

Eurasian Wigeon (Anas penelope)

Gadwall [sp] (Anas strepera)

Mallard [sp] (Anas platyrhynchos)

Tufted Duck (Aythya fuligula)

Goosander (Mergus merganser merganser)

Common Pheasant (Phasianus colchicus)

Great Northern Diver (Gavia immer)

Little Grebe [sp] (Tachybaptus ruficollis)

Great Crested Grebe [sp] (Podiceps cristatus)

Great Cormorant [sp] (Phalacrocorax carbo)

Grey Heron [sp] (Ardea cinerea)

Eurasian Sparrowhawk [sp] (Accipiter nisus)

Common Moorhen [sp] (Gallinula chloropus)

Common Coot [sp] (Fulica atra)

Black-headed Gull (Chroicocephalus ridibundus)

Common Gull (Larus canus canus)

Lesser Black-backed Gull [sp] (Larus fuscus)

British Herring Gull (Larus argentatus argenteus)

Great Black-backed Gull (Larus marinus)

Common Wood Pigeon [sp] (Columba palumbus)

Common Kingfisher [sp] (Alcedo atthis)

British Great Spotted Woodpecker (Dendrocopos major anglicus)

Pied Wagtail (Motacilla alba yarrellii)

British Dunnock (Prunella modularis occidentalis)

British Robin (Erithacus rubecula melophilus)

Common Blackbird [sp] (Turdus merula)

British Song Thrush (Turdus philomelos clarkei)

British Long-tailed Tit (Aegithalos caudatus rosaceus)

British Blue Tit (Cyanistes caeruleus obscurus)

British Great Tit (Parus major newtoni)

Eurasian Magpie [sp] (Pica pica)

Rook [sp] (Corvus frugilegus)

Carrion Crow [sp] (Corvus corone)

British Chaffinch (Fringilla coelebs gengleri)

European Greenfinch [sp] (Carduelis chloris)

European Goldfinch [sp] (Carduelis carduelis)

Eurasian Siskin (Carduelis spinus)

British Bullfinch (Pyrrhula pyrrhula pileata)

Reed Bunting [sp] (Emberiza schoeniclus)

Total species 42

1st January 2012

2012-01-01T14:23:00.000Z

New day, new month, and a new year.

Cloudy, light wind, but some cracking birds about though.........for a while.

North lake first, and after watching the ton of gulls that are attracted to the pub in the mornings, I made my way up towards the weir.

Wigeon, Gadwall, and Coots, were the main birds, along with Herons, Great Crested Grebes, and some noisy Canada Geese.

The Great Northern Diver was still around, and I managed to guide a couple of bird watchers to where it was.

Down towards the south lake, and a quick, distant glimpse of a pair of Goosander,

before they took to the air.

The male Smew was still around the island too, and a few of us managed some distant views of it.

I walked round to the other side, to hopefully get a closer look, but as always, by the time I'd got there, he'd moved further into the middle of the lake.

I stood watching it for a while, with another birdwatcher, whilst it was diving amongst some Black-headed Gulls, when suddenly some idiot from the sailing club, in his bright yellow motorised dingy, decided to roar through the middle of all the birds.

Smew last seen flying north.

Just before I started to head back to the car park, a Little Egret flew overhead, going north.

At the bushes around by the footbridge, a pair of Bullfinches; and on the feeders, with a group of Goldfinch, a single Siskin.

A great start to the year; apart from the prick in the boat.

Full list of today's sightings

Mute Swan (Cygnus olor)

Greylag Goose [sp] (Anser anser)

Greater Canada Goose [sp] (Branta canadensis)

Eurasian Wigeon (Anas penelope)

Gadwall [sp] (Anas strepera)

Mallard [sp] (Anas platyrhynchos)

Tufted Duck (Aythya fuligula)

Smew (Mergellus albellus)

Goosander (Mergus merganser merganser)

Great Northern Diver (Gavia immer)

Little Grebe [sp] (Tachybaptus ruficollis)

Great Crested Grebe [sp] (Podiceps cristatus)

Great Cormorant [sp] (Phalacrocorax carbo)

Little Egret [sp] (Egretta garzetta)

Grey Heron [sp] (Ardea cinerea)

Common Moorhen [sp] (Gallinula chloropus)

Common Coot [sp] (Fulica atra)

Northern Lapwing (Vanellus vanellus)

Black-headed Gull (Chroicocephalus ridibundus)

Common Gull (Larus canus canus)

Lesser Black-backed Gull [sp] (Larus fuscus)

Great Black-backed Gull (Larus marinus)

Feral Pigeon (Columba livia 'feral')

Common Wood Pigeon [sp] (Columba palumbus)

Green Woodpecker [sp] (Picus viridis)

Pied Wagtail (Motacilla alba yarrellii)

British Dunnock (Prunella modularis occidentalis)

British Robin (Erithacus rubecula melophilus)

Common Blackbird [sp] (Turdus merula)

British Song Thrush (Turdus philomelos clarkei)

Redwing [sp] (Turdus iliacus)

British Long-tailed Tit (Aegithalos caudatus rosaceus)

British Blue Tit (Cyanistes caeruleus obscurus)

British Great Tit (Parus major newtoni)

Eurasian Magpie [sp] (Pica pica)

Eurasian Jackdaw [sp] (Corvus monedula)

Rook [sp] (Corvus frugilegus)

Carrion Crow [sp] (Corvus corone)

Common Starling [sp] (Sturnus vulgaris)

British Chaffinch (Fringilla coelebs gengleri)

European Greenfinch [sp] (Carduelis chloris)

European Goldfinch [sp] (Carduelis carduelis)

Eurasian Siskin (Carduelis spinus)

British Bullfinch (Pyrrhula pyrrhula pileata)

Reed Bunting [sp] (Emberiza schoeniclus)

Total species 45

Last day of 2011

2011-12-31T14:28:00.000Z

The weather was dull, and drizzly rain for a while; but the birds were bright.

I walked the south lake first, to have a look at the sizeable gull roost. And very noisy it was too.

Once it got lighter, I scanned through the remaining birds, but they were mostly Black-headed Gulls, and Lesser Black-backed.

A very distant glimpse of the Smew just off the island, and three female Goosander down by the rowing club. A couple of Little Grebe diving around there too.

Onto the north lake, and the Great Northern Diver was out in the middle of the lake.

Plenty of Tufted Duck, and a Grey Wagtail flying along the edge.

Up by the weir end, all the usual Wigeon, Coots and geese; and in the distance, a couple of boats heading their way. I watched as they got closer, sending all the birds skyward.

The occupants dragged their boats up the grassy slope, and I thanked Captain Ahab for clearing the water of birds.

He told me that's what the lake was for.......kayaks. He knew this, he told me, because he was part of the council.

Aaaaa, that must be a spare part for the council then.

I made my way back towards the car park, and caught a glimpse of the 'diver', heading up towards the south lake.

I guess he was keeping out of the spare parts way.

Full list of today's sightings

Mute Swan (Cygnus olor)

Greylag Goose [sp] (Anser anser)

Greater Canada Goose [sp] (Branta canadensis)

Eurasian Wigeon (Anas penelope)

Gadwall [sp] (Anas strepera)

Mallard [sp] (Anas platyrhynchos)

Common Pochard (Aythya ferina)

Tufted Duck (Aythya fuligula)

Smew (Mergellus albellus)

Goosander (Mergus merganser merganser)

Great Northern Diver (Gavia immer)

Little Grebe [sp] (Tachybaptus ruficollis)

Great Crested Grebe [sp] (Podiceps cristatus)

Great Cormorant [sp] (Phalacrocorax carbo)

Grey Heron [sp] (Ardea cinerea)

Common Moorhen [sp] (Gallinula chloropus)

Common Coot [sp] (Fulica atra)

Northern Lapwing (Vanellus vanellus)

Black-headed Gull (Chroicocephalus ridibundus)

Lesser Black-backed Gull [sp] (Larus fuscus)

Great Black-backed Gull (Larus marinus)

Common Wood Pigeon [sp] (Columba palumbus)

British Great Spotted Woodpecker (Dendrocopos major anglicus)

Grey Wagtail [sp] (Motacilla cinerea)

Pied Wagtail (Motacilla alba yarrellii)

British Wren (Troglodytes troglodytes indigenus)

British Robin (Erithacus rubecula melophilus)

Common Blackbird [sp] (Turdus merula)

British Blue Tit (Cyanistes caeruleus obscurus)

British Great Tit (Parus major newtoni)

Eurasian Magpie [sp] (Pica pica)

Carrion Crow [sp] (Corvus corone)

British Chaffinch (Fringilla coelebs gengleri)

European Greenfinch [sp] (Carduelis chloris)

European Goldfinch [sp] (Carduelis carduelis)

British Bullfinch (Pyrrhula pyrrhula pileata)

Reed Bunting [sp] (Emberiza schoeniclus)

Total species 37

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

A sort of double post today.

I've cobbled a few of the video highlights from this year, together, and come up with the following video. It's a bit long; around 14 minutes.

Some of the other highs from the year, that didn't make it, for various reasons, (mainly I couldn't find them on my hard drive), and in no particular order, were,

The Black Swan. Always a favourite of mine, when they turn up. He appeared for 3 days in January, and once in March.

The Bittern; two appearances in January.

The Great Crested Grebe weed dance. Fantastic to watch, and so glad I managed to capture it on video. Buggered if I know where it is though.

The Water Rail, January and November, just the two appearances for me.

Black Tailed Godwit. He stayed for all of ten minutes on the 6th January, before disappearing.

The injured Common Gull. I first spotted him at the far end of the south lake, on the 22nd February. He looked as though he'd broken his wing, and I though he'd never survive the winter. To my amazement, he swam down to Cormorant island, where he stayed, and seemed to make good progress; and then after about 6 months, he just vanished.

The Black Terns. They were here for a few days in May, on the south lake.

The Lesser Whitethroat, that turned up on one day, at the end of April.

and finally the Brambling, that enjoyed the feeders by the footbridge, and stayed until almost the end of April.

Probably just as well that I didn't include them, the video would have lasted forever!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Oh yea, and the last video.

A sort of outtakes thing.

Doing a running commentary, I sometimes slip up, and the odd word slips in. Usually an expletive of some sort.

Most got sent to the bin, and a cleaner version got posted.

Some I kept for some reason. I had this idea of doing this video, mainly for myself, so if you don't like the odd word; it's usually bollocks, then don't watch it.

Anyway, have a great New Year.

Smew 1 Goosander 3

2011-12-30T14:30:00.000Z

and the Great Northern Diver still here too.

A few spots of rain greeted the morning,

but it soon stopped, for most of the morning.

Coots were fighting, like they usually do; Wigeons were whistling, like they usually do; and there was plenty of flying activity too, from the Canada Geese, Greylag Geese, and the Mute Swans.

Still some Ragwort out in flower, Red Clover, and Yarrow. Amazing, considering the year is nearly out.

The Great Northern Diver is still around his usual haunt, at the north lake, and two Kingfishers sped by the reeds, up near the pub.

A Green Woodpecker was busily pummelling the grass, in his search for ants, and as I began to make my way to the south lake, the Mallards began massing, expecting food.

They got some, as did the Black-headed Gulls that arrived too.

At the south lake I was welcomed by the Crows, waiting for their apple core, and quite a few Great Crested Grebes, were swimming along the edge. A couple of Little Grebes were about too, but very shy, and constantly diving.

At the far end, another Kingfisher flashed past the reeds, and over by the island, a group of Greylag Geese in the water, and a female Goosander, preening on the shore.

The male Smew was diving off the island too. Good to still see him here; they don't usually stay more than a day when they do come.

Redwings up in the trees, and quite a group of Chaffinch, Goldfinch, and Siskin.

Making my way towards the rowing club, I was surprised, and pleased, to see three Goosander, eagerly fishing.

One male, and two female. Naturally, as I got closer, they began to swim further out towards the middle of the lake, making it difficult for pictures.

As I passed the town houses, I met up with another blogger.

Graemme, of Imperfect and tense.

It's always good to put faces to the people behind the blogs, and after a quick chat, we carried on; Graemme, and his friend, in search of Smew and Goosander; and me, in search of anything that turns up.

Turn up it did.

Another fellow blogger, I met here a couple of days ago, Scott, of Wildlife, photography and stuff.

A quick chat, and an ID of a bird he'd taken, and then it was time to go.

Almost. I wanted to see if the diver was still on the north lake, (it was), and I wanted a quick look at the feeders.

A Great Spotted Woodpecker on the nuts, and a group of Goldfinch on the nyger seed.

Another cracking morning.

Full list of today's sightings

Mute Swan (Cygnus olor)

Greylag Goose [sp] (Anser anser)

Greater Canada Goose [sp] (Branta canadensis)

Eurasian Wigeon (Anas penelope)

Gadwall [sp] (Anas strepera)

Mallard [sp] (Anas platyrhynchos)

Common Pochard (Aythya ferina)

Tufted Duck (Aythya fuligula)

Smew (Mergellus albellus)

Goosander (Mergus merganser merganser)

Great Northern Diver (Gavia immer)

Little Grebe [sp] (Tachybaptus ruficollis)

Great Crested Grebe [sp] (Podiceps cristatus)

Great Cormorant [sp] (Phalacrocorax carbo)

Common Moorhen [sp] (Gallinula chloropus)

Common Coot [sp] (Fulica atra)

Black-headed Gull (Chroicocephalus ridibundus)

Common Gull (Larus canus canus)

Lesser Black-backed Gull [sp] (Larus fuscus)

British Herring Gull (Larus argentatus argenteus)

Common Wood Pigeon [sp] (Columba palumbus)

Common Kingfisher [sp] (Alcedo atthis)

Green Woodpecker [sp] (Picus viridis)

British Great Spotted Woodpecker (Dendrocopos major anglicus)

Pied Wagtail (Motacilla alba yarrellii)

British Robin (Erithacus rubecula melophilus)

Common Blackbird [sp] (Turdus merula)

Redwing [sp] (Turdus iliacus)

British Long-tailed Tit (Aegithalos caudatus rosaceus)

British Blue Tit (Cyanistes caeruleus obscurus)

British Great Tit (Parus major newtoni)

British Jay (Garrulus glandarius rufitergum)

Eurasian Magpie [sp] (Pica pica)

Carrion Crow [sp] (Corvus corone)

British Chaffinch (Fringilla coelebs gengleri)

European Greenfinch [sp] (Carduelis chloris)

European Goldfinch [sp] (Carduelis carduelis)

Eurasian Siskin (Carduelis spinus)

Reed Bunting [sp] (Emberiza schoeniclus)

Total species 39

Smew still here.

2011-12-29T12:06:00.000Z

Took ages to get light this morning.

And it was windy, and raining. Not very nice.

There was hardly any light until I'd almost walked round the north lake; just in time to get some video of the female Goosander.

After feeding some of the Mallards by the pub, and a couple of Crows, I made my way round the south lake. By the time I'd reached the far end, the rain was getting heavier, but I managed to get some distant video of the Smew, and a couple of Little Grebes.

Tufted Duck, Pochard and Coot were the main birds, and a few Mute Swans flying around. As I passed the rowing club, another 'birder' was making his way to the far end, presumably to see the Smew. I think the rain put him off though; he soon turned, and began walking back.

A quick look at the feeders, before I left, and they were doing a roaring trade, with Goldfinches, Greenfinches, a few Tits, and a single Siskin.

And a last look under the road bridge, and there was the Great Northern Diver, diving in front of the pub.

Don't let a bit of rain put you off.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Full list of today's sightings

Mute Swan (Cygnus olor)

Greater Canada Goose [sp] (Branta canadensis)

Eurasian Wigeon (Anas penelope)

Gadwall [sp] (Anas strepera)

Mallard [sp] (Anas platyrhynchos)

Common Pochard (Aythya ferina)

Tufted Duck (Aythya fuligula)

Smew (Mergellus albellus)

Goosander (Mergus merganser merganser)

Great Northern Diver (Gavia immer)

Little Grebe [sp] (Tachybaptus ruficollis)

Great Crested Grebe [sp] (Podiceps cristatus)

Great Cormorant [sp] (Phalacrocorax carbo)

Grey Heron [sp] (Ardea cinerea)

Common Moorhen [sp] (Gallinula chloropus)

Common Coot [sp] (Fulica atra)

Black-headed Gull (Chroicocephalus ridibundus)

Lesser Black-backed Gull [sp] (Larus fuscus)

Common Wood Pigeon [sp] (Columba palumbus)

Green Woodpecker [sp] (Picus viridis)

British Wren (Troglodytes troglodytes indigenus)

British Dunnock (Prunella modularis occidentalis)

British Robin (Erithacus rubecula melophilus)

Common Blackbird [sp] (Turdus merula)

British Song Thrush (Turdus philomelos clarkei)

British Long-tailed Tit (Aegithalos caudatus rosaceus)

British Blue Tit (Cyanistes caeruleus obscurus)

British Great Tit (Parus major newtoni)

Eurasian Magpie [sp] (Pica pica)

Carrion Crow [sp] (Corvus corone)

British Chaffinch (Fringilla coelebs gengleri)

European Greenfinch [sp] (Carduelis chloris)

European Goldfinch [sp] (Carduelis carduelis)

Eurasian Siskin (Carduelis spinus)

Reed Bunting [sp] (Emberiza schoeniclus)

Total species 35

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The stars are still here

2011-12-28T13:57:00.000Z

.......and so are a few 'birders'. A strange lot some of them.

Quite a windy morning, and a bit dull.

Round the north lake first, and the diver was being elusive; although he did show himself eventually. The Herons were fishing their usual spots, and a lot of flying by the geese this morning.

Up at the top end, a big flock of Greylag flew in, and had a conversation with the group of Canada Geese, that were already there. Seven Mute Swans flew in, to join the party, and a Kingfisher skimmed along the edge, by the reeds. Of course, none of this was captured on video; far too busy watching it all.

Wigeon and Gadwall were amongst all this commotion, and a few Coots fighting.

No sign of the female Goosander though.

Six Shoveler made an appearance, but seemed more interested in flying around.

A Heron was standing very tall, up on the grass bank,

but eventually flew off after a few pictures.

Onward, round the south lake, and a few 'birders' began to appear.

I rarely see a soul on my visits usually; just the odd one or two people with a pair of binoculars, or camera, that have an interest in the lake, and its birds.

It's strange how these extras suddenly turn up when a few birds are reported. It all seems a bit fake to me, tick listers; but that's just my opinion.

At the far end, the male Smew was still there, much to my surprise. Very difficult to get any video, or pictures though. A lot of Black-headed Gulls too, with a few Common Gulls mixed in.

Another Kingfisher flew across the lake too.

The Little Grebes were swimming around in their usual place,

and out in the middle of the lake, more Black-headed Gulls, and a few Lesser Black-backed Gulls. A lone Herring Gull sat on one of the buoys too.

As I got to the rowing club, I met Trevor, of Three CountiesHerald fame, and his better half. They'd come for a walk round.

After a quick chat, we went on our way; me back towards the car park, and Trevor in search of avian delights.

By the town houses, I managed a quick bit of video of the male Goosander, before he was spooked, and flew south, by three people with binoculars and a spotting scope.

Oh well.

And as I reached the car park, I bumped into another fellow blogger. Scott, of Wildlife, photography and stuff.

A quick chat, and then time to go, after checking on the feeders.

Good to see a Siskin there.

Full list of today's sightings

Mute Swan (Cygnus olor)

Greylag Goose [sp] (Anser anser)

Greater Canada Goose [sp] (Branta canadensis)

Eurasian Wigeon (Anas penelope)

Gadwall [sp] (Anas strepera)

Mallard [sp] (Anas platyrhynchos)

Northern Shoveler (Anas clypeata)

Common Pochard (Aythya ferina)

Tufted Duck (Aythya fuligula)

Smew (Mergellus albellus)

Goosander (Mergus merganser merganser)

Great Northern Diver (Gavia immer)

Little Grebe [sp] (Tachybaptus ruficollis)

Great Crested Grebe [sp] (Podiceps cristatus)

Great Cormorant [sp] (Phalacrocorax carbo)

Grey Heron [sp] (Ardea cinerea)

Common Moorhen [sp] (Gallinula chloropus)

Common Coot [sp] (Fulica atra)

Northern Lapwing (Vanellus vanellus)

Black-headed Gull (Chroicocephalus ridibundus)

Common Gull (Larus canus canus)

Lesser Black-backed Gull [sp] (Larus fuscus)

British Herring Gull (Larus argentatus argenteus)

Feral Pigeon (Columba livia 'feral')

Common Wood Pigeon [sp] (Columba palumbus)

Common Kingfisher [sp] (Alcedo atthis)

Green Woodpecker [sp] (Picus viridis)

Pied Wagtail (Motacilla alba yarrellii)

British Robin (Erithacus rubecula melophilus)

Common Blackbird [sp] (Turdus merula)

British Song Thrush (Turdus philomelos clarkei)

British Long-tailed Tit (Aegithalos caudatus rosaceus)

British Blue Tit (Cyanistes caeruleus obscurus)

British Great Tit (Parus major newtoni)

Eurasian Magpie [sp] (Pica pica)

Eurasian Jackdaw [sp] (Corvus monedula)

Carrion Crow [sp] (Corvus corone)

British Chaffinch (Fringilla coelebs gengleri)

European Greenfinch [sp] (Carduelis chloris)

European Goldfinch [sp] (Carduelis carduelis)

Eurasian Siskin (Carduelis spinus)

Reed Bunting [sp] (Emberiza schoeniclus)

Total species 42

Smew

2011-12-27T12:30:00.000Z

An excellent morning.

The Great Northern Diver is still on the north lake, diving in the area of the buoy marked #4. He seems to like it there.

Further up, by the top end, the female Goosander is still there, and lots of flying action this morning from the Canada Geese. The usual Gadwall, Wigeon and Coots; and a lone Pochard.

To the south lake, and after being escorted by the Crows, and now a few Mallard, I eventually reached the bottom end of the lake.
Coots fighting, Mallards mating, and in the distance, a cracking male Smew.

Not the best of pictures, but they do have a habit of disappearing after a day or so.

Some Little Grebes, and Great Crested Grebes; with a few Herons thrown in, and then I found myself down by the rowing club. Just along from there, a male Goosander, looking very handsome in his salmon pink plumage.

Siskins by the feeders topped off an excellent morning.

Full list of today's sightings

Mute Swan (Cygnus olor)

Greater Canada Goose [sp] (Branta canadensis)

Eurasian Wigeon (Anas penelope)

Gadwall [sp] (Anas strepera)

Mallard [sp] (Anas platyrhynchos)

Common Pochard (Aythya ferina)

Tufted Duck (Aythya fuligula)

Smew (Mergellus albellus)

Goosander (Mergus merganser merganser)

Great Northern Diver (Gavia immer)

Little Grebe [sp] (Tachybaptus ruficollis)

Great Crested Grebe [sp] (Podiceps cristatus)

Great Cormorant [sp] (Phalacrocorax carbo)

Grey Heron [sp] (Ardea cinerea)

Common Moorhen [sp] (Gallinula chloropus)

Common Coot [sp] (Fulica atra)

Black-headed Gull (Chroicocephalus ridibundus)

Common Gull (Larus canus canus)

Lesser Black-backed Gull [sp] (Larus fuscus)

Great Black-backed Gull (Larus marinus)

Common Wood Pigeon [sp] (Columba palumbus)

Pied Wagtail (Motacilla alba yarrellii)

British Wren (Troglodytes troglodytes indigenus)

British Dunnock (Prunella modularis occidentalis)

British Robin (Erithacus rubecula melophilus)

Common Blackbird [sp] (Turdus merula)

Fieldfare (Turdus pilaris)

British Song Thrush (Turdus philomelos clarkei)

Redwing [sp] (Turdus iliacus)

British Long-tailed Tit (Aegithalos caudatus rosaceus)

British Blue Tit (Cyanistes caeruleus obscurus)

British Great Tit (Parus major newtoni)

Eurasian Magpie [sp] (Pica pica)

Carrion Crow [sp] (Corvus corone)

Common Starling [sp] (Sturnus vulgaris)

British Chaffinch (Fringilla coelebs gengleri)

European Greenfinch [sp] (Carduelis chloris)

European Goldfinch [sp] (Carduelis carduelis)

Eurasian Siskin (Carduelis spinus)

Reed Bunting [sp] (Emberiza schoeniclus)

Total species 40

Boxing Day 2011

2011-12-26T12:37:00.000Z

Dunno why it's called that.

Dull, cloudy, and spots of rain in the air.

Not good for pictures, but I tried a few.

In the bushes, near the car park, a Song Thrush was singing his song in the half light. Try as I might, I couldn't find him; but lovely to hear his singing.

The north lake had the Great Northern Diver still, and the female Goosander.

Both were up by the pub, although the Goosander decided to move up a bit further after a while.

A Kingfisher flashed by; his usual spot, close by the road bridge.

The south lake had a second Kingfisher, at the far end, and a Heron gave me a slow fly past.

I also had my first sighting of a male Goldeneye this winter, up by the rowing club.

Back at the car park, and the feeders, a single Siskin was with a group of Goldfinches; and in the bushes where I started from this morning, a Robin in fine voice.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Full list of today's sightings

Mute Swan (Cygnus olor)

Greater Canada Goose [sp] (Branta canadensis)

Eurasian Wigeon (Anas penelope)

Gadwall [sp] (Anas strepera)

Mallard [sp] (Anas platyrhynchos)

Tufted Duck (Aythya fuligula)

Common Goldeneye [sp] (Bucephala clangula)

Goosander (Mergus merganser merganser)

Great Northern Diver (Gavia immer)

Little Grebe [sp] (Tachybaptus ruficollis)

Great Crested Grebe [sp] (Podiceps cristatus)

Great Cormorant [sp] (Phalacrocorax carbo)

Grey Heron [sp] (Ardea cinerea)

Common Moorhen [sp] (Gallinula chloropus)

Common Coot [sp] (Fulica atra)

Black-headed Gull (Chroicocephalus ridibundus)

Common Gull (Larus canus canus)

Lesser Black-backed Gull [sp] (Larus fuscus)

Feral Pigeon (Columba livia 'feral')

Common Wood Pigeon [sp] (Columba palumbus)

Common Kingfisher [sp] (Alcedo atthis)

Pied Wagtail (Motacilla alba yarrellii)

British Robin (Erithacus rubecula melophilus)

Common Blackbird [sp] (Turdus merula)

Redwing [sp] (Turdus iliacus)

British Long-tailed Tit (Aegithalos caudatus rosaceus)

British Blue Tit (Cyanistes caeruleus obscurus)

British Great Tit (Parus major newtoni)

Eurasian Magpie [sp] (Pica pica)

Carrion Crow [sp] (Corvus corone)

Common Starling [sp] (Sturnus vulgaris)

British Chaffinch (Fringilla coelebs gengleri)

European Greenfinch [sp] (Carduelis chloris)

European Goldfinch [sp] (Carduelis carduelis)

Eurasian Siskin (Carduelis spinus)

Reed Bunting [sp] (Emberiza schoeniclus)

Total species 36

Christmas Day 2011

2011-12-25T10:49:00.001Z

The stars this morning, were undoubtedly the Black-headed Gulls.

Hundreds of them on the grass in front of the pub; and more swirling in from the roost on the south lake.

As I made my way round the north lake, masses of them were circling in the sky, like Starlings.

A murmation of gulls, perhaps?

Fantastic to see.

A Grey Heron landed himself a large fish, but flew too far away with it to get any decent pictures; plus the light was still poor. A bit on the video though.

He certainly had himself a grand Christmas dinner though.

I just walked the north lake this morning; not many people around, but the usual birds.

A flash of blue as a Kingfisher flew along the edge, in his usual spot, and a Grey Wagtail, flying across the lake.

And the Great Northern Diver was still diving.

Full list of today's sightings

Mute Swan (Cygnus olor)

Greater Canada Goose [sp] (Branta canadensis)

Eurasian Wigeon (Anas penelope)

Gadwall [sp] (Anas strepera)

Mallard [sp] (Anas platyrhynchos)

Tufted Duck (Aythya fuligula)

Great Northern Diver (Gavia immer)

Great Crested Grebe [sp] (Podiceps cristatus)

Great Cormorant [sp] (Phalacrocorax carbo)

Grey Heron [sp] (Ardea cinerea)

Common Moorhen [sp] (Gallinula chloropus)

Common Coot [sp] (Fulica atra)

Black-headed Gull (Chroicocephalus ridibundus)

Lesser Black-backed Gull [sp] (Larus fuscus)

Common Wood Pigeon [sp] (Columba palumbus)

Common Kingfisher [sp] (Alcedo atthis)

Green Woodpecker [sp] (Picus viridis)

Grey Wagtail [sp] (Motacilla cinerea)

Pied Wagtail (Motacilla alba yarrellii)

British Wren (Troglodytes troglodytes indigenus)

British Dunnock (Prunella modularis occidentalis)

British Robin (Erithacus rubecula melophilus)

Common Blackbird [sp] (Turdus merula)

British Blue Tit (Cyanistes caeruleus obscurus)

British Great Tit (Parus major newtoni)

Eurasian Magpie [sp] (Pica pica)

Carrion Crow [sp] (Corvus corone)

British Chaffinch (Fringilla coelebs gengleri)

European Greenfinch [sp] (Carduelis chloris)

European Goldfinch [sp] (Carduelis carduelis)

Reed Bunting [sp] (Emberiza schoeniclus)

Total species 31

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Well, the big day today, so have a good one, whatever you're up to.

Jim's got a big bone, and I've a date with a bottle of malt, and a couple of DVD's.

Christmas Eve 2011

2011-12-24T16:05:00.000Z

A light frost, with the promise of a good sunrise.

Well, I hastily made my way to the far end of the south lake first, to hopefully catch a good sunrise.

Not as good as I was hoping for, but not bad.

The wader scrape has all but gone, and along with it the gulls that used to sit there preening. A shame, because the future potential was very good. Never mind. Maybe the Parks Trust could be persuaded to construct an artificial one?

Who knows.

As I made my way along the edge of the south lake, towards the north, the female Goosander suddenly made a break from the edge.

She's a real beauty, and I was surprised to see her down this end of the lake.

Surprised to see the boat people out too. Shouldn't they be at home doing Christmas stuff, instead of messing about on boats?

The north lake eventually gave me some good views of the Great Northern Diver; and also with some food.

The first time I've actually seen it with any food above the water.

Apparently they can catch their food, and eat it under water.

The regular Wigeon and Coot were at the top end of the lake, and it was interesting to watch a female Gadwall seeing off a couple of male suitors.

Definitely a one man girl!

A couple of Mallard were mating, and two pairs of Great Crested Grebe were doing the head waggle courtship routine.

Perhaps they know we're not expecting any bad weather.

Full list of today's sightings

Mute Swan (Cygnus olor)

Greater Canada Goose [sp] (Branta canadensis)

Eurasian Wigeon (Anas penelope)

Gadwall [sp] (Anas strepera)

Mallard [sp] (Anas platyrhynchos)

Common Pochard (Aythya ferina)

Tufted Duck (Aythya fuligula)

Goosander (Mergus merganser merganser)

Great Northern Diver (Gavia immer)

Little Grebe [sp] (Tachybaptus ruficollis)

Great Crested Grebe [sp] (Podiceps cristatus)

Great Cormorant [sp] (Phalacrocorax carbo)

Grey Heron [sp] (Ardea cinerea)

Common Moorhen [sp] (Gallinula chloropus)

Common Coot [sp] (Fulica atra)

Black-headed Gull (Chroicocephalus ridibundus)

Common Gull (Larus canus canus)

Lesser Black-backed Gull [sp] (Larus fuscus)

British Herring Gull (Larus argentatus argenteus)

Common Wood Pigeon [sp] (Columba palumbus)

Green Woodpecker [sp] (Picus viridis)

British Great Spotted Woodpecker (Dendrocopos major anglicus)

Pied Wagtail (Motacilla alba yarrellii)

British Robin (Erithacus rubecula melophilus)

Common Blackbird [sp] (Turdus merula)

Redwing [sp] (Turdus iliacus)

British Blue Tit (Cyanistes caeruleus obscurus)

British Great Tit (Parus major newtoni)

Eurasian Magpie [sp] (Pica pica)

Eurasian Jackdaw [sp] (Corvus monedula)

Carrion Crow [sp] (Corvus corone)

British Chaffinch (Fringilla coelebs gengleri)

European Goldfinch [sp] (Carduelis carduelis)

Reed Bunting [sp] (Emberiza schoeniclus)

Total species 34

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I'd like to wish all visitors and followers, a very merry Christmas

Coots fighting

2011-12-23T14:43:00.000Z

Dull, cloudy, and a few spots of rain this morning.

After topping up the feeders, I noticed that someone had left some seed on one of the picnic tables, by the car park. Not me; I had agreed with Dawn not to leave any there anymore. I'm sure the birds appreciated it though, and I doubt many people will be using the tables at the moment.

A brief glimpse of the Great Northern Diver; but no sign of the Goosander.

A Green Woodpecker sat in a tree, doing his best to look invisible,

but I still could see him.

A group of Canada Geese were grazing by the pub, and one stood out amongst all the others.

Looking very much like a Canada Goose, apart from his mixed up face markings, different colour bill, and different colour legs. My guess is one of his parents was a Greylag Goose.

I was more convinced when he flew off, sounding just like a Greylag.

Onto the south lake, and after feeding the Crow escort, and a few Mallards, my attention was taken by a couple of Coots, having a real battle.

And as always, a group of other Coots appear, and some can't resist joining in.

Don't they know it's the season of peace and goodwill?

At the far end of the lake, a large flock of birds settled in the trees by the railway line.

Through the binoculars I could make out a mixed flock of Goldfinches and Siskin.

Lovely to watch them as they moved through the branches, searching for food.

On the wader scrape, a large number of Black-headed Gulls, with a few Common Gulls mixed in, and a couple of Herring Gulls.

Back at the car park, more Siskin and Goldfinch in the bushes; a very rewarding morning.

Full list of today's sightings

Mute Swan (Cygnus olor)

Greylag Goose [sp] (Anser anser)

Greater Canada Goose [sp] (Branta canadensis)

Eurasian Wigeon (Anas penelope)

Gadwall [sp] (Anas strepera)

Mallard [sp] (Anas platyrhynchos)

Common Pochard (Aythya ferina)

Tufted Duck (Aythya fuligula)

Great Northern Diver (Gavia immer)

Little Grebe [sp] (Tachybaptus ruficollis)

Great Crested Grebe [sp] (Podiceps cristatus)

Great Cormorant [sp] (Phalacrocorax carbo)

Grey Heron [sp] (Ardea cinerea)

Common Moorhen [sp] (Gallinula chloropus)

Common Coot [sp] (Fulica atra)

Northern Lapwing (Vanellus vanellus)

Black-headed Gull (Chroicocephalus ridibundus)

Common Gull (Larus canus canus)

Lesser Black-backed Gull [sp] (Larus fuscus)

British Herring Gull (Larus argentatus argenteus)

Common Wood Pigeon [sp] (Columba palumbus)

Common Kingfisher [sp] (Alcedo atthis)

Green Woodpecker [sp] (Picus viridis)

British Wren (Troglodytes troglodytes indigenus)

British Dunnock (Prunella modularis occidentalis)

British Robin (Erithacus rubecula melophilus)

Common Blackbird [sp] (Turdus merula)

Fieldfare (Turdus pilaris)

Redwing [sp] (Turdus iliacus)

British Long-tailed Tit (Aegithalos caudatus rosaceus)

British Blue Tit (Cyanistes caeruleus obscurus)

British Great Tit (Parus major newtoni)

Eurasian Magpie [sp] (Pica pica)

Eurasian Jackdaw [sp] (Corvus monedula)

Carrion Crow [sp] (Corvus corone)

British Chaffinch (Fringilla coelebs gengleri)

European Greenfinch [sp] (Carduelis chloris)

European Goldfinch [sp] (Carduelis carduelis)

Eurasian Siskin (Carduelis spinus)

Reed Bunting [sp] (Emberiza schoeniclus)

Total species 40

New toy

2011-12-22T11:44:00.000Z

I was over the lake a bit earlier than usual this morning.

It was still dark, but I wanted to try out my new torch.

An LED Lenser; made by a German company. An expensive little torch, but it packs a very bright and powerful light. Plus it fits in my pocket without any problem.

I'm hoping that it will help find any owls that may be sitting up in the trees, as it starts to get light; throw some light on some of the strange rustling noises I sometimes hear coming from the bushes..........or just blind any potential early morning muggers.

I tried it out on the south lake first, illuminating the trees, lake edge, and the bushes.

I didn't find any owls, or much of anything else; but it has some great potential.

Once I'd reached the north lake, it was much lighter, and easier to see any birds.

The Great Northern Diver is still around, and the female Goosander. The sun was beginning to shine by now too, but unfortunately the Goosander had the sun behind her, so no pictures.

Back at the car park, a quick check on the feeders, which were busy with Goldfinch and Greenfinch, and some Reed Buntings in the surrounding bushes.

Full list of today's sightings

Mute Swan (Cygnus olor)

Greater Canada Goose [sp] (Branta canadensis)

Eurasian Wigeon (Anas penelope)

Gadwall [sp] (Anas strepera)

Mallard [sp] (Anas platyrhynchos)

Common Pochard (Aythya ferina)

Tufted Duck (Aythya fuligula)

Goosander (Mergus merganser merganser)

Great Northern Diver (Gavia immer)

Little Grebe [sp] (Tachybaptus ruficollis)

Great Crested Grebe [sp] (Podiceps cristatus)

Great Cormorant [sp] (Phalacrocorax carbo)

Grey Heron [sp] (Ardea cinerea)

Common Moorhen [sp] (Gallinula chloropus)

Common Coot [sp] (Fulica atra)

Northern Lapwing (Vanellus vanellus)

Black-headed Gull (Chroicocephalus ridibundus)

Lesser Black-backed Gull [sp] (Larus fuscus)

Common Wood Pigeon [sp] (Columba palumbus)

British Great Spotted Woodpecker (Dendrocopos major anglicus)

Pied Wagtail (Motacilla alba yarrellii)

British Robin (Erithacus rubecula melophilus)

Common Blackbird [sp] (Turdus merula)

Fieldfare (Turdus pilaris)

British Blue Tit (Cyanistes caeruleus obscurus)

British Great Tit (Parus major newtoni)

Eurasian Magpie [sp] (Pica pica)

Carrion Crow [sp] (Corvus corone)

Common Starling [sp] (Sturnus vulgaris)

British Chaffinch (Fringilla coelebs gengleri)

European Greenfinch [sp] (Carduelis chloris)

European Goldfinch [sp] (Carduelis carduelis)

Reed Bunting [sp] (Emberiza schoeniclus)

Total species 33

Gulls, gulls, gulls.

2011-12-21T10:13:00.000Z

With apologies to 80's rockers Mötley Crüe.

Just a very quick visit this morning, as I had to be back for a parcel, that's hopefully coming today.

Dark, and drizzly rain greeted me as I pulled into the car park, and in the car headlights, the eyes of the biggest fox I've seen in ages shining back at me.

Or it could have been a bear.

After topping up the feeders, the sensible thing would have been go back home, but I wanted a quick look at the north lake. Withdrawal symptoms I guess.

Not that I could see much in the gloom. A lot of gulls though, on the grass in front of the pub. Mostly Black-headed Gulls, and a couple of larger ones too. I tried to work my way closer to them, but they kept a good hundred yards in front; lifting up in groups and landing further along.

A couple of Herons, a few Wigeon, lots of Coots, and the Great Northern Diver was about the rest of the sightings.

A quick check on the feeders, and a Great Spotted Woodpecker was enjoying the peanuts.

Full list of today's sightings

Mute Swan (Cygnus olor)

Greylag Goose [sp] (Anser anser)

Greater Canada Goose [sp] (Branta canadensis)

Eurasian Wigeon (Anas penelope)

Mallard [sp] (Anas platyrhynchos)

Tufted Duck (Aythya fuligula)

Great Northern Diver (Gavia immer)

Great Crested Grebe [sp] (Podiceps cristatus)

Great Cormorant [sp] (Phalacrocorax carbo)

Grey Heron [sp] (Ardea cinerea)

Common Moorhen [sp] (Gallinula chloropus)

Common Coot [sp] (Fulica atra)

Black-headed Gull (Chroicocephalus ridibundus)

Lesser Black-backed Gull [sp] (Larus fuscus)

Common Wood Pigeon [sp] (Columba palumbus)

Green Woodpecker [sp] (Picus viridis)

British Great Spotted Woodpecker (Dendrocopos major anglicus)

Pied Wagtail (Motacilla alba yarrellii)

British Robin (Erithacus rubecula melophilus)

Common Blackbird [sp] (Turdus merula)

British Blue Tit (Cyanistes caeruleus obscurus)

British Great Tit (Parus major newtoni)

Eurasian Magpie [sp] (Pica pica)

Carrion Crow [sp] (Corvus corone)

British Chaffinch (Fringilla coelebs gengleri)

Reed Bunting [sp] (Emberiza schoeniclus)

Total species 26

A bit more snow, not a lot, but cold.

2011-12-18T14:31:00.000Z

Sums up the morning really.

The sun looked good,

and there was even a sun dog in the sky.

The Great Northern Diver put in an early appearance, before the boats sent everything else scattering. A lot of the little areas of the lake, away from the main body of water, had frozen over. It was pretty cold this morning. Even some of the Canada Geese had frost on their backs.

The female Goosander was up at the top end of the north lake, away from the boats, along with a good number of Wigeon and Gadwall.

Two Kingfishers were by the pub, being quite vocal. Maybe one was an intruder.

On towards the south lake, and the snow began getting heavier; but then stopped almost as quickly as it had started. Couldn't make its mind up.

My Crows followed along most of the way towards the bottom end of the lake, enjoying the regular apple core.

A couple of Little Grebe's, diving as soon as they saw any sort of movement, and the Black-headed Gulls hogging what's left of the wader scrape.

In the trees, along the railway line, a large group of Fieldfare, and Redwing; and in some other trees close by, Siskin.

Finally, back at the car park, a quick look at the busy feeders; Goldfinch, Greenfinch, and on one of the nut feeders, a Great Spotted Woodpecker.

Full list of today's sightings

Mute Swan (Cygnus olor)

Greater Canada Goose [sp] (Branta canadensis)

Eurasian Wigeon (Anas penelope)

Gadwall [sp] (Anas strepera)

Mallard [sp] (Anas platyrhynchos)

Tufted Duck (Aythya fuligula)

Goosander (Mergus merganser merganser)

Great Northern Diver (Gavia immer)

Little Grebe [sp] (Tachybaptus ruficollis)

Great Crested Grebe [sp] (Podiceps cristatus)

Great Cormorant [sp] (Phalacrocorax carbo)

Grey Heron [sp] (Ardea cinerea)

Common Moorhen [sp] (Gallinula chloropus)

Common Coot [sp] (Fulica atra)

Black-headed Gull (Chroicocephalus ridibundus)

Common Gull (Larus canus canus)

Lesser Black-backed Gull [sp] (Larus fuscus)

British Herring Gull (Larus argentatus argenteus)

Common Kingfisher [sp] (Alcedo atthis)

Green Woodpecker [sp] (Picus viridis)

British Great Spotted Woodpecker (Dendrocopos major anglicus)

Grey Wagtail [sp] (Motacilla cinerea)

Pied Wagtail (Motacilla alba yarrellii)

British Robin (Erithacus rubecula melophilus)

Common Blackbird [sp] (Turdus merula)

Fieldfare (Turdus pilaris)

Redwing [sp] (Turdus iliacus)

British Blue Tit (Cyanistes caeruleus obscurus)

British Great Tit (Parus major newtoni)

Eurasian Magpie [sp] (Pica pica)

Carrion Crow [sp] (Corvus corone)

Common Starling [sp] (Sturnus vulgaris)

British Chaffinch (Fringilla coelebs gengleri)

European Greenfinch [sp] (Carduelis chloris)

European Goldfinch [sp] (Carduelis carduelis)

Eurasian Siskin (Carduelis spinus)

Reed Bunting [sp] (Emberiza schoeniclus)

Total species 37