Friday 6 September 2013

Friday's

The day had that feel of " there should be a good bird around", as it was drizzly, murky and no wind.......but despite trying hard I failed to locate it !!
An early morning wander at Harrington produced the usual Marsh Harrier , numerous Whitethroats and a single Golden Plover flying over calling.
At lunchtime I was at Pitsford Reservoir where there was a scattering of waders, 2 Greenshank, 1 Dunlin, 2 Ringed Plover, 1 Green Sandpiper and at least 4 Common Sandpiper. Again there was at least 6 Little Egret visible, plus a Goldeneye and the 2 Red Crested Pochard which were literally just infront of the New James Fisher Hide.
Late afternoon/early evening was again spent around the Blueberry /valley between HH and Cottesbrooke. Infact weather wise this was the best part of the day, lovely Autumn sunshine followed by a glorious sunset.  It almost felt a bit like ticking off a register as I said hello to the usual 4 Whinchat and Marsh Harrier. I feel as if I'm on first name terms with these regulars !!!  The Marsh Harrier was again quartering the largest field of the Blueberry complex and I watched it from 18.15hrs until 19.15hrs when it appeared to go to roost in the bushes.  The 4 Whinchat I discovered yesterday were again present this evening, again in this big field, so a total of 8 Whinchat seen.
Other birds included a Red Kite, Hobby, Little Owls and a superb "blue" Sparrowhawk.
But one of the highlights was two young Barn Owls sitting out together looking across the fields and they looked beautiful with the weak sunshine on them.

Regards  Eleanor

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