Saturday 10 May 2014

Long Day Count SP55

Hello

Today was spent completing the Banbury Ornithological Society Long Day Count in the 10km square of SP55 south of Daventry. Helen Franklin joined me for a wet exploration of Fawsley Park from 5am, and a less wet trundle around Badby Woods afterwards, in our efforts to see as many species of birds as possible. 

Calling Tawny Owls were one of our first birds and there were several each of both Sedge and Reed Warbler singing during the grey cloud dawn.  Fawsley also provided Nuthatch and a singing Spotted Flycatcher as well as reasonable numbers of common birds.

Dripping Badby Woods with its impressive carpet of Bluebells was as stunning as ever despite the scudding storm clouds overhead.  As we left the wood the weather broke to provide blue skies and sunshine.  Raven and more Nuthatches were the birding highlights.

On then to Catesby and Hellidon which yielded a Hobby and another Raven.  A pair of Marsh Tits collecting food at Byfield Pool were a treat and the first of our Yellow Wagtails flew over calling.  Things really slowed up in the afternoon and we finished with a low total of 63 species located in the 12 hours!

Must re-charge the batteries for another go in SP54 tomorrow... !

Regards

Neil M

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