Another glorious Autumn day and I was lucky to spend most of it outdoors. I have lost count of how many Siskins which I have seen and heard today. This morning there appeared to be quite a significant movement.
At Harrington Airfield it was a case of birds everywhere. The Linnet and Goldfinch flock had doubled overnight and the air was filled with their jangling calls. Again there was evidence of migration happening with a constant stream of Hirundines, Meadow Pipits, Siskins, 4 Lesser Redpoll, 2+ Crossbill and 2 Grey Wagtails overhead.
Around the bunkers there were 4 Whinchat, goodness knows where they were hiding yesterday and a Wheatear. But the most surprising find was a total of 5 Common Redstarts, one around the bunkers, 3 in the bushes at the end of the main track and another single at the shooting wall. !!!!
The fields leading down towards the pond were rather attractive to a large flock of Lesser Black Backed Gulls who actually looked rather stunning .
The weather was perfect for raptors and the Common Buzzards and Red Kites did not disappoint with their ariel displays and evocative calls.
This afternoon I walked across the fields from Walgrave and there were at least 4 Common Redstart in "the hedge". Again they were very vocal and flitting about along the fence posts and dropping onto the grass. I never tire of watching these birds "shimmering" and showing off. Whilst I was watching these birds the Blades aerobatic team were practicing above and making big heart shapes with their smoke trails. Seemed quite fitting as I love these gorgeous little birds.
Of course the day would not be complete without a visit to Blueberry.......and guess what ? more Redstarts !!. Where have they all come from ? There were 2 Common Redstarts and a Spotted Flycatcher together moving along the hedgerows and at least 6 Whinchat dotted around the fields. The Siskins continued their passage and a flock of 10+ Crossbills headed towards Haselbeech.
Regards Eleanor
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