After the storm

 Well after watching the news I think that it is fair to say that Northamptonshire escaped the devastation caused by storm Babet. Yes it has been windy and very wet but that's about all. Birdwise it has remained fairly quiet.  On Wednesday the female Merlin was again at shrike hedge, Cattle Egret,  Brambling and Peregrine at Summer Leys,  Caspian Gull and Stonechats at Hollowell Reservoir and at nearby Ravensthorpe Reservoir a Pink Footed Goose.  This bird frequents both of these reservoirs.             However there was an interesting record of a Nightjar being picked up alive in the Corby area and being taken into care.

Yesterday a male Bearded Tit/Reedling was located near the main path at the eastern end of Stanwick GP.  I wonder whether this bird has been here since the spring and has managed to keep a low profile or whether this is his first visit?? Who knows,  just something to ponder about.                         Just down the road at Titchmarsh LNR the female/1st Winter Ring Necked Duck was showing well.    At Pitsford Reservoir a Goldeneye,  Red Crested Pochard,  Great White Egret and Stonechats were the main birds of note.

Today has thrown up more interesting birds which could be storm related.  I had a flock of 10 Pink Footed Geese heading west whilst I was out between Cottesbrooke and Hanging Houghton. I just love their call which alerted me to their presence.    A Rock Pipit was found at Stanwick GP and there appeared to be a movement of Little Gulls which were recorded at Stanwick GP,  Summer Leys and Stanford Reservoir.                    There were several sightings of Marsh Harrier today at Summer Leys,  Stanford Reservoir and Titchmarsh LNR.             The long staying and very showy Bittern (except when I'm there) was again giving exceptional views at Summer Leys. 

Maybe today was just a taster of what might turn up over the weekend.  Fingers crossed.  It does seem that " interesting " birds turn up a few days after stormy weather.    We just need to get out and find them!!!  Have a good weekend and enjoy your birding..........it could be you who finds the next rarity. 

Regards Eleanor