A long and painful walk down to see the Lesser White-fronted Goose at Cantley on Sunday, now that I have torn other ligaments in my foot it just aches all over. The walk down was quiet not many birds about a lone Cetti's Warbler in the reeds and a few Tufted Duck on the river. The cold weather forcing the other birds to unfrozen pastures.
I arrived at the Goose site and it wasnt long before I was watching the Lesser White-fronted Goose with the 100+ Taiga Beans, I wasnt long after that when it flew behind the railway line just out of site.
Two Pink-footed Geese were in the flock along with 4 White-fronted, a Marsh Harrier or two coasted by and a Buzzard sat on the railway wires.
A Hooded Crow was picked out by Richard which wasnt the hybrid that had been reported earlier in the month, but a proper Hoody only my second in Norfolk.
We got a brief view of the Lesser White-front as it stuck its head up from beyond the railway before I then wondered back.
The way back I saw 36 White-Fronted Geese take off from Buckenham and around 800 Wigeon sat on the river, I scanned through these and the only different bird I found was a Tufted Duck.
Tuesday, 21 December 2010
Friday, 17 December 2010
More Garden Birds
A short spell at home this afternoon, and counted 23 chaffinch, 27 Greenfinch, only 5 Goldfinch, 4 Brambling, 4 Dunnocks, 15 Sparrow and a few tits,starling and pigeon. Also saw 2 Waxwing on the A149 nr Ludham/Catfield
Thursday, 2 December 2010
Bringing things Up to Date
Its cold out there, and on Tuesday 30th November I was lucky enough to find my first 'flock' of Waxwings of the winter, to be honest I am still having foot trouble and am trying to rest it. But back to Tuesday doing my normal drive to work along the A149 at Stalham where I then saw the flock along the roadside I guestimate at 100+ but later reports suggested 210 which was quiet possible.
Sunday 28th November, had a day decorating the Nursery, birds feeding well in the Garden with a garden record of 16!! Blackbirds all of which were fighting to keep their own apple. A male Brambling was also showing well. Other birds (maximum visable counts) 43 Goldfinch, 27 Greenfinch, 14 Chaffinch, 13 Collard Dove, 9 Wood Pigeon, 7 House Sparrow, 4 Great Tit, 5 Blue Tit, 3 Coal Tit, 4 Dunnock, 1 Robin, 1 Wren, 2 Jackdaw, 2 Magpie and 1 Jay.
Saturday 27th November, A day out with Adam and James, we went to Thornham and got great views of the Northern Harrier inbetween snow showers, a quick stop at Titchwell and we had Brambling and Lesser Redpoll on the feeders, we also went to Wells where we had a cracking Male Northern Bullfinch and 4 Mealy Redpoll.
Sunday 14th November, Was up early and whislt filling up the bird feeders had a Waxwing over the Garden (which I saw on the Tuesday in next doors tree) and a Yellowhammer also flew over.
Saturday 13th November, I went with James to see the Pied-billed Grebe this was my unoffical 400th Bird (as this includes House Finch (innocent until proven guilty)) also my unoffical 15th Lifer this year and my also unoffical 310th BOU bird this year. We stopped at Titchwell on the way home and saw Twite. See the video at this link http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y0a0Jri6bWQ.
FriSatday 5/6th November, We left on Friday and arrived in Cornwall on the Saturday just before dawn and after watching the big fight live on the stairs of the hide (this was really sad and not the unhappy kinda sad) we finally saw the American Bittern.
30th October spent the day at Cley, after along time searching finally saw the Green-winged Teal before dashing off towards the beach to try and see the Albatross sp that was seen at Salthouse no sign of this on the sea was not quick enough, then went back to the hides to try for a better view of the Teal but I guess it remained asleep.
Sunday 28th November, had a day decorating the Nursery, birds feeding well in the Garden with a garden record of 16!! Blackbirds all of which were fighting to keep their own apple. A male Brambling was also showing well. Other birds (maximum visable counts) 43 Goldfinch, 27 Greenfinch, 14 Chaffinch, 13 Collard Dove, 9 Wood Pigeon, 7 House Sparrow, 4 Great Tit, 5 Blue Tit, 3 Coal Tit, 4 Dunnock, 1 Robin, 1 Wren, 2 Jackdaw, 2 Magpie and 1 Jay.
Saturday 27th November, A day out with Adam and James, we went to Thornham and got great views of the Northern Harrier inbetween snow showers, a quick stop at Titchwell and we had Brambling and Lesser Redpoll on the feeders, we also went to Wells where we had a cracking Male Northern Bullfinch and 4 Mealy Redpoll.
Sunday 14th November, Was up early and whislt filling up the bird feeders had a Waxwing over the Garden (which I saw on the Tuesday in next doors tree) and a Yellowhammer also flew over.
Saturday 13th November, I went with James to see the Pied-billed Grebe this was my unoffical 400th Bird (as this includes House Finch (innocent until proven guilty)) also my unoffical 15th Lifer this year and my also unoffical 310th BOU bird this year. We stopped at Titchwell on the way home and saw Twite. See the video at this link http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y0a0Jri6bWQ.
FriSatday 5/6th November, We left on Friday and arrived in Cornwall on the Saturday just before dawn and after watching the big fight live on the stairs of the hide (this was really sad and not the unhappy kinda sad) we finally saw the American Bittern.
30th October spent the day at Cley, after along time searching finally saw the Green-winged Teal before dashing off towards the beach to try and see the Albatross sp that was seen at Salthouse no sign of this on the sea was not quick enough, then went back to the hides to try for a better view of the Teal but I guess it remained asleep.
Thursday, 18 November 2010
Norfolk Return
After the Holiday I had two days out first was actually in Suffolk to show Claire a Red-Flanked Bluetail which we saw at Lowestoft, We then headed for Minsmere and saw the Great White Egret my 305th bird of the year.
Then on the Monday (25th October) I headed around Norfolk, Adam was to tired or under the thumb and James was in Wales so I was by myself.
First stop was Salthouse where after an hour or so Sea Watching a clocked up 2 Little Auk (306), 4-5 Pom's, 2 Razorbill, 6 Guillemot, some Kittiwake and more Gannets.
I then went to Cley and found the American Golden Plover tucked away amongst the other Plover, and then spent the next 45mins trying to direct other birders onto it.
After this I went to Welney and saw the Glossy Ibis (307).
Tuesday, 16 November 2010
Picture Catch Up
The Pictures From the Scilly Trip
Birders Watching the Red-Breasted Flycatcher
The Melodious Warbler (well a bit of it) 15/10/2010
Wheatear 16/10/2010
American Golden Plover 16/10/2010
Common Snipe 17/10/2010
Jack Snipe 17/10/2010
Greenshank 17/10/2010
Peacock 17/10/2010
Small Copper 17/10/2010
Turtle Dove 18/10/2010
Self Found Wryneck 18/10/2010
Herring Gull 18/10/2010
Lapland Bunting 18/10/2010
Self Found Richard's Pipit 19/10/2010
Green Heron 20/10/2010 (Helligan)
Birders Watching the Red-Breasted Flycatcher
The Bluriest picture of a Red-breasted Flycatcher 15/10/2010
Common Rosefinch 15/10/2010
Firecrest Video Grab - 15/10/10
This was one of 5 in the area
Tawny Pipit Birders
Tawny Pipit 15/10/2010
The Big Squeeze for the Melodious Warbler
The Pub Garden Next to the Melodious Warbler
The Melodious Warbler (well a bit of it) 15/10/2010
Wheatear 16/10/2010
American Golden Plover 16/10/2010
Common Snipe 17/10/2010
Jack Snipe 17/10/2010
Greenshank 17/10/2010
Peacock 17/10/2010
Small Copper 17/10/2010
Turtle Dove 18/10/2010
Self Found Wryneck 18/10/2010
Herring Gull 18/10/2010
Lapland Bunting 18/10/2010
Self Found Richard's Pipit 19/10/2010
Green Heron 20/10/2010 (Helligan)
Cirl Bunting 20/10/2010 (Prawle)
Red-breasted Goose 21/10/2010 (Exminster) (unknown escaped Origin)
Lesser Yellowlegs 21/10/2010 (Oxford)
Squacco Heron 22/10/2010 (Angel)
Cattle Egret 22/10/2010 (Withybush)
Red-breasted Goose 21/10/2010 (Exminster) (unknown escaped Origin)
Lesser Yellowlegs 21/10/2010 (Oxford)
Squacco Heron 22/10/2010 (Angel)
Cattle Egret 22/10/2010 (Withybush)
Tuesday, 9 November 2010
Everything After Scilly's
The first day off and we headed for Nanquindo Valley getting out of the car Raven and Buzzard fly over. We spent time looking for the reported Pallas's Warbler but had no joy.
We then moved onto Lizard Point where after a bit of time saw two Chough (298) fly across the path in front of us.
Next stop was the Lost Garden's of Helligan where after the short walk we were getting great views of the Green Heron (299) it crept around the top pool always showing really well. We watched this for an hour or so before moving on to Devon.
It was really tight on light but we headed for Prawle Point, where upon arriving the sun had gone down but we were lucky to see 60+ Cirl Buntings (300) and I achieved my 300th bird of the year.
The next day we had three target birds and first was the Glossy Ibis that had been seen around Exminster Marshes the previous day, after a walk around the lovely reserve we could not find the Ibis I scaned through all the Wigeon inhope for an American but couldn't muster one.
Next stop was Oxford where after working out the bollard system that comes up during school hours we finally found the bird on the flooded field behind the school, we were watching the Lesser Yellowlegs (301) feeding well.
We then headed off and went to Draycotte Water but again with light fading fast we had to make a choice which end we went to search, we had a look but there was no sign of the Lesser Scaup that had been seen previously.
That evening we drove into Wales and stayed in Pembrooke for an early start.
Before first light we were at Angel Bay and after talking to a dog walker we got directions to another road, and after driving down the Squacco Heron (302) flew across in front of the car and landed in the ditch beside up.
We then went to Withybush and saw the Cattle Egret (303) on the airfield.
After this we called into Slimbridge and saw the American Wigeon (304) after an extensive search.
This was then the last bird of the trip as M25 traffic caused a halt to our journey. All in all a great trip. Pictures will be up very soon.
We then moved onto Lizard Point where after a bit of time saw two Chough (298) fly across the path in front of us.
Next stop was the Lost Garden's of Helligan where after the short walk we were getting great views of the Green Heron (299) it crept around the top pool always showing really well. We watched this for an hour or so before moving on to Devon.
It was really tight on light but we headed for Prawle Point, where upon arriving the sun had gone down but we were lucky to see 60+ Cirl Buntings (300) and I achieved my 300th bird of the year.
The next day we had three target birds and first was the Glossy Ibis that had been seen around Exminster Marshes the previous day, after a walk around the lovely reserve we could not find the Ibis I scaned through all the Wigeon inhope for an American but couldn't muster one.
Next stop was Oxford where after working out the bollard system that comes up during school hours we finally found the bird on the flooded field behind the school, we were watching the Lesser Yellowlegs (301) feeding well.
We then headed off and went to Draycotte Water but again with light fading fast we had to make a choice which end we went to search, we had a look but there was no sign of the Lesser Scaup that had been seen previously.
That evening we drove into Wales and stayed in Pembrooke for an early start.
Before first light we were at Angel Bay and after talking to a dog walker we got directions to another road, and after driving down the Squacco Heron (302) flew across in front of the car and landed in the ditch beside up.
We then went to Withybush and saw the Cattle Egret (303) on the airfield.
After this we called into Slimbridge and saw the American Wigeon (304) after an extensive search.
This was then the last bird of the trip as M25 traffic caused a halt to our journey. All in all a great trip. Pictures will be up very soon.
Tuesday, 19 October 2010
Scilly Last Day
Last day on Scilly's had an early boat to St Martins that we decided to catch after news of a Little Bunting the previous evening.
We arrived and headed straight to the site at higher town beach where the bunting had been seen no sign of the bunting but I heard a bird that I knew as Richards Pipit (297) which eventually I picked up in flight and then landed next to us.
After obtaining great views and getting some pics we put the news out (on pager as cb wasn't being heard) one other birder arrived and we failed to see the Richards again before news of a Red-flanked bluetail in middle Town.
We marched off and got great view before the real crowds arrived. After this we walked the Island before heading back seeing only the Red-throated Diver.
We headed up the Garrison for the afternoon seeing only 2 harbour porpiose and a Manx Shearwater. Also saw Raven on Martins. All in all been a good trip and tomorrow Green Heron awaits my arrival.
We arrived and headed straight to the site at higher town beach where the bunting had been seen no sign of the bunting but I heard a bird that I knew as Richards Pipit (297) which eventually I picked up in flight and then landed next to us.
After obtaining great views and getting some pics we put the news out (on pager as cb wasn't being heard) one other birder arrived and we failed to see the Richards again before news of a Red-flanked bluetail in middle Town.
We marched off and got great view before the real crowds arrived. After this we walked the Island before heading back seeing only the Red-throated Diver.
We headed up the Garrison for the afternoon seeing only 2 harbour porpiose and a Manx Shearwater. Also saw Raven on Martins. All in all been a good trip and tomorrow Green Heron awaits my arrival.
Monday, 18 October 2010
Day 4 an easy day
After the 15 mile trek around the island yesterday my foot did not feel all that great, we started at Porthloo where we saw the Bar-tailed Godwit, news of a Dartford Warbler at the Garrison had us heading in that direction, we saw the Turtle Dove again at Porth Mellon.
We eventually made it up the Garrison and there had been no sign of the Dartford, we scopede Samson from the Star Castle and managed to see 6 Shelduck, Spoonbill and a Fulmar. We then went for a look over the top to see what we could see.
I spotted a bird dive into nearby brambles so I sent Adam in to have a look. What I had spotted was actully a Wryneck that then showed really well.
We continued round the Garrison and saw the much talked about white Blackbird I have heard about this for the last three years but had never actully seen it. I managed to pick up the 1w Med Gull in Porth Cressa. We head back to town done some shopping and went to Peninnis.
On the way up a quick detour to see some Lapland Buntings had me nearly standing on them (opps) they then continued to show well.
The rest of the day was spent sea watching and after 2 hours we clocked up loads of Gannets, 1 Puffin (296), 1 auk sp, 2 Kittiwake, 1 ad Med Gull and a Common Dolphin (which reminds me I saw a Harbour Porpiose first thing)
We eventually made it up the Garrison and there had been no sign of the Dartford, we scopede Samson from the Star Castle and managed to see 6 Shelduck, Spoonbill and a Fulmar. We then went for a look over the top to see what we could see.
I spotted a bird dive into nearby brambles so I sent Adam in to have a look. What I had spotted was actully a Wryneck that then showed really well.
We continued round the Garrison and saw the much talked about white Blackbird I have heard about this for the last three years but had never actully seen it. I managed to pick up the 1w Med Gull in Porth Cressa. We head back to town done some shopping and went to Peninnis.
On the way up a quick detour to see some Lapland Buntings had me nearly standing on them (opps) they then continued to show well.
The rest of the day was spent sea watching and after 2 hours we clocked up loads of Gannets, 1 Puffin (296), 1 auk sp, 2 Kittiwake, 1 ad Med Gull and a Common Dolphin (which reminds me I saw a Harbour Porpiose first thing)
Sunday, 17 October 2010
Day 3
After further reports of the Subalpine Warb yesterday we headed for Mount Todden farm and found the spot where it was seen. On the way up we saw the Turtle Dove at Porthloo, during our two hour stay at the trial we saw 31 Fieldfare and a Common Buzzard but no Subalpine. We did also hear a Raven but it called from behind trees.
We then head to longstones and had lunch and on to lower moors where we heard Crossbill fly over and got ace views of Jack and Common Snipe and a Greenshank. After this we went to Pennins Head where lots of pipits and Swallow were. We had a look for the Wryneck but had no luck but did see the Red-throated Diver.
It was now pub time so we headed to the Atlantic where we saw Grey Wagtail and Sparrowhawk then at 5.30 a Richards Pipit was seen at Giants Castle but on the way the Subalpine was seen again so we went straight there. I arrived with foot in pain and out of breath but managed good but brief views of the Subalpine Warbler (295) on the way there we did see a Merlin.
We then head to longstones and had lunch and on to lower moors where we heard Crossbill fly over and got ace views of Jack and Common Snipe and a Greenshank. After this we went to Pennins Head where lots of pipits and Swallow were. We had a look for the Wryneck but had no luck but did see the Red-throated Diver.
It was now pub time so we headed to the Atlantic where we saw Grey Wagtail and Sparrowhawk then at 5.30 a Richards Pipit was seen at Giants Castle but on the way the Subalpine was seen again so we went straight there. I arrived with foot in pain and out of breath but managed good but brief views of the Subalpine Warbler (295) on the way there we did see a Merlin.
Day 2
The second day of our Scilly adventure had us heading up to the airfield. We arrived there with no sign of the American Golden Plover, but 13 Skylark and a handfull of Wheatear present. We then headed down to Porth Hellick pools where a Kingfisher sat briefly and two Water Rail showed well, just before leaving a Jack Snipe bobbed into view.
News of the plover back on the airfield had us going back up there. We got there just in time to see the American Golden Plover (293) fly off before a plane got it. We wait a few minutes before it returned to show really well.
We then headed to the quay to get the boat to St Agnes.
On Agnes a quick dash to the Parsonage and a small wait before we saw a Pied Fly and then the Red-eyed Vireo (294).
We wondered back to the boat and popped in the Alantic for a quick drink where we were able to scope the Common Sandpiper on Porthloo beach.
News of the plover back on the airfield had us going back up there. We got there just in time to see the American Golden Plover (293) fly off before a plane got it. We wait a few minutes before it returned to show really well.
We then headed to the quay to get the boat to St Agnes.
On Agnes a quick dash to the Parsonage and a small wait before we saw a Pied Fly and then the Red-eyed Vireo (294).
We wondered back to the boat and popped in the Alantic for a quick drink where we were able to scope the Common Sandpiper on Porthloo beach.
Friday, 15 October 2010
Scilly Day 1 - the lucky Starling
We arrived on Scilly's 11 hours after leaving at 9.00 our plan was to go St Martins to see Tawny Pipit and Melodious Warbler. Dumping the gear in the B&B we had a brief look in the harbour and caught the boat along with 100 other birders.
News of both expected species being negative wasn't the start we were hoping for. We arrived at Higher town and saw the Red-Breasted Flycatcher (my 289 for the year), whilst there news that the Melodious was seen seemed sketchy but we headed that way.
Along the way strugling to walk we were not seeing much but a turn of events when a Starling flock took off and one luckily shat on Adams head.
We shortly after saw the elusive Common Rosefinch (290), Greenshanks and Sanderling. Then by the Campsite we had at least 3 Firecrest and further along 2 more. We stopped at the pub for a bite to eat and added Redwing, Chiffchaff, Sanderling and a Spotted Flycatcher.
I had just started my second pint when news of the Tawny Pipit (291) at the beach came over the radio, which we went to see and got lucky before it flew off along the beach.
We then head back to the pub to search for the Melodious Warbler nr the pub we watched the tree for 30mins before it is found the other side of the pub we obtained great views (292 and my 397 lifer) before the crowds arrived and then went down to the pub and I got even better views adding the bird to the pub list.
We then saw a male Common Scoter the had a large amount of yellow on its bill but was only common, and from the B&B I saw a fly through Barnacle Goose.
News of both expected species being negative wasn't the start we were hoping for. We arrived at Higher town and saw the Red-Breasted Flycatcher (my 289 for the year), whilst there news that the Melodious was seen seemed sketchy but we headed that way.
Along the way strugling to walk we were not seeing much but a turn of events when a Starling flock took off and one luckily shat on Adams head.
We shortly after saw the elusive Common Rosefinch (290), Greenshanks and Sanderling. Then by the Campsite we had at least 3 Firecrest and further along 2 more. We stopped at the pub for a bite to eat and added Redwing, Chiffchaff, Sanderling and a Spotted Flycatcher.
I had just started my second pint when news of the Tawny Pipit (291) at the beach came over the radio, which we went to see and got lucky before it flew off along the beach.
We then head back to the pub to search for the Melodious Warbler nr the pub we watched the tree for 30mins before it is found the other side of the pub we obtained great views (292 and my 397 lifer) before the crowds arrived and then went down to the pub and I got even better views adding the bird to the pub list.
We then saw a male Common Scoter the had a large amount of yellow on its bill but was only common, and from the B&B I saw a fly through Barnacle Goose.
Scilly Day 1 - the lucky Starling
We arrived on Scilly's 11 hours after leaving at 9.00 our plan was to go St Martins to see Tawny Pipit and Melodious Warbler. Dumping the gear in the B&B we had a brief look in the harbour and caught the boat along with 100 other birders.
News of both expected species being negative wasn't the start we were hoping for. We arrived at Higher town and saw the Red-Breasted Flycatcher (my 289 for the year), whilst there news that the Melodious was seen seemed sketchy but we headed that way.
Along the way strugling to walk we were not seeing much but a turn of events when a Starling flock took off and one luckily shat on Adams head.
We shortly after saw the elusive Common Rosefinch (290), Greenshanks and Sanderling. Then by the Campsite we had at least 3 Firecrest and further along 2 more. We stopped at the pub for a bite to eat and added Redwing, Chiffchaff, Sanderling and a Spotted Flycatcher.
I had just started my second pint when news of the Tawny Pipit (291) at the beach came over the radio, which we went to see and got lucky before it flew off along the beach.
We then head back to the pub to search for the Melodious Warbler nr the pub we watched the tree for 30mins before it is found the other side of the pub we obtained great views (292 and my 397 lifer) before the crowds arrived and then went down to the pub and I got even better views adding the bird to the pub list.
We then saw a male Common Scoter the had a large amount of yellow on its bill but was only common, and from the B&B I saw a fly through Barnacle Goose.
News of both expected species being negative wasn't the start we were hoping for. We arrived at Higher town and saw the Red-Breasted Flycatcher (my 289 for the year), whilst there news that the Melodious was seen seemed sketchy but we headed that way.
Along the way strugling to walk we were not seeing much but a turn of events when a Starling flock took off and one luckily shat on Adams head.
We shortly after saw the elusive Common Rosefinch (290), Greenshanks and Sanderling. Then by the Campsite we had at least 3 Firecrest and further along 2 more. We stopped at the pub for a bite to eat and added Redwing, Chiffchaff, Sanderling and a Spotted Flycatcher.
I had just started my second pint when news of the Tawny Pipit (291) at the beach came over the radio, which we went to see and got lucky before it flew off along the beach.
We then head back to the pub to search for the Melodious Warbler nr the pub we watched the tree for 30mins before it is found the other side of the pub we obtained great views (292 and my 397 lifer) before the crowds arrived and then went down to the pub and I got even better views adding the bird to the pub list.
We then saw a male Common Scoter the had a large amount of yellow on its bill but was only common, and from the B&B I saw a fly through Barnacle Goose.
Thursday, 14 October 2010
Round Up
Thats it folks just as Stuart White complimented on how well I have manged to keep up with the Norfolk Year List (at the Willodious Warbler) whislt working full time, I get my foot in plaster a few days later, so any chances (although they were slim) of getting that are out the window having missed the OB Pipit and Red-flanked Bluetail but never mind I still have my target of 300 national the year closing in and as I am about to travel to Scilly tonight I hope to add a few more maybe even get the big three double O whilst I am there (and on the way back). Oh by the way had plaster off yesterday but still on crutches which will be fun.
Haven't updated for a while but heres a picture summary of whats been happening to me.
Also had a great afternoon sitting around the Shangri-la at Waxham watch hundreds of Goldcrests, Bramblings, Siskins and Redwings all flicking through.
Monday, 13 September 2010
Arctic Warbler
Friday evening I had a free hour or so, so popped to Holme where I was rewarded with great views of the Arctic Warbler. The weekend was taken up traveling to London to watch muse at Wembley this was awesome, did manage a year tick with Ring-necked Parakeet in Hyde Park and St James park on both days. Other birds of note were Peregrine and Kingfisher. Also got to watch a plastic Smew chasing Roach ten times its size from the bridge in St James park.
Monday, 6 September 2010
Ortolan and Catch Up
A quick dash after work todaye getting brief but ok views of the Ortolan Bunting before it flew a hundred yards or so when we got better views for another 20mins before it appear to go to roost in the gorse.
To catch up with the previous missed weeks:- yesterday saw Red-necked Phalarope and a Pied Fly at Holme, also saw Redstart and Red-backed Shrike and two Peregrines.
A quick stop at the Dun Cow and I added Common Tern, Greenshank, Whinchat, Canada Goose and Snipe to the Pub List also saw Gannet from here.
We then went to Stifkey where we saw the Barred Warbler and then onto Cley where a few different phase Arctic Skuas were about.
Last stop was Weyborne where we found another Red-backed Shrike and many Wheatears and even more Pied Wagtails.
On Tuesday 31st August another evening out after work, got views a Lapland at Salthouse and a Barred Warbler at Stifkey, also had a probable Great White Egret but could quite get enough views.
On Monday 30th August a sea watch was on the cards with a early start arriving at the shelter at 5.45 and finding it full I was more than surprised. Did miss a Storm Petrel but got Arctic Skua, Great Skua, Pom Skua and Long-tailed Skua (juv). Manx Shearwater and Sooty Shearwater also. Although it was good numbers were very low compared to the fridays sea watch. That afternoon I went to Hickling and saw 17 Cranes but not much else.
Saturday 28th August had enough time to quickly go and see the Short-toed Lark at Cley on Blakeney Point.
Friday 27th August a early start at Sheringham had me straight onto 2 Pom Skuas, the rest of the time around 25 Arctic Skuas and the same Great Skuas and a great view of Balearic Shearwater. That night a mad dash to the point and didn't see the Booted Warbler.
Sunday 22nd August started at dawn at South Creake to look for the two reported Spotted Crakes to find to Juv Moorhens, but come back through the back lanes was lucky enough to see a Quail as I nearly ran it over. I then headed to Alkborough to try and see the Semipalmated Sandpiper waited six hours before heading back, stopped briefly at Marston to see the Spotted Crake there, when the Sharp-tailed Sandpiper came on the pager, got there just in time to see it.
To catch up with the previous missed weeks:- yesterday saw Red-necked Phalarope and a Pied Fly at Holme, also saw Redstart and Red-backed Shrike and two Peregrines.
A quick stop at the Dun Cow and I added Common Tern, Greenshank, Whinchat, Canada Goose and Snipe to the Pub List also saw Gannet from here.
We then went to Stifkey where we saw the Barred Warbler and then onto Cley where a few different phase Arctic Skuas were about.
Last stop was Weyborne where we found another Red-backed Shrike and many Wheatears and even more Pied Wagtails.
On Tuesday 31st August another evening out after work, got views a Lapland at Salthouse and a Barred Warbler at Stifkey, also had a probable Great White Egret but could quite get enough views.
On Monday 30th August a sea watch was on the cards with a early start arriving at the shelter at 5.45 and finding it full I was more than surprised. Did miss a Storm Petrel but got Arctic Skua, Great Skua, Pom Skua and Long-tailed Skua (juv). Manx Shearwater and Sooty Shearwater also. Although it was good numbers were very low compared to the fridays sea watch. That afternoon I went to Hickling and saw 17 Cranes but not much else.
Saturday 28th August had enough time to quickly go and see the Short-toed Lark at Cley on Blakeney Point.
Friday 27th August a early start at Sheringham had me straight onto 2 Pom Skuas, the rest of the time around 25 Arctic Skuas and the same Great Skuas and a great view of Balearic Shearwater. That night a mad dash to the point and didn't see the Booted Warbler.
Sunday 22nd August started at dawn at South Creake to look for the two reported Spotted Crakes to find to Juv Moorhens, but come back through the back lanes was lucky enough to see a Quail as I nearly ran it over. I then headed to Alkborough to try and see the Semipalmated Sandpiper waited six hours before heading back, stopped briefly at Marston to see the Spotted Crake there, when the Sharp-tailed Sandpiper came on the pager, got there just in time to see it.
Saturday, 21 August 2010
Friday, 20 August 2010
White-winged Black Tern
Still there this morning saw it distantly from the railway sleeper pile next to the Konik Pony gate before the Rush Hills hide, It was on the main broad obviously distant and over the reeds left of the big pink house (if your going you'll know what I mean) and flew towards the Pleasure Boat Inn before dropping below the reed line and out of view. Also if the person that went passed on the boat at about 8.15 reads this you'd missed it by about 15mins this morning.
Wednesday, 18 August 2010
Tuesday, 17 August 2010
The Calm After The Storm
Well what a weekend was lucky enough to catch up with that little Icterine Warbler on the point at the second time of asking as well as Redstart and Whinchat. Also seeing a Arctic Skua off on the sea was a bonus. Well that was all on Sunday where as Saturday I saw the Spotted Flycatchers again possibly two pairs, maybe, with one young fledged.
As for the Sunday it start late as have had man flu with the added bonus of too much stomach acid (Joy of Joys) so had a lie in. Got wind of the Icterine Warbler near the boat from Adam do headed straight there, met up with him half way along Blakeney point and only saw a dark looking Locustella which had to be a Grasshopper Warbler but could never be sure as it was clinging to the deck in the strong winds. We then headed back for some lunch at the Dun Cow where I was lucky enough to spot the Common Crane flying in, and also saw Tufted Duck, Gadwall and Sandwich Tern. A drive by birder pointed out three Spoonbill flying past as he went along the road. Thank You who ever you are.
After lunch I head out along the point again this time seeing Whinchat along route to halfway house. By the time I arrived all other birders had given up the chase for the Icterine Warbler but I carried on anyway pishhing all the sweuda in hope. I gave up near halfway house and headed back towards the boat and just off the ridge a Redstart popped out and soon disappeared behind nearby bushes.
I then got towards the boat and to be honest I really needed a pee so went deep into the sweuda to relieve myself when the lemon faced warbler finally showed itself. It showed only for a few seconds before diving back into deep cover from the wind but never mind it was a alright view.
But now its Tuesday and I have found myself watching another great bird at Kelling. This being the Lesser Grey Shirke. Me and Claire arrived and saw it really well, at first it was flying around catching insects as they flew passed. It soon become lazy though and just sat next to a post the flying Ants had decided to use a a take off point and picked them off before they flew away.
As for the Sunday it start late as have had man flu with the added bonus of too much stomach acid (Joy of Joys) so had a lie in. Got wind of the Icterine Warbler near the boat from Adam do headed straight there, met up with him half way along Blakeney point and only saw a dark looking Locustella which had to be a Grasshopper Warbler but could never be sure as it was clinging to the deck in the strong winds. We then headed back for some lunch at the Dun Cow where I was lucky enough to spot the Common Crane flying in, and also saw Tufted Duck, Gadwall and Sandwich Tern. A drive by birder pointed out three Spoonbill flying past as he went along the road. Thank You who ever you are.
After lunch I head out along the point again this time seeing Whinchat along route to halfway house. By the time I arrived all other birders had given up the chase for the Icterine Warbler but I carried on anyway pishhing all the sweuda in hope. I gave up near halfway house and headed back towards the boat and just off the ridge a Redstart popped out and soon disappeared behind nearby bushes.
I then got towards the boat and to be honest I really needed a pee so went deep into the sweuda to relieve myself when the lemon faced warbler finally showed itself. It showed only for a few seconds before diving back into deep cover from the wind but never mind it was a alright view.
But now its Tuesday and I have found myself watching another great bird at Kelling. This being the Lesser Grey Shirke. Me and Claire arrived and saw it really well, at first it was flying around catching insects as they flew passed. It soon become lazy though and just sat next to a post the flying Ants had decided to use a a take off point and picked them off before they flew away.
The lively, respected Lesser Grey Shrike
Lazy Begger - eating Ants (like fast food)
Monday, 2 August 2010
Hooded Crow - Norfolk Lifer
Saturday the Hooded Crow was relocated after being seen the week or so before. I got home and picked up James a we set off. We arrived at Salthouse and we were soon put onto the bird though distant from the back roads near Salthouse heath it then flew and landed in a closer but still distant tree. We got our fill and moved on.
We then headed to Cley to see the Spoonbills and managed to get all 17 which was brilliant.
We also got views of Green Sandpiper, Curlew Sandpiper, Greenshank and Spotted Redshank, and these Swallows and Sand Martins.
A quick stop at the Dun Cow we saw Linnet, Barn Owl and a Hobby.
Friday, 30 July 2010
Scotland......
Day Off
An afternoon off and a morning to recover ment I had the chance to go see the King Eider and got some good but decent views. I then had to go Holt direction the next day was lucky enough to see Honey Buzzard at Swanton Novers. 
Saturday, 24 July 2010
Hummm
Another day in Bacton and at least 8 (eight) more Hummingbird Hawk Moths there really is an unbelievable amount in/passing through this garden managed another shot. Plus another little brown job, James could you please direct be to a good moth book as I really struggle to find these in mine.
Monday, 19 July 2010
Breydon
Headed down to Breydon Water in the hope of WR Sandpiper no sign of any, but a few Greenshank, Spotted Redshank and Whimbrel were nice to look at.
Also Common Sandpiper and a Hobby flew over.
Also about were around a million of those annoying little black bugs at one point when the breeze picked up it actually felt like it was hailing as they crashed into me.
Also Common Sandpiper and a Hobby flew over.
Also about were around a million of those annoying little black bugs at one point when the breeze picked up it actually felt like it was hailing as they crashed into me.
Saturday, 17 July 2010
James - Moths!!!!
James (or whoever) Please help me with these moths I am stuck (all taken today in Bacton unless stated)
Moth 1
Moth 2
Moth 3
Moth 3 also (different angle)
Moth 4 (Taken 4th July Gimingham)
Dont worry I know this one its a Hummingbird Hawk Moth (I hope it is)
This is my third of the year and second in this garden.
Rusty Tussock Moth ?? I think.
Moth 1 
Moth 2
Moth 3
Moth 3 also (different angle)
Moth 4 (Taken 4th July Gimingham)
Dont worry I know this one its a Hummingbird Hawk Moth (I hope it is)
This is my third of the year and second in this garden.
Rusty Tussock Moth ?? I think.
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