In search of a Norwegian Blue

Short Eared Owl... rubbish images

2012-02-10T11:52:00.002Z

I don't know why I'm posting this really, merely a record of what's out there. Most locals know where it is and sadly too much traffic, dog walkers and disturbance for any daylight showing, which means these rubbish images were taken with no light left... just a record. Quite a few hours spent seeing nothing but of course delighted to watch this magnificent bird in flight and hunting.

31 January over at height after the sun had set

demonstrating how far away it really was

if only there had been sufficient light.... 7 February

compilation that captured the essence

I was spoilt back on 3 January 2010 Over Wyre when I fell upon a Short Eared Owl and I anticipate it will take me many years to surpass that encounter, see this page. Thanks for calling in and to those of you who comment, I don't always reply but I do welcome any input and feedback.

Black Redstart at Clifton Waste Site

2012-02-04T13:30:00.004Z

As you will know dear reader, Newton Marsh is a regular venue for me, well yesterday Friday 3 February (where's the year gone, what happened to January?) I drove down the access road to the United Utilities site at the end of the road. Simple reason for this post, I came across a Black Redstart hopping along the fenceposts and down onto the adjacent embankment – spooked by traffic it didn't stay in one place for long and was always too far off... anyhooo so you know I didn't make it up, here are a couple of record images to illustrate the fact (and annoyingly the sun was out... annoying in that I couldn't get a 'good' photo, then again any photo of a Black Redstart is a good one for me). Not great images but sufficient proof I hope. I should also mention the fact that the site was the venue for a local Car Rally on Friday and Saturday, so I am not hopeful it will remain for any length of time but you never know ... however I'll be back so watch this space.

Fylde Swans

2012-01-31T18:33:00.000Z

It's been a funny old winter, or maybe it's just me (more likely) and I don't seem to have 'done the rounds' quite the same as previous years – either way I haven't 'been in touch' with quite as many Fylde Swans as I would have liked, maybe there is time and I'm afraid I'm not in the mood to wax lyical on this post either, a bit weary – so quite simply here are some images of Swans taken from across the Fylde from the beginning of December over Wyre Whoopers and more recently the Mutes at Newton Marsh (12 at lat count). I'm disappointed I haven't seen any Bewicks this year.. perhaps Pete or somone might tell us all about their migration et al... we are so lucky here on the Fylde and all too often take it for granted. The one thing I will say is considering how big these birds are it is no wonder they have such a large wingspan! Magic.

not great pics but hopefully 'capture' the essence... (as alwyas double-click for larger images in slide show)

distant fly past, that came in overhead

Whooper over Lancaster Road

and away...

minor swabble

Mute Swans coming in... Newton Marsh

in sychronisation

bath time

I just loved the light on the spray

More from Newton Marsh

2012-01-25T15:38:00.003Z

I haven't been out for over a week or so, and I wanted to check my images again as I'm not sure these do it justice, but what the heck, I did say I wanted might post again on the basis of trying to capture the 'chaos' that 'the beast' of Newton Marsh creates at times... (Great Black Backed Gull attack, see previous post). For what they are worth...

again probably best viewed by double clicking and opening the 'slideshow'... they're not great.

the 'herd' of grazing wigeon

some idea of the chaos

as above

not great but liked 'the pattern'

as above

normally out of focus mess – just low light this time

Black-tailed Godwit fly past

from a better day – example of 'chaos'

not great but what's all the fuss?

this went wrong when exploring noise... but like its 'art' quality

Martin popped by to say hello today, 'hello' and while stood chatting outside on the front... 5 bullfinches, 3 male and 2 female... what a bonus – made my day... made my week! Call again Martin.

The Beast of Newton Marsh?

2012-01-17T21:02:00.003Z

I'll try and keep this succinct.

My prayers have been answered, it's stopped raining, the sun even shone (one day) and I have some images to archive and something to post.

Many of you hopefully have seen Martin's blog about Great Black-Backed Gull attacking a male wigeon about two weeks ago (see here) ... well Newton Marsh is also on 'my patch'... hours of fun sat doing nowt (meditation and putting the world to rights... only thing that has kept me sane... well maybe not).

There have been a few (couple of hundred) Wigeon about for a few months but numbers appear to have increased recently (or more have come into view) and there have been upwards of 1500+ at times. The place is chaos! Especially when you throw in a demonic Great Black-Backed Gull, which does appear to be venomous in it's disruption of the Wigeon. (double click image for enlarged slide show)

spot the shoveler in with the wigeon

the culprit – the beast of Newton Marsh!

wigeon in flight

chaos!

too often, we overlook the beauty of what's in front of us - female mallard

male wigeon

flying wigeon

Anyway, here a selection of images in an attempt to capture what's going on... I fear I may have more to follow, so expect more than one post on the subject.

And if you are wondering about the map... I have an interest in history and this flood map of the Fylde from the Environment Agency seemed to suggest and reminded me of what the area may have looked like perhaps around the time of the Conqueror (1066) when much of it was all mine before man intervened and drained so much of it ... only trouble is, this is what it might look like soon – I hope you aren't the ones under water. Now switch off everything you're not using and save the planet!

you may wish to visit
http://www.environment-agency.gov.uk/homeandleisure/floods/31650.aspx

There is a 'Jay' in January

2012-01-10T19:00:00.000Z

Albeit one I photographed last autumn! I just never got around to posting these, (I was busy archiving and deleting nonsense, of which there was a great deal... a bit like the internet, some interesting stuff but 90% rubbish!).

Anyhooo, as usual, years in the making and hours and hours spent twiddling my err, thumbs (arthritis).

(As always double-click the image for enlarged slide show)

The first image, not great but I liked the way half the bird was in sun and half in shadow... a perfect example in one photo of the variation in plumage created by the light; it's breast a 'warm-pink' and back a 'grey-pink'.

The second image again taken on an overcast day and so we have a dull 'grey-pink'. I watched this character burying its autumn booty, here underneath some moss. Normally the Jay is an elusive creature and you do well getting a glimpse... did I mention all the hours sitting around doing nowt? This amiable fellow(ess) spent a couple of minutes hopping around just in range of the lense although I'd have preferred it a bit closer.

Photos 3 and 4 speak for themselves and I was there at the right time. Did I mention all the hours sitting around doing nowt? (Also partly why the posts on here diminished, I was spending days and hours sat waiting for this rascal... which first began around 2008 I think). The last two photos were captured just as the sun was setting and the sunlight cast a warm orange glow across everything. What do they call it 'the magic hour', morning and evening? I also couldn't believe my luck as this Jay sat there cocking it's head, I do believe at the sound of the shutter noise as I rattled of some photos, and the two images seem to capture this 'listening'.

If you half close your eyes or squint at picture four you can understand why Jays are pink: amazingly a perfect colour for disappearing into the autumnal background colours – I don't know about the rest of the year! And sadly recently I have only caught the odd glimpse of the Jay despite the fruitless hours spent over the last four weeks or so. All in all worth the effort and I hope worth the wait for the post.

Soon be spring... did I say this weather is driving me mad? I feel a roadtrip coming on... anything to get away from this bloddy awful Lancashire weather.

A Car Park Surprise

2012-01-06T14:13:00.003Z

Greetings for a enjoyable, safe and prosperous 2012 dear reader.

For once in the right place at the right time as these photos of a Grey Wagtail were actually taken in an 'unfinished' private car park. As always (nearly always) I had the camera with me and was able to creep up on this Grey Wagtail in the car. An unexpected pleasure. (Again low light levels meant 99% of the photos were soft, out of focus and or blurred, especially as you know Wagtails are just that, wagging their tails and for ever bobbing and weaving – bah humbug. Must do better this year).

(I think everyone now knows, that by double clicking an image opens larger photos slide show).

reflection – nearly

turning leaves - soft and out of focus... gggrrrgghhhhh

These images are all the same bird and it was 'paddling' in some puddles, turrning over damp leaves – I have no idea what it was finding to feed upon, if anything. I was attempting to capture it with it's own reflection in the water to illustrate the bright yellow under-belly etc.

As you can see, the sun came out once and what a difference it makes! Of course what I should add is, the photography is a bonus, just watching and being so close to this character was a joy to behold and lightens the heart: however...

This constant local wet, miserable, grey, overcast weather is driving me nuts... now I understand why people sod off to Spain and the like. Personally I have always fancied Baja (California) but I see there are proposals for large scale developments even down there. Bah humbug! Perhaps Manley Beach (Sydney) or Freetown or somewhere... (hopefully somewhere where there are no mobile telephones or the internet, "hello, HELLO, HELLO can you hear me? I'll be home in two minutes"... garump! I blame it on the weather... when of course it's just me, miserable old sod).

Careful driving

2011-12-19T17:33:00.006Z

I have been remiss in not updating the blog recently but I did mention (a) the issues around reducing file sizes to suit and (b) the difficulty I have had with memory, not only my own, the limits on a blog but also the old computer hard drive. It is also this time of year for archiving so I have been binning a lot of my images which aren't needed. As a consequence I'm a bit fed up of looking at images and deciding if they are worthy or not – I can no longer make a decision to save my life let alone for images worthy of the blog! (I do have quite a few in fact... later).

Anyhooo, a run across the Fylde started on a cold and forozen morning with a smattering of frozen snow making the driving conditions treacherous, certainly a day for total concentration. However it was also a day of clear blue skies, little wind – unheard of in these 'ere parts for sometime – but one of those mornings that you knew raptors would be out making the most of the conditions.

I do stay focused on my driving and check my mirrors regularly and pull off the road when safe to do so and all that, but it is difficult driving without clocking what is 'around you'. So without actually 'bird watching' I came across 3 Kestrels, 2 Buzzards, 2 Sparrowhawks, 2 Reed Buntings, a Corn Bunting, Mistle Thrush, Fieldfare, 140 odd Whooper Swans (probably from Fluke Hall area), hundreds of aerial Pink Footed Geese circling Eagland Hill area... before even arriving at Knott End.

A walk onto 'the front' to check out what I knew would be good views of the Lakes was rewarded by a gentle breeze that cut you in half! And so a few shots for my antipodean chums. On the foreshore was this bird that had me in a double take, tall, long ('green') legged, long necked with a short straight pink bill. Wasn't a Ruff and couldn't think. Was it some strange American visitor blown in on the recent winds... don't be daft. Further closer inspection revealed the beak, far from being pink along the whole length was covered in mud towards the end that blended well with the background, leaving the beginning bit pink and it was long and curved downwards – yep a Curlew. I must get better bins or better eyesight! Mind you I'm not sure I have seen a Curlew with a pink bill before – mind you I'm not sure I've photographed a Curlew in the sun before either! The story continues below. (How do I write so much nonsense! Now you know why I don't blog too often!).

Kestrels can often by found 'pole sitting'

Whoopers feeding on left-over potatoes

a minor squabble

a straight pink bill?

maybe not

spooked pinkies fly (nearly) directly overhead

wide open blue skies... a sight not often seen hereabouts

the lakleand fells in their majesty

and lengthening shadows

a Roe Dee looks for cover

a long way off (if you can see it)

black redstart

too cold for flying insects

well hello

the black redstart

it's cold!

nearly dark... Hen Harrier

There was probably only an hour's (photography) light left as I departed but decided on Knott End esplanade to see if I could see the Twite – in a word, No, I couldn't! There was always the possibility of the Black Redstart – yeah I've been on these journeys before. The last and only Black Redstart was seen at Otmoor in Oxfordshire (what a place that is to find), December 2009. I can't even find it in my archives now but it is here on the Otmoor Birding site.

By the jetty Brian Ogden (pleased to meet you) was stood with his 800mm on a tripod and sure enough there it was, a Black Redstart on the foreshore by the jetty. Brian was leaving so I plonked myself on the foreshore and waited. A couple of Pied Wagtails were squabbling and feeding as they do and coming within eight feet – they weren't bothered, and neither was the Black Redstart that came within about fifteen feet or so. The only issue was the ice cream munchers who disturbed the bird by coming too close at times ('what's this plonker doing?' curiosity probably) whereupon it disappeared towards the building site across the road. I stood freezing waiting for it to show, which it duly obliged but here is another bird always on the go, dipping and bobbing, flitting here and there and it would either be too far away or hidden by rubbish and the piles of detritus piled high on the foreshore, facing the wrong way or the sun in the wrong place. Nevertheless I was able to watch it for some two to three minutes (out of about 45) on and off and managed a few photos (and a lot of rubbish), the sun gradually disappearing behind some hazy clouds. I decided to leave all to their own and the last opportunity to feed in peace and made my withdrawal.

Unusually I decided to risk (weather conditions) back-tracking the way I had come, rather than choosing a slightly different route as I often do but the temperature was down to 32 degrees, i.e. freezing and the roads distinctly dodgy! Most of the Whoopers had disappeared, only 8 remaining but exactly 100 Pink Footed were in a field close by. I was able to park safely out of the way and they were some way off as I approached to see if there was anything other than pinkies – nope. Whereupon one of those fixed-winged microlights buzzed overhead and sent the lot up and away – as the microlight was approaching from afar this put them more or less directly over my head! No light though to speak of for decent photos. Anyway up they went, calling as they do and circled while I set off toward Pilling Moss. By now it was close on 3.30 plus, the sun was setting and there was no chance of more photography. A couple of parked motors and some huge lenses on tripods gave the game away on Lancaster Road, where I always have a good mooch about if I can. I wasn't going anywhere, nothing to photograph, most spaces taken but I managed to pull up and out of the way. Luckily I had a fairly wide vista so thought why not wait and see, you just never know. A Roe Deer out feeding was looking to return to some cover.

It was getting a bit chilly but sure enough after about ten minutes a long way off in the far distance I clocked a barn owl out hunting. Thankfully the dark background of some trees helped to distinguish it but it was some way off. It quartered the ground and I lost it a couple of times as it dived into the field. At one point I thought I saw something else, not a barn owl and I was hoping and anticipating a Short Eared Owl. I spent another ten minutes or so with occasional views of the distant ghostly hunter.

Then stone the crows over the hedgerow appeared something else quartering the ground but moving away – despite the low light and terrible conditions I rattled off some shots of .... the Hen Harrier – I needed some photographic evidence I hadn't dreamed it all up! A man in my condition needs the proof nowadays. I watched it covering the ground and gradually working its way a bit closer before disappearing out of sight over a hedge-line.

The barn owl got closer and closer while another appeared from the other direction and came within forty feet or so but by now it was damn near impossible and your eyes begin playing tricks on you. Time to go. But before doing so Richard Hardwick had been hiding a little further down the road and he too had seen what I'd seen – both incredulous at seeing the Hen Harrier we compared notes and the exhilaration of the event.

If you have a moment have a look at his blog, see Gallery, Birds and page 3 – he has an amazing pic of a Sparrowhawk taking a juvenile Dipper on the River Brock! He was taking the photo of the Dipper when this happened – talk about being in the right place at the right time... mind you we were both made up with the Hen Harrier sighting.

And sorry if the pics aren't in order, but a bit like Morecambe and Wise, they're nearly all there not necessarily in the right order!

Drive carefully – it gets slippy out there! And seasons greeting dear reader.

Turnstone and bits...

2011-11-30T18:56:00.000Z

Back in the middle of November, the 17th to be exact I crossed the Fylde to Knott End, starting off bright enough but then on what yet again was a dismal day with low light and hence low apertures and speed. I called at the jetty at Knott End and was repaid with half a dozen Turnstones knocking about – but you know Turnstones always on the move, bobbing and weaving, dipping and diving... and with slow shutter speeds I could not 'stop' them – hence the blurred images, yet I managed to get a focus on them somewhere. And strangely they were foraging on the sloping sea wall and one popped up onto the top of the sea wall and with the building-site hoarding in the background provided an unusual blue backdrop. Otherwise disappointingly quiet.

A skein of Pink Footed Geese passed overhead, which they tend not to do if they can help it and on Pilling Lane I spotted a buzzard hiding in the roadside hedgerow. Nothing too unusual in that but if you look carefully there is a blue tag on the right shoulder. I managed to slow down and get off the road to rattle a few shots off through the windscreen but passing traffic soon had it off and away.

I called at Bradshaw Lane feeding station but it was very quiet as I drew up, so checking the camera settings I looked up to see a pheasant making a dash for the hedge while a raptor flashed in, up and away before I knew what had happened – again having camera in hand I rattled off some photos, as you can see somewhat blurred but one I thought captured the speed of the attack and about as much as I saw, while the other identified the culprit – a Kestrel. I was a little surprised as I hadn't realised Kestrel employ ambushing tactics like Sparrowhawks – you learn something new every day!

And finally I had to stop at Carr House Green Common to catch the setting sun. It was also the same day, I think, then again maybe not, that I had clocked all the Starlings on the moss, as seen in an earlier post... I'm still trying to catch up and brain dead!

Wigeon and stuff

2011-11-21T13:02:00.001Z

Again I am afraid these are historical images, the Wigeon taken on 13 November...

Juvenile Pied Wagtail – in a tree?

'burning bush'

'spooked'

chasing Hilda Ogden

fly by

more fly by

whoops by fly

before settling.... eventually

bathed in morning light

male wigeon

chas and dave

one small step...

More images from me travels...

Something you don't see very often – a Pied Wagtail in a tree, while over at Newton Marsh one evening I came across the 'burning bush' and very little else.

One day I was up at the crack of dawn at Newton Marsh just as the sun rose and again the images are more or less in reverse order. It was generally very quiet on the marsh apart from all the usual suspects but the ducks appeared to be particularly nervous and kept their distance – unusual. A Great Black Backed Gull made an appearance and then the wildfowl were spooked by something but I didn't see what – but it led to the air filling with wheeling wildfowl before eventually settling back down on the water.

While most are Wigeon, I find it fun to see what else you can spot (sad eh!)Teal, Shoveler... Because the light was awful by this time the pics aren't very good, but the 'flatness' has its own merits and looks to me like it could be wallpaper of something... and one day I will get Hilda Ogden's three ducks on the wall! Thanks to Martin who turned up he spotted a distant Peregrine sat on one of the Pylons, I had missed it flying across the marsh but clearly what had put the wildfowl up.

As the sun rose above the horizon there was a very brief interlude where the sun shone almost horizontally across the marsh and I managed to sneak up on two Wigeon and managed the two decent photos.

Similarly one day I managed to sneak up on a Chas and Dave (rabbit) lit by the evening light. And I don't know if any of you have noticed but a big white thing appears in the evening sky from time to time – in this case I was looking for and found Jupiter – which I couldn't photograph so made do with this evening picture.

Starlings on the moss

2011-11-17T20:32:00.000Z

These are in reverse order, that is evening photos first where as I had taken some earlier...

I've simply tried to capture the enormity of the flock... bleedin hundreds and hundreds of 'em!

Bits and Pieces (again)

2011-11-16T12:54:00.001Z

I have been somewhat remiss in not keeping up-to-date, but days pass and become weeks and I'm sure you don't want to be bored with the same old subject. Anyhoo here are a selection of images from recent weeks from me on me travels. A Linnet at Knott End is enclosed as I have seen several reports of Twite, yet I have seen non, but I have seen Linnets – but no sighting reports of Linnet and thought it odd. On 20 October over at Eagland HiIll I saw my first influx of Pink Footed Geese estimated at about 6,000 and the sky was full of skeins of about 150 dropping in, hence the photos, taken as always as the light was failing. A Sparrowhawk flew past hunting the hedgerows and about 2,000 Starling were flocking before moving on to roost in Blackpool no doubt.

On my local patch I came across a buzzard being harassed as they so often are, sadly I haven't seen it since and those wing tips are so distinctive. Autumn is the time for reaping the nut harvest and windfall, this Jay was reasonably obliging while a Great Spotted Woodpecker has set about stripping the bark off one of the trees.

The Pied Wagtail I caught just taking-off along the esplanade at Knott End (on a very miserable day, but the flat light produced an almost monochromatic Japanese print effect) and included the Chaffinch as the colours of the bird reflected the colours of autumn and the moss and lichen on the branch.

Photographic Competition – National Geographic

2011-11-13T18:50:00.000Z

hello dear reader

i wondered if you might be interested in entering... if not still worth a look as some stunning photography

deadline for entries 30 November 2011

(i only just found out too)

see
http://ngm.nationalgeographic.com/ngm/photo-contest/

and some crackers at

http://www.theatlantic.com/infocus/2011/11/national-geographic-photo-contest-2011/100187/

Gold and Gold

2011-11-07T14:46:00.000Z

the heady day that was summer...

golden prarie...?

misty mornings return

although you can't see too well when the Pink Footed Geese start arriving...
winter will be soon upon us

Preston City Centre... home of the Black Redstart and Peregrine falcons!

I awoke to a pretty chilly morning – a sign of things to come (winter).

All my attempts at capturing Goldfinch on camera, have on the whole failed miserably, normally the black eye disappearing into the black around it without any definition; however I recently concentrated on the subject and with the sun out and behind me for once I managed a few photos so bashed 'em out on here. The few 'action' images are a bit blurred, but I felt captured the movements sufficiently well to include them.

And for my antipodean chums and those from not around these 'ere parts a couple of images of the area where I do some of my birding... and a couple that remind me of that week that was summer... those golden ears of wheat.

I have often wondered about the bright colour on Goldfinch, but I think I commented on an early post, while watching Goldfinch feed on roadside dandelion, they soon disappear into the background. I also recall wandering around a certain capital town of a Mediterranean island and hearing Goldfinch sing... kept in cages outside people's apartment windows.

Sanderlings at Rossall

2011-11-02T10:38:00.001Z

Back in September I spent a couple of hours on a high tide revisiting the waders at Rossall... here are some Sanderlings (don't you just lurv 'em).

I forgot why I took this, until I realised it is a double-take on the middle distance – Sanderlings alighting

Flight photos are always a challenge and the practice is welcome – then again it's like a Chinese puzzle, how many Ringed Plover? How many Dunlin?

And sometimes you can just catch one or two in focus!

I had to add this for those flight feathers

Capturing the scene...

I quite liked the 'froth'

more 'of the moment'

with a friend

flotsam watch

There may be more postings to follow when it's quiet...

(photos 29 September 2011)

A Day at Leighton Moss

2011-10-23T14:32:00.004+01:00

The early light was not very good

Marsh Tit at the feeding station, but very dark underneath the tree canopy

...a splash of colour

a distant Kingfisher

Spotted Redshank

Spotted Redshank – elegant

Spotted Redshank with a Redshank for comparison

Rough justice

Snipe

11 Snipe were feeding at the margins

First decent views of Bearded Tit

View from the Public Hide

Distant deer

Dragonfly... anyone?

View from the Lower Hide

I am afraid many of my posts don't include fabulous photography and this is one of them – it is however a recollection of a day at RSPB Leighton Moss, anyone who has been will wonder why, but for those that have not been it may provide a personal view. I have to say I am not a great fan of sitting in hides to see wildlife.

As I hadn't slept well, I made an early start, thinking it didn't matter and there was plenty in the vicinity to see even if I didn't go on site. There was always the hope in an early start catching, deer otter and other movement as the sun rose... unfortunately not on this occasion. As day broke it didn't really get very light and was grey and overcast for a long time – so much so it was impossible to get any speed reading on the camera at low f-stops.

So early morning was spent in the Jackson Hide listening to deer grunting and the odd bellow but no sign of any deer who must have been reasonably close. A number of Teal and a few Wigeon were either sleeping or dappling around.

Back at the car park for breakfast and a brew and at the bird feeding station all the regulars were there and it was nice to see, Nuthatch, Bullfinch and a Marsh Tit. As the tide was supposed to be around lunchtime I then moved on to the Eric Morecambe Hide where a couple of chums might be in-situ. Sure enough Martin and Brian were in the hide when I arrived and had been watching and photographing the waders out in front.

A number of Knot were out on the marsh but too far away as were a number of Redshank. Kingfisher appeared briefly while a Grey Heron hunted a quite piece of water. Four Crows set about having a real barney and Martin managed to capture the action (see this link). A Spotted Redshank decided to come within range and I managed a couple of photographs. (A first for me). I was surprised to see 11 Snipe feeding in the margins but they were just too far away and the light too poor for me to score anything other than record photos... nice to see though – it is quite a while since I have seen Snipe (I used to see them regularly when I was a kid [on what is now Bispham Marsh, when it was a marsh] – but that is a long time ago).

It was then decided to move on in the hope of seeing what else was on the main reserve. On the way to the Public Hide, small flocks of Fieldfare passed overhead, I think the three of us were taken aback to see two Bearded Tit on the grit trays as we walked up the the viewing point. (Another first for me... well apart from a brief fly-over in the past). We picked up a Peregrine an awful long way off perched on a dead tree before being moved on by two Crows. A Sparrowhawk flew across too fast for anyone to react other than watch and identify it.

As the Public Hide was quiet, on to the the Lower Hide; a number of Dragonflies were coursing the causeway in the shelter of the trees and reeds. and at the bottom of the causeway, a small flock of Siskins did a circuit before landing in the trees overhead before moving on. In the field at the back of the reserve we spotted two deer looking to enter the woodland where a fallen tree had landed on the fence.

In the Lower Hide again we saw the Peregrine in the dead tree before it flew off north but no sign of otter and generally quiet. A male and female Gadwall fed in front of the hide. A Sparrowhawk flew past carrying food. And eventually a reversal, back to the Public Hide (where over 100 Coot suddenley left the reeds and passed by in front of the hide) and to the car park and Tim Jackson Hide with nothing to report that I haven't already stated. And so Zebedee said time for bed. Boiinng...

All the usual suspects were on show if not mentioned – Little Egret, Mute Swans, Robin, Blue Tit, Great Tit, Coal Tit, Chaffinch, Greenfinch, Mallard, Goldeneye, Shoveler, Shelduck, and I may have missed a few. And a word of thanks to Martin and Brian for their generous, informative and enjoyable company. (14 October 2011)

AND FINALLY – Best Wishes to Pete Woodroof, thanks for sharing so much informtion – I have learned so much and best wishes for the future.

Slavonian Grebe revisited

2011-10-16T13:34:00.014+01:00

My previous visits to Fairhaven had been under sullen, grey, miserable, 'orrible dark grey skies and while bird watching and the company was welcome and enjoyable, photography was not really an option... you have seen the previous results. Here's the scenario...

For those that know the area, that is the lake, looking towards the 'baggin cabin' on the car park
at the south east corner of the lake and the toilet block with the White Church in the background!
That's 'horizontal rain' on a strong wind creating the lack of definition, battering the water!

So when the skies broke, a little blue sky and decent light, I returned briefly on Thursday 13 October.

and fare thee well

the local resident male Mute Swn was not too impressed with the arrival of a newcomer....

'ave it

...come back if you think you're 'ard enough

the victor... all peace and light... or wolf in a swan's disguise?

Mediterranean Gull (1st winter)

As you can see, the Slavonian Grebe was pretty mobile and I was fortunate for once to get the light behind me (no pantomine jokes, thank you); and came pretty close at times.

The local resident Mute Swan took exception to a new visitor before some sort of serenity appeared to return. It is amazing how vicious Mute Swans can be and many moons ago, I watched a real barney at Newton Marsh for over an hour but had to leave while they were still at it; see this link.

It is, as always, while studying the subject worth keeping your eyes open, as once again I picked up this Mediterranean Gull – another first for me (at Fairhaven again!).

(if you are wondering why so many 'firsts' – I haven't been at this birding too long and don't get out much).

Fairhaven again! Slavonian Grebe

2011-10-06T12:27:00.001+01:00

I was extolling the virtues of Fairhaven Lake on my last post, and yet again Fairhaven has come up trumps with another first for me – a winter plummage Slavonian Grebe. The weather was awful and so was the light. It is worth wading through as the best photos, as always are at the end. As with all my photography, I try to capture the 'essence' of the bird and this beauty was moving around at a fair old pace, frequently diving for food – as you will see – even if the photos are very dodgy!

diving left and right and every direction!

missed the focal point (gggrrrggghhh humbug!) but you can see shrimp on the menu

better when the sun comes out!

The last two are the same image, but a test for me, as you know struggling to find the best way to upload images.

Anyone wish to coment on the new format?

As no comments I have reverted back to the old layout.

Black tern at Fairhaven – Purple patch!

2011-09-30T23:29:00.006+01:00

I mentioned in my last posting that sometimes – everything is far from perfect, while here is that example. While looking for the Yellow Wagtails I managed to spot this juvenile Black Tern feeding on an evening hatch over the lake, only there was no light for photography as you can see. However, fortunately Paul Slade was on hand the following day and I include two of his photos (thanks Paul) of what my photos should look like. You'll find more of Paul's photos here.

You may wonder why I bother posting this... so do I really – however, Fairhaven has become a bit of a stomping ground for me over recent years, for a number of reasons I wont bother you with – but in five days I managed Yellow Wagtail, Black Tern and Grey Phalarope – all personal firsts for me. Three Firsts in five days! AT FAIRHAVEN LAKE! I think that says it all, even if there are lousy photos... now THAT is worth a post! (Black tern 08/09, Yellow Wagtail 13/09, Grey Phalarope 13/09)

WAGS – Yellow and not a footballer's girlfriend in sight

2011-09-26T16:30:00.001+01:00

Sheltering from the 'hoolie'

Juvenile Pied Wagtail

Two Juvenile Yellow Wagtail

Yellow Wagtail – near the tennis courts

Two Juvenile Yellow Wagtail on the bowling green

Juvenile Yellow Wagtail, with Pied Wagtail

Juvenile Yellow Wagtail with Pied Wagtail

Juvenile Yellow Wagtail

While, quite rightly all the fuss was over the Grey Phalarope at Fairhaven, I had been on site for several days in pursuit of another migrant – the Yellow Wagtail... to no avail. I spent a few days down there, in much variable weather, my memory isn't what it was but one day it was blowing a hoolie. .. and with it 45 degree rain. Then the sun popped out! Regular readers will know, I know nowt and had never realised or thought of the coast as an environment for wagtails of any description. Over the years Lytham and environs have proved happy hunting ground for wagtails. I tend to have trouble with Pieds, although I can generally recognise the juveniles, but anything after that I haven't a clue... and as for mozzarella and yarrelli, I know one is a cheese!

Anyway because it was blowing a hoolie and lashing it down, even though it doesn't look like it, the wags were taking shelter on the leeward side of the hedge(s)... make a mental note. A dodgy picture illustrating the point... there were loads of wags about. So having parked up near the bowling greens and tennis courts, here's a photo of one of the many juvenile pied wagtails in the car park, again sheltering close to a hedge.

Catching up with the juvenile yellow wagtails was not quite so simple... but perseverance and after a few days I eventually came across the two of them 'loitering' near the car park (hence the photo). They were not, never going to let me or anyone else anywhere near (unlike the grey phalarope!). If anyone came within twenty yards (metres) and they were off. I did catch one napping near the tennis courts, but only after doing 'Cluseau' impressions and hiding from tree to tree, I have know idea what anyone watching must have thought ... I gave up worrying what anyone thinks a long time ago... I believe the padded cells are quite comfortable.

Nevertheless, in the conditions everything was 'disappearing'. However I have a 'nose' for these things... so off to the bowling green (never been before) and of course as soon as I turn the corner a number of wagtails disappeared into the distance. Whoops Betty! I must watch too much tele, because 'I have a cunning plan!' I took myself off into the north west corner of the bowling green and plonked masen down on the next to last bench... and waited... and waited. Of course it was still blowing a hoolie et al, but here surrounded by buildings, fences and hedges, it was reasonably sheltered... and guess who showed up? A number of Wags, pied and two juvenile yellow. Not only that as I sat on a cold and wet bench... they proceeded to come towards me. The only problem was they ended up in the 'gutter' of the bowling green so I couldn't get any photos until they popped out... and then they were off!

I managed to grab a couple of photos. Phew... four, five days in the making...

... and of course there was a certain distraction on the lake. It was in fact a Black Tern I clocked as the sun set, feeding on the evening hatch along with a couple of hundred black headed gulls. I'll stick those on another post so you can see, it isn't always 'perfect', indeed far from it!

Grey Phalarope at Fairhaven FIVE (and last)

2011-09-21T12:16:00.003+01:00

You will be pleased to hear I am not planning to post anymore on this subject, but saved the 'art photos' for last... primarily once again because the changing conditions produced different results.

For those who were not able to attend at the time – at one point I was sat on the edge of the lake while this little gem swam underneath my feet... too close to focus! Fading memories already; I guess if I wanted and maybe on a rainy day I will retouch some of the flotsam and out of focus surface gnats from the background, but these are as taken. Enjoy – I, along with many others certainly did.

The frightening thing is, or maybe I'm just a cynic; this creature, even now in 21C had no fear of man. It doesn't bode well! Or perhaps it's reassuring... we haven't managed to make a total horlicks of everything yet.

and fare thee well ...

Grey Phalarope at Fairhaven FOUR!

2011-09-18T18:06:00.001+01:00

Sorry if it is the same subject again, but I think you will see why... the changing conditions produced different results and capturing 'the spirit' of the bird and it's natural behaviour resulted in much endeavour. There are two photographs of the bird taking 'evasive action' from a passing Sparrowhawk, not sure I've seen this anywhere else... I"m sure you will figure out which two images.

Grey Phalarope at Fairhaven, THREE!

2011-09-17T18:48:00.000+01:00

I know the internet is littered with web sites and blogs of this fabulous encounter, so here are some more of mine for what they are worth... and more to come!

As you can see I am still experimenting with finding the best way to upload sharp images – and failing miserably... we persevere.

Grey Phalarope at Fairhaven Part Two

2011-09-13T22:25:00.001+01:00

In actual fact these were taken before the other post... doesn't matter – here are some more images of the visit – it may be sometime before I post again, so two posts in one day!

Mallard for size comparison

Look carefully, Grey Phalarope in the middle – not all sunshine!

'Riding the waves'

my art shot

Surf's up

Grey Phalarope at Fairhaven Lake

2011-09-13T19:38:00.001+01:00

As I had to drive past, it seemed a shame not to stop!

I wonder what other gems await us... at least there is something to be thankful for when we have a storm... a silver lining?

Red Throated Diver

2011-09-09T22:29:00.004+01:00

Scotland

The following are Fleetwood Marine Lake...

The appearance of a Red Throated Diver was well reported over the internet, along with the appearance of a juvenile Orlotan Bunting earlier in the week close by. As I had found an Orlotan Bunting in 2009 without realising it's significance, a view of another wouldn't go amiss, if I wasn't too late. As I was only just down the road and had an hour to spend what better way of catching one or the other... so Fleetwood bound.

The last (and only) Red Throated Diver I had seen was when Brown Trout fishing on a lochen above Loch Ewe in Western Ross (west of Ullapool) two years ago, two adults with two young – one parent (I assume the male) going off fishing and returning with a catch for his young family. The other adult staying on station. While it was a small lochen, the weather was pretty bad (mizzle), the light not good, access limited and while unperturbed by my presence (if they were even aware I was there), they remained on the leeward side just too far away and difficult to approach because of the terrain, and I wasn't going to disturb them, so didn't bother even trying to get closer. I've added a photo of that encounter below.

At Fleetwood Marine Lake, I was fortunate to park up above the lake and getting out of the car saw the tripod and lenses to tell me the Red Throated Diver must still be about. I crept down to one end of the gaggle(?) of photographers and plonked myself on the end, as it happens the end of the island and where the bird was showing. Most of the time it was on the leeward side and with eyes closed.

It disappeared behind the island out of sight for a while as the wind changed direction but then I couldn't believe my luck when it returned and swam past not twenty yards (19mtrs) away. Shutter burn out. The first two images are of that 'swim by'. The bird then disappeared towards the bridge and I stayed put while everyone else went off in search of their photos. The Red Throated Diver returned on the far side of the lake and made or two unsuccessful attempts to get out of the water and stretching its wings but making no attempts at flight or fishing. It then proceeded down the far bank to the east end of the lake.

I joined the other photographers as it was evident it was going to remain at that end. In fact it came towards all the lenses at that end of the lake... incredibly sitting in the water less than 2 yards from the bank edge... and less than 20 yards (19mtrs) away, apparently unconcerned by our presence. The light wasn't great but changed from time to time when the sun made a brief appearance. The Red Throated Diver continued to 'cat-nap' often drifting in the breeze with eyes closed, only twice stretching its wings.

The sun was swinging around and I went over to the seaside of the lake, only for the Red Throated Diver to haul itself out of the water up the bank side and sat on the surrounding concrete edging apparently enjoying the warmth of the sun and heat from the concrete. It remained there undisturbed as most of us departed.

Fingers crossed the bird recovers from whatever ailment, starts feeding and makes it way back to sea and back to its stomping grounds.

I hope the pictures tell the story... what a magnificent bird. I purposely tried to photograph and include the back of it's head to demonstrate the amazing plumage. Of course the search for the bunting never took place and I was hypnotised by this terrific looking, if sadly somewhat poorly bird. Hopefully there will be some updates and positive news to follow.

It was good to see some old faces and chat to fellow photographers – all very knowledgeable and helpful. Thanks folks.

Late news … Sadly, word on the internet is the bird didn't make it and was found dead on Sunday morning... I am sure it will be long remembered.

Wheatears on the way back

2011-09-07T12:48:00.002+01:00

Aye, well, ho hum... time the most valuable commodity we have has been passing me by without much to report. I have found myself on the 'promenade' at Preesall, at least I think it's Preesall, just east of Knott End and before Cocker's Dyke; there have been a few Grey Plover on the foreshore and a number of Wheatears on the sea defence wall. It's amazing how easy it is to miss them. I've included a couple of images that, I hope demonstrate this ability to disappear into the background – you may want to look twice at a couple of the images. Catching two together in one image, is for me, unusual.

I like Wheatears and if you can be bothered I came across a very obliging individual above Tower Lodge in the Trough earlier in the year, I enjoyed the experience no end. I enjoyed this latest brief encounter (Celia Johnson wasn't around) and watching Wheatear behaviour, often fying ten feet or so so, always perching on a vantage point, the flash of a white rump, the interception of an unfortunate flying too close... backwards and forwards, often working the same patch of ground... but unusually this time, I couldn't get very close before they were off.

A late call at Newton Marsh and I spotted a flock of geese approaching from the eastern horizon, so far off I was able to park the car, get out and blend into the background as they approached. It turned out to be our old friends, 19 Greylags who flew directly overhead and disappeared over the western horizon. I've only included the image as I like the way the setting sun caught the underneath of their wings... a skein of geese taking a few minutes to fly overhead... a sign of times to come? Pinkfoot!

And perhaps finally, a Tortoiseshell. I think I'd mentioned in a previous post a lot of nice looking ones about and this picture, exactly as taken demonstrates that. Shame about 'the straw', bottom left and I may have to double-check the camera settings... I can't get over the colour saturation, but exactly as taken. Perhaps more on that later.

More butterflies and bits

2011-09-01T19:55:00.003+01:00

I had said to myself I wasn't going to do this... wallpaper the blog with butterflies and bits and bobs, but I have found myself doing just that. In some ways it perhaps is just as well, my concentration towards Common Blues and Small Coppers only lasted a couple of days and now nowhere to be seen!

I have always thought of Ragwort as 'a danger' as it is I believe, poisonous to horses yet there seems so much of it about. What I have recognised this year is just how many insects appear to rely upon it for food, all manner of flying things, moths and butterflies and even the Cinnebar caterpiller feeds exclusively on this plant, somehow absorbing the toxicity – one heck of a defence mechanism.

The Common Blues had become a bit tatty as indeed had most of the butterflies – and while they are 'common', only if you know where to find them – I think this year has been my most successful to date and I can never get tired of these fabulous butterflies, the male and the female and the underside etc. Terrific. So here's perhaps the last viewing.

I know nothing about moths but came across this Mother of Pearl Moth feeding on Ragwort flowers – I'm not sure this is the best picture I have as it doesn't quite capture the 'pearl effect'... but you get the idea.

Perhaps someone can confirm the species of ladybird as I'm not too sure, it was in my garden.

Just recently there appear to have been an outburst of really good looking Small Tortoiseshell – not sure if they are the result of early breeding, but they certainly look well at the moment and a lot of them about.

I managed to catch this Wall butterfly with its wings closed at Lane Ends but it was an awful day, cool, overcast and it wasn't going to play. I was lucky to capture this image... I will be keeping a look out next year and must make plans to find a few more species.

Thanks to MJ I had a guided tour of Cottam Brickworks before Tesco get their hands on it and were lucky enough to come across this Common Darter suitably positioned for a photo or two. And finally, Small Copper are new to my portfolio this year so to have two on one flower head was 'interesting', primarily because one was looking the worse for wear and a bit 'pale', while the other was a deep orange/copper colour which I hope the image demonstrates. And finally a Small Copper on a dried flower head, 'cos I like it! (Photos 23 and 24 August)

In search of the Common Blue...

2011-08-22T21:38:00.002+01:00

Things haven't quite worked out as intended... but that seems par for the course at the moment, so I ended up on a spare piece of land at Knott End, I say Knott End because I'm not sure where Knott End starts and finishes or where Preesall begins. Either way it is a piece of land that use be called the 'Carrot Field' for obvious reasons but is now part new housing, the rest not yet developed.

Last year I had come across a Common Blue on the promenade embankment and went looking for some more this year only to draw a blank... except at what is left of the Carrot Field embankment. At first sight there is nothing to be seen. But perseverance and checking on the wind direction and first one then two appear before you. I rattled off a number of shots but the proximity and lack of depth of field meant most are out of focus – so here's a few that aren't quite so bad. Common Blue, Meadow Brown, Field Grasshopper and Small Copper. If you look carefully I may have caught two Common Blue in the Act of breeding... unless something else going on?

Over the embankment on the foreshore were a number of Gulls, just a bit too far away and not my strong point! There were a number of Knot, Dunlin and Grey Plover. I have to confess I did not spot at the time, but hiding within were two Sandwich Terns... at least one of them is a Sandwich, the other I'm not sure about. So what's new!

And apologies if the site is taking a while to upload.. I have no idea why! (Photos 14 August)

A bit Ruff

2011-08-12T16:31:00.003+01:00

Well I don't know about you but these last three days of non-stop rain are taking it's toll. Get out the Ark, I don't think it has finished for sometime yet. Alistair Cook is boring me to sleep but give the lad full credit for a great innings.

I thought I'd begin by trying to brighten things up a bit. Thanks to PW I called in at Lane Ends, but again I'd chosen the wrong day, it was blowing a hoolie and while I hoped to photo some Small Coppers, not a thing in sight. I lie as there were, what I thought was a Kestrel and a Peregrine, scrapping by the tree line but I think were two Sparrowhawks on the eastern edge of Lane Ends, one sat on a fencepost for a few minutes before disappearing on the hoolie. Anyway, to try and brighten things up here's a photo of the 'wildflowers' which I had also called in to see.

A few days earlier over at Newton Marsh our old friend Typhoon ZJ699, the two-seater trainer was buzzing about on a brighter day. I also managed to photo a few butterflies and again in an attempt to brighten things up, here are a couple of images of the many hundreds of Gatekeepers that have suddenly appeared.

However, today – I think the image of the juvenile Swallow says it all...

Thanks to MJ I had been wondering if anything had blown in on the wind and this weather and MJ confirmed a 'different' wader on Newton Marsh some way out. I nearly did a Tony Hancock first thing ('an armfull?'... showing my age) and as there was no queue I was in and out in no time, so I popped in at Newton Marsh. Grey, miserable and nowt to be seen. I drove up the road and far too many wagons so I called back at the marsh, and there by the waters edge was a wader. I spent a few minutes with it, while it pottered about before being chased off by a Coot, then another and then a third before disappearing into the marsh. It was/is a juvenile Ruff, not only my first for Newton Marsh, a first overall. Thanks Martin.

the wildflowers at Land Ends certainly add a splash of colour – credit to the local authority for once... more please

Typhoon ZJ699... an old friend (tango charlie angels 11)

'yellow' is always cheerful

told you... cheerful

batten down the hatches Mr Christian

juvenile Ruff... note raindrops on its back

juvenile Ruff

juvenile Ruff... I think the low water has killed off a lot of the pondlife

juvenile Ruff... and the Godwits ate all the snails

Apologies for the quality of the images, on the limit for light... it was grey and 'orrible, that 'mizzle' and as I gaze out of the window it is still 'mizzle'.

Newton Marsh – the rest

2011-08-10T15:13:00.003+01:00

As per the last post, some more images from Newton Marsh. There were fly-overs by 30 odd Canada Geese and 50 plus Greylags; I believe both the resident flocks of the south Fylde often seen around Fairhaven and along the River Ribble. There were quite a few of the 'smaller birds' including juveniles with flocks of finches (Goldfinch, Chaffinch, Greenfinch) and Sparrows (House and surprisingly Tree) flitting from one place to another, feeding on the grass verges where seed heads had developed. I came across two Whitethroat and managed to catch one with a caterpillar... despatched on one of the concrete fence posts! I made it across the Fylde and on the 'promenade' at Knott End/Preesall came across a Common Blue, something I had specifically gone for, as I managed a few photos last few year. Few and far between though before disappearing – nothing to report 'bird-wise'. (taken 31 July) I've noticed the process I am using is leaving a few of these images a bit 'iffy'... need to review how to upload reasonable decent sharp images. Hmmmnnnn....

Newton Marsh, Swallows and Sands

2011-08-03T17:36:00.005+01:00

I made a relatively early start at Newton Marsh with a view to going across the Fylde to Fluke Hall et al. Newton Marsh was very quiet, only to be expected at this time of year and there didn't seem to be even a little mouse moving... so time to head off, especially as it was just beginning to rain. One last check of the marsh and all of a sudden a number of Swallows descended onto the boundary fence along with a few Sand Martins. Plenty of juveniles and youngsters amongst them so I hung around for a while. There didn't seem to be too much insect life about at that time, wet and miserable yet one or two adults called in and fed the odd youngster. Before I know where I was it was mid-morning.

ve harv vaes orf escaping... don't tell him your name Pike! The Colditz boundary at Newton Marsh... two fences and electrified!

enough wire?

no not waiting to be fed....

...on yer bike mate

More flying things (insects)

2011-08-02T13:52:00.003+01:00

I don't know if you remember the summer, you know those few days in July when the sun came out...

I suppose in some ways my garden is a 'wildlife' garden, most plants and trees are there for a purpose, usually based around wildlife but you might not know to look at it just a mess! I have a triffid in the front garden, I don't know what it is called, well I don't remember, same thing, and it grows from a rhizome and has red flower spikes at this time of the year... it is a magnet for flying insects.

Each year I try and study what is flying around and I simply haven't got a clue. Some of the obvious things I can identify... whereas others, no idea. Anyone with a modicum of knowledge may well know immediately but I don't fall into that category. So I have spent a bit of time, when the sun was out, trying to photograph what was around with a view to identification. I still haven't got a clue. Some of the 'bees' I'm not even sure are bees but imposters – if anyone can help me out I'd be pleased to hear from you. Otherwise it will be further research, which may take a few weeks at the moment.

There have been very few butterflies about this year, a particular lack of Small Tortoiseshell, Peacock and Red Admirals so I wanted to record my first sightings... only trouble is this was about three weeks ago, I'll check the date... 21st July.

white-tipped abdomen, note 'yellow'

white-tipped abdomen

included because I quite liked the flower in focus and 'be' out of focus... 'art photo'!

red-tipped abdomen

Small Tortoiseshell

Gatekeeper

Large White

Holly Blue

I quite like this photo of a Holly Blue... another 'art photo'.

Perhaps I should add; I don't know my wasps from my hornets from whatever, and it is the drone flies, 'volucella bombylans' in particular that do a good impersonation of a bumble bee, those with white-tipped abdomens and some with red that make me hesitant.

I also get dyslexic and call items the wrong thing, even though I know what it is, so please advise and correct me where I make a horlicks of it.

Cabin fever... road runners

2011-07-26T13:56:00.002+01:00

I have not been out and about for sometime, suffering cabin fever I called in at Newton Marsh but it was very quiet, not unexpected. It was early evening so I decided to run on down to Fairhaven Dunes, just as well I didn't think about it... so many kids and dog walkers. Two male Linnet and four overhead. I've seen a Whitethroat down there regularly in the last few years and I nearly stood on one! Anyway it flew up into a hawthorn bush and posed for me while I rattled off some photos... complete with food for the young. I didn't hang about too long.

Incredibly I didn't know where the north car park is at St Annes by the lifeguard station even though I must have driven past a thousand times, so I thought I'd recce the location for future reference. Now I don't know about you but looking straight out to sea, I would expect to see Ireland, if I could see that far... I mean it is called the Irish Sea, not the Welsh Sea, so what Anglesey is doing in view, I have no idea. Weird!

I called in at Clifton Marsh on the way home. Not much happening, except 14 runners on the road. As I sat and watched they came towards me and I managed a couple of photos, before they heard the shutter sound on the camera and turned tail and ran off in the opposite direction. 12 young Grey Partridge with 2 adults. Again, I've been 'following' Grey Partridge down there for the last thre years or so, clearly 12 young has been a good year, I hope they all make it.

An unexpected surprise was a Corn Bunting that showed up looking a little bedraggled and the worse for wear and sang a song before flying on. About two weeks ago, I caught one nearby washing in a puddle while a mate watched on. I haven't posted that photo yet, wasn't that great!

I was surprised to see two Common Terns, obviously from Preston Docks, 'fishing' over the marsh. It was getting late but grabbed a quick snap as one of them hovered looking for fish.

Whitethroat with spider

Looking out over the IRISH Sea.... Wales, or Anglesey to be more precise... from St Annes!
You can just see the Menai Striaght on the left.. que pasa?

Road Runners

9 juvenile Grey Partridge from 12 plus two adults

Singing Corn Bunting looking a bit the worse for wear

Corn Bunting

Common Tern 'fishing'

Blackcap conundrum – your thoughts?

2011-07-25T10:39:00.003+01:00

Once upon a time many moons ago, a small sapling was growing in the gravel in the drive at the front of the house. I recognised it as a prunus and decided I'd do my bit for the environment and grow a tree – it is now in my back garden and as high as the house. It never occurred to me that I might get fruit, I thought you needed certain species, male and female and all, I just thought 'grow a tree' (I do have others). This year it had a terrific crop of cherries, the best year by far; I had a few off the lower branches and wondered if I should collect the rest. The forecast for the weekend in question was good and I thought another two days on the tree in the sun would just 'finish them off nicely', so I decided to leave them a bit longer. On the Sunday I popped out and harruummmpphh, they had all but disappeared! Not a happy chappie. In two days the birds had cleared me out! I couldn't believe it there were so many of them and now all gone. I'll know next year... if I get any cherries then.

A day or so later I had a glimpse of a 'grey' bird in the foliage of said cherry tree. I couldn't quite make it out and didn't see it again. Too grey for a juvenile starling, not big enough for a blackbird (a grey blackbird???). The visiting house sparrows are grey underneath, but I didn't think it a sparrow either.

Two days later, I saw another glimpse, grabbed the camera and raced upstairs, carefully opening a bedroom window I managed to capture one of the culprits... a blackcap. At first I thought it was a juvenile, then decided it was a female – now I can't make up my mind. The legs look a little pale and there is some feather growth going on at the forehead. Juvenile female? Female in moult? I am just pleased it visited the garden. Those that have visited the blog over time will know I had a male blackcap in the garden through the winter so it is pleasing they are still local... apart from my lost cehrries. Any thought as to gender or age? (date 7 July 2011).

A 'flying black thing' and friends

2011-07-22T17:24:00.002+01:00

A chum had told me he had seen 'a yellow bird' nesting on some canal lock gates not too far away, so when opportunity presented itself I thought it worth checking out. I guessed the yellow bird would be a Grey Wagtail and I have seen single birds myself, on and off, around lock gates for about three years now (including on the frozen canal in winter!). I looked everywhere but could see no sign of a nest or bird. Fleetwood Mac!! ....

'Oh well'...

nevermind).

However as I returned to the car I thought my time was up, flying horizontally and straight at my nose in direct flight was this black thing – I was waiting for it to go straight up my nose and drlll it's way into my brain – 'Alien sixteen' or whatever number they are up to. Needless to say it didn't but shot past. Strewth! Talk about Close Encounters!

As I was by a meadow and after the rain the sun was coming out... the results follow. Now while 5 Spot Burnets may be considered 'common' and I recall seeing the odd one, I have never seen so many in one place in such a short period. I was in the right place as they were emerging everywhere... well not everywhere like a plague of locusts, just lots of 'em. So here are a few photos of the spotted black things and their friends in the same field... I think they are 5 Spot Burnets, please correct me if I'm wrong as I know nowt.

Emerging

Drying and flexing the wings

Feeding, or about to...

'probiscus' if that's the right word

with hoverfly

five feeding on vetch, note wing damage

anyone know what the beetle is?

with Meadow Brown

... and a female large skipper

and another skipper cos I like the photo – from a different location

More of the same... but

2011-07-21T18:40:00.000+01:00

Sorry, repeat subject matter. Self-indulgence, I wanted to upload these so I might find them again in the future... they were taken 2 and 3 July! I'm running a bit behind... I don't think I need to say too much else

the 'but' in the title and this image to warn you... a change is coming! Honest.

Who ya gonna call?

2011-07-08T15:04:00.000+01:00

Ghostbusters? It wont be long before these birds have disappeared so making the most of it... again photos from about one week ago.

It's those Common Terns again

2011-07-07T21:40:00.000+01:00

Meanwhile over at the Commoners

2011-07-06T15:06:00.001+01:00

A flavour of what's happening I hope... a lot of protection, what I have called 'formation flying', incubation and of course fishing. The 'formation flying' is a new one on me. I am not even sure it is 'a pair', although it frequently involves two birds, but sometimes a third or fourth joins in. They also seem to fly in 'circles' and are going as high as I have ever seen them, nearly out of sight, over the docks. There doesn't seem to be any aggresion to speak of (they're always stroppy) and no passing of fish or anything like that. Just seems to be good fun. I'm sure a qualified ornithologist will know precisely what it is. Probably 'pair bonding'.

For no reason at all, the local Coots suddenly get 'what for'!

'Formation flying'

Sometimes close to the water

More often at considerable height

A 'nest'; as I write it wouldn't surprise me if these have hatched now as they have been incubated for about twelve days at least

Not the best photo, but don't fret, they return pretty quickly and it seems to get pretty hot on the pontoons

Meanwhile half 'the fleet' are off fishing, pretty succesfully too

The Ghostly hunter

2011-07-06T14:17:00.003+01:00

I've been out early and late and don't know if I'm coming or going... so nothing new there then! I think these were taken one evening over a week ago. Apologies for the repetition but 'fill ya boots' when you can!

I could count my barn owl sightings on one hand up until about two years ago, now I need more hands and feet! I guess it is knowing where when and how to look for these elusive birds – I just lurv 'em. Photography I find isn't easy because of the low light conditions, what is it they say about a poor workman? I am however going to try some different camera settings, so no doubt you will see how I get on in future posts. Hopefully these images capture 'the spirit' of these fab birds.

Here comes summer ...not on your nellie!

2011-07-01T16:32:00.004+01:00

As a break from the three subject matter of recent posts (more to follow!) here is a bit of a change.

Juvenile Chiffchaff. (see below)

It must be summer, juvenile swallow

Juvenile Swallow

the problem I had getting that yellow oil seed rape in the background...

Juvenile Swallows

I assume all the same family

Who were still begging for food from the adults

NOT on your nellie mate! This poor Sand Martin juvenile is unwelcome!

There was a bit of commotion in the trees outside the house as a flock of long-tailed tits accompanied by a family of blue tits were passing through. Amongst them was a juvenile Chiffchaff and I grabbed a photo through the double glazing, so not great.

Meanwhile on a visit to Newton Marsh a number of hirundines as usual and I came across what looked like a family of juvenile roosting up and waiting to be fed by passing adults – although I didn't see any feeding, perhaps because I was close by. The last photo seems to capture a certain vehemence from one juvenile of a species to another... I don't think the Sand Martin juvenile was welcome do you?

I wanted to check on that first photo, I had it as Chiffchaff but thought their was the possibility of Willow Warbler. You may want to see the dialogue at http://www.birdforum.net/showthread.php?t=204178

Purple Patch

2011-06-30T15:03:00.001+01:00

Another repeat performance, but I hope worthy of posting. I've lost track myself I've been out so many times both early and late... is it Thursday? It also occurred to me that if someone had said to me anytime in the last two years I would be taking photos such as these, I'd have thought them nuts. What wonderful subjects, so close to home and all within 10 minutes of Preston City Centre. We mark able! So a big THANKS to everyone for their support, advice, guidance, help and continued support. Hope to catch up personally soon.

Juvenile Peregrine

Male Peregrine

Male Peregrine (note remnants of a kill in the talons)

Evening light, on landing approach

I've been spending any spare time out at the three locations at all hours subject to conditions, Peregerine, Barn Owl, Common Terns, I haven't had time to post and keep this up-to-date, these being a week old, but finally in the right place at the right time... and there's more to follow, I think!

Common Tern Alarm

2011-06-29T12:48:00.000+01:00

Sorry for yet more, but as it was a nice evening I thought I would pop down and see how the Terns were. Upon approach I thought someone was out ringing the youngsters as there was a cacaphony of noise and birds in the air everywhere. It turned out the local Sea Cadets were rowing around the pontoons and the poor birds were going ballistic, everyone of them was off the nest and in the air... I wasn't impressed and had a word in the ear of the 'captain'... claimed 'didn't know they were there.... ' they were all over the place dive-bombing the rowing boat!

It was intersting light, so here are a few pics. It seems man has to disrupt wildlife wherever you go.

And thank you for your comments, Sorry if I have not responded in 'comments', I didn't think you would be back to check, so thank you all for looking in and your comments ARE appreciated.

One Good Tern...

2011-06-28T21:44:00.003+01:00

Cringe! Trying to catch up, these were taken a week ago. Now pay attention and make notes, I'll be asking questions later! Not really, but later blogs will allow to compare growth rate I hope. We mark able! The local roach population must be beginning to suffer!

Just to get this out of the way, I'd mentioned Hilda Ogden's flying ducks in an ealier
post and shiver me timbers nearly got these three mallards in the right pose
over Preston Docks! Nearly!

The main family – he's such a good fisherman

Feeding junior

'sleek' or wot?

Doesn't matter how big you are.... these Common Terns take no prisoners!

Note the 'nest' and three eggs to the right of the wing

A good old sqwabble (note the change in light and background!)

Just missed the bottom wing tip off the photo... nearly!

One of my better photos methinks

Bad Day but interesting Pegs

2011-06-28T18:52:00.001+01:00

I had to attend nearby and it seemed a shame not to call at you know where. As soon as I parked the car I heard the calling 'of the wild'. Only problem, as you can see, the light was awful. Nevertheless I hope these images tell a story and provide some interest... learning to fly and land! Once again the unnatural effect is entirely due to the natural light at the time... untouched.

Female

Juvenile, much biigger than Dad

Dad off on a sortie, watched by Mum

Juvenile on approach to landing

'... it looked easy enough!'

the smooth side of the steeple not the obvious or best choice!

another landing attempt

and another... note Dad is already on the ledge, on his back, talons gaping

Dad gives in and is displaced

Junior attempts another landing, watched from above

and finally finds a perch

You'll be pleased to know, I thinnk I have some better images to follow, but not quite as good a story.

Still trying to catch up...

2011-06-27T19:39:00.000+01:00

These photos were taken on 17 June (so I don't forget!)

Trying to catch up...

2011-06-27T19:29:00.001+01:00

Here' we go... some older reference I haven't had time to post yet. I'm not sure it needs too many words, other than the later images are taken in poor light, as you can see!

Garden Blue Tits

Waiting to be fed

Knott End juvenile Starling

Male Linnet

Female Linnet

Whitethroat

Snipe with Redshank, Newton Marsh

European Eagle Owl – Newton Marsh

2011-06-24T12:53:00.004+01:00

Now that's got your attention and not something you hear every day. I nearly crashed the car!

Before you rush off for your pager and Bird Alert (I've had to add this due to the way these blogs are abbreviated across the web etc), obviously the last two images give the game away, if you hadn't already guessed before but it still came as a shock, I mean it isn't every day you visit Newton Marsh and see such a magnificent creature. I am sure everyone has their own views on this but local conservationist Shane had his ward, 'Oscar' out for the very first time and purely by chance I was there to record the moment. Of course these birds are highly controversial and raise the blood pressure of many. I'm afraid, today I am happy to admire these magnificent birds and leave the politics to everyone else.

Shane was a delight and allowed me close to take these photographs and we spent some time discussing the ins and outs and his educational and conservation work. Nice work if you can get it! Obviously these birds are bred in captivity require licence and full documentation etc.

Anyway, I thought it might brighten your mid summer slumbers.

I have a number of posts to catch up on... 'but I may be gone for some time'. I've been catching up with the local Peregrines and Terns of late, so more to follow I'm afraid.

Common as muck

2011-06-18T17:20:00.001+01:00

It was grey, miserable and overcast, but I can't drive past and ignore them...

More aerobatics from the Common Terns. A number of juveniles, about 7, I made it, another 6 nests with eggs and pairs still mating... this may go on a bit longer this year than previous years. Dad had been out fishing, but so big was his catch, he ate it himself! Once out of the tryes, the artificial nests, the youngsters can't get back in! However the parents are taking great care of them, harassing the gulls and any dogs (on the 'promenade') that come anywhere near, so opportunity for some more photos. Only issue was the light, but once again terrific fun watching the antics of these Terns.

One of those weeks or a Pantomime?

2011-06-17T21:27:00.003+01:00

Yes folks it is the middle of June and if you've found the sunshine let me know (or Katrina and the Waves... that's 28 years old I hear! STREWTH!). Not quite there with these photos but interesting perhaps and a bit of a Pantomine...

Juvenile Shelduck

Redshank

Snap... another Redshank

Coot, finally throwing out the kids

Male Shoveler

Hilda Ogden or Oystercatchers

He's behind you...

'Sleepless in Newton', so why not make the most of it... the juvenile Shelduck is just a big kid growing up, the Redshank are being busy in whatever they do, the Coot are getting stroppy again, the Shoveler I Iove because of their fidelity, shyness and the gentle way they go about their own business annoying no-one, the Oystercatchers was nearly 'the three ducks on the wall' and the Whitethroat a gentle reminder... keep your eyes open... sometimes, just like the Pantomome Dame, they are behind you. (Meg Ryan didn't turn up, but she's a nutter too, we would get on well together... not!... although I have been up the Empire State building... then again, at that time I was Archibald Alexander Leach... film fans will know what I'm on about! Otherwise, don't woryy about it.).

It's those Commoners again

2011-06-14T20:36:00.004+01:00

No apologies for a repeating subject, these birds are great to watch and superb in the air.

The 'colony' of Common Terns appears to be increasing year by year and there are at least 9 nesting pairs there at the moment and already a number of fledgings, together with additional pairs sitting on eggs, plus mating still in evidence. Looks like it might be a busy year. The local Gulls had best keep their heads down!

The fastest bird alive?

2011-06-14T12:15:00.006+01:00

I don't think it is any secret and they have become local celebrities, so here a few of Prestons best subject (not necessarily the best photos... but you try keeping up with them at the speed they fly)!

Looks like a young headless wader on the menu

This is the male, the Mrs sat around sunbathing... sounds familar! (But I didn't say that).

Just looking at the post and the photos, it does seem as if there is an unnatural 'halo/cut out' on some of the edges, but these are untouched as taken, strange effect of the sun and angle! I have a witness m'lud. (Anyway I'm not that clever).

There's always hope...

2011-06-09T17:14:00.002+01:00

...and I lied!

Visiting Blue Tit family

Juvenile Coal Tit

Grey Heron fishing at Newton Marsh

Juvenile Lapwing

Typhoon ZJ699 (as seen on google)

He's taking the proverbial

Can't get any lower without landing!

Long Tailed Tit

Banded demoiselle (female)

Garden Toad

In an earlier post I had not anticipated going out, but as I had had no lunch (break) and the skies had cleared a brief late afternooon visit to Newton Marsh brought little of interest other than the usual but it is still enjoyable spending an hour down there watching the comings and goings... so I lied about not getting out this week! Then again the number of cars turning up with 'dog walkers' who patrol up and down is a bit of a worry. And of course down at Newton Marsh there is always the chance of being blown off your feet by one of the Typoons who 'beat up' the approach to Warton at 50 feet... I'm sure there must be a law against it. It never ceases to amaze me how far we have come in just over 100 years from no flight at all to these chaps having 'a damn good show, wot'. You can look up Typoon ZJ699 on Google if you are interested in this sort of stuff... I am. The juvenile Lapwing and 'fishing' Grey Heron were record of the day only.

Meanwhile inbetween the showers, a family of Blue Tits and a family of Coal Tits have been visiting the garden so I managed a few photos. While earlier I may have been despondent about the number of failed nests I have seen this year, I am not naiive enough to realise somewhere else someone is being successful... so there is always hope. The rain showers brought out one of the toads into the garden and a couple of images from a local walk of the female Banded Demoiselle loitering(!) and a Long Tailed Tit moving through the canopy.

Newton Marsh... bright 'n sunny!

2011-06-04T12:14:00.001+01:00

For once the sun was out...

A buzzard dived and harrassed by a single... carrion crow?

Juvenile Coot always look like something else, dunno what though

Male Garganey, a shy creature

Female Black Tailed Godwit

Male Black Tailed Godwit

Maurading cows with Godwits

Grey Partridge

Juvenile Lapwing

Adult Lapwing disturbed by marauding cows

Redshank

Adult Shoveler

Skylark

Swallow

It has been a funny year down at Newton Marsh so far this year, I don't know, it just has been different. I think the artificially high water didn't help in earlier months. Perhaps not only more traffic, literally but also 'on foot'. The male Garganey has attracted new visitors of homo sapiens and now the water has dropped and the birds can 'dabble' and feed a relatively broad number of bird species are around. Everyone tends to focus on the marsh but there is also plenty to see here and there on the periphery etc. The best time is pre or post traffic and now the days are longer an early start is possible and can be rewarding. Late evening visits are often compromised by additional visitors and the sun setting straight on in full face, you don't want to be looking straight into the sun with binoculars!

Does that Carrion Crow harrassing the buzzard look 'big', it does to me, looking at the photo again. Maybe it's the angle. Any comments? Juvenile Coots are just plain ugly and don't look as if they will grow into their adult form! The male Garganey is apparently a secretive bird and it certainly hasn't wanted its photograph taking when I have been there, always keping a good distance away, but appears very relaxed, dabbling all the time before departing to the reed beds. Often feeing in the company of Shoveler. There are about 60–70 Godwits about, often feeding down towards the far end, Freckleton but occassionally one or two come within range... unless as I encountered; a gentleman in shorts and white tee shirt decides to promenade alng the fenceline. "Nice Spot this" he commented as everything disappeared over the horizon... I had to enlighten him that it was even better when the birds weren't disturbed, there ended my visit. These are a compilation of images taken from a couple of visits, one being before the milkman was up! Looking out of my window, we seem to have stair-rods and further rain forecast all week, looks like getting out this week will be problematic.

Oh and one final comment, I have lots of excellent photos of birds taken at Newton Marsh with out of focus wire fencing right through the middle of them.