The wind back in the SW and quite fresh. Heavy showers became less frequent during the day.
So far, only my stuff and I didn't have much time today, so only managed two very short walks and a quick look at Middleton (MD).
Red Nab to saltmarsh - high water 10:00
The tide was already high when I got to Red Nab, but still:
Mediterranean gull - 2 adult/3cy (including the green ringed German adult). 2 x 2nd winter, 1 x 1st winter
Not a great shot of one of the 2nd winter Mediterranean gull, but does show the dark markings on the primaries |
Little Egret 13
Rock Pipit 5
Wheatear at least 3. 3 on foreshore might have included 1 seen on Red Nab earlier.
Heysham skear
Just a 15 minute check two hours before low water.
The birds were very mobile and noisy, the increasing height tides are now uncovering shore that has not been exposed for a number of days, providing new feeding opportunities. The waders and gulls were vying for positions. This is just a general clip to try and convey the furore. The Little Egret's legs barely look strong enough against the wind.
Waders: Oystercatcher, Curlew, Turnstone, Ringed Plover and Redshank. Not many Knot around today, just a few individual birds, Little Egret 14
Middleton Nature Reserve
Not a lot. The mute are still on main pond with 1 male and 3 female Mallard.
7 Gadwall plus 1 male Mallard on "no swimming" pond.
Little Grebe 1
Little grebe in winter plumage plus male Gadwall |