Page 6 - Out Birding Autumn 2024

Before going into the hides to look out over the wetland we had a look out to sea over the marsh area. Several Little Egrets were around the drainage ditches along with a solitary Great Egret. Stonechats and Reed Buntings were arguing over territory, Sky- larks were singing as ever, and Swallows and Swifts were overhead.
In the established shrubs and hedges along the sides of the road were many small bird species including Sedge Warbler, Meadow Pipit and Whitethroat.
On the water we saw several Avocet, a flock of Dunlin and Mediterranean Gulls, as well as the usual array of waterfowl. A Black Swan was sitting on her nest. The less usual sightings were Wood Sandpiper, Little Ringed Plover and Common Sandpiper.
A very enjoyable morning’s birding. Pat Blundell
Hampstead Heath, London 18/05/2024
Four of us headed out to The Heath, myself, David, John and Gavin. 28 species were noted. My highlight was seeing the Great Crested Grebe gobbling up a crustacean on one of the ponds. Other feathered spots were Tu􏰀ed and Mandarin Ducks. Great views were observed of London. David is extremely knowledgeable about Hampstead Heath and many interes􏰁ng facts were forthcoming, and discussed, about history, boundaries, ponds, geology, flora, ecology and insects. A very enjoyable day. Thanks to everyone.
Jim
Summer Leys 11/05/2024
What a great day we had! It was gloriously sunny but not too hot, and even though the car park was full, the hides weren’t. We saw 65 bird species, 8 species of bu􏰂erfly (loads of Brimstones in par􏰁cular) a Bank Vole, several dragonflies and Banded Demoiselles.
It is a small reserve which is part of the Nene Wetlands and run by the Northants, Beds & Cambs Wildlife Trusts and it’s great that they now have a toilet and small café just on summer weekends. Also, the damage caused to one of the hides about 10 days before had been mended quickly. I recommend a visit if you’re ever nearby.
Bird highlights were Garganey, Red Crested Pochard, Ca􏰂le Egret, Lesser White- throat, Black Tern, Redshank chicks hiding from a persistent Heron and a Lapwing trying to chase a Red Kite away (there must have been chicks, but we could not see them). However, the extra special highlight was finding a Nigh􏰁ngale at an area be- hind the reserve – that beau􏰁ful rich and fluty sound is quite magical and like nothing else (but you know that!).
The day ended with tea and cake in the sunshine to celebrate Geoff’s special birthday. Thanks to Sue, Jean, Lyndsay, Derek, Andy & Geoff for a special GBC ou􏰁ng!
Caroline
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