West Midlands/Warwickshire local patches.

[jeff]

Shushhhhhhhhh Shes dead.:eek!:

90 years dead!

[jeff]

Steve fooled me there was me thinking i was at the carpark at Ansons bank with me signature book ;)

And that wasn't a pen he was signing with ;)

[Steve Seal]

90 years dead!

Dave told you it wasnt me that smelt............:t:

[Duck_Pond]

Thanks for the link John - I'll keep an eye on the skies for any eagles that might be about. ;)

I'd forgotten about the Liz Hurley thing, Steve :-O

[Dave Hutton]

A link given to me by Steve last night from worcester birding of the Mealy Redpoll which was trapped at Upton Warren appears to show a similar bird to the Marsh lane bird if not the same bird!!!? The bird turned up after the Marsh lane 1 had left

Take a look & decide for yourself

http://www.worcesterbirding.co.uk/50.html

[Barry Boswell]

Sometimes you just get lucky!!

This Goldcrest was right outside my front door.

www.britishbirdphotographs.com/newimages/04032008/04032008.htm

Barry Boswell

[Dean Powell]

Hi Barry,

Cracking photo's there of the Goldcrest. Thanks for sharing:t:

DeanB (:

[Hippo]

Decided to walk Draycote arriving at 1230, renewed my parking permit and noted nothing recorded in the book. On completion, called in to record my modest tally(45 species)to find Richard had been in and spotted all that I had seen:t:

Kestrel (2); Skylark (3); Yellowhammer (3); Shoveler (1); Buzzard (2); Meadow Pipit (7); Goldeneye (5m 7f); Green Woodpecker (2); Redwing (24); Gt Sp Woodpecker (1); Goosander (4m 7f); Grey Wagtail (1); Pochard; Teal; Coal Tit (3); I failed to find the Lesser Scaup but Richard had got it:t:

[senatore]

Great Goldcrest shot Barry.

Lunchtime I went over to Whitacre Heath.There were 5 cars in the carpark so I thought the Feeder hide would be full but after I battled against a very cold breeze and opened the hide door there were only 2 birders inside.

While I was in there were 6 Lesser Redpolls,3 Siskin,1 Willow Tit, 15+ Goldfinches,3 G/S Woodpeckers (2M and 1F) plus the usual suspects and at one time there were 11 Pheasants (3M and 8F).

A few pics attached.The one that gave me most trouble was the Willow Tit who must have been taken lessons on darting about from the Laundry Lane Firecrests.

Max.

[Hippo]

Nice Max :t:

I must go back to W H as I was last there last January! It looks a good place to continue my photographic education.

[draycotebirding]

Decided to walk Draycote arriving at 1230, renewed my parking permit and noted nothing recorded in the book. On completion, called in to record my modest tally(45 species)to find Richard had been in and spotted all that I had seen:t:

Kestrel (2); Skylark (3); Yellowhammer (3); Shoveler (1); Buzzard (2); Meadow Pipit (7); Goldeneye (5m 7f); Green Woodpecker (2); Redwing (24); Gt Sp Woodpecker (1); Goosander (4m 7f); Grey Wagtail (1); Pochard; Teal; Coal Tit (3); I failed to find the Lesser Scaup but Richard had got it:t:

Many thanks Kev glad you were going to put your sightings in the book. It is very doubtful there will be one next year but then again we could use this years as there is plenty of room ;)

Regards

John

[jeff]

So is the scaup at Brandon today the Draycote bird?

[jeff]

Here's the Brandon bird and Draycote bird (sorry Steve borrowed one of your photos) to compare:

If it is, thanks John new Brandon tick for me, if it's not thanks John new Brandon tick for me. :) :t:

[jeff]

Whitacre Heath today:

Lesser Redpoll (10), Siskin (5m 4f), Willow Tit (1), Lesser-spotted Woodpecker (1m)

[jeff]

Due to ongoing problems with my host account, the brandonbirding website will be unavailable for 2 - 4 hrs while i'm moved to another server. Not too sure when they'll start moving stuff, so if it's not working that's prob. the reason.

[Dave Hutton]

So is the scaup at Brandon today the Draycote bird?

If it is Jeff then its moulted into full adult plumage!! as the Draycote bird was still showing hints of it's 1st winter plumage on the flanks & the vemiculations on the back of the Brandon bird would suggest its not the same?

Dave

[jeff]

Cheers Dave, so you think it's a different lesser scaup or a greater scaup like the ones a Lea Marston?

[Dave Hutton]

Cheers Dave, so you think it's a different lesser scaup or a greater scaup like the ones a Lea Marston?

Classic Ad Lesser Scaup for me Jeff!!

Dark vermiculations,Bump to the back of the head,Purple sheen & the small nail on the bill!!! :t:

Looks like youv,e got yourself 4th or 5th for Warks :t:

[Periwinkle]

I would be panicking.....

[Periwinkle]

And so would Dave....

[Periwinkle]

Any recent pics of Draycote bird?

[Dave Hutton]

Any recent pics of Draycote bird?

Yes Tom,

Photographed it 2 weeks ago!! & why would i be panicking ? ;)

Photo taken on 16/2/08

[Steve Seal]

Lesser Scaup photographed at Draycote 4 days ago.

http://bumbling-bears.fotopic.net/c1469112.html

[Periwinkle]

Cheers Steve,

I think those pics confirm it could be Draycote bird?

[jeff]

My first photos, the white's a little blown to show the true colour of the side view, i've had a look through the ones i took and this is more like the colour should be.

[Dave Hutton]

Cheers Steve,

I think those pics confirm it could be Draycote bird?

It appears that way but it still looks cleaner to me & certainly seems to be full adult? wether thats a photographic effect but the Draycote bird upto 2 days ago was being reported as a 1st W

Dave

[Dave Hutton]

My first photos, the white's a little blown to show the true colour of the side view, i've had a look through the ones i took and this is more like the colour should be.

On that photo Jeff if the Draycote bird has gone then this is it!!!

Yeah Yeah i know Tom ;)

[Steve Seal]

Can anyone confirm is the Draycote Lesser Scaup still there today???????

[Dave Hall]

Hi Looks like the Draycote bird has moved to me

[jeff]

Never trust my photo's, i think it uses Daz for those whiter than whites ;)

When JJ phoned me he said i should look at the bill, so they rest of the bird i didn't think would matter ;)

Seem's most likely it's the draycote bird as it's appears to have gone.

[jeff]

Can anyone confirm is the Draycote Lesser Scaup still there today???????

JJ said it had gone, so said the reported Scaup at Brandon would be worth checking out.

[jeff]

Brandonbirding now moved servers, hopefully all back online.

Cheers

Jeff

[Lee J]

Hope it keeps heading west!! Next stop Marsh Lane. Havnt had a reserve tick there for a while!!

[draycotebirding]

JJ said it had gone, so said the reported Scaup at Brandon would be worth checking out.

Yes no sign of it today at Draycote, nice pics Jeff do you know who found it at Brandon?

John

[Dave Hutton]

Hope it keeps heading west!! Next stop Marsh Lane. Havnt had a reserve tick there for a while!!

I say keep it in Warks Lee (Seeswood pool will do me,not had a new bird for years on there!!) ;)

[jeff]

Yes no sign of it today at Draycote, nice pics Jeff do you know who found it at Brandon?

John

First i heard was when you phoned me.

[draycotebirding]

Will the work party be on East Marsh tomorrow do you know Jeff?

[jeff]

I've no idea, haven't seen any traces of work being done on East Marsh, seems to be a lot of tree clearing going on at the moment nr. the newlands.

[draycotebirding]

Cheers Jeff :t:

At Draycote this evening juv Glaucous Gull, 3rd winter Iceland Gull, 3rd winter Yellow-legged, 2nd winter Med and lots of fishermen as the season has started a month early :eek!: I guess this may have had something to do with "Lassie" moving on.

John

[Dog]

The work party won't stop for a rare bird. Went down thre one day & they were working on Teal pool & East Marsh at the same time.

Mike.

[Dog]

Are they taking their cars around.

[jeff]

Looks like it's gone from Brandon per Birdguides report.

[gareth_blockley]

So if you thought Richard 'planted' the L. Scaup in the first place he even predicted its departure! :

''The Lesser Scaup at Draycote was in gray’s barn, toft bay before flying off where later on it was seen in rainbow corner before flying back In to toft bay. The longest flight I have seen it do in 98 days and must mean its thinking of going. ''

He really did get to know that bird well :t:

Gareth

[jeff]

Another one day bird at Brandon then after 90 something at Draycote!

[RegTelescope]

Another one day bird at Brandon then after 90 something at Draycote!Bye little fella - thanks for the life tick in 2007, the year tick in 2008 and for all the exercise I got stomping around the reservoir looking for you.

[Duck_Pond]

The most exotic bird seen in Oslo, aside from some of those wandering around the hotel, was a bl**dy cormorant, fishing in the fjord. Loads of magpies over there, crows, seagulls and pigeons... had hoped to see some others from the train between Oslo and the airport, but the speed it goes at, everything's a blur!

[RegTelescope]

seagullsIsn't that a dirty word in the birding fraternity?

I was chastised for saying it when I was starting out.

[Duck_Pond]

The one's who have met me know I don't give two hoots (that's me being very polite) for gulls, in any shape or form. ;)

And they also know I'd take the pi** back if they tried to chastise me in any shape or form :-O

[nigeldphoto]

Afternoon all,
Thought you might be interested to read that a Becks Petrel ,last seen 80 years ago has been seen of Papua New Guinea and photographed. If you would like to read more follow the link. www.wildlifeextra.com (http://www.wildlifeextra.com) Now if that turned up at Brandon or Draycote it would be something lol.
Cheers,
Nigel.B (:

[RegTelescope]

The one's who have met me know I don't give two hoots (that's me being very polite) for gulls, in any shape or form. ;)

And they also know I'd take the pi** back if they tried to chastise me in any shape or form :-OI like your style!

[draycotebirding]

Afternoon all,
Thought you might be interested to read that a Becks Petrel ,last seen 80 years ago has been seen of Papua New Guinea and photographed. If you would like to read more follow the link. www.wildlifeextra.com (http://www.wildlifeextra.com) Now if that turned up at Brandon or Draycote it would be something lol.
Cheers,
Nigel.B (:

I am sure Colin was trying to string one at Draycote a few years ago or am I getting mixed up with the American Black Tern or South Polar Skua that he also had there :-O

John

[KayD]

I know Pete won't be interested to hear this ;) but I ordered The Gulls Of Europe, Asia And North America (which I've heard is The Gull Bible) today. Usually £45 but got it for £31.44 from a website called The Hut- a bargain if any one else is after it :t:

[draycotebirding]

I know Pete won't be interested to hear this ;) but I ordered The Gulls Of Europe, Asia And North America (which I've heard is The Gull Bible) today. Usually £45 but got it for £31.44 from a website called The Hut- a bargain if any one else is after it :t:

Yes the Gull bible it is :t:

[jeff]

Now gone up to £34.93 so you got an even bigger bargain.

[RegTelescope]

I know Pete won't be interested to hear this ;) but I ordered The Gulls Of Europe, Asia And North America (which I've heard is The Gull Bible) today. Usually £45 but got it for £31.44 from a website called The Hut- a bargain if any one else is after it :t:Sadomasochist!

[KayD]

Now gone up to £34.93 so you got an even bigger bargain.

It comes up at that price first but when you order it theres an extra 10% off!

[xFritzx]

christ i had a look at that tome and nearly had an aneurysm...

[KayD]

Sadomasochist!

Surely you mean sadistic?

Don't worry Reg I might let you borrow it ;)

[RegTelescope]

Surely you mean sadistic?

Don't worry Reg I might let you borrow it ;)Whatever you call someone who derives pleasure from inflicting pain upon themselves.

PS Yeah, I wouldn't mind a look ... ;)

[RegTelescope]

Just seen this on Worcester birding ...

Red Kite flew west over A435 Hollywood/Wythall bypass.

Damn! That might have flown over my house!

[jeff]

Surely you mean sadistic?

Don't worry Reg I might let you borrow it ;)

I'm sure for some of those gull boys it's sadomasochist! ;)

[senatore]

I went to Brandon Marsh yesterday morning to get some close shots of the Lesser Scaup.Of course it had gone and I'd missed it by two days.Nothing new there then;)

Allthough it was sunny yet again it was windy.It seems to be windy everyday these days which is not good for birding.

Didn't see much during my 3 hour stay but did have a good half hour battle with a Cetti's near the golf course who gave me several glimpses but non long enough for a shot.Near the Wright hide I found a Goldcrest but it only stayed a couple of minutes before flying off.

Other birds seen included 30+ Shovellers,a lone female Goosander,4 KF fly byes,2 Shellduck etc.

Attached is the best pic I got of the Goldcrest which is very average.It makes me appreciate much more the superb pics Barry Boswell recently took.

Max.

[Des!]

Only recently joined WWT & I managed a couple of hours at Whitacre Heath this morning & had a real good time.

Met up with a couple of lads who were very helpful - Cheers! B (: Keith & Stuart for passing on some tips.

Saw three firsts: Redpoll, Sisken & Willow Tit (I got a pic when it managed to stay still!).

I've attached a few of the pics I took - Thank Goodness for Digital!!!

[nigeldphoto]

NIce pics des. Were they digiscoped or were they taken with a slr and long lens?
Catch the light,
Nigel.

[Des!]

NIce pics des. Were they digiscoped or were they taken with a slr and long lens?
Catch the light,
Nigel.

Thanks Nigel - Nikon D50 + Sigma 50-500.

[nigeldphoto]

Thanks Nigel - Nikon D50 + Sigma 50-500.
Thank you for the info Des, i must get out there i have never been there it looks quite promising.
Cheers,
nigel.

[Des!]

Redpoll Question - Is it Mealy or Lesser?

My Book only says Redpoll whilst BTO list says Mealy & lesser?

looked at a couple of websites & they look too similar - I can't really tell the difference from the illustrations I've seen.

Cheers!

Des

[Hippo]

Thank you for the info Des, i must get out there i have never been there it looks quite promising.
Cheers,
nigel.


Me too:t: Was planning a visit for Monday but the forecast of very heavy rain and severe gale force winds is a little worrying:-C

Nice pics Des:t:

[Des!]

Thank you for the info Des, i must get out there i have never been there it looks quite promising.
Cheers,
nigel.

Well worth it in my limited opinion of WWT Sites!

[RegTelescope]

Redpoll Question - Is it Mealy or Lesser?

My Book only says Redpoll whilst BTO list says Mealy & lesser?

looked at a couple of websites & they look too similar - I can't really tell the difference from the illustrations I've seen.

Cheers!

DesTry this link for comparisons between Lessers and Mealies ...

http://www.worcesterbirding.co.uk/50.html

Without wishing to open another can of worms, I think most would agree that there is still a lot of debate over the different species of redpoll.

Detailed threads can be found in the Bird ID or Q&A forums.

[KayD]

Redpoll Question - Is it Mealy or Lesser?

My Book only says Redpoll whilst BTO list says Mealy & lesser?

looked at a couple of websites & they look too similar - I can't really tell the difference from the illustrations I've seen.

Cheers!

Des

Thats a Lesser Redpoll. Another link here about Mealy Redpolls
http://homepage.ntlworld.com/tracy.mann/Redpolls.htm

Nice photos Des :t:

[KayD]

Upton Warren this afternoon - Moors Pools -1 Jack Snipe and lots of Common Snipe, 2 Oystercatcher, Curlew, Lapwing, BH Gull, LBB Gull, Water Rail, Teal, Shelduck, Shovler, GC Grebe, Kestrel, Mealy Redpoll, LT Tits, Goldcrest, Siskin and Fieldfare. At the Flashes the highlights were 2 Avocet, 2 Stonechat and a Sparrowhawk.

[draycotebirding]

Redpoll Question - Is it Mealy or Lesser?

My Book only says Redpoll whilst BTO list says Mealy & lesser?

looked at a couple of websites & they look too similar - I can't really tell the difference from the illustrations I've seen.

Cheers!

Des

Hi Des

Yes the Redpoll thing is very confusing as the Lesser is the one we get most and the Common or Mealy is the rarer and more infrequent visitor :h?:

Regards

John

[draycotebirding]

In the roost this evening were 3rd winter Iceland Gull, the pale juv Glaucous Gull and an adult summer Med Gull.
You should have been there Kstar ;)

Regards

John

[Des!]

Lesser Redpoll - Thanks! - At least I can get the right tick!

[senatore]

Popped down to Marsh Lane early this morning.Allthough a little chilly it was quite pleasant for a change.

The usuall Ducks,Geese and Gulls were about including several Cormorants showing a lot of white at the front.

Best spots were a lone Common Snipe,a Grey Wagtail,2 Ringed plovers and 2 Oystercatchers.A few of us in the Oak hide were convinced we had got a Kittiwake on one of the islands but when someone entered the hide who knew what he was talking about it was shown to be a very neat Common Gull.

Down the lane in the horse paddock the Little Owl was showing in the Oak tree.It was hard to spot and very difficult to point out to others.There were lots of "I cannot see it.Where the hell do you mean".

Max.

[Duck_Pond]

I continued to seemingly stalk Steve today, as I found him in the feeder hide at Whitacre Heath, where we both enjoyed a good couple of hours shooting pics of the redpolls and siskin. The willow tit wouldn't play ball though, but a rare and brief glimpse of a jay made a nice change.

The one male redpoll with the vivid red breast is a stunning bird when you see it up close.

Was good to see Paul later on, and also to meet Wild Bob :t:

[paul goode]

The one male redpoll with the vivid red breast is a stunning bird when you see it up close.



Yep, very pleasant morning Pete.

The male Redpoll didn't play ball at all after you left so I still haven't got a decent shot of him :-C

Still, good excuse to go back!

[Duck_Pond]

Hope you didn't get caught in that rain that followed after we left - chucked it down as I drove home.

Disappointingly, that wee meece pic I took was a bit blurred. Still, managed about 90 decent pics from the session. Need to be more ruthless when choosing them, I think!

[gareth_blockley]

Lea marston:
Went to see the scaups yesturday morn. found them quite far back on the
left, the drake is looking pretty smart now. reported again this morning.

Lady walk:
Had a mosy round yesturday afternoon. Not alot to report really. 12
Goosander around the reserve. 3 snipe and a redshank on main pool.
Marsh tit around the feeders. Green sandpiper on 'B' pool.

Gareth

[Steve Seal]

I continued to seemingly stalk Steve today, as I found him in the feeder hide at Whitacre Heath, where we both enjoyed a good couple of hours shooting pics of the redpolls and siskin. The willow tit wouldn't play ball though, but a rare and brief glimpse of a jay made a nice change.

The one male redpoll with the vivid red breast is a stunning bird when you see it up close.

Was good to see Paul later on, and also to meet Wild Bob :t:

Good to see you guys again, Redpoll images turned out not bad at all.;)

[Steve Seal]

Its looking nice Paul ;)

[gareth_blockley]

I went on a sneak preveiw tour yesturday with someone working on the
reserve with a group of volenteers/wardens from Otmoor. It was very
interesting to see what they plan to do to. I obvoiusly can't give too
much away but it should be really good and attract some nice birds (i'm
sure some of you already know whats about).

Regarding access before it is fully open. They dont want to encourage
lots of new visitors but if it is somewhere you bird already they dont
want to turn you away so are going to organise some kind of pemit in
the short term provided people are responsible and agree to stick to
certain rules for health and safety etc.

Gareth

[RICHARD DAWKINS]

Hi Steve found your new website today & put a link on mine are you still going to use the Midland site.Not long now and the moths will be starting againB (::t:
Rich

[Avesmaster]

Hi Gareth and everyone else,
The Solihull RSPB Local Group intend to go birdwatching at the Middleton Lakes reserve this Saturday. Don't think I'll be able to make it, but it's free and I think non-members can tag along.
Further details at http://www.rspb.org.uk/groups/solihull/events

Matt

[Duck_Pond]

I was tempted to post the same pics, Steve, from a very slightly different angle! :-O

But I won't... I've added all mine (redpolls so far) to my site. Here's a small sample of them.

[jeff]

Oops, i went to Upton Warren and it was work party day, not many birds at the flahes end, so round to the Moors and it was heaving! Still, got the Avocets and a couple of jack snipe so not a wasted trip.

PS. Haven;t seen rain all day :)

[Steve Seal]

I was tempted to post the same pics, Steve, from a very slightly different angle! :-O

But I won't... I've added all mine (redpolls so far) to my site. Here's a small sample of them.

Hi Pete, images look good mate well done, more of mine can be found on link below, also on Midland Bird Images (Hi Rich) yes iam keeping both site running.
http://stevesealbirdingimages.fotopic.net/c1466177.html

[paul goode]

Thanks for those pics guy's, cheered me up no end ;)

Not to upset, looks as if I've got my best male Siskin shot so far and some pretty tidy Mrs Redpoll shots so no complaints.

How on earth do you sort and convert them so fast though?

[Lee J]

Draycote this afternoon. Managed to get my first Sand Martin of the year (flew straight through the res @ 4:20). Also the very pale Gloucous Gull came in @ 4:55 but departed again down Granbough valley @ 5:05. Other than that pretty quiet; 6 Goosander and around 20 Goldeneye

[jeff]

Thanks for those pics guy's, cheered me up no end ;)

Not to upset, looks as if I've got my best male Siskin shot so far and some pretty tidy Mrs Redpoll shots so no complaints.

How on earth do you sort and convert them so fast though?

Well if it makes you feel a little better, he wouldn't turn and face me and it's taken me a week to process this image :)

[nick the grief]

...How on earth do you sort and convert them so fast though?

He only take 4 photo's Paul:-O:-O

[Duck_Pond]

Paul, got through the redpolls quickly as a lot of them didn't need any faffing around with lighting or colours, and the backgrounds were easy to blur out. Anything with branches or a cluttered backdrop tends to take much longer, as NeatImage doesn't work, 9 times out of 10...

About to crack on with the siskin pics now.

[paul goode]

He only take 4 photo's Paul:-O:-O

4 out of 4. Oh for that success rate!

I've kept 7 out of 132 :eek!:

[paul goode]

Paul, got through the redpolls quickly as a lot of them didn't need any faffing around with lighting or colours, and the backgrounds were easy to blur out. Anything with branches or a cluttered backdrop tends to take much longer, as NeatImage doesn't work, 9 times out of 10...

About to crack on with the siskin pics now.

Sounds speedy, think i need to review my 'culling technique.'
I spend ages peering at the image at 100% trying to decide whether the eye is sharp or not. Could be time for new glasses ;)

[draycotebirding]

Draycote this afternoon. Managed to get my first Sand Martin of the year (flew straight through the res @ 4:20). Also the very pale Gloucous Gull came in @ 4:55 but departed again down Granbough valley @ 5:05. Other than that pretty quiet; 6 Goosander and around 20 Goldeneye

Hi Lee

Did you notice if the Glaucous was the pale juv or second winter bird?

Regards

John

[senatore]

Here is a pic taken yesterday of the Marsh Lane Little Owl but can you spot it on the large shot.It took me ages to find it and I was only 40 metres away.

It was very shy all morning but it was my first spot of the year.

A cropped pic is also attached.

Max.

[Lee J]

Hi Lee

Did you notice if the Glaucous was the pale juv or second winter bird?

Regards

John

Hi John. The roost was very distant last night from where i was standing but it looked like a very pale 2nd winter, although am not sure just how pale the 1st winter your getting there has been, so couldnt be 100% sure due to the distance

[gareth_blockley]

I was sent a link to this online bird quiz earlier:http://www.computerbirding.com/cgi-bin/cbirding40.pl?sprache=2&namensprache=1

I see some familiar names on the leder boards! ;)

Gareth

[jeff]

That Marsh Tit looks like a Willow Tit to me!

[Hippo]

That Marsh Tit looks like a Willow Tit to me!

Errrrm........Have I missed something here...........?:-C

[gareth_blockley]

Errrrm........Have I missed something here...........?:-C

ditto... what you on Jeff?!

[jeff]

It was one of the photos in that there quiz thing...... :(

[Hippo]

It was one of the photos in that there quiz thing...... :(


LOL........thought the pressure was getting to you Jeff:-O

[Steve Seal]

ditto... what you on Jeff?!
Taxi for Wesson B (:

[jeff]

You may be right! :smoke: :-C

[draycotebirding]

Hi John. The roost was very distant last night from where i was standing but it looked like a very pale 2nd winter, although am not sure just how pale the 1st winter your getting there has been, so couldnt be 100% sure due to the distance

Thanks Lee

Just to add to the confusion there are 2 pale juvs and and a second winter in the roost recently along with at least 2 "normal" biscuit coloured juvs not a bad place to get yourself a Glaucous this year :t:

John

[Reader]

I had a nice surprise this morning when I looked through my bedroom window. Below my front garden feeders was a male Brambling. Only the second time I have had one in the garden since I have lived here.

John

[nick the grief]

I had a nice surprise this morning when I looked through my bedroom window. Below my front garden feeders was a male Brambling. Only the second time I have had one in the garden since I have lived here.

John

You can go off people you know , there have been Bramblings up the Hayes but none have made the 800yd trip to my garden !:-O:-O

[Duck_Pond]

In the words of Victor Meldrew, "I don't believe it". Just had to leg it up the road from work, to help out a fellow colleague, whose car had broken down, in the middle of the road. Enroute, we crossed a small park, little more than a grassy, tree-filled corner of two main roads, and in that small area, I spotted (close up) a redwing and nuthatch, both close enough to make great pics, in good light too.

Bet if I bring my camera in one day this week, when the weather is favourable, I won't see either... :-C

[senatore]

In the words of Victor Meldrew, "I don't believe it". Just had to leg it up the road from work, to help out a fellow colleague, whose car had broken down, in the middle of the road. Enroute, we crossed a small park, little more than a grassy, tree-filled corner of two main roads, and in that small area, I spotted (close up) a redwing and nuthatch, both close enough to make great pics, in good light too.

Bet if I bring my camera in one day this week, when the weather is favourable, I won't see either... :-C

Pete.There is no doubt birds can detect cameras and clear off.Green Woodpeckers and Jays can detect them from great distances.I bet if you go to that park today with your 350D those birds will not be there.;)

Max.

[senatore]

I had a nice surprise this morning when I looked through my bedroom window. Below my front garden feeders was a male Brambling. Only the second time I have had one in the garden since I have lived here.

John

Nice one John.It's allways better if you get a spot in your garden.

My only good views of Bramblings have been in my neighbours/my garden this winter.

Where are the pics though John?

Max.

[RegTelescope]

I had a nice surprise this morning when I looked through my bedroom window. Below my front garden feeders was a male Brambling. Only the second time I have had one in the garden since I have lived here.

JohnA female Brambling turned up in my garden last Monday. Made my day.

Had the first Blackcap of the year, a female, down this morning too. A good year so far with a couple of Lesser Redpolls a week last Sunday, good numbers of Siskin in the last 4 to 6 weeks, Goldcrest, Chaffinch, Goldfinch and Nuthatch regularly and my first ever garden Sparrowhawk on 11 February.

Ironically, when I did the garden bird count thing, hardly anything showed. They must know!

[Lee J]

A female Brambling turned up in my garden last Monday. Made my day.

Had the first Blackcap of the year, a female, down this morning too. A good year so far with a couple of Lesser Redpolls a week last Sunday, good numbers of Siskin in the last 4 to 6 weeks, Goldcrest, Chaffinch, Goldfinch and Nuthatch regularly and my first ever garden Sparrowhawk on 11 February.

Ironically, when I did the garden bird count thing, hardly anything showed. They must know!

Sounds good to me! Atleast you guy's have a garden. I get to look out on a gun factory from my flat window!!!! The best i ever get is the odd Grey wagtail on the roof, although that promptly moves on when they start testing the guns

[gareth_blockley]

Jeff I saw on your brandon site an Osprey was reported on the 7th. I have just found this on a Hampshire site 'Osprey: Flew NE over M3, Winchester Services - 1440hrs on 07/03.'

Could be the same bird?

Gareth

[Reader]

Once I got over the shock of it being there I rushed into the living room, grabbed my camera, rushed back into the bedroom and - it had gone.:-O

John

Nice one John.It's allways better if you get a spot in your garden.

My only good views of Bramblings have been in my neighbours/my garden this winter.

Where are the pics though John?

Max.

[Duck_Pond]

Reminds me of the time I caught sight of a sparrowhawk sat in a tree in next-door's garden, some months back. I ran in, grabbed the camera (and a stool) to get a better, more elevated view of it, to find it too, had flown off.

Well, it hadn't gone far, as it pretty much took my hair off as it swooped by, heading away, when I wasn't expecting it... I managed a very blurred, woeful image.

[jeff]

Jeff I saw on your brandon site an Osprey was reported on the 7th. I have just found this on a Hampshire site 'Osprey: Flew NE over M3, Winchester Services - 1440hrs on 07/03.'

Could be the same bird?

Gareth

Possibly.... ? Let's hope we get one at Brandon again for a few months.

[Duck_Pond]

Indeed - that was a fantastic sight... if only I'd had a better camera that day!

[jeff]

Just to remind everyone,

They will be working on the hides at Whitacre Heath NR tomorrow (13th) and again on the 19th of March, so maybe a place to avoid unless you fancy helping :)

[Steve Seal]

What like this Pete..............;)

[jeff]

I still think it's a willow tit ;)

4 Sand Martin, river pool hide at WH today (per johns)

[Reader]

For Max

I got home just after 17:30 and went in the bedroom to change out of my work clothes. I decided to look out of the window and there was the Brambling again.

Unfortunately at that time of day the light was fading fast, plus it was taken through a window and at an angle. Also the curtain was throwing a reflection across the window, all of which was not conducive to good photography.

Thankfully it was still there when I grabbed my camera from the living room and I managed a few shots before it flew off.

John

[gareth_blockley]

Unfortunately at that time of day the light was fading fast, plus it was taken through a window and at an angle. Also the curtain was throwing a reflection across the window, all of which was not conducive to good photography.

John

HA! Even with all those excuses you got better shots of a brambling than i ever have or prob will!!

Nice shots John.

Gareth

[jeff]

For Max

I got home just after 17:30 and went in the bedroom to change out of my work clothes. I decided to look out of the window and there was the Brambling again.

Unfortunately at that time of day the light was fading fast, plus it was taken through a window and at an angle. Also the curtain was throwing a reflection across the window, all of which was not conducive to good photography.

Thankfully it was still there when I grabbed my camera from the living room and I managed a few shots before it flew off.

John

Nice pics John!

Was it the sight of you out of your work clothes that made it fly though ;)

[Reader]

Nice pics John!

Was it the sight of you out of your work clothes that made it fly though ;)

Have you been peeking through my bedroom window Jeff.:-O:-O:-O

The sight of me in my undies is enough to put to flight the whole population of birds never mind just the Brambling.:-O:t:

John

[nigeldphoto]

Nice pics of the brambling John,
Regards,
Nigel.

[nick the grief]

Have you been peeking through my bedroom window Jeff.:-O:-O:-O

The sight of me in my undies is enough to put to flight the whole population of birds never mind just the Brambling.:-O:t:

John

Well I suppose we should be thankful you wear undies John :-O:-O

Nice shot just wish the little buggers would come to my house:smoke:

[Reader]

Thankfully the Brambling is still with me. I looked through the bedroom window (I live in a Bungalow) and there he was. The sun was shining this morning allowing me to get up to 1/60th through the window and this improved my chances of getting some more half decent images.

Below are five of them from this morning.

John

[senatore]

Thankfully the Brambling is still with me. I looked through the bedroom window (I live in a Bungalow) and there he was. The sun was shining this morning allowing me to get up to 1/60th through the window and this improved my chances of getting some more half decent images.

Below are five of them from this morning.

John

Well done John.Great shots.I've not seen them in my/my neighbours garden for a few days now so your Brambling is mine really.Send it back immediately ;)

Max

[senatore]

Like a fool yesterday I believed the weatherman who said the winds would ease after lunch so I popped down to Marsh Lane.

Big mistake!!!!The wind was howling in the car park I even had trouble opening the car door.Just as I thought no other idiot would go birding on a day like this another car came into the car park and who got out non other than Nic the grief.Only joking Nic nice to meet you.

It was frightening in the hides where the roofs seemed about to be blown off.Nothing much about the birds were more sensible than me and were sheltering somewhere but did see a couple of Oystercatschers,12+ Yellowhammers,a Meadow pipit,10+ Pied Wagtails and 50+ Wigeon.

Max.

[nick the grief]

Like a fool yesterday I believed the weatherman who said the winds would ease after lunch so I popped down to Marsh Lane.

Big mistake!!!!The wind was howling in the car park I even had trouble opening the car door.Just as I thought no other idiot would go birding on a day like this another car came into the car park and who got out non other than Nic the grief.Only joking Nic nice to meet you.

It was frightening in the hides where the roofs seemed about to be blown off.Nothing much about the birds were more sensible than me and were sheltering somewhere but did see a couple of Oystercatschers,12+ Yellowhammers,a Meadow pipit,10+ Pied Wagtails and 50+ Wigeon.

Max.

You should have stuck around Max, 5 minutes after you went an Ostrich flew over

129865 129866

OK it was a greylag really:-O ANd there were 3 ringed plovers hunkering down behind the lapwings out of the wind;)

Good to put a face to the name:t:

[jeff]

Well the weather looks nice in those photo's. Wish it was blue skys when i go out :(

[gareth_blockley]

Wheatear seen by Mr Mays in the valley today, he had White wag at Draycote too (11th). With those and the Sand martins spring is well on its way!

Im near Balsall common tomorrow, doubt i'll see much but will be sure to let you know if i do.

Gareth

[jeff]

Shame they're forcasting another rainy weekend :(

Looks like i'll need to take a day off during the week to get some sunshine.

[Reader]

I'm up to two Brambling now. They are both currently on the front lawn. Unfortunately they are at an angle where I couldn't get a photo through the window but I will stay by the window until I have to go to work at 8am in the hope they move in front of it.

John

[jeff]

I'm up to two Brambling now. They are both currently on the front lawn. Unfortunately they are at an angle where I couldn't get a photo through the window but I will stay by the window until I have to go to work at 8am in the hope they move in front of it.

John

It's 8:22am John your late for work! :eek!:

[senatore]

John.Thanks for sending my Brambling back so swiftly.

I do have a complaint it's more nervy now.It stayed a fair way off and only for a few seconds.What have you done to it?

Max.

[Lee J]

Has someone re-found Lassie? or are Lesser Scaups becoming one of the commonest ducks in Warwickshire these days??? ;)

[Duck_Pond]

Looks very much like a red kite has moved to the worcestershire area, as one has been seen over south Brum, Droitwich, Pershore way etc for several days now. It'd be wonderful if one is local now. Will save going to the Chilterns or mid Wales to see them.

[RegTelescope]

Looks very much like a red kite has moved to the worcestershire area, as one has been seen over south Brum, Droitwich, Pershore way etc for several days now. It'd be wonderful if one is local now. Will save going to the Chilterns or mid Wales to see them.Yes, exciting news. Might not be too long before they become regular in the area. Imagine that!

[jeff]

Has someone re-found Lassie? or are Lesser Scaups becoming one of the commonest ducks in Warwickshire these days??? ;)

It's a drake, so possible.......

[Pam_m]

Looks very much like a red kite has moved to the worcestershire area, as one has been seen over south Brum, Droitwich, Pershore way etc for several days now. It'd be wonderful if one is local now. Will save going to the Chilterns or mid Wales to see them.

Brilliant and exciting news, Pete! :t:

[KayD]

Looks very much like a red kite has moved to the worcestershire area, as one has been seen over south Brum, Droitwich, Pershore way etc for several days now. It'd be wonderful if one is local now. Will save going to the Chilterns or mid Wales to see them.

Perhaps it might even drift up to Selly Oak!

[Pam_m]

Looks very much like a red kite has moved to the worcestershire area, as one has been seen over south Brum, Droitwich, Pershore way etc for several days now. It'd be wonderful if one is local now. Will save going to the Chilterns or mid Wales to see them.

Perhaps it might even drift up to Selly Oak!

I bagsie it first, Kay!o:D

[KayD]

I bagsie it first, Kay!o:D

Perhaps we could all throw slabs of meat out into the streets like they do at Grigin Farm in Rhyader :-O

[Dean Powell]

Hi Kay,

I think you could be right. It is possible that these birds will be widespread. We had a Red Kite fly over up here in Cheadle on 1st October 2005:t: It is possible that there have been more.

I was in the Chilterns last year and saw about 10 of these birds within half an hour of being there.

Great to see that you finally got to see the Great Grey Shrike:t:

I might visit Upton Warren on Sunday so beware!!

Dean

North of where all you guys are:-O

Happy BirdingB (:

[Pam_m]

Perhaps we could all throw slabs of meat out into the streets like they do at Grigin Farm in Rhyader :-O

I am off now to get a few beef steaks out of the freezer....o:D

[Dean Powell]

Hi Pete (Duck-Pond),

I know you are lurking on here.:-O You should be out there with your camera :t: Its 11:15am!!

Dean

Happy Birding

[Lee J]

Spring has arived!!

Marsh Lane this morning:

1 Wheatear (male)
1 Chiffchaff
1 Little ringed Plover (flew through)

Also
Drake Goldeneye
5 Oystercatcher
3 Redshank
1 Common Sandpiper

[KayD]

Hi Kay,

I think you could be right. It is possible that these birds will be widespread. We had a Red Kite fly over up here in Cheadle on 1st October 2005:t: It is possible that there have been more.

I was in the Chilterns last year and saw about 10 of these birds within half an hour of being there.

Great to see that you finally got to see the Great Grey Shrike:t:

I might visit Upton Warren on Sunday so beware!!

Dean

North of where all you guys are:-O

Happy BirdingB (:

Maybe see you tomorrow Dean if I'm in a fit state B (:

[RegTelescope]

Maybe see you tomorrow Dean if I'm in a fit state B (:Don't get too drunk tonight. Where you going?

[KayD]

Don't get too drunk tonight. Where you going?


Have just emailed you Reg.

Why is there a cow in your Avator?

[RegTelescope]

Why is there a cow in your Avator?Look at it closely ...

[Duck_Pond]

Hi Pete (Duck-Pond),

I know you are lurking on here.:-O You should be out there with your camera :t: Its 11:15am!!

Dean

Happy Birding

Maybe tomorrow, but today had to be spent finishing a job in the garden, which was delightful this afternoon in that rain.

Might have a look around the local sites tomorrow, but it depends on what light there is - was too dull this afternoon...

Now, do I go out for an ale tonight...

[Steve Seal]

Spent a few hours at Whitacre this morning , got in the hide just after 9-00 and left at 12-30 never saw a soul had the hide and birds all to myself. Same old stuff around but that male Redpolls looking better as the weeks go bye. ;)

[Dean Powell]

Hi Pete,

I have to admit that while you were in the garden I was at a pub in a remotish village called Foxt in North Staffordshire sampling a real ale next to a roaring fire. HeavenB (:B (:B (:B (:B (::t::-O

Your right about the light conditions not good for photography!!

Enjoy your ale

Dean

Happy birding

[draycotebirding]

Maybe tomorrow, but today had to be spent finishing a job in the garden, which was delightful this afternoon in that rain.

Might have a look around the local sites tomorrow, but it depends on what light there is - was too dull this afternoon...

Now, do I go out for an ale tonight...

The birds will still be there, does anyone go birding anymore ;)

John

[Dean Powell]

Hi John,

This birding thing is a figment of our imagination, It doesn't really happen.

I should be on the Staffordshire Moorlands thread but I am having fun here this evening.

Dean:t:

[draycotebirding]

Hi John,

This birding thing is a figment of our imagination, It doesn't really happen.

I should be on my on the Staffordshire Moorlands thread but I am having fun here this evening.

Dean:t:

Ah that would explain why I never see anyone else about unless there is a rare bird there :t:

John

[Steve Seal]

Ah that would explain why I never see anyone else about unless there is a rare bird there :t:

John

Warwickshire Birders are a dying breed John, :-C:-C:-C

[Dave Hutton]

Ah that would explain why I never see anyone else about unless there is a rare bird there :t:

John

Im out every day John!! just don't happen to have a very productive local patch!! the last rarity on my local patch was 8/5/88 Caspian Tern & where was I? oh yes i was in sunny bloody Majorca :-O (still never seen Caspian Tern in Britain)

Dave

[draycotebirding]

Warwickshire Birders are a dying breed John, :-C:-C:-C

Yes Steve I know, if 6 birders stopped putting the news out there would be no Warwickshire records :eek!: :-C:-C:-C

[Dave Hutton]

Yes Steve I know, if 6 birders stopped putting the news out there would be no Warwickshire records :eek!: :-C:-C:-C

Funny you should say that John (Steve,Ive had a 2nd hand email from J.Bowley asking for details on your male Blk Redstart in the garden + some of my records) Im not submitting my records(Got my own reasons to not submit to WMBC) but if you would like to pass on the details of the Blk Redstart?


Dave

[Duck_Pond]

Cracking pics Steve - I suspect that the hide may be rather quiet tomorrow... and a bit damp!

And I know the birds are still there, but for me, the main enjoyment is from the photography... I'm just as happy taking pictures of sunsets as I am of birds or animals, but the rain just spoils things. ;)

[Dave Hutton]

but the rain just spoils things. ;)

Hi Pete,

I think the rain can sometimes add something to a photo!! Not all the best photos are taken in sunshine ;)
P.s Nice pics Steve & the Stoney at Wishaw

Dave :t:

[Steve Seal]

Hi Pete,

I think the rain can sometimes add something to a photo!! Not all the best photos are taken in sunshine ;)
P.s Nice pics Steve & the Stoney at Wishaw

Dave :t:

Cheers Dave.........
All pics taken today were in dull light, when it started to rain i went home :-C:-C:-C

[Steve Seal]

Yes Steve I know, if 6 birders stopped putting the news out there would be no Warwickshire records :eek!: :-C:-C:-C


Their are more than 30 Warwickshire birders, ( I nearly said active Birders then)..................You wouldnt think so :eek!:

[Dave Hutton]

Their are more than 30 Warwickshire birders, ( I nearly said active Birders then)..................You wouldnt think so :eek!:

It's the same on the Nuneaton Bird Club email list (Over 20 members but how many post? 6 at the most only 2 regularly :C

[draycotebirding]

On the plus side a few of the "active" Warwickshire birders had Glaucous Gull, Iceland Gull, Med Gull, Avocet, Brent Goose, Rock Pipit, Wheatear and 37 Sand Martin at Draycote today.

John

[Hippo]

On the plus side a few of the "active" Warwickshire birders had Glaucous Gull, Iceland Gull, Med Gull, Avocet, Brent Goose, Rock Pipit, Wheatear and 37 Sand Martin at Draycote today.

John


Sorry guys, fully intended to be there for the roost. Set off from the car park at 1400 with scope bins & camera, intending to walk to the valve tower and then back to see who was about. Met increasing rain at Rainbow and feared for my camera so turned back to the car. Did not see any other birders so decided to go home. Obviously I was too early and turning into a fair weather birder:-C Only bird of interest in my short walk was a singing Chiffchaff in trees just passed the sailing club :t:

Spent a couple of hours in the morning up on Borough Hill, Daventry (while daughter had her music lessons) hoping for early migrants. Rewarded with Stonecahat, Raven (2), Fielfare (33), Green Woodpecker (5), Treecreeper, Mistle THrush. Regretfully no Wheatear.

[Duck_Pond]

Very true Steve, and I shall be looking at what's about today, now that the task of laying aggregate around my conservatory is done, and all that's left is the quite pleasant task of creating some barrel-based alpine gardens.

Looks like a fair few mealy redpolls were in UW yesterday. Just wish they'd sit on the path side of that hedgerow!

Bit windy today - might go to the pub instead ;)

[paul goode]

Spent a few hours at Whitacre this morning , got in the hide just after 9-00 and left at 12-30 never saw a soul had the hide and birds all to myself. Same old stuff around but that male Redpolls looking better as the weeks go bye. ;)

Nice shots steve. I was there for a couple of hours friday afternoon and had the hide to myself. Typically the male Redpolls decided they had urgent business elsewhere :-C

[Steve Seal]

Nice shots steve. I was there for a couple of hours friday afternoon and had the hide to myself. Typically the male Redpolls decided they had urgent business elsewhere :-C


Hi Paul
Jeffs text me this morning, Brambling their also Stonechat on fence posts typical. Its to wet this morning, will possibly go out later. A call to Tom yesterday paid off with the Stonechats at Wishaw (cheers Tom).B (:

[jeff]

And i had the hide today all to myself :) Shame the water level was rising, in the end i had the leave the feeding station as the area was under water :( but not before my first WH brambling had appeared, also 15 siskin, 11 redpoll and 2 willow tit :)

Off to the flashes, not much about so i went back to car for a screwdriver to move the door lock and add a catch to the window, a few minutes later after the flap sorted a female stonechat appeared :)

[paul goode]

And i had the hide today all to myself :) Shame the water level was rising, in the end i had the leave the feeding station as the area was under water :( but not before my first WH brambling had appeared, also 15 siskin, 11 redpoll and 2 willow tit :)

Off to the flashes, not much about so i went back to car for a screwdriver to move the door lock and add a catch to the window, a few minutes later after the flap sorted a female stonechat appeared :)

Good results there Jeff on the bird front - not so sure about the flooding bit :eek!:

[jeff]

The hour or two i was there, the water level at the feeding station rose at least two or more inches. As long as we don't get any more rain it'll soon go down.

[Reader]

I hope so as I am off from Thursday through to (& including) March 31st. It is my intention to call into WH on at least one occasion within that period.

John

The hour or two i was there, the water level at the feeding station rose at least two or more inches. As long as we don't get any more rain it'll soon go down.

[paul goode]

Cheers for the info Steve. The only bird there though was a funny looking Stonechat 8-P 8-P

[draycotebirding]

Just for the heads up if you excuse the pun here is a link http://www.utahbirds.org/featarts/Scaup.htm to Greater and Lesser Scaup side by side just incase "Lassie" decides to make another appearace in the midlands as he nearly didn't make it on the Brandon list ;)

Regards

John

[jeff]

Wheatear (1, Baldwin hide 14:00) at Brandon today.

Yep, saw that link on another of the threads, now to work out which is which :)

[draycotebirding]

Wheatear (1, Baldwin hide 14:00) at Brandon today.

Yep, saw that link on another of the threads, now to work out which is which :)

Best thing to do Jeff if you see one is to take a photo of it and put it on Birdforum 8-P

[jeff]

Best thing to do Jeff if you see one is to take a photo of it and put it on Birdforum 8-P

Sounds like a good idea. :t:

[jeff]

Cheers for the info Steve. The only bird there though was a funny looking Stonechat 8-P 8-P

That's a fat little porker! Must be all those worms it ate ;)

[Duck_Pond]

Finally finished off the 2 alpine gardens, in 2 half-barrels today, which will no doubt be ruined within days by the squirrels in the garden... Was amused to see one of the robins watch me make them, perched less than a foot away from me! Never comes that close when I have the camera out.

Speaking of which, when I did get the camera out, nothing much was around for ages, so venturing from the summerhouse, I spotted a sprawk circling... no wonder!

Still, waited a bit longer and was rewarded with some (chances of) shots of a goldcrest in the tree. They looked good on the camera, but were very noisy (ISO 800) on the pc. See below (after a lot of messing in Elements).

So, I've finally bitten the bullet, and the 40D should arrive on Tuesday. B (:

Fingers crossed for some dry weather over Easter!

[senatore]

Nice shots of the Goldcrest Pete.

Congrats on going for the 40D.Canon have got a cashback going on this camera so don't forget to go for that.Mine arrived just outside the qualifying dates but I've still gone for the cashback.Fingers crossed.

Max.

[Duck_Pond]

I'm hoping to get to grips with it over the Easter weekend, though the clocks change soon, which will enable me to head to places after work... a very nice thought!

And I'll definitely be doing the cashback!

[Lee J]

A few pic's of the Wheatear @ Marsh lane on saturday. Light was rubbish tho

130339 130340 130341

[paul goode]

So, I've finally bitten the bullet, and the 40D should arrive on Tuesday. B (:

Fingers crossed for some dry weather over Easter!

Good choice Pete!

Have you seen the long range forecast though? Not wishing to be a harbinger of doom but it don't sound good!

[paul goode]

A few pic's of the Wheatear @ Marsh lane on saturday. Light was rubbish tho

130339 130340 130341

Nice shots Lee

[Duck_Pond]

Great shots Lee - love the contrast between the bird's colours and the shade of the sky behind :t:

Paul, I don't think the forecasters have much of an idea, most of the time. Saturday they predicted rain for Tuesday and then for Thursday... today it's all sun + cloud. Tomorrow, probably be guessing at snow! Which wouldn't be that bad though...

[senatore]

Great shots Lee.I suppose it's long gone?

I went down to Whiteacre Heath today just before lunch.After a quick look in the Field Hide where I saw very little I headed for the Feeder Hide to try and do battle with the Willow Tits again.

The path was flooded but passable with wellies.Only one photographer inside(Tom Melton) so there was plenty of room.Better birds noted were Lesser Redpolls 10+,Siskins 10+,Willow Tits 2,G/S Woodpecker 1,Jay 1, Pheasants 4,Chaffinches 25+ (no Brambling seen) and 10+ Goldfinches.

Later two more photographers joined us and we got all in quite comfortably which is amazing as Reptilian was one of the photographers and his lens is only a little bit smaller than a Napoleonic siege canon.

I don't know if the hide refurbishment has caused this but the right hand end of seat (where I was) was extremely noisy when you move around.I managed to scare the birds off twice.

A few pics attached incl. the very red Redpoll and the brightly coloured Siskin.The Willow Tit showed well but briefly.

Max.

[Duck_Pond]

Good pics Max, especially the willow tit :t:

Hope the jay becomes a bit more confident - would like some close shots of one of those!

[senatore]

Good pics Max, especially the willow tit :t:

Hope the jay becomes a bit more confident - would like some close shots of one of those!

Annoyingly the Jay remained in the trees and no shot was possible.

Is the 40D up and running?You will get some great shots.No pressure then :-O

Max.

[senatore]

Went to Marsh Lane this afternoon.It turned cloudy and the wind was very cold.

Besides the usual suspects a 2 hour visit produced a Chiffchaff,2 Redshanks,4 Oystercatchers,5 Meadow Pipits,a Little Ringed Plover,a Peregrine,4 Common Buzzards,3 Green Woodpeckers,a Grey Wagtail, a Tree Sparrow and 6 Yellowhammers.

Things are livening up a little however the Easter forecast is for snow.Let's hope they are wrong.If not it's down to Duckpond as everyone knows a new camera turns the weather bad as soon as you open the box.;)

Max.

[Duck_Pond]

Nice shots Max. The curse of the camera managed to bring overcast and very gloomy conditions as soon as I got in. Managed some ropey shots of a rat (of all things) in the garden, and then a robin, which I coaxed into taking some food off of my hand!

My jest to Paul about snow for the weekend doesn't seem far from the mark now. I'll add some pics in a bit, when I have worked out what on earth is going on in Raw Therapee!

[jeff]

Whitacre Heath:

Brambling (1 male, 1 female) at the feeding station today (T.Melton/N.Kightley)

[Duck_Pond]

Considering the gloomy conditions, the fact that I'd used the camera for about 10 mins, and that the subjects were moving, the first results aren't too bad.

I'm still not sure what I'm doing in Raw Therapee, and judging by the processing time, I might have to cough up yet more money for a new pc soon. :-C

Regardless, the pics attached are from today, in the garden. The wren was at ISO 800, on auto I think, and the rest were on ISO 1600, and even then I had to under expose some of the shots to get any sort of shutter speed.

Ah well, BST arrives on the 30th, so longer evenings, more practice!

[senatore]

Good start with the new camera Pete.Bit worried about the "rat in the garden" though.

I downloaded Raw Therapee recently because I must have a go at RAW but it does seem to be very complex.

Max.

[Duck_Pond]

It does, initially, but you soon get into a routine. The one thing I miss in RT as opposed to Raw Shooter is the full previews, and being able to tag images with ratings, hence grouping the "keepers" and ones to bin.

But RT is under development continuously, so perhaps that feature will arrive in due course. Keith Reeder has made a version of RS though, for the 40D, so maybe that's an option.

Enjoy the sunshine this morning Max, looks like we won't be seeing it again for a while.

[gareth_blockley]

Alright folks

Ive been in Hants for a few days so sorry for the late news. Last friday at Balsall common only thing of note was a single Redwing - are there still many about? Ive seen loads of fieldfares recently but not many redwing. A trip to Napton res. produced Cetti's warbler along the canal (must be resident there now) and a GBB gull (2CY i think) amongst many commons and Black heads. Nice to see a couple of Great crested grebes diplaying too - good for some photos?....

I'm off to Ireland this afternoon so wont be about for a couple of weeks, enjoy your migrant hunting!

Gareth

[KayD]

Alright folks

Ive been in Hants for a few days so sorry for the late news. Last friday at Balsall common only thing of note was a single Redwing - are there still many about? Ive seen loads of fieldfares recently but not many redwing. A trip to Napton res. produced Cetti's warbler along the canal (must be resident there now) and a GBB gull (2CY i think) amongst many commons and Black heads. Nice to see a couple of Great crested grebes diplaying too - good for some photos?....

I'm off to Ireland this afternoon so wont be about for a couple of weeks, enjoy your migrant hunting!

Gareth


Enjoy Ireland Gareth. The birding over there is great but you're a bit late for St Patricks Day ;).

[Dave Hutton]

Not much about locally with no migrants at all on my local patch of Seeswood pool but singing male Blackcap on my morning walk with the dog along the old railway line by my house (Nuneaton) a Pr of Scaup on Shustoke y/day evening,whilst today in Whittleford C.P,Nuneaton 5 Water Rail,1 Chiffchaff singing & the very confiding Shoveler. A Lesser Spotted Woodpecker seen by (Colin Green) on Seeswood this morning

a few photos added inc 1 for JJ (i know how he loves his Lssr Redpolls) ;)

[jeff]

Whitacre Heath today, task force were in again to complete work on the hides etc, still a little bit to finish off on main pool hide.

The first singing chiffchaff of the year at WH (well for me anyway), Male Bramling present all day (female reported in the morning too), Siskin (3), Redpoll (6), Willow tit (2), Curlew (2), Shelduck (1)

[jeff]

Not much about locally with no migrants at all on my local patch of Seeswood pool but singing male Blackcap on my morning walk with the dog along the old railway line by my house (Nuneaton) a Pr of Scaup on Shustoke y/day evening,whilst today in Whittleford C.P,Nuneaton 5 Water Rail,1 Chiffchaff singing & the very confiding Shoveler. A Lesser Spotted Woodpecker seen by (Colin Green) on Seeswood this morning

a few photos added inc 1 for JJ (i know how he loves his Lssr Redpolls) ;)

Must be an escapee if it comes to the bread ;)

[draycotebirding]

Not much about locally with no migrants at all on my local patch of Seeswood pool but singing male Blackcap on my morning walk with the dog along the old railway line by my house (Nuneaton) a Pr of Scaup on Shustoke y/day evening,whilst today in Whittleford C.P,Nuneaton 5 Water Rail,1 Chiffchaff singing & the very confiding Shoveler. A Lesser Spotted Woodpecker seen by (Colin Green) on Seeswood this morning

a few photos added inc 1 for JJ (i know how he loves his Lssr Redpolls) ;)

The Common ones are ok too even if some people try to turn them into Arctic :-O:-O:-O

John

[draycotebirding]

Draycote (and Richard) does it again with another Kumlien's Gull this time an adult in the roost, also the 3rd winter Iceland Gull and 4 adult Summer Meds. :smoke:

John

[Dave Hutton]

Must be an escapee if it comes to the bread ;)

No Jeff,came in as a late eclipse & was very wary (3 months ago) just sweet talked it + the local Mute Swan keeps chasing it out of the water for some reason ;)

Nice one on the Kumlien's Gull !!! (I take it this might be the Bedfordshire bird?)

[draycotebirding]

No Jeff,came in as a late eclipse & was very wary (3 months ago) just sweet talked it + the local Mute Swan keeps chasing it out of the water for some reason ;)

Nice one one the Kumlien's Gull !!! (I take it this might be the Bedfordshire bird?)

Could be the Beds bird Dave but I didn't see it as still at work :-C in Leics, a mile away from Eyebrook and still not been to see the G W Teal :eek!:

John

[Reader]

Well I have had a third Brambling visit me now. The new one was in the tree in front of my bedroom window this morning. Here are some photos of two of the birds.

John

[Dave Hutton]

still at work :-C in Leics, a mile away from Eyebrook and still not been to see the G W Teal :eek!:

John

Slack John,

Give yourself 5mins gotta be worth a year tick!! Yeah not warks but gotta be worth it!! :t:

[Duck_Pond]

John, I'll swap you a goldcrest for one of your brambling... I'm sure they're a bit easier to photograph! Nice shots, nonetheless.

Lesser woodies seem to be showing themselves, so to speak, at Bittell again. Might dash down there over the weekend, should we get a break from the snow and rain.

[paul goode]

I'll add some pics in a bit, when I have worked out what on earth is going on in Raw Therapee!

My thoughts exactly with that package! I use DPP quite happily.

Paul

[Duck_Pond]

Might get that loaded over the Easter break - see what it's like. Also need to try the bodged RS version from Keith, to see if that works with the 40D images... that is, when the weather is suitable for creating any!

[senatore]

Yes Pete the weather looks as if it's going to be grim this holiday so as the sun was out yesterday morning I shot over to Brandon Marsh.I decided to give the hides a miss this time and concentrate on the woods and try and get a decent shot of a Goldcrest (My bogey bird).

Soon spotted a Water Rail on an island in the first lake to the left of the path leading to the Wright hide.It was in a showy mood and stayed in the open for a decent time.

My walk in the woods and along the paths revealed quite a few Chiffchaffs ( 7+), 25+ Sand Martins,2 Treecreepers,2 Nuthatches,a Grey Wagtail,3 Goldcrests,2 Lesser Redpolls,3 Cetti's Warblers,3 Common Buzzards,1 Kestrel,1 Sparrowhawk and the strange Barnacle Goose was on the golf course.

I failed hopelessly to get a shot of a Cetti's,the Goldcrests hopped around deep in the trees and bushes so I failed again to get a decent shot and the Chiffchaffs were high up in the trees so no decent shots there either.

Max.

[Duck_Pond]

An unusual pose from the goldie :t: I'm hoping to get some shots of the pair in my garden, over the Easter break, especially if some snow happens to settle...

[Reader]

Done

When are you going to collect. :-O:-O

John

John, I'll swap you a goldcrest for one of your brambling... I'm sure they're a bit easier to photograph! Nice shots, nonetheless.

Lesser woodies seem to be showing themselves, so to speak, at Bittell again. Might dash down there over the weekend, should we get a break from the snow and rain.

[jeff]

...and the strange Barnacle Goose was on the golf course.

Max.

What strange Barnacle goose?

http://www.brandonbirding.co.uk/gallery/2004/slides/20040426_barnacle.jpg

Or maybe you refer to:


Originally Posted by jeff
Emperor X Lesser-White fronted goose


Originally Posted by Max
Thanks Jeff.

Max.

[draycotebirding]

Slack John,

Give yourself 5mins gotta be worth a year tick!! Yeah not warks but gotta be worth it!! :t:

Yes a bit slack on the birding front but doing 12 hour days at mo |=o| hopefully get a chance tomorrow when we should be finished at a reasonable time :t:

John

[Barry Boswell]

Yes Pete the weather looks as if it's going to be grim this holiday so as the sun was out yesterday morning I shot over to Brandon Marsh.I decided to give the hides a miss this time and concentrate on the woods and try and get a decent shot of a Goldcrest (My bogey bird).

I failed hopelessly to get a shot of a Cetti's,the Goldcrests hopped around deep in the trees and bushes so I failed again to get a decent shot and the Chiffchaffs were high up in the trees so no decent shots there either.

Max.

Hi Max. Long time no see. Re goldcrests, I have a resident pair in my garden which for the last 3 weeks have given fantastic photo oportunities everytime we get a sunny morning. So if you (or anyone else) would like (almost) guaranteed photos you would be welcome to come over.

I am feeling a bit chuffed at the moment because one of the pictures I took of them just made photo of the week on Birdguides!!

2 pictures attached - more at

www.britishbirdphotographs.com/newimages/newimages.htm

Barry Boswell

[senatore]

Barry I am so jealous of your Goldcrest pics.After the holiday and when the weather gets better (It's a howling gale here this morning) I will take you up on your offer and come and see you.Congrats on the "Photo of the week".

Jeff.This is the Barnacle Goose I saw on the golf course.I called it strange because I've been told before that it's not right????

Max.

[jeff]

Looks like a Barnacle goose to me. It's a feral bird, but not strange, what did they say was wrong with it?

[Hippo]

Looks like a Barnacle goose to me. It's a feral bird, but not strange, what did they say was wrong with it?


It flashes at the golfers?;);):eek!:

[nigeldphoto]

It flashes at the golfers?;);):eek!:
and i heard the golfers were flashing at the goose lol.:t:

[jeff]

Online report:

Marsh Harrier, lunch time at Brandon Marsh today.

[jeff]

Popped over to Eyebrook today for the drake green-winged teal, bird was still present on Stoke dry side of the water.

[Steve Seal]

Shustoke early morning nothing much but nice Grey Wag in early sunlight, Whitacre had all the usuall stuff , fem Brambling still present but no sign of male in the 5 hrs i was there, Little Egret seen again from rail bridge , Little Owl by garden Centre on my way home also 2 Stonechats at Furnace end.
And yes another photo of the male Lesser at Whitacre (JOHN).8-P

Nice to see you again Nick ;)


:-O:-O:-O:-O:-O:-O:-O:-O:

[draycotebirding]

Popped over to Eyebrook today for the drake green-winged teal, bird was still present on Stoke dry side of the water.

Managed to take 5 mins out for a break and got it too :D

John

[Duck_Pond]

Were you lying down for the brambling shots, Steve? Very nice as ever... :t:

And congrats to Barry for his goldie pic :clap: Mine aren't so obliging, especially on a windy day like today.

[Steve Seal]

Managed to take 5 mins out for a break and got it too :D

John

Nice one JJ.
What sort of view do you get, is it a scope job.

[draycotebirding]

Nice one JJ.
What sort of view do you get, is it a scope job.

Depends where it is Steve, it was a scope job when I was there and did not take mine to work but luckily saw someone I knew fron Leics so borrowed his :t:

[nick the grief]

Shustoke early morning nothing much but nice Grey Wag in early sunlight, Whitacre had all the usuall stuff , fem Brambling still present but no sign of male in the 5 hrs i was there, Little Egret seen again from rail bridge , Little Owl by garden Centre on my way home also 2 Stonechats at Furnace end.
And yes another photo of the male Lesser at Whitacre (JOHN).8-P

Nice to see you again Nick ;)


Nice shots Steve:t: I like the wagtail.

It was a bit choppy on the Kingfisher hide pool and I thought that it was going to blow the hide off the legs at one point:eek!: and just to prove there are more than a few Redpolls and Bramblings at whitty ...

130933 130934 130935 130936

[Steve Seal]

Were you lying down for the brambling shots, Steve? Very nice as ever... :t:

And congrats to Barry for his goldie pic :clap: Mine aren't so obliging, especially on a windy day like today.

No just heavly cropped as usuall.

[jeff]

Depends where it is Steve, it was a scope job when I was there and did not take mine to work but luckily saw someone I knew fron Leics so borrowed his :t:

Scope job for me too as we were the other side of the pool, thought about driving round but a couple of people were walking the edge of the pool so i thought it would prob. fly, so didn't bother.

I was suprised how easy it was to pick out even in the choppy water, must have been easy if i found it ;)

[jeff]

Were you lying down for the brambling shots, Steve? Very nice as ever... :t:



The hide now has flaps at ground level, oops my mistake thats main pool hide (unless it's now finished ;) )

[jeff]

Any one been to see the Bustard in Glous? Do i park in the pub car park and walk?

[Steve Seal]

Any one been to see the Bustard in Glous? Do i park in the pub car park and walk?


If its anywhere near a Pub Pete will no.B (:B (:B (:

[nick the grief]

The hide now has flaps at ground level, oops my mistake thats main pool hide (unless it's now finished ;) )

Nope and it's bloody nippy round the ankles Jeff :-O:-O

[draycotebirding]

Scope job for me too as we were the other side of the pool, thought about driving round but a couple of people were walking the edge of the pool so i thought it would prob. fly, so didn't bother.

I was suprised how easy it was to pick out even in the choppy water, must have been easy if i found it ;)

Looks like a few Warks birders were at Eyebrook today as Dog was there early this morning too, I guess most of the others were at Whitacre trying to get those Redpolls :-O

[jeff]

Any one been to see the Bustard in Glous? Do i park in the pub car park and walk?

Cheers for the directions, i'll give it a try over Easter then :)

[Duck_Pond]

At 7:50am, sat in the car by the sailing centre at the Flashes, at Upton Warren... in a blizzard, I did wonder what on earth I was doing...

However, it did brighten up eventually, and got to test out the new camera, and praise the auto ISO function. Certainly saves a heck of a lot of faffing about every few secs when the sun disappears behind a cloud, only to come out again seconds later.

Between there and the Moors, I managed to see the avocets, redpolls, siskins, little ringed plover, gs woodpecker, a wren, shelducks, a water rail and the usual array of woodland birds, including bullfinches. I think I missed the brambling by about 10 mins...

[Dean Powell]

Hi Pete,

Some nice shots there. How are you finding the new camera and what lens are you using?

Dean:t:

[Duck_Pond]

Cheers Dean, the lens is the Canon 100-400mm.

The new camera is a big improvement over the 350D, in terms of features, ease of use, and from what I can see so far, image quality (I don't have to do so much to the images on the pc to get them to look decent).

It is easier to control, with more logical operations, and having a larger buffer is very handy - was forever waiting for the "busy" message to disappear on the 350D.

Fingers crossed that we get a bit of snow overnight - might make for some pretty pictures tomorrow, in the garden!

[Dean Powell]

Hi Pete,

Thanks for the information. It will be interesting to see how you get on with the camera over the next few days and weeks and I'll keep an eye out for your photo's.

Its been a bit wild up here in the Staffordshire Moorlands today with wind, hail and snow. Its very cold and windy tonight. If there is snow on the hills overnight I will go and take some landscape shots. The nearest hill to where I live is Ipstones Edge (1000 ft) only about 3 miles away and I can see it from here. If it has snow on it I will go up there and maybe further into the moorlands area with my camera.

Cheers

Dean

[Duck_Pond]

I'm house bound tomorrow morning, as the blind man is coming round... cue nun jokes ;)

If you get any good scenic shots, you'll have to share them with us on here.

Was nice today, to see the buds on the branches and some blossom too. Spring might be about to arrive... just wish someone would tell the bl**dy weather!

[Dean Powell]

Hi Pete,

Spring did arrive here but winter has returned:eek!: Climate Change happens on a regular basis up here:-O no matter how much recycling we do, how green we wish to be or how much we hope to reduce our carbon footprint. We have global warming and global chilling here.

Dean:t:

PS: I'll see how I get on with the photo's and I hope I will be able to hold the camera steady!!!!!!! in this wind which could be even stronger on higher ground.

[senatore]

Looks like a Barnacle goose to me. It's a feral bird, but not strange, what did they say was wrong with it?

Hi Jeff.I thought it was an OK Barnacle Goose but the two birders I spoke to when taking the shots said it was a hybrid.

Max.

[The Octagon]

Hello from a new forum member and someone fairly new to birding -- ignorant but eager.

I visited Brandon Marsh for the first time yesterday, and, not being a member of the Warwickshire Wildlife Trust, paid my £2.50 to access the reserve. I had a great time there and intend to return soon. There was a notice on the gate saying that on Good Friday the reserve would close at 3 pm, so I made my departure five minutes before the hour, fearful of getting locked in and being forced to spend the night curled up in the corner of a bird hide. As I was leaving, however, I saw several people arriving and entering the reserve. Were these WWT members with keys/lock combinations, who were free to visit the reserve out of hours? I think I read something about combination-lock access at the gate near the road, but I don't understand how, even if you were able to take your car beyond the gate and park in the car park, you could access the reserve itself out of hours, as the only access to it seemed to be via the reception/shop/cafe building, which would surely be locked to everyone at night. Is there a member's-only gate that bypasses reception? The reason for all of these questions is that I am considering becoming a WWT member (the £24 membership fee seems to be good value for a year's free access to all of the trust's reserves) and I like the idea of popping in for an hour or two after work on summer nights, if that is one of the benefits of membership.

[Steve Seal]

A bit of fun this afternoon trying to photograph a Little Gull (1w) in very strong winds and a Snow storm at Coton . Also their 15 Sand Martins, Merlin seen twice, oystercatcher and Little Egret.
A few record shots posted below.;)

[Duck_Pond]

See, that's actually an interesting-looking gull, with those wing patterns... :t:

I spent the day dancing around my fir tree, getting closer and closer to the 3 goldcrests that feed in it. I'm pretty chuffed with some of the pics too, and may post a few later, if I get any done by then!

Got so close to one, as it preened, that I could have picked it up. So cute!


Octagon - if you join the Warks Wildlife Trust, you will get a membership pack containing details of how to gain entry to their sites out of hours. You also, obviously don't have to pay to enter. Well worth doing.