Linda Jay
Novice Birdwatcher
I have recently "adopted" as my local patch a 3/4 mile stretch of the Leeds/Liverpool canal in Maghull, Merseyside. I've often walked along there in the past, when I just wanted some fresh air and exercise, but since I started watching birds earlier this year, I now take the bins and see what I can see.
Regular sightings are the usual for canals, I suspect: Mallard by the score, Coot, Moorhen, Geese (none of which seem to be pure anything), a pair of Mute Swans, and a few assorted hybrid ducks. In the hedges and trees I also see Starling, Robin, Blackbird, House Sparrow, Great Tit, Blue Tit, Wren, Collared Dove, and Woodpigeon. There are also always a number of Black-headed Gulls about.
Yesterday afternoon, having about an hour free, and needing to clear out the cobwebs, I set off for the canal, not expecting to see anything new. I was delighted, however - and here you need to remember that I am but a beginner! - to see my first ever Grey Wagtail, and about a dozen Long-tailed Tits. Two lifers in an hour - I was thrilled! My life list is so short thus far that I'm not going to mention a number, but those two have certainly helped!
That was an hour well spent - not only did I fill my lungs with fresh air and clear my head, but the birds really lifted my spirits.
Regular sightings are the usual for canals, I suspect: Mallard by the score, Coot, Moorhen, Geese (none of which seem to be pure anything), a pair of Mute Swans, and a few assorted hybrid ducks. In the hedges and trees I also see Starling, Robin, Blackbird, House Sparrow, Great Tit, Blue Tit, Wren, Collared Dove, and Woodpigeon. There are also always a number of Black-headed Gulls about.
Yesterday afternoon, having about an hour free, and needing to clear out the cobwebs, I set off for the canal, not expecting to see anything new. I was delighted, however - and here you need to remember that I am but a beginner! - to see my first ever Grey Wagtail, and about a dozen Long-tailed Tits. Two lifers in an hour - I was thrilled! My life list is so short thus far that I'm not going to mention a number, but those two have certainly helped!
That was an hour well spent - not only did I fill my lungs with fresh air and clear my head, but the birds really lifted my spirits.