Crossed the county border today and did some birding in Shropshire. Parked the car in the village of Worfield (near Bridgnorth) and set off to walk the local lanes, literally not knowing where I was going. I love that sort of thing, there's something about going where you haven't been before that gives an air of excitement to birding.
Added four new species to my year list. First off is a common enough bird, just that there aren't any in my immediate area where I have birded previously - the rook. A couple of rookeries today, one on the Wolverhampton - Bridgnorth road itself, the other on the edge of Worfield. Lovely noise all those birds chattering away, but I guess if you aren't into birds and you like your absolute piece and quiet, it could get on your nerves.
Spotted four red legged partridge in a field. Didn't get a prolonged view as they saw me before I saw them and so they were off pretty quickly.
A group of c.20 small birds briefly spotted in a field. Identified a couple of skylark amongst them. There may have been more, I couldn't say what the make-up of the flock was, just identified the two birds before the rest disappeared.
Fourth new bird, and the highlight of the day was a little owl. Walking a lane I spotted a small farm pool beyond the hedge. Straining against a tree to try and get a good look, I was totally taken back to see a little owl fly from the tree and head towards a nearby farm. I tried to track it down again but with no joy.
In the corner of a field with a small set-aside patch, watched a flock of c.30 tree sparrow as they flew from the crop into the hedge and back again. Impossible to watch whilst in the crop itself, but very good views when in the hedgerow.
Just one yellowhammer spotted - in a hedge. It was a lovely contrast against the drab surroundings. Had an excellent view before it finally flew off out of sight.
Numbers-wise, largest flock of birds seen today was a group of wood pigeon, with an estimated 250 birds. A well spread-out flock of fieldfare numbered about 20.
3.5 hours - 31 species
Total for the year - 67