We decided to have a bit of a run around to pick up some of the most interesting birds to be reported in our locality. The first stop was Moor Green lakes to try for the Pallas' Warbler, initially put out as a Yellow-browed. We joined the crowd on a narrow path by the river to try for a glimpse of the warbler and managed a mix of moderate and poor views against the back drop of a sun that shone low in the sky.
As we made our way back the sky was clear and the temperature below freezing. On the lakes, we saw Pochard, Wigeon and Tufted ducks, amongst others. There was a single Goosander and a couple of Little Egrets.
Next we went to Ceasar's Camp, the remains of an Iron Age Fort, where a Lesser Spotted Woodpecker had been reported.
We saw very few birds and there was no sign of the LSW.
Next we set off for Staines Moor in the hopes of seeing the Short-eared Owls.
The water level was high. We had a couple of Water Pipits, including one that was seen as it foraged along the waterline from just across the river.
As the cloud front advanced, we saw at least three owls in their favoured area of the moor. If you look closely, you will be able to see the photographer that insisted in staying in their favoured area. He had to attempt to get closer and closer. At least one disappeared over the reservoir bank.
The last location on the agenda was Horton Gravel pits. The Buff-bellied Pipits were most obliging. The birds were seen close to some puddles were there were several Pied Wagtails.
The pipits are somewhere behind the largest puddle. We couldn't help wondering where the wagtails usually roost.
As we made our way back the sky was clear and the temperature below freezing. On the lakes, we saw Pochard, Wigeon and Tufted ducks, amongst others. There was a single Goosander and a couple of Little Egrets.
Next we went to Ceasar's Camp, the remains of an Iron Age Fort, where a Lesser Spotted Woodpecker had been reported.
We saw very few birds and there was no sign of the LSW.
Next we set off for Staines Moor in the hopes of seeing the Short-eared Owls.
The water level was high. We had a couple of Water Pipits, including one that was seen as it foraged along the waterline from just across the river.
As the cloud front advanced, we saw at least three owls in their favoured area of the moor. If you look closely, you will be able to see the photographer that insisted in staying in their favoured area. He had to attempt to get closer and closer. At least one disappeared over the reservoir bank.
The last location on the agenda was Horton Gravel pits. The Buff-bellied Pipits were most obliging. The birds were seen close to some puddles were there were several Pied Wagtails.
The pipits are somewhere behind the largest puddle. We couldn't help wondering where the wagtails usually roost.