A Tale of 2 Halves

Gull time

2012-01-26T19:16:00.003Z

Winter has set in and with it comes the annual 'turn our attention' to gulls exercise. Recent visits to Richmond Bank have been rewarding with decent numbers of Yellow-legged Gulls and Iceland Gulls, but my mission to find a Caspian Gull goes on! Yesterday decided on an afternoon visit to Moore NR. A 2w Iceland Gull was picked out immediately on Pumphouse pool and a quick drive up to Arpley tip produced 15,000+ gulls though viewing leaves a lot to be desired. With that i turned my attention to Birchwood pool first i picked out what i presume to be a leucistic Herring Gull, to the untrained eye it could have been mistaken for an Iceland Gull. 1w Kumlien's did cross my mind but i just think it looks Herring, don't they all! A surprising chat next with Geoff Atherton and wife, surprising as Geoff lives on Foula.

Next a very nice 3w Iceland Gull showed well.

Then a strange gull? 1w plumage but the bill pattern and pale eye suggested an older bird?

Our poxy attempts to see Iceland Gulls pale into insignificance when i see what is on isle at the moment. Check it out here.

Happy New Year

2012-01-03T12:10:00.002Z

I will do a review of 2011, when i can be bothered!
Decided on a trip over to Norfolk yesterday for the Western Sandpipier. Early at Cley and in the hide to be told "its just flown off" typical. Thankfully it wasn't long before it was picked out with the Dunlin. Unfortunately it failed to come close enough for any decent photos. A trip to Buckenham/Cantley was pointless. No Black Brant at Well's. Titchwell hosted a Mealy Redpoll and the putative Coue's Arctic, though i have my doubts and being honest if i was seeing this bird on Shetland in the autumn it would also be a Mealy. but what do i know. I am thinking of doing a Redpoll post and trawling through my Shetland Mealy shots for comparison? We shall see.

Cracker Jack

2011-12-24T11:57:00.000Z

A very early start and Xmas present this morning. We set 4 nets in various wet areas around Woolston for Snipe and we were rewarded with a Jack Snipe, but no Common Snipe. We shall be setting nets all winter targeting Snipe so more successful forays in the future we hope.

Come to daddy

2011-11-20T12:43:00.000Z

My last twitch was for a Greenshank!! This one wasn't a Greenshank and was thankfully more productive. An early drive over to Hauxley NR, Northumberland, for the Greater Yellowlegs. As is so typical you set your stall out in the hide to be told its not there and it flew off just 5 minutes earlier, thankfully it relocated to Druridge Bay CP just a few miles down the road, fantastic views as it fed along the waters edge just a few metres away.

Whilst we were in the area we thought it rude not to have a look at the Black Redstart of eastern form on Holy Island. Again cracking views and a bird i was quite happy to sit and wait for. Cracking day but knackered now.

Just a bit of fun.

All the C's ?

2011-11-20T12:01:00.000Z

Its been a few weeks, or more since my last post. I suppose i should make more of an effort. Anyway whats been happening? Well City are stil top of the league, i didnt go for the Rubythroat! Worse still a GW Egret has now been resident on (shetland) patch for the best part of a month. But you cant win em all. Had some good sessions down at Woolston and caught my first Cetti's Warbler a few weeks ago and a second caught last week. Good news also i should hopefully have my 'C' permit come Autumn 2012, fingers crossed.

Rugby score

2011-10-23T20:38:00.000+01:00

Nuff said!

Home time

2011-10-13T15:35:00.002+01:00

The wind swung round to the east yesterday but still I struggled. Patch had nothing, a Blackcap was in the garden and Skaw had a Goldcrest and a Mealy Redpoll. Maybe spring will be better, if I get back!

Bloody twitchers

2011-10-11T19:11:00.001+01:00

The planned day off isle with Dougie went according to plan, with all target birds seen easily. South mainland was our destination as this seems to be the only part of Shetland with birds actually in it! First port of call was Quendale for the Buff-bellied Pipit, which gave decent views.

After the Pipit it was the Isabeline Shrike a mile or so away at Brake. A very approachable bird that gave exceptional views. Also at Brake were 2 Common Rosefinch and a Chiffchaff.

Next up was the very easy to see Citrine Wagtail at Fleck. Not quite were I would want to be hanging around though.

From Fleck it was off to Skellberry for the juv American Golden Plover, again quickly picked out in the roaming flock. A great days twitching and 4 decent year ticks.
Back on Whalsay and a message the Olive-backed Pipit is still at Skibberhoull, still couldn't bloody find it. Ah well.

Peg overhead

2011-10-10T18:40:00.001+01:00

5 brambling on patch this morning was a bloody poor show in between heavy showers, but I a dman sight better this afternoon with a patch lifer? The juv Peregrine thats been touring the isle for the last month gave great views overhead. Various sites on isle were checked but only produced low numbers of Thrushes. Bramblings are still visiting the garden with 2 making there way into the trap as well as a couple of Starlings. A day off isle tomorrow so I may actually see something!

Vis-Mig

2011-10-09T18:39:00.000+01:00

Not a great deal has been going on the last few days. YbW's seem to have all moved on and patch has hosted just 2 Blackcap and a Willow Warbler. At least a blast of E/SE wind yesterday seems to have got stuff moving, over a thousand thrushes moved through the isle in the space of 90 minutes this morning with Song Thush and Blackbird finding there way into the Heligoland. Bramblings were also noticable with 2 caught in the garden from a flock of 5 and 4 were around Brough. A Hawfinch appeared in the garden this afternoon, hopefully that too will find the food in the trap to good to resist? An OBP at Skibberhoull would have been very welcome if we could have relocated it, ah well always tomorrow.

Slow progress

2011-10-06T18:26:00.001+01:00

All or nothing, that is Birding in Shetland. Patch was recycling birds I think, 3 YbW, 5 Blackcap and a Willow Warbler. Still a YbW and Blackcap in the garden at Marrister, with another YbW at Isbiter, a Lesser Whitethroat at Hamister and 4 Chaffinch at Skibberhoull. Rock and roll.

Way up north

2011-10-05T21:17:00.000+01:00

The weather was crap but I met up with Dougie this morning and we headed to the far north of mainland. No great rares but plenty of scarce. Starting off at Isbister and flogging through the iris beds was hard work, but with 2 YbW's and 2 Jack Snipe it seemed worth it! A ringed YbW was present at Voe, Ronas Voe but from where? South Collafirth had a smart male Red-breasted Flycatcher and 2 YbW. Another 2 YbW at Orbister and a final stop at Islesburgh produced another YbW, Pied Flycatcher, Chaffinch and a Lesser Whitethroat of probable eastern origin. A hard day but well worth the effort. Back on isle and no sign of the Ortolan Bunting from yesterday.

If only?

2011-10-04T22:30:00.001+01:00

After yesterday's near washout it was nice to get back out this morning and it wasn't long before bird of the day was discovered? A smart Ortolan Bunting showed fairly well throughout the day just next to the house at Marrister.
Although it looked long tailed in flight and slightly grey headed and seems to show a straight culmen in the photos, we couldn't make it into a Grey-necked Bunting. Also of note today was a YbW and 2 Blackcap In the garden. On patch 2 YbW was as good as it got. Skaw had a Pied Flycatcher and 2 Blackcap with one caught in the Heligoland. All in all not a bad day, off with Dougie up north tomorrow. Fingers crossed.

Not great but OK

2011-10-02T22:18:00.001+01:00

An early(ish) start this am and a good thrash of Brough. Yellow-browed Warbler numbers were reduced, but only to 7. 3 Chiffchaff, 2 Blackcap and a Goldcrest made up the numbers for a rather disappointing showing. A very pale Wheatear which will probably be a northern was also noted though was flighty. On first appearances it was sandy brown, rather leggy and very upright with a pale supercillium. But the more I persued the more convinced I became it was just a northern, photos were taken and deleted apart from a flight shot showing a broad black band at the tip of the tail and slightly concolorous wings? I don't seem to be able to post photos from an iPad so will do so when I return south, aswell as recovering the deleted images. Elsewhere on isle were 1 YbW, Whinchat and Spotted Flycatcher at Skaw and single YbW's at Sandwick and Saltness. Weather forecast doesn't look to favourable for the coming week but they may be wrong.

How many?

2011-10-01T21:48:00.001+01:00

Well, after an uneventful journey on the Northlink I arrived back in Shetland this morning and was gratefully collected by my host Dr Marshall. 30 minutes later we were scanning crop fields around the Hillwell/Brake area in the hope of connecting with one of the Pallid Harriers. It wasn't too long before I found the oiled bird sat on a fence post which gave half decent scope views, a side bonus was 2 Little Buntings also up at Brake. With a successful twitch over we headed for Whalsay and more importantly my patch. Whilst getting ready to go out a Yellow-browed Warbler was showing well in the garden, this seemed to set a precedent? Around Brough there were no fewer than 8 YbW, aswell as 2 Blackcap and 2 Chiffchaff. Isbister hosted 4 YbW and singles of Garden Warbler, Blackcap and Goldcrest. The main attention was up at Skaw with 5 YbW trapped and ringed in the plantation and another up at roadside, add that to 1 more at Hamister and without trying we had 20 different YbW in half a day. Bird of the day may have got away? a probable OBP in the plantation that we never got a look at on the ground, the call was right but that was all we had, it may go to roost in the plantation tomorrow will tell. Oh yes and Dr Marshall had a Little Bunting at Marrister also. Not bad for my first day just a shame John Lowrie has to go off fishing, sorry pal will have to enjoy the biggie without you!

Disappointment ?

2011-09-10T12:08:00.000+01:00

Managed the Swallow roost down at Woolston last night, 51 and a Sand Martin. No setting up due to the forecast high winds and rain, that didn't arrive this morning. To make matters worse the planned ringing course i was attending at Spurn from tomorrow til Thursday has been cancelled, due to (you guessed it) the high winds and rain that have been forecast. I know it is best to take necessary measures i just hope the forecasters are not wrong. Ah well Shetland in a few weeks.

Full time

2011-08-15T13:44:00.066+01:00

After a few too many Cornish Rattler last night it was time to pack up with a slightly sore head this morning. With the tents tucked away it was off to the 'old town cafe' for breakfast, something we have sorely missed the last couple of days. Whilst tucking into our fry ups we were alerted to the sound of Bee-eater, sure enough hawking high in the sky was our target bird for the day. We watched as it disappeared over Peninnis Cue crap photo.

The rest of the day was spent mooching around the island getting lunch and buying presents. The trip back on the Scillonian was largely uneventful, lots of Manx Shearwater again, 1 maybe 2 Sooty's, a Balearic Shearwater close to Penzance and a possible pod of Orca's that i didn't see. Other than that a cracking trip spent in great company, apart from Black Shite! Cheers to Phil Woolen for doing all the driving, even with a knackered shoulder? Mark Payne & Matt Meehan for there constant sniping and general entertainment value. Great to meet Sussex birders Jake Everitt, Matt Eade and Land's End RSPB guy Chris Griffin. Massive thanks to Joe Pender, Bob Flood and Ash Fisher for there eyes, skill and expertise.

Tony the Tiger says "Great Shear's are Grrrreat" - Day 3

2011-08-14T18:44:00.046+01:00

Up early again to warm sunshine and very little wind. Good sunbathing weather, maybe not so good pelagic conditions? We steamed out and started to drift and chum, it was immediately noticeable the lack of birds in the fine weather. As we drifted a few shark lines were cast with 2 Blue Sharks being caught in the process. The first was just a baby, as for the second i think it was mum? A good 8 foot long and weighing in at approx 140lbs, more pleasing for me was the fact that i am claiming a co-landing participation as i held onto the rod whilst the guys wrestled with it. With bugger all happening, it was again decided to steam for yet again another trawler. This time the trawler had birds, and lots of them. First up was a very showy Sooty Shearwater that performed to the masses on board.

If we thought the Sooty was a treat a Great Shearwater joined us and gave spectacularly close prolonged views, at times too damn close.

With our boots well and truly filled it was time to head back to shore, along the way a pod of Common Dolphins performed there aqua acrobatics to gasps of oooh and aaah.

Another night in various pubs, a good Sunday roast and a pub quiz rounded off a fantastic day at sea.

When Baly met Saby! - Day 2

2011-08-13T18:41:00.001+01:00

After a quick recky to Co-op for lunch supplies it was back on the boat for the first of 2 all-day pelagics.With the Wilson's in the bag the atmosphere was relaxed, well it was amongst the chaps that got it. The weather was crap again but at least the sea state was a lot better. We headed out to Seven Stones and caught up with a Pomarine Skua on the way, upon reaching our destination it was very under whelming with very little happening so it was decided we should steam for a trawler some 90 minutes away! A good call as en route a Balearic Shearwater took a fancy to our chumming and gave great views.

Also along the way a Great Shearwater flew past, obviously on a mission and not even giving us a second glance. Best of all was an Adult Sabines Gull that cruised past heading for the now not so distant trawler.

Once at the trawler Bob Flood picked out a Great Shearwater, presumably the bird from earlier which gave decent views. A few Storm Petrels throughout the day but no Wilson's. Again it was off to the Scillonian club for beer and food. A great day out but unbeknown to us better was to come?

Yes, Prime Minister ? - Day 1

2011-08-12T17:35:00.070+01:00

After travelling through the night to Penzance and getting a couple of hours kip in a dark corner of Tesco (god knows how many hundred free spaces in the car park, yet when i wake a car has parked right next to us, with the car park still completely empty! Whats all that about?),we fed up in the local cafe and boarded the Scillonian, or the puke bucket as its affectionately known. The crossing over to St Mary's was largely uneventful with a Minke Whale putting in the usual brief show and lots of Manx Shearwater on offer. Once on Scilly we set camp at the Garrison and made some new acquaintances then headed off north for a look at the Woodchat Shrike, sure enough it showed well albeit distantly.

With the Shrike in the bag (figuratively speaking) it was off to town for grub ready for a short evenings pelagic on board the Sapphire. A ropey sea state to say the least, 2m swells coupled with light rain, bloody great. Fortunately the weather and sea we encountered were perfect conditions for Wilson's Storm Petrel, and it wasn't long before Bob Flood shouted the news i wanted "Wilson's". For the next 30-40 minutes we were treated to some fantastic views at close range too. Unfortunately my camera skills weren't up to much and all my settings seemed wrong. But you can tell what it is.

Back on dry land it was off to the Scillonian Club for celebratory pints. Quality.

Just so you know?

2011-08-11T19:21:00.000+01:00

What have i done? Done some ringing, went to Wembley, Tatton flower Show and watched Batman Live at the M.E.N. Anyway there will definitely be an update early next week as I'm about to set off to the Isles of Scilly for 3 days. hopefully we will be catching up with Wilson's Storm Petrel and other goodies with all day pelagic's booked for Saturday and Sunday. Bon voyage.

Quality and Quantity

2011-07-17T16:19:00.000+01:00

As its been nearly 3 weeks since my last post and add to the fact its pissing it down, thought i better update on a busy time? With a combination of ringing at Hugh's and Woolston i managed to pass 1000 birds processed, not bad for 7 months ringing. Highlights being a ringing tick Collared Dove (which was in active wing moult) at Hugh's and a female Sparrowhawk (that got the better of Kieran for a minute or two) down at Woolston. Another highlight was getting the opportunity to ring Barn Owl chicks last Saturday with Andrew Duncalf.

Away from the birds its been equally as busy? Saturday before last i was treated to the Foo Fighters concert at the Milton Keynes Bowl. My 2nd time seeing the Foo's and they didn't disappoint, playing a jam packed set lasting some 2 1/2 hours, together with special guest appearances from Roger Taylor and Alice Cooper! Biffy Clyro where excellent as the support act. What a day.

As if the Foo's wasn't a treat enough i was invited down to Silverstone last Sunday for the British Grand Prix!! Fortunately a good friend is boss at Arden International Motorsport, a GP2 racing team headed up by non other than Christian Horner at Red Bull. My pass allowed full access to the GP2/3 paddock which was located in the old pits, getting me close to the action happening in the garages. As if that was good enough i manged to get a grid pass for the GP2 race, which meant not only accessing the grid before the start of the race but also watching the GP2 from inside the Red Bull garage. Once the race was over it was off to watch the main event, unfortunately Hamilton, Button or Di Resta couldn't provide a win but a thrilling spectacle non the less. Truly a day i will never forget.

Substitute.

2011-06-29T15:52:00.000+01:00

Work took me up north on Monday, though not quite north enough for my liking!
This was my opportunity to see the White-winged Scoter that's been lingering off Blackdog/Murcar, as i didn't twitch it due to my work visit. After setting off at 3:30 and arriving in Aberdeen at 9:30 we then found we couldn't actually start the job until Tuesday morning, which gave me all day to look at ducks. I made for Murcar golf club and set up station overlooking a sizable Scoter flock, obviously no White-winged (well not to my eyes anyhow) but an Adult and 1s drake Surf Scoter was very nice as well as my best views of Velvet Scoter. What i hadn't realised was that i wasn't in the correct attire when it rained, so i got well and truly soaked. So off to the B&B to change then back out late afternoon to try my luck from Blackdog. Again a drake Surf Scoter and this time the flock, considerably smaller was quite close in, again no sign of the White-winged and again i got bloody soaked! (mental note to self : must pack rain mac) To make matters worse a Black Scoter was then picked up later that evening, ah well always tomorrow.
Busy, busy, busy at work yesterday, finally getting finished just before 6pm. So back to the B&B, shower and change and back to Blackdog, this time in glorious sunshine (no mac needed). Of course you turn up to be told by birders on site "the Black Scoter's just flown down the coast" bloody typical. As birders moved off to Murcar i stood my ground with 3 others and sure enough the flock came back to there resting place off Blackdog. As the flock grew so did our chances of picking up the bird and after some 30 minutes scanning the flock it was picked out showing very well at a distance, much better views than the distant llanfairfechan bird. Quite a striking bird with an almost bull necked appearance and very round headed, also noted was a slight brownish wash to the chest and flanks. Most noticable was that it was virtualy impossible to pick out when the sun went in, it was even difficult to see the Velvet's. Very smart bird though and just a shame i am not a dab hand at digiscoping as the results would have been much better. No WW Scoter but some very nice year ticks.

Nice to see you to see you nice.

2011-06-19T19:56:00.000+01:00

A week working away in Watford and Milton Keynes came to an end on Thursday with the arrival of Dougie and his better half staying for a couple of days. With the ladies happy indoors we ventured out to Macclesfield Forest in the hope Dougie would get good views of the breeding Little Owls, the parents of last weeks young. After searching with no sign Dougie spotted one tucked up against the dry-stone dyke, never really allowing a close approach.

Friday morning and the ladies were off for some retail therapy at the Trafford Centre, which meant a day of birding. Not quite birding, myself, Dougie and Mike ended up on a farm i have acquired to check out the nesting Swallows. Just 2 nests occupied with 4 eggs in one and 5 in the other, Mike set a net in the barn and we caught a female. A visit in the next 10 days will be needed to hopefully ring the young. The afternoon was a walk around Lindow Common in Wilmslow with the slim hope of Lesser-spotted Woodpecker, no such luck. The evening was a cracking night out seeing the brilliant comedian Dylan Moran in Manchester washed down with a slap up meal, well kebab at Abduls in Fallowfield. Who said romance is dead!

An early start yesterday at Woolston (again), plenty of birds with the star bird being a juv Treecreeper.

Lots of action in the garden over the last few days, but most pleasing was the sight of Nuthatches back on the feeders. Its maybe been 5 years or more since the last ones see.

Aaaaah!

2011-06-12T17:22:00.000+01:00

Not really one for fluffy cute birds, but these 3 just cant help but fall into that category.

Thank god for Manx

2011-06-11T17:10:00.000+01:00

No sooner had i recovered from the (in total) 5 hours journey for the Robin i was back on the road heading for Point Lynas on Anglesey, in the hope of catching some Storm Petrels. A slight reservation was the fact i thought maybe it was a tad early to be trying, but nothing ventured and all that. We arrived around 10pm and set a net, whilst setting we inadvertently caught a pipistrelle bat. Anybody know what type? Once the net was in place we played the lure but to no avail. So, no sign of stormies but Manx Shearwaters were calling close offshore, so a quick tweak of the amp and a few minutes later we had caught a Manxie, awesome. We processed it and returned to the net to find another, excellent 2 in the space of 25 minutes. Unfortunately that was our lot but a fabulous catch all the same, even if they are are on the vicious side! During the late night/early morning lull we got a surprise when a Quail gave a quick blast of song. With that we packed up and left at 2.30am arriving at Woolston 4.45am where i put in a shift. I must be mad.

Back for Seconds

2011-06-10T16:47:00.000+01:00

With no work today decided to head back over to Hartlepool headland for the White-throated Robin. Positive news from site until an hour from the bird, bloody typical. So with (still) no sign i parked up and took a look around the outer bowling green and surrounding cover. With what seemed like 30 or so bodies on site nobody was checking here instead concentrating on the inner green! Having checked the small scrub near the play park i bumped into Martin Garner, we exchanged pleasantries and started to search, it was a quick search. As we wandered along the fence line Martin said "there it is" sure enough it was in front of us on the grass. Over the next 30 minutes it performed well mostly around the inner bowling green and was a welcome upgrade on the brief, congested views i had on Monday. Bumped into Pod back after his pelagic birding in Madeira who managed a photo of yours truly in fieldcraft mode? It didn't work.

The big Four-O

2011-06-07T20:16:00.000+01:00

Hit the big time on Saturday, the big 40! I don't feel any different, should i ? It seems to be a big deal to everyone else but me, maybe that's just me? Anyway, had a great day Saturday although i was maybe slightly worse for wear come the end of the day. Started super early (3.30am) down at Woolston opening all the nets we set up the night before and were catching almost immediately, the first Blackcap juvs were in abundance and an early fledged Reed Warbler also found its way into the mist nets. Another juv caught was this Willow Tit that we colour ringed.

The afternoon was spent snoozing, whilst Stacey (the wife) ran around like a blue arsed fly setting up the unbeknown to me gathering happening that evening? Before i knew it my mother, brothers with wives and kids, friends and neighbours gathered for drinks, food and a few games of cards. What they didn't get there mitts into was the amazing cake Stacey had made for me. The only thing that was missing from the party was all our friends from Shetland, you were deeply missed. Other than that it was a fabulous night with good spirits and copious amounts of alcohol consumed. Fuzzy head syndrome ensued Sunsday morning.

Joined old-man-Phil yesterday for the White-throated Robin, top bird but no photos! When it flew onto the blowing green the scrum was intense but the wait afterwards was good fun. Nice to see old friends for a chin wag.

Over the Top

2011-05-27T17:43:00.001+01:00

An update on the last 10 days. I was fortunate enough to have time to attend a session of Canon netting on Walney Island a week last Thursday, 2 nets were set and just over 100 waders were caught of 2 species Dunlin (4) and Ringed Plover. A lot of variation within the sexes although the female below didn't cause to many problems. A cracking day out, cant wait til the next one.

Managed to get Mike round to ring the chicks currently in the garden nest boxes. As has always been the case out of 6 boxes only 2 ever seem to get used, with Great Tits occupying a Sparrow box of which 9 chicks (pullus) were rung and Blue Tits having a more traditional box with 4 chicks rung. Now fully fledged hopefully i will see them returning to the garden. More chicks rung with Prof David Norman at Delamere and down at Woolston, certainly getting my numbers up! Also at Woolston on Saturday were 2 new species to ring a Song Thrush and a Garden Warbler, which i had to think about when taking it from the bag, very different in the hand.

Now todays news. Got an early dart for the departed Least Sandpiper and Old Moor RSPB, should have gone yesterday but let frustration get in the way? If something could have made the day worthwhile it was the Short-eared Owl i watched for a couple of hours hunting and feeding 2 possibly 3 chicks up on Woodhead Pass.

Easy

2011-05-16T16:31:00.000+01:00

Wow, what a weekend. A slow but decent mornings ringing down at Woolston then it was time for the main event, the FA Cup final MCFC vs Stoke. As you all probably know City won 1-0 comfortably and held aloft the first of many trophies. Now for 3rd place in the Premier league.

Sunday was ringing Dippers with 3 adults caught at various locations. Also of note were 2 Little Owls occupying a box and sitting on 3 eggs.

The afternoon was a bit of local twitching. First up was the Buff-breasted Sandpiper co-found by Frank Duff at Frodsham Marsh. A distant bird feeding with Dunlin and Ringed Plover. First time i have seen one at some distance. Early evening i was off to Meols on the Wirral for the Broad-billed Sandpiper feeding with a roaming flock of Dunlin in their thousands. Again distant but a cracking local bird and only the second one i have seen.

No work today so decided to make the journey over to Conwy RSPB for the male Citrine Wagtail. Good but again distant views were had.
Time for a moan now ?
I know we are all of varying abilities in the whole birding scheme of things, but some of the folk there this morning were just cringe worthy and maybe a little homework would help.
One lady asked what type of Warbler it was .......?
One guy came into the Coffee Shop and asked if it was on show to which the reply was no, so he said if he could be told when it was on view then proceeded to get a pot of tea ......
Its behind the Curlew said 3 guys, sorry they are all Whimbrel .....
One lady asked if it was the black and white one ....?
A Citrus Wagtail ? asked a lady.
Lots of House Martins are collecting mud from the waters edge. One guy asks if they are Sand Martins to which i say no they are House Martins, so he asks me if I'm sure!
Oh dear.

How many ?

2011-05-13T20:58:00.001+01:00

Whilst out searching for a male Yellowhammer around Marrister i noticed this fine specimen out hunting in the sea. I managed to get myself into position when i saw him, i presume, emerge with this rather large fish. I then watched him for the next 30 minutes as he devoured his diner, at times no more than 6 feet away. Just me, an Otter and the sound of the sea. Does life get any better? I make no apologies for the amount of photos, i could have posted over a hundred!

If that wasn't enough there's a HD video to go with it as well. Enjoy.

Visiting migrant.

2011-05-11T17:17:00.000+01:00

I lived up to my blog description with a 5 day trip back up to Whalsay. Great to see friends again and equally great to be out birding on 'patch' again. The timing seemed to be a bit of a master stroke with a decent fall of common migrants. As is typical with Shetland the weather plays an integral part of the day ahead, one minute sunshine the rain coupled with high winds after virtually none, taxing is one word for it. Managed a patch lifer with Sand Martin (exciting or what) other than that good numbers of Willow Warbler, Tree Pipit, Whitethroat and Lesser Whitethroat a probable Bluethroat on patch disappeared and an immaculate male Brambling was very nice. 3 Ring Ouzel on the isle with a frustrating bird at Skaw that nearly flew into the mist net. Managed to get some ringing done with the pick being 4 Lesser Whitethroat and a smart male Redstart caught in the heligoland.

A flava Wagtail at the Houb on Monday need assigning to race if anybody can help. Is it just a Blue-headed flava or does it fit Blue-headed beema ? Helm's Pipits and Wagtails just leaves me head scratching.

Trio

2011-04-30T12:11:00.002+01:00

Back on duty at Woolston and again another very early start (these are starting to take their toll). With a stiff wind blowing the number of nets opened was reduced and that showed in the final catch totals with just 15 birds processed. But 2 Wood Pigeons and 3 new Grasshopper Warblers more than made up for it, most surprising was the amount of variability over the 3 Grasshopper Warblers caught.

Along for the ride

2011-04-29T15:57:00.005+01:00

My plan for the rest of the day was to have a look around Frodsham, call into Moore NR and pop into Marbury CP, non of that happened? I ended up being driven over to Lincolshire for the Collared Pratincole, which had flown off 5 minutes before we arrived. With the negative news we made our way to Tetney Locks for the 7 Dotterel (3f+4m) which showed well but distantly. Fortune looked upon us as within 10 minutes of arriving back at our first stop the Pratincole flew in, hawking over the roadside flood for about 20 minutes and seemingly impossible to photograph, for me anyhow. What should have been our departure home turned into a White-tailed Eagle hunt with a chap saying "i know where it is, it will be there" yeah ok! suffice to say it wasnt and i was taken home. Always a good day when you see a Pratincole, especially when you didnt plan to.

Lonely

2011-04-29T15:37:00.057+01:00

What with the royal wedding dominating not only the TV but also my wife's day i decided to escape to the welsh hills. A 5.30am departure and an hour later i was having excellent views of lekking Black Grouse, a dozen or more were seen throughout the morning. Next stop was a very obliging Dartford Warbler that has (unfortunately) set up a territory. Obliging is probably an understatement with it at times coming to close to photograph.

Heads up?

2011-04-27T15:31:00.019+01:00

An early finish from work meant a visit to Carr Wood in Bramhall for the male Wood Warbler that has set up territory. A very vocal bird that showed well 20' straight up! But occasionally it did come down to eye level, thank god.

On the Pull

2011-04-25T19:28:00.000+01:00

A good morning at Woolston on Saturday with an early start, yet again and for no reward, again. An early Magpie and Jay got the day off well and the first Sedge Warblers of the year were appearing in the nets with 7 caught in total. 3 Reed Warbler, 5 Whitethroat, 8 Blackcap and 2 Chiffchaff made up the warbler numbers with the usual fare making up the numbers. A fly over Swift was new for the year as was a singing Cuckoo and the Ring-necked Duck was on no.3.

Sunday morning i joined Hugh to check the various stages of the Dipper nesting. Fortunately 2 broods were ready for ringing with 2 nests of 4 pullus, all at varying stages of growth. We also managed to mist net ab unringed male which was colour ringed for the project.

For the third day running i was out early ringing with David Norman at Oxmoor NR, Runcorn. Not many birds to talk of but but a decent spread of species. 2 Grasshopper Warblers and 3 Willow Warblers were ringing ticks and a very feisty Jay was also processed.

White, Black, Red and Yellow

2011-04-22T19:38:00.001+01:00

After yesterdays Ring-necked Duck success i got news of an unringed White Stork that had roosted over at Fleetwood. So a 5.30 start had us heading down the M6-M55 to Fleetwood Marsh Nature Park on the Wyre Estuary. As things generally go the Stork had flown off and out of view so 10 minutes prior to our arrival, but it wasn't long before i relocated it out on the fresh marsh feeding in a creek, prolonged views ensued at a distance as it was constantly harassed by gulls and corvids. After a couple of hours it fortunately flew by close enough to grab some shots though the light was poor. Initial thoughts were that this bird was a 1w/juv, the white feathers appeared to have a brownish wash to them and the black flight feathers had a contrasting white trailing edge, although i was slightly puzzled as to the lack of black on its bill. Good to meet Chris Batty who has a set of photos that he is emailing to a White Stork expert! No ring, right age and looking very wild this has been a long time coming (although i have never twitched a real one). A good supporting cast was had with Whimbrel, Tree Pipit (over) and Wheatear.

From Fleetwod we made our way back via Pennington Flash for the 7 Black Terns on offer, very mobile and distant but my favorite tern all the same. On offer from the Horrock's hide were 2 LRP, 5 Comic Terns, Common Sandpiper and the story of a puzzling bird seen from the Bunting hide

The description from various sources was of a Goldfinch sized finch, brown with heavy streaks, a yellow breast and cap? Looking similar to Twite but not a Twite and a bill like a Warblers? The escaped cage bird theory was mooted as was the "was the black bib, yellow on the head and size like a redpoll" question, cant remember if that was answered or not. Best bet was to have a look, after a short wait the bird in question flew in to feed. Now i know now its an aberrant Lesser Redpoll but my 'eliminate the common stuff first senses' were not working and i went down the House Finch route? A phone call soon ended that and a quick look at my camera screen had me calling for a taxi! A very nice bird all the same i can only presume its colouration is due to its diet? Although this does seem to be an adult bird, will it have been this way since hatching? In which case could it be genetic?

Local Yank

2011-04-21T18:30:00.003+01:00

After a couple of days away working in Oxford it was nice to get back to news of a drake Ring-necked Duck at Woolston, quite possibly the bird that has been touring the northwest. A turn up and tick bird although quite distant it showed well, a nice walk with the family and a corus of Whitethroat song. Fingers crossed for Saturday.

Uncomfortable Sex ?

2011-04-17T18:53:00.002+01:00

Not quite you are expecting I'm afraid, though no doubt the title caught your attention. A enjoyable morning was had at Newsbrook Pool, nr Congleton ringing Mute Swans. 55 Swans presented themselves with just a handful needing to be rung, after a demonstration in swan capture and processing (made to look very easy) i gave it a go!

After enticing my juvenile female with bread i managed to grab and wrestle her to the ground binding the feet and wings.

Then applying a metal BTO ring to one leg and a plastic darvic (colour- code- combination)

Biometrics were taken including a skull length.

A test your strength technique was used for the weight.

Last and probably the most uncomfortable for both me and the poor swan was the sexing, thankfully no photos were taken. Sexing involved finger tips lots of pressure and a turning inside out technique?
Other than that it was a great experience with hopefully more sessions in the future.

Too early

2011-04-11T19:35:00.001+01:00

My early start Saturday (04.30) drew a blank unfortunately, note to self : check other bays! Warbler numbers are slowly increasing with my first female Blackcap caught and a few Chiffchaff, though no Willow Warblers. Back down to Woolston in the morning for hopefully Grasshopper Warbler, we did try on Saturday but drew a blank. Out yesterday morning 'Dippering', checking on nests and egg numbers. 2 birds caught on the nest were BTO ringed and colour ringed for future reference. Hopefully in 2-3 weeks we should have some young to ring. Totally un-bird related my neighbour called round with a frog so i gave it a lovely new home in our pond, probably one of ours anyway. Gave me an excuse to have a play with my new lens.

Some Shetland bird news now. John Lowrie found a smart looking Woodlark at Hamister yesterday. Not long now until my Spring return, can't wait.

Overlap

2011-04-08T17:09:00.000+01:00

Even though we are basking in glorious sunshine and temperatures are in the high teens (sorry you lot up in Shetland), i couldn't helping thinking if we had entered spring or if it was still winter? Wednesday early evening, we had finished diner and were sat in the conservatory having a cup of tea when i noticed birds in the garden oak tree. I grabbed my bins and to my amazement and undoubted joy there were no fewer than 30 Waxwing's presumably picking insects from the new growth. I rushed for my camera then faffed a bit, unfortunately something spooked the Wood Pigeons in the garden that in turn scattered the Waxwings and they flew onto the golf course and briefly settled there. I did manage a shot through the trees thankfully, so at least i have a memento of the occasion. To top off the evening 6 Swallows fly over.

Managed to get finished early today so at least i could mow the lawn for the first time this year. Whilst setting up i got a blast of song from a Blackcap,after the grass cutting exercise i managed to pin it down at the bottom of the garden showy very well indeed. Great Tits are busy nest building in the Sparrow nest box on the side of the office, in fact its the only bird that ever nested in it. Looks like an early start at Woolston in the morning with Kieran looking to do Snipe one last time, will let you know.

Taxi for Preston!

2011-03-29T21:59:00.000+01:00

An early finish so a long overdue trip to Moore NR, in the hope of catching up with the male Lesser-spotted Woodpecker. It was 2 years to the day the last one i saw here (2009 blog post) giving fabulous views in the spring sunshine. On arriving in its favoured area the omens were looking good as i could hear it calling though out of view, after a brief wait it flew in and gave excellent views for around an hour. Although most of the time this was the view you got, a poor woman next to me took god knows how many one-shots of its arse.

When it wasn't excavating its nest hole it posed just perfectly. Maybe next year Dougie?

Spring ring

2011-03-28T21:07:00.000+01:00

Back to Woolston on Saturday in the glorious sunshine. The first Chiffchaff's of the year were ringed and 4 moving Brambling were also processed. The potter traps were set as usual but failed to catch anything. Of 4 Great-spotted Woodpeckers we caught i managed to get lumbered (though i don't mind) with 3 of them and have the wounds to show for it.

A (sort of) planned trip to Suffolk on Sunday was aborted so i decided to join Mike around Macclesfield Forrest checking on Dipper nest's. This is a labour of love for Mike and Hugh who have been running this project for 5 years, with all birds caught bearing colour rings. A few unringed birds were observed including this female, unfortunately we didn't have any rings so hopefully we will catch up with her in a few weeks.

A day off today so the nets were put up in the garden. Not a great deal caught although the garden was the busiest its been for a while! Star bird was the presumably, returning garden Chiffchaff. Now that its sporting a nice shiny ring it will be easier to check on its return next spring. Also caught were 2 Dunnock, 2 Starling, Goldfinch and a retrapped Goldcrest. With the small catch i don't envisage many more garden sessions until the fledglings are about.

Magnifico Barca

2011-03-21T17:29:00.055Z

A break from anything bird related for my sons Christmas present? A 4 day break (fri-mon) in Barcelona with the main objective being a trip the Camp Nou and watching the best football team on the planet. The break didn't disappoint, the weather was excellent 20° every day, the food was good, the transport links within the city are the best i have ever experienced with a super reliable metro system, that's also bloody cheap. Saturday morning dawned and we made our way to the Camp Nou for the tour and to collect our tickets for the evenings match vs Getafe. An added bonus of visiting in the morning was the arrival of the squad for a training session with the obvious highlight being the appearance of current world footballer of the year Lionel Messi. It certainly made my sons day.

The evening was a great success with Barca winning 2-1 in front of 98,000 spectators, including a spectacular opening goal from Danni Alves.

Sunday was a day of sightseeing and no trip to Barcelona wouldn't be complete without a visit to Gaudi's masterpiece the Sagrada Famíllia. A truly breathtaking work of art.

I can foresee another visit there in the future with hopefully a visit to Madrid as well, though i doubt the wife will go watch the football.

Double Dose

2011-03-14T23:10:00.037Z

Thankfully all the coppicing and clearing is now done down at Woolston, just in time for the first Chiffchaffs to arrive. After last weeks Magpie success we set the potter again with the same result, a Moorhen will be along at some point surely! Other than that it was all the usual suspects. Monday dawned with a 4.15am start down to London for all of 30 minutes work. Fortunately i was back home for 12.30 and had asked Mike to come round and set up some nets in the garden, not really a great decision as the garden was very quiet in the strong spring sunshine. Although 4 Starlings are always worth catching (i think so anyway). Monday evening and i joined Mike down on the Wirral for a spot of wader ringing (cheers Kenny and Tony), this was a bit of a 'hit or miss' session but left happy having got a ringing tick processing 4 Redshank. Got home at 11pm well and truely shattered but well worth the effort.

Maggie Potter

2011-03-05T19:07:00.003Z

Not the early start of last week but a 6.30am roll call is still early for the majority of the population. With all the coppicing work now down we could relax a bit, or so we thought. A fire that i constructed in the week would not get going so it meant dragging endless branches to ditch and filling it. If that wasn't bad enough there were hardly any birds being caught. In total we managed a measly 14 of which 5 were retraps. Pick of the (small) bunch was a (6) adult Magpie caught in one of the potter traps that i myther to be set every week. Persistence pays off, even if it is only a Magpie.

Down at Woolston on Tuesday we got a retrap (5) Blue Tit with a retained juv greater covert that hadn't moulted within the sequence. Apparently not that uncommon but the first time i had come across this. Interesting all the same.

Accipiter rush

2011-02-28T21:58:00.002Z

No work today meant a half day over at Mikes, great decision. With 2 x 6m nets in the garden and a good flock of Siskins on the feeders it could only be good, and it was. By the time i left for home we had processed 18 Siskin, 2 Lesser Redpoll, 4 Blackbird, 2 Dunnock, Goldcrest, Chaffinch, Bullfinch and Blue Tit. Not bad in 5 hours. I left for home shortly after 1.30pm only to get a call from Mike some 45 minutes later asking would i like to return and ring a Male Sparrowhawk? 15 minutes later i was back getting to grips with i must say, a fairly small and sedate (8) adult . A real looker with its glowing orange eye that seemed transfixed to my every movement. Top quality end to a an already good day.

Dynamic Duo

2011-02-27T20:51:00.065Z

The early bird definitely does catch the worm! In my case at least? An Early Saturday morning start down at Woolston had me meeting Kieran at 5.15 and erecting 3 nets on the edge of No.3 bed with the hope of maybe catching some Snipe.With the nets in place and dawn breaking we sat in the hide overlooking the area with anticipation, with nothing happening we had a wander to another fringe of the bed further round but drew a blank. On return there was fortunately a Common Snipe sat very nicely in the middle shelf and as we approached the net a Jack Snipe got up from under our feet, skimmed the bottom shelf pocket and fortunately snagged and flipped back into the net. Result. A top Snipe double. I had the fortune of extracting and processing the Common Snipe while Hugh got a very nice ringing tick with the Jack. Other than the promising start it was very slow going but thankfully all the coppicing is now finished, just one hell of a fire to have now.

Back out this morning with a ringing demonstration over at Norton Priory. Unfortunately the weather was not on our side with constant drizzle and the odd heavy shower. 11 nets were erected and a small selection of woodland species were processed. regardless of the weather turned out to be good experience and was good to meet up with David Norman, John Elliot and Alan Garner.

No not no.73 !

2011-02-21T19:32:00.000Z

An early start in the rain and once in Chipping Norton i was surprised to only see 6 people stood outside no.41 The Leys, including the generally all round nice chap Martin Garner. I parked up and walked back up the road to be told Steve (no.41 resident) was going to open his dining room for viewing, excellent stuff. Sure enough after 10 minutes of hanging around in the cold we were invited in, to the warmth. A great selection around the feeders including Brambling, Siskin, Blackcap and Great Spotted Woodpecker. Then as if right on cue the Rufus Turtle Dove appeared, first coming to rest on the trellis and then on the lawn showing some 10 feet away. Crippling views were obtained just a shame i had to photograph through rain smeared glass on 2000 ISO. Massive thanks to Steve for being a real gem of a bloke.

With the Dove done we set off for Rainham and the Slaty-backed Gull via the American Wigeon on Rushy Common. Distant views were had as it swam on the open water with its cousins. Unfortunately Rainham wasn't as successful as the morning in Oxon though a good number of Yellow-legged Gulls were counted. Nice to see Rebecca Nason and her partner Phil, though maybe not over the noses of 3 rats scrounging along the bank of the Thames.

Best made plans and all that !

2011-02-20T20:19:00.000Z

A week of working in London and to damn busy to go for either of the mega rarities loitering just a matter of miles from the job. Fortunately tomorrow is a free day so the plan is hatched, whether it goes to the plan is another matter!
No Woolston this weekend due to the damp conditions but managed a day ringing in the garden on Friday and Hugh's today (got to keep the numbers up). Ringing ticks in the garden comprised of Starling (very nice and a selection of photos will follow) Coal Tit and Goldfinch. Hugh's was a finch fest with good numbers of Lesser Redpoll and Siskin, a lone Brambling, Bullfinch and a couple of Chaffinch. To date i stand at 234 processed and 102 extractions, not bad for a few months i think.

Gone to the Bank.

2011-02-11T17:30:00.001Z

An unexpected day off today so decided to spend it down at Richmond Bank. Most surprised to be the only one there today, though it does seem to have been well watched this week. Arrived just after 10.30 and put in a good 5 hour stint. No sooner was i set up a juv/1w Glaucous Gull was sat out in front of me. Next up was a 2w Iceland Gull followed later on by a 1w bird. 5 Yellow-legged Gulls were logged though the numbers were probably higher, and i couldn't confidently pick out a Caspian Gull although a small Herring/Caspian type was around for much of the day (my knowledge is very limited). As i was leaving Paul Wren was searching for the Glaucous Gull and thankfully picked out the only Med Gull i saw all day.

Not a load of bull

2011-02-02T16:04:00.000Z

For anybody who is interested in maybe trying to age birds in the field in simplified terms, i will post various points on the blog (if only just for you Dougie). Bullfinch are not exactly the easiest to start with but subtle differences can be seen. Apart from 4 old greater coverts the juv(5) male has retained the brown fringed carpal covert.

Whereas the bird below has moulted the old carpal covert and replaced it with the grey fringed carpal covert making this bird an adult(6).

It's a start

2011-01-31T20:50:00.000Z

With no work and fine weather Mike arrived at 9am armed with an assortment of nets for a session in the back garden. A slow but productive first effort followed with an obvious trial and error feel to the net placements. A (5)Robin took the accolade as first for the garden nets, closely followed by 2 (4m) House Sparrows.

2 (6) Blue Tits and another (4m) House Sparrow were next to be extracted and a (6m) Blackbird was the first of 2. A pair of Long-tailed Tits appeared on the suet balls and it wasn't long before they were caught up in the nets.

Another welcome (4f)House Sparrow and a rather nice (5m) Goldcrest that i had not seen for a few days thankfully came into the garden.

Out of 4 Wood Pigeons in the garden 2 bounced out of the net but 1 a 5 managed to find it self caught in the shelf. The 2nd (6m) Blackbird was the only bird to be caught in the lawn net, i think a different position next time. A (6) Dunnock was welcome and thankfully the one bird i had hoped for a (5m) Great Spotted Woodpecker was caught, i was happy as was the wife and even the neighbour.

That was a fitting conclusion to our first mist net session in the garden. 15 birds processed with a decent species spread. Birds missed were Jay, Magpie, Collared Dove, Chaffinch, Greenfinch and Great Tit, all feeding but managing to elude the nets, next time.

A touch of Thrush !

2011-01-30T20:23:00.000Z

Back down at Woolston yesterday with more coppicing work being done, at least all the back breaking work we are doing will be worth it come the spring. No surprises in the nets with but still some decent numbers with 23 processed and 9 extractions, by me that is not in total. Today was an opportunity to visit a private site in Great Warford run by Hugh Pulsford, a cracking little shelter belt dissecting some back gardens and a sports field. First catch was a success with 8 Fieldfares accepting the lure of apple halves on the ground. 7 female and a lone male was the tally. It was a good opportunity to compare the differences close up of the 2 sexes. The male bird with its darker crown feathers as compared to the more uniform grey of the female also the contrast in colouration of the breast and flanks, things that you rarely notice in the field.

5m Fieldfare.

5f Fieldfare.

A (5)Lesser Redpoll and (5f)Siskin were new birds for me to process and we ended with a decent haul of 13 processed and 8 extractions. With tomorrow looking like a free day (no work) Mike and I have decided to put up some nets in the garden, fingers crossed.

Waxing lyrical !

2011-01-22T18:59:00.000Z

Not been to much to report hence the non posting. Back ringing again at Woolston after a couple of weeks away due to the weather. Lots of coppicing again with a smattering of birds pulled from the obs nets, highlight this week was a (5) female Great Spotted Woodpecker that took a fondness to my hand? Whilst i was extracting her she decided to hammer my hand with the obvious result of broken skin and blood, at least it didn't hurt like the bite i got from a Blue Tit earlier that drew blood.
On the way home called in at Sainsbury's in Altrincham, not for food but for c.130 Waxwings that were giving rather splendid views, light was awful for photos but still managed a few keepers.

A Welcome Return

2011-01-03T17:43:00.000Z

Well that's 2010 over with, here's to 2011. A jam packed Christmas with lots of entertaining and not a lot of anything else. The Marshalls' came for Christmas diner which was very nice and friends from Whalsay (James & Zoe) visited yesterday with their new daughter Esme in tow! Also yesterday was a welcome return to the ringing at Woolston, although the numbers were low we managed to get on with some much needed coppicing in preparation for the spring nets. 6 Brambling including a stunning adult male (6m) and 2 Coal Tit were the highlight of the morning session. 2 Potter traps were set also in the hope of a Water Rail but no joy, hopefully more luck over the upcoming weeks.

Open wing of a (5) Coal Tit showing 3 old greater coverts.

2010 Review

2011-01-01T15:09:00.003Z

January.
A very slow start to 2010 with the first couple of weeks spent in Cheshire. Once home a very early Hawfinch was unexpected on patch and an overdue pair of Greenland Whitefronted Geese in front of the house. Off isle a Black-bellied dipper put in a good show around Scalloway, oh and there was a small matter of a patch yearlist with entries from Messrs Minton, Fray, Bell, Haywood and Harvey.

February.
As tradition should dictate a very slow month. A male Snow Bunting on the 3rd was a welcome patch tick and an Iceland Gull at Hamister proved to be the only one of 2010. Roll on March.

March.
An Egyptian Goose of unknown origin was a slight distraction from the weekly Tesco shop on the 2nd. A Little Gull on the 21st was a cracking patch lifer which eventually relocated to Hamister, thankfully for decent photos.

A fruitless trip to Yell for a Bearded Seal on the 23rd and Spring arrived on the 25th with the first migrants trickling through. The month ended with a cracking day out in the company of Brydon photographing Otters.

April.

No April fool here with a patch tick male Black Redstart on the 1st and i eventually caught up with the Bearded Seal on the 9th on my 3rd attempt.

Caught the Northern Lights show on the 11th and the migrants filtered through slowly adding to the patch yearlist.

May.

Hmm, May shouldn't be like this? Very slow going on isle so a seawatch at Wats-Ness at least provided some distraction 3 Pomarine Skua and a Manx Shearwater. A Long-eared Owl Showed well on patch on the 13th and a Wood Sandpiper was a good find down at the Houb on the 15th.

A trip down south with Dougie was put in place for the Oriental Pratincole down at Frampton Marsh. Also south was the Iberian Chiffchaff, Great Reed Warbler a Purple heron and the Ythan King Eider.

June.

Finally a month of quality? The first Icterine Warbler of the year was up at skaw on the 2nd. A Black Stork on Unst was to good a bird to miss on the 3rd and probably my bird of the year, an adult Long-tailed Skua seemingly on territory on the 4th around Burra.

A male Red-backed Shrike at Skaw on the 6th and a patch lifer Osprey over the Houb on the 11th.

Another trip south with Dougie was crap with just upgraded views of the Ythan King Eider to show.

My personal photo of the year was this pair of Red-throated Divers on isle on the 25th.

A singing Marsh Warbler also on the 25th and a pair of very showy Crossbill on the 29th up at Skaw.

July.

The summer lull. Distant Orcas from Toft on the 7th ended a very enjoyable day on Unst. Lots of Otters dominated and a trip back to Cheshire was just about it.

August.
Storm Petrel ringing on the 6th brilliant with 10 birds processed.

A Basking Shark just offshore on the 8th was a lifer and a local highlight. Good news on the 15th as i found out my Little Stint from last summer was actually an adult Semipalmated Sandpiper! Also a lifer. A visit to the Birdfair was very enjoyable in some brilliant company and a trip out on one of the local Pelagic boats was truly breathtaking on the 29th.

September.
The first 3 weeks were spent frustratingly in Cheshire, although i did manage to witness the annual Leach's Storm Petrel wreck on the Merseyside coast on the 15th.

Autumn migrants were very evident on my return home and a Red-flanked Bluetail caught up at Skaw on the 30th proved to be the pick of the lot.

October.

A patch lifer Richard's Pipit on the 2nd was brilliant but the Red-throated Pipit found whilst trying to relocate the former was better, my patch lifer for 2010.

A Red-breasted Flycatcher showed well on the 3rd hanging around for a few days. A trip off isle with Dougie was a good decision with Radde's Warbler at Sumburgh, Buff-bellied Pipit at Tangwick and a pair of tame Buff-breasted Sandpipers at Eshaness.

Another Radde's Warbler, this time on isle was at Skaw and a Corncrake was at Sandwick on the 8th.

A trip to Out Skerries on the 9th produced a Citrine Wagtail and a Little Gull at Laxo on the way home.

Personal highlight of 2010 was my photo of the Staine's Moor Brown Shrike being chosen for the front cover of the Rare birds in GB edition of British Birds.

November.
Caught up with the American Bittern on the 3rd down in Cornwall. A sad day on the 10th as we said farewell to Shetland moving back down to Cheshire. Though the Pied-billed Grebe at Hollinworth Lake numbed the pain on the 12th.

I also opened up a new chapter in my hobby as i applied to become a trainee ringer.

December.
Other than my near obsessiveness with ringing down at Woolston Eyes NR not a great deal of birding has happened oh and the fact i have been working! My patch yearlist ended on a quite respectable 113, not bad for a couple of square miles.
Well that's 2010, here's to a bird filled 2011.

Exposure

2010-12-11T17:33:00.000Z

Not such an early start this morning, the plan being we would converge on a Waxwing flock in Warrington in the hope of erecting a mist net and catching a few, or more. Up to 39 Waxwings were present but the area was extremely exposed and was prone to easy disturbance, with that in mind myself and Mike went off to Woolston NR to erect just 3 nets. Even with the decrease in nets we still managed a small selection to process, the pick being 3 Brambling and 2 Wood Pigeons. In total 39 birds were processed with 11 extractions, 13 ringed, 15 retraps and a Wood Pigeon that wasn't rung by me. News on the Waxwings was a net was erected and 2 were caught so it wasn't totally in vain, hopefully more attempts can be made over the coming weeks.

3m (bottom) + 3f (top)

Open wing of 3f with 2 old greater coverts.

Open tail of 3f showing pointed juvenile tail feathers.

Learn To Fly

2010-12-06T20:37:00.000Z

Sorry for my non posting. I feel i need to post with pictures but don't have any to share, hopefully that will all change. Not so much birding happening what with work and the freezing weather (not that its an excuse) though 23 Waxwings around Summerfields Estate, Wilmslow on Saturday were nice to see so close to home. It is now official, i have applied for my 'T' (trainee) ringing permit and will be busy pretty much every Saturday morning for the next 18 months. Only 3 of us on Saturday with myself, Mike Miles (my trainer) and Kieron Foster who's ringing site it is. The majority of my training will be done at Woolston Eyes NR, near Warrington, a lot more on this site in the future. Only 3 nets were put up on Saturday but we still managed a small selection to process. I will update with numbers, species and various photos (probably open wings, tails and heads, all the technical stuff) over the coming weeks and months. There is a lot to learn and enjoy i feel from this aspect of our hobby and am looking forward the day i get my 'C' permit. I must add that if was not for Dr Marshall i doubt very much i would have ventured down this path, so for that cheers.

Ring Ring

2010-11-20T20:53:00.000Z

An early start this morning (5.30) down at Woolston Eyes NR, helping to put the mist nets up. I have applied to become a trainee ringer so hopefully my enthusiasm will stand me in good stead? Time will tell. A good morning session with myself actively ringing birds for the first time. Highlight of the morning was a Cetti's Warbler, unfortunately not rung by me. Although i did ring Coal, Blue and Great Tit, Brambling, Chaffinch, Bullfinch and Reed Bunting, not a bad first selection. Hopefully next week will be good news and i can apply for my ringing licence.

Back For Good ?

2010-11-12T19:07:00.031Z

After a very smooth crossing on the Northlink it was the long drive south to Cheshire. A fortunate pit stop at Gretna services produced 7 Waxwings in the car park, good start. With not a great deal of light left in the day i decided to head for the Pied-billed Grebe at Hollingworth Lake today, cracking views as it swam in front of the hide, a larger stockier bird than i first anticipated. The light was poor so will return for better photos hopefully, at least you can tell what it is!

Never Can Say Goodbye

2010-11-10T17:43:00.000Z

The day that i didn't want to come unfortunately arrived today? For anybody that didn't know, our time in Shetland has come to an end and we are moving back to sunny Cheshire! We have had a wonderful 18 months, experiencing a way of life i never thought i would and making friends for life along the way. Going to miss lots of things from Shetland not least the birding, although it can be very frustrating the majority of the time, best to be left for Spring and Autumn. Fortunately i seem to have a bed all over Shetland which thankfully means i can still bird (my) patch. Going to miss my daily catch ups with the John Laurie and Dr Marshall,or Brian as he wants to be known. Dougie, Brydon, Steve, Rob and all the other guys cheers for all your help and assistance. Well not so much Dougie! In need of more like.

My Perfect Cousin

2010-11-06T16:39:00.000Z

A very cold day with rain, hail, sleet and snow. A quick check around patch produced a patch lifer? 2 Lesser Redpoll with the 8 Mealy Redpoll. We are used to getting good numbers of Mealy Redpoll through on passage, with the larger Greenland Redpoll through in the Autumn, but Lesser Redpoll remains a fairly scarce bird in any numbers in Shetland. Managed a couple of photos fortunately in the same pose which show the different plumages off quite nicely. Still no Waxwing though i shan't give up.

The Final Countdown

2010-11-05T16:25:00.000Z

Well after the best part of a month away it was back to what i enjoy best. Joined John Laurie this morning for a scour of the isle hoping for a Waxwing, no joy with just a very flighty Mealy Redpoll at Saltness on offer. After lunch decided to check Brough, slightly better here with 8 Mealy Redpoll, Chiffchaff and a male Brambling. At least i have managed some photos to go with my ramblings, more tomorrow i hope.

Back to Black

2010-11-04T20:12:00.000Z

Literally! It is seriously dark here. Just arrived back in Shetland after what seems like an eternity sat in airport lounges. Managed a day out in the company of Phil Woolen yesterday, American Bittern twitching. Fairly distant views were had as it mooched in a ditch and a brief flight view was as good as it got for us. Nice bird to see though at least it is now it's on a reserve and not being pestered. Hoping for Waxwings over the coming days, preferably in the garden? We shall see.

9 to 5

2010-10-25T22:56:00.001+01:00

No updates can only mean 1 thing? I'm working. I've still got another 10 days or so before I return north but I have managed to get out locally at least. Last weekend was a trip over to Martin Mere, thousands of pinkfeet are always good to see but not a great deal else. Weekend just gone was spent on Anglesey in the company of Dr & Mrs Marshall, a good days birding yesterday with obvious highlights being Glossy Ibis, Chough, Peregrine, Spotted Redshank and a Barn Owl on the way back last night. Bugger all photos taken so hopefully that's something I can rectify this weekend.

Paparazzi

2010-10-10T11:19:00.002+01:00

Finally got my copy of British Birds, the Rare birds in Great Britain 2009 edition. Front cover, the Brown Shrike in Surrey i took last year. How pleased am i, need a chufty badge now.

Little By Little

2010-10-09T21:05:00.000+01:00

Cracked under the pressure and headed off to Out Skerries very early this morning for yesterdays PG Tips. No sign, but that didn't come as a great surprise as last night was a 'count the stars' exercise. Also no sign of the Black-headed Bunting but the Citrine Wagtail was still in residence showing well briefly on the pool.

Managed to cadge a lift from Vidlin to Laxo off some visiting birders (cheers guys) and waiting for us was a cracking 1w Little Gull. That showed well, obviously.

Back home and quick whiz round Brough. The Rosefinch was still in-situ and an obvious increase in Goldcrest with 15+ seen. The rest was made up of 2 Dunnock, 2 Robin, Whinchat, 3 Blackcap and 4 Chiffchaff.

Peep Show

2010-10-08T23:28:00.000+01:00

Another day of sunshine, summers come late. Went out with much optimism this morning around patch especially as i had 2 Blackcap in the first garden, which rarely has anything. My optimism was short lived! It was fairly obvious not much if anything was new in. A Common Rosefinch was in with the finch flock, quite possibly the bird from weekend and that was pretty much it. Totals for Brough were 3 Blackcap, Redstart, 4 Goldcrest, Siskin, 3 Chiffchaff, Willow Warbler, Reed Bunting, Dunnock and a Robin.

Once patch was done i headed home to do some dreaded paperwork. Fortunately a call from Dr Marshall dragged me away, he had found a Radde's Warbler up at Skaw. Upon arrival it had typically gone missing but it wasn't long before we relocated it and were treated to incredible views, at times a matter of inches away. It was totally at ease with our following it around taking photos and generally admiring it. Cracking bird.

Another quick check of patch drew a blank so i decided to pay Sandwick a visit. First port of call the rig and the ditch, upon arriving at the ditch and willows i muttered that it would be nice if there was a RF Bluetail. Not quite that standard but i did manage to flush a Corncrake that scurried its way down the ditch probably never to be seen again. That rounded off what turned out to be a rather good day i'd say.

Bounce

2010-10-07T21:45:00.000+01:00

A beautiful autumn day with wall to wall sunshine and light southerly winds, far to nice for birding! An early check of patch was rewarded with a patch lifer? A Jack Snipe, a bird i have kicked up from various sites on isle just never on patch. The Red-breasted Flycatcher was still showing fantastically well on its favoured wall, but apart from that it was pretty much the same. A Chiffchaff, 5 Blackcap, 3 Goldcrest, 3 Siskin, 4 Whinchat, Dunnock and a Reed Bunting.

Drove over to Marrister to look for a Hawfinch which Dr Marshall had in his garden briefly, no sign but a Whinchat and a Reed Warbler made up for it. With not a great deal happening i plucked up the courage to go and do Isbister. A Common Rosefinch was found whilst looking for a Reed Bunting and a Carrion Crow was unexpected. A search of some crops had me kicking up yet another locustella. I got a uniform coloured bird in flight and it wasn't particularly small, so maybe just another gropper? With Dr Marshall off isle i had to leave it until he got home, fortunately it was only around an hour or so. We arrived and almost immediately flushed the bird from where i had left it, we got a couple more flight views and it was decided to erect the mist net. Twice we had the bird in the net and twice it wriggled free and on one occasion it ran under the bloody net. Dr Marshall managed a view of it scrabbling around on a rock and commented it appeared to have an unstreaked undertail, crap! Oh well, will be back for another look tomorrow and with any luck it will still be present, fingers crossed.

Looking East

2010-10-06T20:39:00.000+01:00

Its all gone quiet on patch with just a few migrants hanging on. The Red-breasted Flycatcher was performing well this afternoon and proved to be the bird of the day.Other birds around Brough consisted of Redstart, 3 Blackcap, 2 Robin, 6 Goldcrest, 2 Chiffchaff, 6 Siskin, 20+ Brambling and 20+ Chaffinch. The Buff-breasted Sandpiper was still associating with a few Golden Plover on the golf course up at Skaw even though i have yet to see the bird! On a positive note, the forecast for the weekend and beyond looks very interesting with due easterly winds forecast. Days with no lunch break i think, i hope.

Greased Lightning

2010-10-04T23:29:00.001+01:00

Decided to have a day off isle and was joined by Dougie for a bit of a tour. First up was Levenwick for the (organised!) search of the now re-identified Grasshopper Warbler. Lots of people went away more than happy i think with what they saw, which was a dark tailed, pale rumped locustella spanging from one bit of cover to the next. I think there is a danger of seeing what you want to see and being sucked in by other peoples opinions and comments. Lesson learned. Next up was Sumburgh farm for the very showy Radde's Warbler, if only all birds were this easy!

Passed by Virkie on the way back north and had the Great Grey Shrike fly over heading towards Toab. The plan from there was i was going back down to the locustella and Dougie was to look for the Swainson's Thrush, that was until a text came through informing us a Booted Warbler at Channerwick had been re-identified as a Syke's Warbler, so we headed there. Just as we had encountered earlier the Syke's was bombing from one bit of dense cover to the next. I did manage a brief view sat on a fence, so better than the gropper at least. Photos here. As happy as you can be i suppose we headed north to Eshaness. Thats where we went from the sublime to the ridiculous? First the very showy Buff-bellied Pipit at Tangwick.

Then the almost tame Buff-breasted Sandpipers out at the lighthouse. Also around the lighthouse were 130+ Snow Bunting passing through.

Colours

2010-10-03T18:10:00.009+01:00

A heavy night entertaining had me worse for wear this morning. Dougie and his better half were also over and he managed to drag me round patch with the hope we may relocate the Red-throated Pipit. No joy, but 4 Pinkfeet were the first of the autumn and Dr Marshall managed to find a Red-breasted Flycatcher in the infamous Bonelli's garden, must have been hung over as i only checked it an hour earlier. Also around Brough were Redstart, 5 Reed Bunting, Dunnock, 2 Chiffchaff, 3 Whinchat, 4 Blackcap, 11 Goldcrest, 20+ Brambling, 20+ Chaffinch and even more Song Thrushes.

Elsewhere on the isle, a Grasshopper Warbler at Skaw gave good views then did the decent thing and flew into the Heligoland trap and 6 Lapland Bunting were around the airstrip. Visiting birders had a Pectoral Sandpiper was with a roaming Golden Plover flock around Challister though we couldnt relocate it, maybe tomorrow.

Red Letter Day

2010-10-02T20:39:00.002+01:00

Thankfully the wild winds of yesterday were gone, to be replaced with warm autumn sunshine. A cracking day on patch with some quality thrown in for good measure. A phone call mid afternoon of a Crake/Rail sp seen in a neighbours garden had the team assembled for a look, unfortunately there was no sign. With that i decided i would check the tattie rig and was joined by Dr Marshall, no sooner had we started a large pipit sp flew over calling. Fortunately it didn't keep going and landed in view though to far for definitive views with bins. We were joined by John Laurie and made a search of the fields. We managed to relocate it but still distant views but managed to rattle off some flight shots, it looks like Richard's and the call fitted but if anybody has any opinions, feel free.

We informed visiting birders on the isle of the Pipit and were soon joined by them, again trying to relocate it. There was no joy in that, though we inadvertently found a stunning Adult Red-throated Pipit which more than made up for it. My 3rd patch lifer in 3 years, views were fairly distant as we watched feeding through the long grass. It was around for no more than 40 minutes then it flew off with 2 Meadow Pipits for company.

Also on patch though slightly overshadowed were the Common Rosefinch loitering with the finch/sparrow flock, 3 Reed Bunting, 2 Redstart, 2 Whinchat, Spotted flycatcher, 2 Swallow, 4 Robin, 10 Goldcrest, 5 Chiffchaff, 4 Blackcap, 30+ Brambling, 20+ Chaffinch and too many Song Thrushes to count. All bodes well for tomorrow.

Wind Beneath My Wings

2010-10-01T20:59:00.001+01:00

Quite a fitting post title i think. It is seriously wild up here at the moment, so birding was quite a challenge. Winds this evening are touching 70mph and it sounds like the roof is going to come off! As for the poor birds when they have been visible they have been buffeted around like bits of paper. But they forecast a much calmer day tomorrow, thank god. Patch was fairly productive without being too spectacular. A female Sparrowhawk was a patch year tick, a Yellow-browed Warbler was new as was a Wood Pigeon, a Sedge Warbler was in the iris beds in front of the house along with 1 of 2 Whinchat. Finch's ruled the numbers with 30+ Brambling, 10+ Chaffinch and 3 Siskin. The rest was made up of 5+ Goldcrest, 2 Chiffchaff, Spotted Flycatcher, Redstart, Dunnock and 2 Redwing. Most surprising sight was 2 Red Admirals around patch. A couple of Fieldlfare were the first of the autumn on isle other than that is was as you were.

Surprise, Surprise

2010-09-30T23:08:00.001+01:00

A semi lie in this morning considering the weather was crap outside, but i eventually got out just after 9. A check of the first gardens on patch produced a few Goldcrest and Bramblings then John Laurie arrived and we headed north. A check of the plantation first, hopefully for yesterdays locustella. Fortunately it was still present, though still very elusive. A call was made to Dr Marshall and he arrived to erect the mist net. For the next 90 minutes we drove the plantation for Goldcrest after Goldcrest, a Chiffchaff and a Blackbird. Then with the weather turning and the mist net becoming soggy we drove one last time. As we approached the net John Laurie made comment we had something, on asking what it was he calmly stated "its a bloody Bluetail" What!! Most surprising was that for over an hour we had no idea this bird was present, and the first time we saw it was it caught in the net. With the euphoria we decided one more time, thankfully the locustella decided enough was enough and was trapped. Unfortunately it turned out to be a bog standard Grasshopper Warbler, maybe the next one? Dr Marshall set about the process of ringing and description, then a few photos before it was released at the head of the plantation. Expecting the Bluetail to dive bomb for cover, it decided to fly straight out to sea and was lost in the sea fog that was surrounding Whalsay. Unfortunately for visiting birders they had a wasted journey, though they managed to find a Firecrest in the plantation which was seen again briefly. I suppose on that high the rest of the day was going to be somewhat anticlimactic, but there where still birds to be had. The Bluethroat was still in the tatties at Vaivoe. A Sedge Warbler was a patch tick and the rest of Brough was made up of 20+ Brambling, 5 Siskin, 10+ Chaffinch, 2 Chiffchaff, Garden Warbler, Blackcap, 8+ Goldcrest, Whinchat, 2 Redwing and 5+ Song Thrush. Tomorrow beckons.

In The Dark

2010-09-29T22:46:00.003+01:00

A pretty good day on isle, despite the weather being miserable. A dull damp start in near darkness was rewarded with what i initially recorded as a Short-eared Owl, in fact turned out to be a Long-eared Owl on photographical evidence. Easy mistake in the dark i suppose! Never took a photo on 6400 iso before, hope i don't have to take any more. As with the past couple of days new birds were arriving throughout the day, with exception to the Common Rosefinch which was still keeping its distance. Brough's totals today were 5+ Goldcrest, 3+ Song Thrush, 2 Whinchat, 6 Chaffinch, 2 Brambling, 5 Common Redpoll and 2 Chiffchaff.

Elsewhere on isle a yeartick Bluethroat was found by Dr Marshall at Vaivoe and only gave brief flight views. The Yellow-browed Warbler was still at Hamister with another at Saltness.

Skaw had much variety with a nice male Ring Ouzel, Lesser Whitethroat, Whitethroat, 2 Garden Warbler, Redstart, Blackcap, Willow Warbler, 2 Chiffchaff, 12+ Goldcrest, 10+ Song Thrush and a couple of Redwing. Most frustrating was the locustella found by John Laurie in the plantation, seen by all 3 of us either briefly in flight or scurrying across the ground. At least the weather is crap so with any luck it will be in there first thing. Fingers crossed.

Ticks

2010-09-28T18:18:00.000+01:00

The wind still blows from the SE but nothing really to shout about, yet. Patch was very poor with just a Blackcap being new, that was until a Common Rosefinch appeared from the cabbages above the tattie rig. A very flighty individual firstly being harassed by mipits then falling in with the local sparrows, but it was a patch year tick nonetheless. Decided to go north first and noticed John Laurie already walking the coast, so went around the top and dropped down at roadside. Whilst checking there, a Redpoll sp flew over, it called once and dropped into a geo. Noticeable was its apparent large size, very white belly and white rump. I called John Laurie and we searched with Dr Marshall joining in the hunt. A Redpoll sp flew over once but again disappeared. A Brambling was being harassed by Rock Pipits then a Common Redpoll appeared around the quarry, but this wasn't my bird. Ah well maybe it was, maybe it wasn't ? From Skaw we 3 checked around for very little. A Barred Warbler and Blackcap at Skibberhoull. A YB Warbler was still in the Hamister rig. My first Whinchat of the year and a Brambling were at Marrister. After lunch Dr Marshall joined me for a visit to Isbister. It was dead, well a couple of Goldcrest and a Redwing. With that we called it a day, that was until i noticed a YB Warbler lobbing around the shed next to Brough quarry. Thankfully another patch yeartick. Rain forecast tomorrow so maybe not so much looking ? We shall see.

Something

2010-09-27T21:52:00.001+01:00

More like a late summers day rather than autumn, brilliant sunshine and it was quite warm too. Thankfully none of yesterdays birds off isle materialised, so a full day on isle was had with some reward at least. Not a single migrant around Brough was slightly worrying considering the wind had now switched to the SE. So a trip to Skaw would surely kick start my day ? Only just, a single Goldcrest then a Song Thrush.

After luch picked up John Laurie for a check of the south. Another Goldcrest then 2 Yellow-browed Warblers around the Hamister rigs, with a Common Rosefinch later found by Dr Marshall. Other birds around the were 2 Garden Warbler, 2 Pied Flycatcher, Lesser Whitethroat, Blackcap and another Song Thrush. With plenty of decent birds now turning up in Shetland the next few days could be very interesting.

Decisions

2010-09-26T20:47:00.000+01:00

Again, out on patch first thing and a couple of new additions. The Blackcap was still mooching, a tailless Garden Warbler caused temporary confusion and a Redstart failed to come any closer. News on the Mainland of a Whites Thrush set the pulse racing but having friends for diner put a spanner in any plans, maybe tomorrow! And like a knife in the back the Pallas's Grasshopper Warbler has reappeared on Fair Isle. Problem now is do i make a move in the hope i can get there and back or leave it be and find one?

Hello.....

2010-09-25T21:27:00.001+01:00

..... from Whalsay. Finally made it home last night and wasted no time this morning getting out on patch first thing. Unfortunately the only migrant around was a female Blackcap but that didn't put a dampener on a fabulous day? The Whalsay U12 football team, for which my son plays won the football tournament held on the isle beating Delting 2-0 in a well contested final.

Running a close second to that was City humbling Chelsea 1-0.

SE winds forecast from tomorrow for the next week or so, hopefully. Only a matter of time!

I Get Wrecked

2010-09-17T21:17:00.001+01:00

Managed a couple of visits to the north Wirral coast for the annual Leach's Petrels. Unfortunately I couldn't get there Wednesday for the big count but yesterday produced fantastic views along the tide line, with some birds just a few feet away. Today's birds were all distant bar one, probably due to the drop in wind speed.

Called into Marbury CP on the way back for fabulous views of 5 juv Black Terns. Back home a week today and the forecast of SE winds midweek may be perfect timing? Fingers crossed.

Frustration

2010-09-14T20:13:00.000+01:00

To say I am frustrated at the moment is a massive understatement! Since my last post I have been summoned back to Manchester for work, the employee problem sorted itself out, unfortunately. Well at least I see a ray of light with my flight booked home for Friday week. I am sure regular followers will be aware of the birds Whalsay has been producing of late. A Western Bonelli's Warbler on patch is the most gripping, obviously. Ortolan Bunting on Sunday along with various common and scarce migrants around isle, I only wonder what has gone a miss? Been out a couple of times whilst south but not really got much to show for my efforts, save it all for next weekend, hopefully.

Gone Fishing

2010-08-31T21:56:00.004+01:00

Got the phone call i had been waiting for late Sunday afternoon? One of the local Pelagic boats, the Charisma (made famous by Gordon Buchanan on last years Autumn Watch) was heading out to sea later that evening and i was invited. All in the hope i could catch up with Killer Whales. We set off later that night and set course for Cape Wrath on the NW tip of Scotland. A smooth and uneventful voyage to our destination, which we reached just before lunch on Monday. Along the way some seawatching (obviously) was to be had from the comfort of my cabin (more like a suite). A few Manx Shearwaters and Storm Petrels whizzed by and a Minke Whale went by the window as i was on the phone to the wife. Once in the fishing area we searched along with sister ships Antares and the Zephyr. Typically whilst we searched it was blue skies and sunshine but, just after 3pm the Charisma shot her nets for a catch and the sky was grey, typical when you want to take photographs. First up was a Minke Whale breaching on the end of the net. Then Sooty and Manx Shearwater (10+ of each), plenty of Storm Petrels but always distant, 2 Arctic Skua, a Blue Fulmar and a juv Arctic Tern. But, unfortunately no Killer Whales, although i did receive a text from John Lowrie to say they had one pass them heading south. Problem was when i looked to see where they were, they were already 5 miles south of our position!

Sooty Shearwater

Manx Shearwater

Storm Petrel

Minke Whale

With a decent haul we made our way back to Lerwick. Around the Fair Isle mark the nets were cast again for cleaning and repair. 1 Sooty Shearwater appeared, a dozen or so Storm Petrels and a blue Fulmar nearly escaped detection. Then we were back, a cracking experience and one i hope to do again sometime soon. hopefully with some Killer Whales?

The Luck Of The Irish

2010-08-28T15:54:00.003+01:00

Wednesday 29th July 2009 - Low tide 11am High tide 5.15pm

With no migrants around patch the Houb seemed like as good a place as any to check, especially as i still needed Sanderling and Knot as patch ticks. A few visits were made throughout the day, but all that was on show was plenty of Redshank, Ringed Plover, Turnstone together with 8 Whimbrel and a dozen or so Dunlin. It was on on a check of the Houb mid afternoon i found a small pale 'peep' on the far side. Decent scope views were obtained but was to far for any photographs so i walked down the track to gain better views and get some photos. I maybe watched it feeding alone for 15-20 minutes before it flew off. I checked later that afternoon but unfortunately there was no sign. There was maybe a slight doubt at the time regarding my initial identification so printed off the photo montage below and consulted Dr Marshall. With all the relevant id books in front of us we checked it against various peeps but it seemed to fit Little Stint best. I sent the record into the Nature in Shetland website where it was also recorded as Little Stint, until now.

A 'peep' that caused discussion on its identification recently was the Semi-P at Port Carlisle present from the 28th July to 5th August. Initially identified as a probable Semi-P, its identity was called into question with Little Stint being mooted but as is generally the case better photos produced a more conclusive id and Semi-P was confirmed. Fortunately it was during the investigation process for the Cumbrian bird that my 'peeps' id was called into question? Whilst searching Google for images of Little Stint, Killian Mullarney came across the photos i had taken last year and immediately questioned its identity.

Hi Jason,
My reason for contacting you is to let you know that you probably found a much rarer bird on 29th July last year than you realise! This morning, while doing a search of Little Stint images using Google, I came across a couple of nice photographs of a bird you found last July. In short, it looks like a very convincing Semipalmated Sandpiper to me.

All the best,
Killian Mullarney

As you could probably guess i was slightly bemused and excited at the same time. I had missed out on a BB rare last year now Dusky Warbler is no longer considered? So was this my reward? I then received an email from Killian with some detailed explanations.

Hi Jason,

I attach a couple of your photos, with the more important ID features annonted.

The fine streaking on the underparts/flanks is something that i have never seen on Little Stint, but is characteristic of Semi-P (though not shown by all birds).

The capped appearance, without and light lateral crown stripes or pronounced dark 'ridge' in the centre, is characteristic of Semi-P. The comparatively dull upperparts and the subdued mantle stripes (even before any moult of mantle feathers has commenced) are also strong pointers to Semi-P (though contrary to what is stated in the literature, it is not unusual for Semi-P to have reasonably obvious light mantle stripes, especially in late summer when the lighter parts of these feathers have faded to white).

Cheers,

Killian

With these features pointed out i set about some investigations of my own. Searched plenty of images and came across this bird present last August in Northumberland, this was probably the closest i got to an identical match but couldn't find any Little Stint images that came close to my bird. I have had plenty of feedback regarding this bird it all seems to point towards Semi-P with further pro Semi-P features being noted and explained. I have had no previous experience with Semi-P so my knowledge was limited to nil before this came to light. Massive thanks and a free pints go to Killian Mullarney, without his sharp eye and vast experience this bird could have lived out its days on here as just another Little Stint. Unfortunately there is a down side to this also? Semi-P was a first for Whalsay and for no reason that i can explain i didn't contact Dr Marshall, John Lowrie or Jon Dunn? Sorry.

Plug it in

2010-08-27T19:57:00.000+01:00

After nearly 3 weeks away i finally made it home last night, thankfully (note to employers, don't employ people in precarious relationships?) A hectic work load south meant no birding, but a visit to the Birdfair on Saturday was a worthy day out. I was joined by Tom McKinney (cheers for the entrée libre) for a day of hedonistic birding guff! Met up with Brydon on site who was successfully marketing Shetland Nature to the masses. Managed to meet some rather nice folk along the way also? Martin Garner of Frontiers in Birding fame was sporting a rather snazzy Shetland Nature t-shirt as was Phil on the Rebecca Nason stand and a debt of gratitude was paid to Killian Mullarney, more about that later. Anyway no sooner am i back i am out on patch, hoping to play catch up on the past few weeks. That didn't quite happen though, a Willow Warbler and 5 Bar-tailed Godwits was about as good as it got.

Still Here

2010-08-21T22:22:00.000+01:00

Unfortunately still south but managed to get to the Birdfair today. Hopefully I will be home next weekend so will do an update with the various plugs and links when I return.

Mistaken I.D.

2010-08-15T15:10:00.001+01:00

Currently I am south (again), but will fully update this account when I return. It relates to a Little Stint I had briefly on patch late July 2009. Blog post Little Surprise. With massive thanks to Killian Mullarney my Little Stint has been upgraded to a Semipalmated Sandpiper. Not only is it a lifer, but my 2nd self found patch BB lifer in 2 years. The pressure is well and truely on for Autumn 2010, fingers crossed.

Big Fish

2010-08-08T18:08:00.002+01:00

Unfortunately the planned for Storm Petrel ringing session last night had to be cancelled, due to wind direction and strength. But a good night was had with Dougie and his better half nevertheless. An early dart for the duo this morning to partake in some kite surfing! But, if they would have hung around they may have caught up with the Basking Shark that was just offshore early this afternoon. Better in the flesh than in photos is an understatement, their size is breathtaking. It moved through heading north but obviously found the area to its liking as it was still present further offshore at 4.15. On the bird front waders still rule the day with a Common Sandpiper in with the pigs. Yesterday 5 Knot on the Houb were the highlight.

PM update: The Basking shark is still offshore last seen at 9.15 and has made a good addition to the house list. An Otter down on the kirk whilst scanning earlier was a nice distraction.

Trapped

2010-08-06T09:56:00.000+01:00

After my feeble singular Storm Petrel earlier in the week, last night presented its self as good conditions for another attempt. Fortunately Dr Marshall was also of the same thinking and decided to erect his 'stormie' net at the shore just down from the house. Started the iPod just after 11pm and it was only 10 minutes later that we had our first bird. We then set about catching 1 bird every 15 minutes, with the exception of 4 in the net all at once. We packed away at 1am with a grand total of 10 Storm Petrel processed, which i thought was OK. Hopefully if the conditions are favourable over the weekend we may give it another shot up at Skaw, fingers crossed.

Dolphin

2010-08-05T19:18:00.000+01:00

Still no birds to talk of, well not for me anyhow. A good check around the isle failed to produce a single migrant, but the day was saved courtesy of a pod of dolphins moving north off Isbister. I am not up to speed on my dolphin id but i think they were Risso's Dolphins with some others mixed in, maybe Common Dolphin? Hopefully someone with better knowledge than myself will be able to positively id them from the photos.

Delivering The Goods

2010-08-03T20:50:00.000+01:00

Day time birding isn't producing much at present, well for me anyhow. John Laurie gets back from a fortnights holiday and produces a Ruff up at Skaw. Glad someone is paying attention.

We Only Come Out At Night

2010-08-03T10:03:00.004+01:00

With still nothing happening during the day i turned my attentions to some evening birds? Storm Petrels to be exact. Tried this in 2008 with good results, in a 2 hour session had at least 6 birds over/around the garden. So at 11pm last night i set up the iPod and a lamp in the garden and waited. Blasting out the eerie sounds these little birds make, hoping for a reaction. Fortunately it did get a reaction and at 00.40 this morning a Storm Petrel appeared, it gave 3 sallies over the garden before disappearing from where it came. I gave it till 1am then packed up and went to bed, bearing the scars this morning of last nights midge feast. 1 more for the year list and a good one too as it puts me on 99.

Why ?

2010-07-31T19:47:00.000+01:00

Well, thankfully got back home this morning. Unfortunately its back to the summer of gloom as far as Shetland 2010 goes. Bloody typical that for a fortnight there has not been a bird of note in the UK, no sooner am i gone there's a Semi-P in Cumbria, a Lesser Yellowlegs at Inner Marsh Farm and a (possibly dodgy) Purple Gallinule near Chester. Oh well cant be to long until Shetland produces something of worth! A quick check of the Houb late afternoon. 3 Whimbrel including 1 juv, good numbers of Dunlin and Black-headed Gull's and a few Arctic Terns.

Whilst at the Houb took a look at the autumn vegetation. Below is the large tattie rig which produced last years Bluethroat's and Wryneck in 2008.

And the Houb Iris beds which i will have to check more thoroughly this year. Only been through them once so god knows what's gone unnoticed there?

The Update

2010-07-21T18:49:00.000+01:00

Work has dragged me back to Manchester, unfortunately. With regular updates from Dr Marshall at least I know I am not missing out on anything, yet.

Runaround

2010-07-13T23:03:00.000+01:00

Another glorious day with most of it spent indoors? When i did get out went and checked the Houb. 3 fairly showy Sanderling, a red Knot and most frustrating a possible Curlew Sandpiper that got up and couldn't be relocated .

An Otter showed well and came out right next to me then disappeared into the rocks.

Street Legal

2010-07-12T23:34:00.000+01:00

A few hours in Lerwick today making our modes of transport legal again! A trip to Tesco was rewarded with 5 vocal Crossbill overhead and a few Terns down at the Catch. Back home the excitement was caused by a Hummingbird Hawk Moth, unfortunately after an hour of being present around a bush it moved off before any of us could twitch it. Something different anyway.

Go West

2010-07-10T21:57:00.002+01:00

Our summer is still going, for how long god only knows. An unplanned day out with the family so we decided to pay Eshaness a visit, very pleasant when in the sunshine compared to getting blown around and wet during an autumn seawatch. No birds to talk of but an Otter at Mavis Grind showed well. I cant remember the last Otter i photographed, seems like an age.

Views from around Eshaness

Dore Holm

The Drongs

The Neap and the Runk

Patch news. A patch yeartick Bar-tailed Godwit yesterday at the Houb and 71+ Dunlin.

Where's Your Head At ?

2010-07-07T20:24:00.000+01:00

The title of the post will become apparent towards the end! Still feeling like summer, though a little breezy. Decided to join Dougie (last minute) for a photo jaunt on Unst, and well worth it it was. Everything played ball and showed exceptionally well. Our destination of choice doubled up with my first ever visit to Hermaness. Spectacular seabird colonies and jaw dropping scenery. Pride of place typically goes to the Puffins, nonchalantly wondering around the tourists with not a care in the world.

Away from the Puffins on the tops are the vast Gannet colonies on the cliffs. Not ideal for photography as you tend to look down on it all, but an opportunity to get some decent flight shots in interesting light.

Pretty much all over Hermaness are Bonxies, hundreds of them at that. Very vocal birds that allowed very close contact. Quite attractive brutes when there not trying to attack you......

......as Dougie found out, to my amusement.

A fabulous few hours on Unst was rounded off with a pod of 5 Killer Whales in Yell sound. Seen from the ferry but missed by me, i scanned the sound from Brough, near Toft and watched them for the best part of an hour. Always distant but good scope views. Hopefully some better shots coming this way courtesy of Brydon.