A mild start to the day at 10 degrees Celsius. A light mist, high cloud, then sunny and mild by day with a high of 16 degrees Celsius.
What a great start to the day with an hours static watch of several species of birds undertaking early morning movements overhead. Mostly common species were flying in various directions and there was always something to see, however, some notable species seen too. This visit was essentially a Thrush and Finch fest.
Redwings
Fieldfare
2 Blackbirds
5 Woodlark high south 0812
Long-tailed Tit
Blue Tit
Goldcrest
Siskin
Redpoll - numerous
1 Brambling over
Chaffinches
8 Crossbill 0800
Bullfinch
3 Yellowhammer
A number of Redwings (30+) departed a Holly tree which has been used by this species for years as a roost site. Fieldfares were also present. Thrush species then became a frequent site as they either passed over, or spent time high in trees.
It became apparent that a number of Redpolls were present, these were passing over in singles, or two's, however, the best count was of 20+ birds in scattered Birch trees within a large clearing in the forest. At the same time a flock of 50+ Redwings passed over.
A welcome addition to the days list of birds was a small flock of 8 Crossbills passing in front of me and calling (0800). Crossbills have been very scarce in recent years, therefore, this is a great record.
Whilst watching Thrushes and Finches, I thought I heard a calling Woodlark, then, a small flock of 5 Woodlarks passed high overhead in a southerly direction (0812).
One flock of Starlings (60+) passed over in a westerly heading.
Brambling, Bullfnch, Yellowhammer, Siskin - all "rare" bird to me down in the south of Spain. Having said that, first Fieldfare of the winter 1500metres up on the Sierra Loja along with a score of Ring Ouzel. Any sign yet of local Waxwing in readiness for my retunrn at the end of the month? Will it be another "special year" or am I to miss out yet again?
ReplyDeleteHi Bob, thanks very much for your post. Waxwings have certainly been seen up north in good numbers with smaller flocks in Norfolk. By the time you visit hopefully Waxwings will come to a Cotoneaster bush near you. A 'special year' it may be, I hope so for your sake Bob.
ReplyDelete