Col's Digiscope Blog

Snowy Saltholme and Hartlepool

2012-02-05T23:10:00.004Z

A beautiful morning with fresh snow and frost with temperatures at -5. I went to Saltholme this morning and the first thing I saw was a Marsh Harrier flying low across the reeds and quickly followed by a Short Eared Owl.

On reaching Wildlife watchpoint there was a Water Rail going in and out of the reeds at times coming real close, there were also loads of teal around.

I had a walk around and found an Owl sat on a post, I managed a couple of shots before it started hunting again, then it landed on a bush really close, as soon as I moved the scope it was off again. I saw a fox hunting voles - leaping up and burying its snout in the snow.

Then it was off up to Hartlepool fish quay were there were Iceland, Glaucous and Kumleins gulls. This rounded off a super mornings bird watching - I like the cold weather!!

Goshawks, Owls and Shrike

2012-01-28T19:41:00.003Z

Had a ride up the dales today and saw 2 goshawks, sadly not displaying, but they looked really good in the early morning sun (undisclosed site). However there was a lot of shooting going on (rough shooting for pheasant). I decided to move on, somehow I overshot my house and ended up watching the Great Grey Shrike at Coatham Stob and there were at least 2 Short Eared Owls quartering the area. Met some friendly bird watchers from Yorkshire whilst there. All in all a good day and it was pleasant to be out in the frost and snow up the dales.

Black Redstart - Hartlepool

2012-01-11T20:08:00.004Z

As it was sunny I decided to pay another visit to see if the Black Redstart was still showing near Newburn Bridge in Hartlepool. I only had an hour to play with so I was glad to see some other birders were already on to it.

For digiscopers this is quite a difficult bird to photograph as it doesn't sit still for long and by the time I find it in the scope and focus, its up and off before I can get a photo, however I managed a few even though the sunlight disappeared.

Water Rail - Saltholme

2012-01-10T19:27:00.002Z

I went to South Gare initially in the hope of Snow Buntings or Merlin, but there was no sign of either, there weren't even any Divers on the sea, although it was low tide.

So I retreated back to RSPB Saltholme and was reward by the Water Rail showing off nicely in the sun. This is normally quite a reclusive bird so its good to get the opportunity get nice shots of it when it does show. I again had a few people enquiring and being impressed by the digiscope set up. (They don't see the shots that get binned lol).

Kingfisher and Bullfinch

2012-01-08T20:08:00.004Z

Spent a few hours at Clara Vale to try and get some Kingfisher pictures, (thanks for the reminder Susan - its about time I had some more pics of Kingfishers). I got there pretty much at first light, then spent 3 hours waiting for a Kingfisher to show, but it did show, for about 10 minutes and it caught 5 fish.

There was plenty of activity around the bird hide too with Great Spotted Woodpeckers, Treecreepers, a few Wrens, loads of Bullfinches, Siskins and all the usual tits. A Sparrowhawk whizzed passed the feeding station but didnt get anything. The light was not good and I made the error of upping my ISO setting on the camera (an old camera which doesnt handle higher ISO settings well), so pictures are a little grainy.

Divers, Goosanders and Mergansers

2012-01-02T19:54:00.006Z

Spent this morning photographing fishing ducks and divers at Hartlepool. There were 3 fem and 1 male Goosanders at Rossmere Park this morning and one of the females kept displaying to the male, who was more interested in doing his feathers than her.

Then I moved to the Pilot Pier to try and get closer to the Divers again, and there were loads of Red Throated and a single Black Throated Diver, and 1 Great Northern diver.

It was interesting to note that when a flock of 30 or so cormarants were group fishing towards the sea, that all of the divers decided to move further out to sea for awhile.

The Red Breasted Mergansers were near the Lifeboat Station, but were soon scared off by a boat going close past them.

A cold but enjoyable morning.

Hartlepool and Saltholme Dec 29th

2011-12-29T19:29:00.006Z

I tried for better photos of the divers at Hartlepool and managed slightly better. There is still a strong wind blowing - although not good for keeping the telescope still, I believe it is making the divers come closer into the harbour. There were also good numbers of Red Breasted Mergansers around.

I then went down to Saltholme and saw mainly Teal, Black Tailed Godwit and a nice drake Pintail Duck.

Black Redstart

2011-12-27T19:35:00.004Z

A couple more photos of the Black Redstart which is at Newburn Bridge area.

This is exactly the same place that 2 Black Redstarts turned up last winter, and a couple of people thought there was two there today although I only saw 1.

Hartlepool Headland Dec 27th

2011-12-27T19:18:00.004Z

Red Throated Diver (Left) Black Throated Diver (Right)

I decided today to make a concerted effort to see the Slavonian Grebe that is at Hartlepool Headland. As soon as I got there it was showing off the pilot pier and swimming towards the fish quay. After a while I moved up the beach to try and get closer viewsm, but typically it moved back towards the pier. Grebes are difficult to digiscope as it is only 20 -30 seconds between dives, not leaving much time to locate, focus, drop the camera down and take photos. Hence my poor pics - or that is my excuse.

There were also Great Northern, Red Throated and Black Throated Divers off the pier, at times providing quite close views.

Another bonus was the Black Redstart which was near Newburn Bridge, it was quite flighty but at times it posed nicely on the rocks below the sea wall.

A great day and some nice company.

Waxwing Dec 24th

2011-12-27T19:10:00.003Z

I went up to Jarrow to see the Waxwings, so far this year these have been the closest and largest flock to turn up. Its at least 4 years running the Waxwings have visited this site at Jarrow which is on a housing estate, and a it feels a little awkward taking photos there although I am sure the locals are used to it

There were about 80 Waxwings which would occaisionally come down from the tree tops to gorge on the berries, but when they did this it meant pointing the camera directly at someones house!! The light was poor apart from about 3 minutes when it got brighter and it was windy - not easy to digiscope in.

Great Northern Diver - Hartlepool

2011-12-18T19:57:00.004Z

Forgot to post this last week, this Great Northern Diver has been at Hartlepool for a few weeks now, however when I checked in at Jacksons Landing, the diver was in there, providing really close views - too close at times for my scope.

I also heard it call for the first time, which is weird, in wildlife films of Canada they always play the call of the GND, but to hear it in the centre of Hartlepool is strange.

Teesdale Black Grouse

2011-12-18T19:31:00.003Z

The Black Grouse were out in force today, I saw them at 3 different locations, 2 new to me. Included was a flock of about 40 birds flying over the moors high up in Teesdale, I wasn't sure what they were until I got the bins on them as I didn't expect such a big flock.

Plenty of snow up there too and -5 was the lowest I got today. The young males look strange as their plumage is changing from the mottled brown to the black.

Prestwick Carr Shrike and Owls

2011-12-01T20:46:00.003Z

This is getting to be a bit of an Owl blog at the moment!

Arrived at Prestwick Carr just before sunrise, and strolled down to where the owls are, loads of fieldfare in the bushes and trees and big flocks of Woodpigeon around. I arrived to find there were no owls on view, but I was rewarded with the Great Grey Shrike in the bushes in the lane. I just stood still and watched it fly up and down, waiting for the sun to come up. I am pleased I did because I got stunning views of it at close range, I watched it for about an hour and half, then the lane started to get busy and I lost sight of it eventually.

Then it was the turn of the Short Eared Owls, they spent a lot of time hunting rather than sitting today, until it rained and they went into hiding again. Super morning!

Bishop Middeham - More Short Eared Owls

2011-11-22T19:15:00.002Z

Had a walk to Castle Lake at Bishop Middleham this afternoon, I went to the hide first to see if I could locate where the owls were.

It was very misty and light levels were low so it took some seeing but eventually I located them about a mile away. So I went for a walk to get closer, when I got there I saw one sat on a fencepost about 120 yards away then 2 more flew over the rough grass and were interacting together - not sure if they were displaying or scrapping. I saw a total of 5 all at once. Didnt really try to get closer as I think they would have been disturbed.

Short Eared Owls - Northumberland

2011-11-20T20:55:00.004Z

Had a great day in Northumberland, I saw 3 of my 4 target birds today, Great Grey Shrike, Short Eared Owls and Greater Yellowlegs.

Started off with the Shrike, although it was 120 yards away and against the sun. The Short Eared Owls took some finding but when I did they were spectacular, there was 7 or 8 birds all in the same location.

Then I moved on to try for the Greater Yellowlegs - a new bird for me, but it gave me the run around and remained quite distant most of the time.

Black Guillemot -South Gare

2011-11-19T17:55:00.002Z

Had another trip to South Gare then to Saltholme area today. Saw the South Gare Merlin having a go at the starlings and then the waders, both unsuccesful before it flew down the dunes. There were probably 15 Red Throated Divers in view today both sides of the pier. Also saw a lovely winter plumage Black Guillemot inside the pier off the lighthouse.

Just called in at the Phil Stead hide where it was fairly quiet, a nice male kestrel was sat on top of a post again, and a flock of 18 Long Tailed Tits passed through.

Had a hunt around North Gare for Short Eared Owl but a school trip put pay to that.

Desert Wheatear

2011-11-10T19:34:00.002Z

Spent all morning at Boulby watching and digiscoping a Desert Wheatear, which normally frequents around North Africa and the Arabian Peninsula, so it is well off track. The light was good so there was no excuses today.

The bird kept doing a circuit of a quarter of the field, luckily fairly near the road. I was well pleased with seeing this rarity, another first for me. It is a smashing bird - a male not quite in full colour.

South Gare again

2011-11-08T19:12:00.004Z

Tried again for some migrants at South Gare and although there were more Fieldfares, Redwings, Robins and Blackbirds about there still wasn't the expected migration into the area. However I had a good check around at first light (it didnt get much lighter all day), and found two Black Redstarts, probably the same two that was around last week only in a slightly different area, I informed various people around so that they got chance to see them (including 2 happy ladies from Harrogate). Next I spotted a Merlin perched low down sheltering behind a building at the end of the pier.

I tried digiscoping but the bird was in a real awkward position and meant the photo was taken from 80 yards away in a wind with very little light. I managed to sneak closer but meant I couldnt digiscope as the only view available was through railings. I got a couple of shots off with my Fuji HS10 but they havent come out to good. Still it is a good find and I am happy with finding my 2 target birds today.

It just shows that you cant get good photos all of the time, but I would really like a good photo of a Merlin so that is my target bird for next year.

South Gare

2011-11-07T18:24:00.008Z

South Gare

I arrived a little too late at South Gare this morning, missed some owls and 2 merlin by just a few minutes apparently. However I did see 4 Short Eared Owls and there had been some who had seen 8 or 9 and someone else had spotted 2 more over the sea just before I left, although I never picked up on them. These birds had just arrived off the sea - I have never seen an Owl flying over the sea before.

There were quite a few more blackbirds around than normal, 11 Fieldfares and a couple of Redwing. There was a group of 5 Twite flying around and also saw a Woodcock which had also just arrived.

Tomorrow promises to be good with more easterly winds, and also a Black Redstart had been reported there again late on today.

Sleddale

2011-10-30T16:27:00.003Z

I arrived just after dawn at Sleddale and almost immediatley spotted 2 Rough Legged Buzzards and a couple of Common Buzzards. This was the start of a satisfying day bird watching if not so much for the photography. Although the buzzards did come fairly close to the road at times. Also seen were Hen Harrier and an unidentified Harrier - possibly a Montagu's (mainly because one had been seen for a few days this week), also Kestrel - I have never seen so many Red Grouse up here before. The photos taken were with the digiscope and are poor flying shots (lucky to get any flying shots digiscoping) but are half decent record shots.

Saltholme again

2011-10-27T16:41:00.003+01:00

Went to Saltholme to try and spot the Purple Heron that has been around - no luck though, and I just missed out on a flying Bittern by 20 minutes - typical. The male kestrel was hunting around the Phil Stead hide again and landed on the posts right in front of the hide.

At Greatham Creek I saw the Semi Palmated Sandpiper another first for me, also 1 possibly 2 Short Eared Owls quartering the area to the south of Greatham Creek.

Saltholme and Seal Sands

2011-10-25T20:55:00.007+01:00

Had a day out today at Saltholme first to be greeted by a smashing male Kestrel just perched on top of small trees to east of Phil Stead hide.
From the hide there were Dunlin, Snipe, Black Tailed Godwit, Water Rail, Wren, and a Sparrowhawk which took a wading Dunlin.

Then because it was so busy at Saltholme I went to Seal Sands, where the highlight was 2 Long Tailed Duck, and a Black Throated Diver. Also Red Breasted Merganser, Great Crested Grebe, Gadwall and Bar Tailed Godwit.

The Common Seals were very close to the road today, posing nicely, this one even decided to wave at me.

Seaton Common

2011-10-22T18:30:00.005+01:00

Went to Dormans Pool at dawn to try and spot the Pallid Harrier that has been there the last 2 days, after two and half hours I decided to go elsewhere but keep a close eye on the reports. First I went to Blackwell Rocks and saw 2 Red Throated Divers, Red Breasted Merganser, and a Great Crested Grebe off shore. 2 Kestrels were playing over the fields and about half mile north of the car park there was a Short Eared Owl being mobbed by crows.

I then called back to Hartlepool - Parton Rocks and saw the Leucistic Knot, Purple Sandpipers, 2 rafts of Common Scoter and 2 more Red Throated Divers.

I then went back to Saltholme as a Semi Palmated Sandpiper had been reported. When I arrived I started walking toward the centre then people there shouted that the Pallid Harrier was flying behind me, I turned round and it was being mobbed by crows right in front of the Phil Stead hide. Then it flew across the RSPB access road and across the main road towards Dormans Pool. I got a good view - as did many other people, but no chance of a photo, it was not seen again today. It was so exciting and what a well marked bird. Very Impressive.

Also saw my first Fielfare of the winter - even though they have been coming in for the last couple of weeks I havent really had chance to get out much.

Glossy Ibis and Snow Geese

2011-10-15T19:34:00.004+01:00

I had two firsts for me today at Saltholme. Firstly the Glossy Ibis which fed happily behind the fire station then later from the Phil Stead hide where it posed, washed and stretched itself.

Then I went down to see the Snow Geese on West Saltholme where they were sat amongst the Grey Lag Geese. They are such a tidy bird.

Earlier I had been to South Gare where the only migrant birds in were a Brambling and 5 Tree Sparrows in the Shrike Bushes quite unusual at this site.

Gran Canaria

2011-10-14T21:54:00.009+01:00

Just had a weeks break in Gran Canaria so I was hoping to find the Southern Grey Shrike and Hoopoe to photo here. Initially there were no signs of either - it was blazing hot 38 degrees at times and with a strong wind making any bird watching hard work.One day I saw a hoopoe fly across the lagoon at Maspalomas, and made a mental note where it landed to see if I could find it next day.

Sure enough next day I was walking in the general area and saw a Hoopoe on the ground but as soon as I saw it, it flew towards some bushes and I lost sight of it. I followed unable to see it, then suddenly it flew out of a bush 20 yards in front of me and into some trees - The black and white on the wings provided super camoflague for the hoopoe when in a bush.I only ever managed distant shots (no digiscope with me) of the hoopoe, however when searching I also found my other target species the Southern Grey Shrike,

it was trying to catch lizards and totally ignored me and I got to within 15ft of it - I was really pleased.

Another first for me was an unusual Pipit which turns out to be a Berthelots Pipit, not rare in the Canaries but I had not even heard of this bird.

Other birds included Whimbrel, Curlew Sandpiper, Wood Sandpiper, Green Sandpiper, Kentish Plover, Little Ringed Plover, Kestrel, Trumpeter Finch, Bar Tailed Godwit, Little Egrets, and Monk Parrots.

Red Breasted Goose - Scaling Dam

2011-10-04T19:06:00.005+01:00

Red Breasted Goose

Had a trip to Whitby today calling in first at Lockwood Beck where there were 3 Crossbill in the tops of the trees and a flock of Goldfinch.

Then onto Scaling Dam where there was a Red Breasted Goose in amongst the Grey Lags and Canada Geese. Luckily it was close in front of the hide feeding and walking between the sleepy Grey Lags. There are no rings on it and it is the right time for them to occur - although they are rare. But an escapee is also not ruled out - although I would expect that to be ringed. Also a Buzzard over the moor just hanging in the wind for ages

At Whitby there was a smashing Red Throated Diver between the piers and swimming quite close to the pier - but as it was a shopping trip - I didnt take my camera with me - mistake.

Saltholme Sept 28

2011-09-29T20:36:00.011+01:00

Teesside Area

Still not many migrant passerines about

Had a quick trip down to Hartlepool Headland and Saltholme today afterwork, there 6 or so Red Throated Divers well out to see amongst the Guillemots and there were also some young Gannets diving just off Parton Rocks, on the rocks there were Knot, and Purple Sandpipers amongst the usual waders of Turnstone, Redshank and Oystercatchers.

Down to Saltholme there were Pectoral Sandpiper, Snipe, female Garganey still, Shoveller, Gadwall, Widgeon, and Teal.

A sparrowhawk kept buzzing the lake and strangely flying very slowly over it, scattering the small ducks and waders each time but never attacking anything, it did this 3 times landing in different bushes each time. Manage a nice photo of it, but a branch spoilt the composition.

South Gare and Saltholme Sept 18th

2011-09-20T18:59:00.007+01:00

Paid an early morning visit to South Gare to see if there was any sign of a passerine migration - of which there was not. Only the usual birds on the land, at sea there was a young Guillemot close in, and a Cormorant fishing right next to the pier.

At Saltholme I managed to see and digiscope a Pectoral Sandpiper, and a female Garganey at the Phil Stead hide, then later on there was a nice Whinchat near the layby on West Saltholme and it worked its way closer to the car.

Saltholme Sept 11th

2011-09-13T19:09:00.003+01:00

Saltholme

Still the west wind blows - discouraging migrants coming from Europe. Spent a couple of hours at Saltholme again - There were some snipe just in front of the hide at Saltholme, also saw Kestrel, Sparrohawk and what one guy thought may have been a hobby in the distance - but I couldnt identify it. I keep going to Seaton Common hoping to get photos of a Merlin there but still no luck - there is definately 2 there - male and female.

I will keep trying.

Fungi -Sept 4th

2011-09-13T18:51:00.003+01:00

Fungi morning

Because the birding is fairly quiet at the moment and conditions were excellent I decided to go to a favourite wood to get some photos of various fungi and mushrooms in particular the Fly Agaric.

In this wood there are 2 particular areas that the Fly Agaric seem to be more abundant - with mainly birch and conifer trees around. So I spent the morning on my knees and belly getting some upclose photos - and thoroughly enjoyed it - even though the ground was soaking.

I also saw 3 buzzards, green and great spotted woodpecker, 2 treecreeper and a family of about 10 goldcrest.

Seaton Pond and Saltholme

2011-08-28T09:04:00.008+01:00

Some photos from last couple of weeks - first from Seaton Pond. I tried for this Red Necked Grebe last Sunday morning but found the light was in the wrong direction and it was a long way off, so I tried for it after work - only about 4 miles from where I work. The light was much better and I got a few decent shots.

At Saltholme there was a White Winged Black Tern so I thought I would have a go for that - it was a stunning bird but it was a real challenge trying to get a photo - it was either so far off it or it was flying so fast I ended up dizzy trying. Got a record shot of it - since it was a first for me.

This weekend I tried for a Bittern at Saltholme, however when I opened my boot I realized I had forgot my scope (must be old age kicking in), and typically the Bittern showed really well. Managed a couple of record shots with my camera again.

There were plenty of Ruff around the Saltholme Hide as well as a couple of Curlew Sandpipers, Heron and Little Egrets.

I may get out again this weekend.

Seaton Common - Cuckoo

2011-08-14T20:31:00.007+01:00

Cuckoo

Went to Seaton Common again in the hope to see the Merlin or the young Cuckoo that has recently being reported.

Never saw the Merlin this morning but spent about 2 hours watching a digiscoping the Cuckoo. It seems late this year, as normally they have gone by now. This one was feeding on large black and yellow caterpillars and was quite approachable, though there were a lot of dogwalkers disturbing it, as did a sparrowhawk.

Paid a quick visit to Saltholme and saw a nice female Garganey which had just dropped in this morning. I'm really please with the Cuckoo pics today.

Last couple of weekends

2011-08-13T19:30:00.010+01:00

Snipe

Just a few pics from last couple of weekends (been short of time to post).

Last weekend tried to find a Merlin again, this time at Seaton Snook - as soon as I walked towards the dunes I saw the Merlin fly away from towards the Snook then a couple of minutes later it flew back over me towards Seaton Common - I didnt see it again. Out on the Snook there were loads of Common Terns and their young and a Great Skua out to sea but little else, on way back spotted a young Kestrel keeping out of the squalls.

Today I had hour and half at Lockwood Beck and Scaling Dam (limited time today - trying to sell some photos). A few different families of Spotted Flycatchers about, and missed an opportunities when I saw three young ones sat huddled together on a fence - they looked so cute, however I went to get my camera off the passenger seat and found I had left it in the boot - a cardinal sin. Grrr!

Still managed some shots of the Spotteds, also a young Grey Wagtail, there was also a family of Treecreepers there too, but typically they kept going on the wrong side of tree.

At Scaling Dam I found it fairly quiet - Common Sandpiper, usual ducks and geese, Willow Warbler, no sign of Osprey (again! although it was seen later in afternoon) or the Slavonian Grebe which was seen yesterday.

I will do better tomorrow!

Low Barns

2011-07-10T17:42:00.004+01:00

Went to Low Barns to see if Kingfishers were about, when I arrived there were a few cars parked (8:00am on a Sunday) so, it was obvious that they were. When I arrived in the hide it was busy. I managed to squeeze a spot and eventually the Kinfishers showed on the opposite side of the lake. There were 3 of them!

They spent most of the time on the other side, in the sun. But eventually one came closer and sat on the Island 30 yards away from the hide. I managed a couple of quick shots before it flew. Too many lenses were sticking out of the window I reckon. It came close a couple of more times but never perched for long.

Little Terns, Black Tailed Godwits and Fox

2011-07-10T15:35:00.008+01:00

Saturday 9th July

Went to Crimdon beach first to see the Little Tern colony, whic is more succesful this year than last and was busy with adult birds bringing fish for the young birds all the time.

They fly so fast its very difficult to get them in the view finder - I ended up dizzy trying to follow them. But it was good to watch the way they hover to locate the young bird before dropping down to feed it.

Then I went down to Saltholme to see Bar Headed Goose (probable escapee), Black Tailed Godwit and Greenshank, the Godwits are in there finest colours at the moment and it was interesting to see how they flicked the mud out of their beaks to seperate the food from mud.

On my way out there was a fox in the car park which decided to come within 4 feet of me, to pick a bone up off the ground and it then happily crunched it - I was not in a hide and it is not a town fox although it does seem an extrordinarily bold fox. It was the highlight of the morning

Teesdale Buzzards

2011-07-09T19:37:00.005+01:00

2nd July Teesdale - undisclosed site

I knew that this was the week for some buzzards I have been keeping a track of to fledge. As usual the adults spotted me coming from a long way off - just difficult getting close to them. And they were all I saw for a couple of hours, then I heard a young one call from further up the wood, then another called - and circled above me - I think they just fledged at that moment, one landed about 20 yards from but I couldnt quite see for the trees.

The adults were perched across the valley calling them, I decided to retreat and watch from a distance. I managed some photos from 150 yards away of the adult on the rocks and tried for some flying shots.

Not bad but I am still not too impressed with my fuji HS10 camera.

Wykeham Forest and Scarborough

2011-07-09T19:18:00.003+01:00

Sunday 26th June

Had a trip to Wykeham Forest to see if I could see Honey Buzzard, I spotted a Goshawk and 4 Common Buzzards and an unidentified Buzzard (some thought it was the Honey, but I think that was just hopeful thinking), I decided to go to Scarborough to see the Peregrines. There were too many people at Wykeham for me - all just chatting and not watching.

However the Peregrines put on a great show - the young ones had fledged earlier in the week so they were all over the cliffs. I set up my scope and took some photos, and let some tourist check out the birds through my scope - they were all amazed and inquisitive about the digiscoping.

Peregrine Falcons - Malham Cove

2011-06-16T19:10:00.005+01:00

Met up with my mate Pete and he took me to Malham Cove specifically to get some shots of Peregrines. Despite it being cloudy and windy we both got some great shots.
On approaching the cove we saw the adult birds flying and calling above their nest site. After reaching the top we could see 2 of the 3 young birds on the ledge - having left the nest - they weren't far off their first flight. I think if it hadn't been so windy they may have fledged
We watched for hour and half amazed at the adult birds sometimes chasing Jackdaws other times just flying high and stooping, then both adults dissappeared.

So we went for a walk and found a Kestrel nest where the young were just about ready to fledge too.

Got a few snaps of them and returned to the Peregrines.

Waited ages before finally an adult returned with some food. It fed one youngster then the other - which resembled a Penguin after it had eaten a full pigeon. These are the best shots and views of a Peregrine I have ever had - thanks Pete.

It has to be stressed that these shots were taken from over 50 yards away - none of the birds were disturbed and both of the nests are close to public footpaths.

Isle of Mull - day 5

2011-06-09T22:50:00.002+01:00

Had a walk in the north of Mull today., through woodland down to the cliffs overlooking Coll. there are Golden Eagles nesting on the cliffs here somewhere but didn't see them. saw Buzzard and Raven and spent time trying to get a photo of a wren singing. One of the fields had a highland bull in it, so I decided to get closer for a photo - big mistake,as it started trotting towards me I decided it was better to retreat to a safer distance. Went to see the Hen Harriers again ( only 5 mile from the hotel) saw both male and female but only briefly as the female returned to the nest and the male soared high and out of sight to hunt for more food. Highlight was 2 unexpected White Tailed Sea Eagles flying over. Last day tomorrow - going to try for photos of some Eagles!

Isle of Mull - day 4

2011-06-08T18:43:00.002+01:00

Had a quiet day today wildlife wise, a walk down the coast from Tobermory saw, Red Breasted Merganser, Eider Duck a Buzzard and a couple of common seals. this afternoon went out on a 4 hour boat trip to see whales and dolphins, and saw neither. The sea eagle nest that the skipper showed us had been abandoned and the Golden eagle nest had nobody at home. After riding around the sea for 3 hours we came across a flock of birds comprising of Manx Shearwaters, Guillemots, Arctic Terns, Common Gulls, and a couple of Gannets. that was it! oh and an Otter wasnt at home either.

Isle of Mull - day 3

2011-06-07T17:55:00.000+01:00

Woke up to rain this morning and it stayed that way on and off all day. Looked hard for otters today with no success, apart from The remains of a dead otter, I guess it had been killed by an eagle, very few other predators on the island. That was at Grasspoint, where I also saw White Tailed Sea Eagle, and 2 Golden Eagles, 2 Buzzards and 11 Red Deer. due to the weather I spent most of the day in the car, driving through the mountains to the other side of the island. Saw 2 nice ravens and managed to digiscope one of them before another downpour hit. Saw another Sea Eagle at Loch Na Keal. Then I went back to see the Hen Harriers at the same place I saw them last night. the first bird I saw was a nice Short Eared Owl, it must have flown over the Hen Harriers nest as both male and female flew up to have a go at the owl. the male and owl continued to harass each other and the female went back down. Eventually the male retired to a rock - in open view but at least half a mile away. When the weather is better I will spend more time at this site. Tomorrow is whale and dolphin watching.

Isle of Mull - day 2

2011-06-06T18:25:00.000+01:00

Had a wildlife tour around central and north of Mull today. Started off with Common Seals just south of Aros park. Then saw 3 Red deer in a field, the stag was in velvet. Next we went over Loch Na Keal, this is where there is a White Tailed Sea Eagle nest and a tourist boat throws a fish out for the bird. The eagle was flying as we arrived and it went down to the boat and got it's fish then back to the wood. A female sat in the tree all of the time. in much the same area we saw Great Northern Diver and Black Guillemot. then up into the mountains where we saw 2 very distant Golden Eagles. there were many Wheatears and Meadow Pipits on the tour. The highlight of the tour was at our last stop. 2 different Golden Eagles but closer, a couple of Buzzards but best of all I spotted a male Hen Harrier and it food passed to a female. it continued to fly around about 200yard away for about 5 minutes before landing just out of sight behind a tree. What an end to a good tour. back in Tobermory, 2 Peregrines wer flying around. I wish I could put my photos on here now!

Isle of Mull - day1

2011-06-05T16:51:00.000+01:00

Ist day started off with a bang. A peregrine falcon flew past the room window and landed on a chuch about 20yards away. Grabbed my camera and ran downstairs and got some nice photos of a male bird - this was before breakfast. Drove over to Calgary bay and Trishnish. Plenty of Common Buzzards about. Saw Wheatears, Meadow and Rock Pipits, shags, Hooded Crows, and watched 2 Cuckoos looking for prospective nests to lay in. meadow Pipits were not happy. Saw a possible Golden Eagle but there was no place safe to stop the car. Saw dolphin on way in to Tobermory yesterday. Doing this from IPad so no photos yet, most birds a bit distant today, on a wildlife tour tomorrow.

Teesdale

2011-05-29T16:39:00.000+01:00

Went for my first visit of the year to my favourite location today, I deliberately leave this place undisturbed until May, this wood really attracts some birds and today was no exception.

My first surprise was a bird that was sat on an old dead tree, when I got my bins on it I saw it was a Cuckoo. There was little cover between me and the bird so I set my scope up quickly and quietly and got a couple of shots - not ideal as the clouds were bright white behind it. I edged closer keeping tight against a wall - about 30 yards away now - took another couple of shots

Then closer still - its unusual to get this close to a Cuckoo. 25 yards I set tripod up and my shutter release jammed - I had to put my hand up to the camera - and the bird saw me and flew - moving your hands is like waving flags at a bird or animal. I moved out from the wall and a female Cuckoo had been sat on it - she flew too - I never saw her until that moment. - I'm well please not only to see the Cuckoo but to stalk so close to it was rewarding too

Other birds in the wood included Buzzard, about 10 Spotted Flycatchers, at least 2 Pied Flycatchers heard, Green Woodpecker - heard then seen flying away - typically. This place is so productive at this time of year.

Not sharing it though - lol.

Saltholme and Greatham Creek

2011-05-29T08:10:00.000+01:00

I called in to see kingfishers at the Tees Barrage, and the male was passing fish to the female, I tried for photos but the wind was playing havoc with the scope and all pictures were blurry - its easily over a 100 yards to where they were, and it doesnt look like you can get closer without disturbing them. I went to see if I could find Spoonbills again this week after they were reported from Wednesday, but again no success - I think they must come here on mid week specials and go back home at weekends.

Then I called into the Phil Stead hide at Saltholme trying to get out of rain and wind - saw a Greenshank and a fox there.

A Little Egret was feeding at the far end of the pool, the wind was ruffling its feathers up and made it look quite stunning, shame it was so far away.

Then went up to Greatham Creek, still some Avocets sat on nests and Common Terns also sat on nests on the island. The Avocets kept squabbling with each other.

It was very windy and squally, so just went to see the common seals as they were hauled up closer to the road than I have ever seen them before. They were moulting their skins and were forever scatching themselves. Still a nice sight.

Lockwood Beck

2011-05-22T20:09:00.000+01:00

After reports of Spoonbills at Coatham Marsh yesterday I decided on an early morning to try and photograph them but unfortunately they must have just been passing through, so I thought I would try for the Osprey at Lockwood Beck Resevoir, as it had been seen all week fishing there. I spent about 3 hours, sat lazily on a bench in the watery sunlight - but typically the Osprey didnt turn up.

I was kept occupied watching the house martins collecting mud from the side of the resevoir, and had some practice taking action shots of them flying in and out. The only other thing of interest was a pair of beautiful Grey Wagtails flitting back and forth to a nest in a wall.

Despite missing out on two rarities, it was really nice and relaxing watching the fisherman catching rainbow trout, and basking out of the wind in the sun

Shore Lark and Wood Sandpiper

2011-05-14T18:21:00.001+01:00

A quick trip to North Gare produce a Shore Lark. Despite a couple of heavy showers the Shore Lark showed quite well feeding on the disused part of the Golf Course, with Linnets and Wheatears.

Then I went down to RSPB Saltholme to see if the Wood Sandpiper was still there, it was, near the new bird hide.

Nightingale - Cowpen Bewley

2011-05-07T19:35:00.000+01:00

Nightingale

Went to see /listen to the Nightingale at Cowpen Bewley this morning not really expecting to see it as it been hiding so well. However after 10 minutes I located it sat in a willow tree. It sang wonderfully for nearly half an hour before dropping down into the bush.

What a star and such a rarity in County Durham.

Then went on to Saltholme, saw Yellow Wagtails, Greenshank, Goldeneye, and Common Tern.

Then up to Greatham Creek to see how the Avocet are doing where the Lapwings were bullying the Avocets, because the Lapwings had chick wandering around, normally the Avocet is the aggressor however many of them were still sat on the nests.
Then up to Crimdon Beach where I saw about 40 Little Terns - they were flying really high up to start with calling all the time, then they settled on the edge of the sea for a while before some went to the breeding area. Lets hope they get a chance to breed succesfully this year.

Bollihope and Tunstall

2011-05-01T18:16:00.000+01:00

Weardale - Ring Ouzels, Dippers, and Pied Flycatchers

After an early start taking a Dawn Chorus walk around Low Barns (dissappointing number of birds but a good turn out of people), I headed up to Bollihope area first to see if there were many Ring Ouzels about before people started turning up. Saw 6 in total 2 female and 4 male -

probably more females sat on nests somewhere.

Searched for a singing male for ages - I could tell he was in tree right above me but couldnt see it until it flew out and landed 30 yards away to feed. I was stood out in the open and unusually this bird did not mind too much.

I also saw a dipper down by the wood at Bollihope, then onto Tunstall Res. to search for Redstart and Pied Flycatchers. I heard 3 Redstarts and saw 2 but could I heck get the scope on them. On the way out I saw 2 Pied Flycatchers - and 1 posed nicely.

Dormans Pool and Bishop Middleham

2011-04-25T20:51:00.000+01:00

Had a trip early to see if I could get close photos of the Grasshopper Warblers - but they were in the same location as last time and against the sun.

There were Whitethroats around this time where there were none 2 weeks ago. Sedge Warblers posed perfectly and were singing for all there worth.

Then I moved up to Bishop Middleham with the sole purpose of getting photos of Yellow Wagtails - and there were loads of them about.

This is an unusually pale Yellow Wagtail resembling the Yellow Headed Wagtail of Eastern Europe and Russia

Skylarks were singing well and landing on their favourite perches as well as Wheatears hopping from wall to grass chasing the Hawthorn Flies around

There were also reports of 2 Blue Headed Wagtails and a Channel Wagtail. I saw what I believe was the Channel Wagtail but the heat haze prevented good photos - but got a record shot for identification purposes.

Bollihope area - Fri 22nd Apr

2011-04-25T20:41:00.000+01:00

Black Grouse and Ring Ouzels

Had another trip up to see the Ring Ouzels and saw a total of 9 birds, males were singing well, but it was tough to get real close to the birds - also lots of people about.

But it was a nice warm day and just good to be on the moors again. Also saw Black Grouse earlier in Teesdale

Warblers all over the place

2011-04-16T19:33:00.000+01:00

Had the aim of seeing a Yellow Wagtail today, but first went to Dormans pool to see if I could see a Grasshopper Warbler, as soon as I was out of the car I could here loads of Sedge Warblers, its great to see them back each year. One posed nicely for me about 25 yards away.

I walked further and could here a Grasshopper Warbler "reeling" but couldnt see it. Waited about 15 minutes then it appeared at the top of a bramble bush.

Its the first I have seen for a couple of years. Their song is so difficult to hear - its high pitched and fast. Had a quick look for the Cettis Warbler but no sign.

Saw a smashing Stonechat about 15 yards away - posing as usual at the top of a bush.

Then went to Seaton Common to try and find Yellow Wagtail - eventually saw one about 30 yards away but as soon as I got out of the car it took off. Its early yet though

Then to Hurworth Burn - last year it was good for Yellow Wags, but never saw any today, there were lots people and cylists about too. There were loads of Willow Warblers though and Yellowhammers

Weardale - Redstart, Woodcock and Ring Ouzels

2011-04-10T19:18:00.000+01:00

RING OUZELS

Had a walk through the woods at Tunstall Resevoir and saw 2 woodcock, a redstart ( 2 others heard) a sparrowhawk, a Whooper Swan and plenty of Willow Warblers and Chiffchaffs about.

The redstarts seem early this year. I then went up to Bollihope area to try and see Ring Ouzels - however there was meeting of the Weardale motorbike club - about 100 bikes going through the area where ring ouzels are normaly seen - no chance today.

However I did see 2 Ouzels in another location close by. Both were singing males one of them giving great views.

A good day weatherwise too

Goshawk and Crossbill

2011-04-03T21:20:00.001+01:00

The Stang - April 3rd I went up The Stang again to specifically get photos of the Crossbills - if they were still there. It 60% cloud cover when I set off - by the time I got to The Stang it was 90% and pouring down - typical! But I could hear the Crossbills close by. I parked up opposite where the grit pile they keep coming down to and they eventually showed up. Got a couple of photos with the bridge camera - this is not easy for digiscoping without disturbing the birds. I was there two and half hours in total, and the bonus was that a male Goshawk flew across in front of me about 800 yards away. It was a beauty and could clearly see the barring and white under coverts. This was much closer than the birds I had seen in last 2 weeks at Hamsterley. Before this year I had not seen a Goshawk for sure - now I have seen 5 in 2 different sites - am well pleased.

Great Grey Shrike - Hamsterley Forest

2011-04-03T21:03:00.000+01:00

Sunday 27th March.

Spent hour or so looking for goshawk from Raptor Watchpoint - possibly saw 1 saw it fly into a tree where it perched for a 15 mins but it was about a mile away and the heat shimmer was bad. Also saw Short Eared Owl, 4 buzzards, Kestrel. I then walked up to the site where the G G Shrike was - this was my second attempt. It is a long uphill walk (I measured it on GPS and it was 3 mile). But unlike last time the shrike was showing - perched on top of a very tall dead tree - which it seemed to favour.

It did come down and perched in other trees - but I was unable to get close to it - photos are from about 50 yards away and it was 40 foot up. But it was great to see it. Also had 2 lesser Redpoll and 7 crossbills

Greatham Creek Area - Sat 26th Mar

2011-03-29T20:51:00.000+01:00

Avocets displaying and mating.

Went over to Teesside area today - first time in a while. Specifically to see the Avocets, and possibly the Common Cranes that were reported yesterday.

The are over 30 Avocets this year and are increasing year on year. The bus stop pool provided the best views and I watched a pair displaying and obviously preparing to mate as the female was making herself available while the male was playing coy.

He gave in eventually! I tried to video the mating but my patience ran out just before the act. Got some photos of it though.

Then onto Saltholme - there was no sign of the Common Cranes while I was there and I left about 1 oclock - and they turned up about 2 oclock - typical

Crossbills - The Stang

2011-03-05T17:43:00.000Z

The Stang- on a misty wet morning

Planned to go to The Stang to see if there were any Crossbills around, but when I looked out of the window in was dull and rainy. However I stuck to my plan, when I got there the weather was worse and the treetops were hidden in low cloud. I hung around all morning and it paid off. A short walk and I discovered a small flock of Waxwings and they were either fluffed up against the cold or absolutely full of berries.

Later I went to the top of the forest and found the Crossbills - although they were sticking to the tops of trees.

I noticed something white moving in the undergrowth and saw an Ermine. I managed to "squeek" it closer then it saw me and ran for a bit of cover, I "squeeked" it again and it remained inquisitive but shy.

The Crossbills kept flitting around, but managed a few decent digiscoped shots in the very poor light.

It just shows that if conditions are not good you can still have a good day.

Caerlaverock and Dumfries and Galloway

2011-03-01T18:41:00.000Z

Had a good weekend at Caerlaverock with the Low Barns Photography Group at the weekend. Went to have a walk around a loch north of Laurieston and saw my first Red Squirrel cross the path and two more at the bird hide feeders- nice to see. Also saw buzzard, nuthatch, and Marsh Tit along with the more common tits. Then went down to see the Red Kites at the feeding station. The birds were coming in from the south which made photography very difficult, although it did start to rain and the kites then perched in the trees till the rain stopped - this allowed a good digiscoping opportunity.

Then went on to Caerlaverock where we stopped overnight. 2 Badgers and a fox showed really close to the farmhouse observetory. An early morning on Sunday gave great views of Roe Deer, and of course thousands of Barnacle Geese, I managed a very distant 250 yards record shot of a buzzard - but poor quality. Other birds included - Yellowhammer, teal, wigeon, shelduck, Black Tailed Godwit, Whooper Swans. A good weekend all in all

Black Grouse & Mink, Teesdale

2011-01-29T20:08:00.001Z

Teesdale

Had an early start to see the Black Grouse up Teesdale. It was minus 5 up there and I was surprised to see snow on the ground. The grouse took some finding but I eventually found them, in a different location to usual, but probably the same group of grouse.

The grouse were fairly close to the car which enabled me to get some decent digiscope shots of them. (normally these birds are really tough). I spent an hour and half watching them, and they were still there feeding when I left.

Then down to Low Barns, all the usual tits were there, plus goldcrest, lesser redpoll, and sparrowhawk.

Down by the river near the hide I saw something swim across the river out the corner of my eye. I moved down the bank a little and saw a mink. It kept smelling the air as if it new I was there but I watched it for 5 minutes before it moved off.

Redpolls - Rainton Meadows

2011-01-09T08:56:00.000Z

Mealy Redpoll

I was torn where to go to today, either Black Grouse in Teesdale or Redpolls at Rainton Meadows - I decided on the latter.

As soon as I got there a large flock of Redpolls could be seen above a copse - landing every so often. I set the scope up but the redpolls were taking off after about 30 seconds, they were very flighty. Also there were about 10 people there watching - but I don't think this is why they were wary.

Lesser Redpoll

I moved along the copse to where there were some feeders and this paid off - the Redpolls were staying longer here and I managed to digiscope a few. The next problem was the identification of them - there were 3 types here Lesser, Mealy and the rarer Arctic. I managed to photo the lesser and mealy but not sure if I got the Arctic - there is a possible poor photo of one at the feeder

Possibly all 3 species of Redpoll.

Then a bus load on a RSPB tour turned up and the Redpolls disappeared - after 30 minutes of waiting so did I. Too many people for me - and the birds, but I guess its necessary.

Saltholme - Long Eared Owl and Bittern

2010-12-31T18:28:00.000Z

Met up with Pete from Harrogate today as he wanted to see a bittern and it seemed like a good opportunity to do so at Saltholme after it had been showing all week. As soon as we got past the wildlife watchpoint we saw one fly over then drop into the reeds - success at least we saw one but there were no photo opportunities. We moved on to the Long Eared Owls and Toby was there searching them out before we went down to view them, he found one, and although it was tucked in about 40 yards away it was in range for digiscoping - people with cameras struggled to get pics of this bird.

We tried again for the bittern but with no success and the hide at the wildlife watchpoint was heaving with people. We went down the Zinc Road and found the twite in the samphire grass - about 20 and Pete was being given the run around trying to get photos of them - it became too dull. I had dead batteries in my camera so didnt try.(Duh!) I was pleased we managed the target bird but disappointed that Pete didnt get a chance of a shot of it.
Pete made for home and I went to Jacksons Landing just to test my new camera out, very dull by now but there were some Red Breasted Mergansers quite close in so tried for them - results ok but need more practice with it.

Long Eared Owl and Bittern on same day

2010-12-26T19:10:00.000Z

RSPB Saltholme - best day there yet!

Had a great day out at Saltholme today, called in to see the Water Rail first and it was posing in front of the hide, then had a walk down to see the Long Eared Owl, on the way we saw a bittern at some open water but was tucked well into the reeds.

The Owl was showing really well, dozing out in the open. Plenty of people there taking photos of it too. On the way back the bittern was showing better and fishing so managed to digiscope that too.

Then went on to see Woodcock at the Zinc Road, there were plenty about flitting around but difficult to approach on foot, but managed some photos from the car after seeing two feeding where the sheep had been.

Saltholme

2010-12-13T18:34:00.000Z

Water Rails

Went to Teesmarshes area specifically to see the Merlin and Woodcock. The Merlin had been reported at Seaton Snook all week, as I was walking out to the Snook I heard this skylark call above me looked and saw the Merlin chasing it around and it eventually caught it - typically I had scope over my shoulder and camera round my neck so I missed a great shot - good to see though.

At the snook there were Twite, RB mergansers, Grey Plover. But no woodcock - moved on to Saltholme in hope of the Water Rails, two were showing very well in front of hide so got super photos of them and reed buntings, also Skylark about but little else - didnt go to other hides as all lakes were still frozen over. Peregrine was also on the Power Station.

Bittern and Iceland Gull

2010-12-04T17:44:00.000Z

Rainton Meadows and Jacksons Landing, Hartlepool

Went to Rainton Meadows today to specifically see the Bittern, had I bitten off more than I could chew in the bitter cold? No way. I found it straight away although somewhat hidden in the reeds. Managed some distant shots befor it skulked further back and out of sight. Also saw an Iceland Gull here (identified by someone else) so digiscoped that.

Now Rainton meadows hide is a freezer box in the summer - today it was unbelievable, and shows what life used to be like as cavemen without windows or doors. I though enough money was put into Rainton Meadows to get a decent hide. Then on down to Jacksons Landing to see the Red Necked Grebe, this showed nicely but was difficult to digiscope as it was pretty mobile then had the light against me. A good day with 2 firsts for me.

I also saw another flock of 20 waxwings on my way home on Salters Lane North in Darlington. Couldn't stop though!

Waxwing winter

2010-11-28T19:12:00.000Z

Waxwings invaded the north east again.

I decided to concentrate on waxwings today, after seeing a flock yesterday just before a white out hit, then couldnt relocate them. Started off at Eaglescliffe Tesco a flock of 25 were flying between a tree and a cotoneaster bush right next to Asda - managed a few pictures before security guards chased me for taking photos on Tescos property!!

I then drover around Eaglescliffe and saw a large flock on Waxwings fly over - 150+ but I couldnt find where they landed. Then off to Middlesbrough where a large flock had been reported - not here today - but someone told me there was a large flock in Billingham - so off I went. I eventually found 200 or so of them and they were so approachable, coming right down to feed on the berries (hawthorn or blackthorn?)

Then off to Saltholme for some lunch - it was all frozen over - no surprise - it had been minus 8. But this did little for the birdwatching there. Teal, Shoveller, Heron, loads of greenfinch and reed warbler, and a male stonechat.

The weather closed in again so went home, and found another flock of about 40 waxwings just half a mile from home in Salters Lane North.

Squacco Heron

2010-11-14T09:26:00.000Z

Decided to take a rare trip up into Northumberland to see the Squacco Heron at Morpeth, I don't usually travel that far to see a bird. As soon as I got there it was unmissable as about 30 other birders were already watching it.

It showed very well as it was going from island to island feed along the way. Then it flew up stream, I had the photos I wanted so decided not to follow it and headed south again.

Saw some more more Waxwings fly over the motorway on the north side of Newcastle - strange seeing a Mediterranean bird and sub Arctic bird in the same morning.

Called back in at Thornley Woods and Far Pasture but there was very little to be seen at either. Then went looking for Red Kites and found 3 at Barlow Fell and a buzzard at Sherburn Towers

Waxwing, Middlesbrough

2010-11-07T19:28:00.000Z

Went to Skippers Lane in Middlesbrough today to see if there were any Waxwings left there, after a brief search I found 5 sat in the top of a tree - there had been up to 70 reported here the day before! A nice bright day meant that the light was perfect to get some good shots, they did periodically drop down onto the rowan berries but never for long.

There are reports of waxwings all over the country - and its still early November, it looks like being another Waxwing Winter.

Waxwings - first of the year

2010-10-24T16:15:00.000+01:00

Waxwings

Went to Lockwood Beck hoping to see some Crossbills but there was no sign, saw a Yellow Wagtail, then on the way out saw a flock of 5 Waxwings feeding on some apples in the Lodge.

These seem to be early in the year and are taking advantage of the northerly winds. Then onto Sleddale where I saw the Rough Legged Buzzard that had been around for a few days, it is a well marked bird.

Then went down to South Gare where very little was showing apart from 100 or so Sanderlings on the waters edge.

Seaton Carew - Shore Lark

2010-10-12T19:35:00.000+01:00

Finished work and went straight down to Seaton Carew to see if I could find the Shore Lark. Good descriptions on the bird forum meant I found it straight away - plus 2 other guys were watching it. It was quite approachable and behaved pretty much like a Meadow Pipit. A good looking bird in the sun.

South Gare and Hartlepool Headland migrants

2010-10-10T21:02:00.001+01:00

Autumn Migration Fall

I had the best bird watching day ever today, wow. An easterly breeze and misty night brought in loads of migrants (same yesterday). I went to South Gare early and saw a Barn Owl hunting.
Then up towards the pier I saw Great Grey Shrike, then towards the end of the pier there was one sat on a fence while another hunted a small bird in the air - it never caught it. 3 Great Grey Shrikes! One was seen to eat a Goldcrest another ate a Rock Pipit.

There were hundreds of Robins, Goldcrest and Redwing. A Barred Warbler was in the bomb hole, as were 2 male Blackcaps, a Yellow Browed Warbler and Willow Warbler. A Brambling posed on a fence - a Goldcrest even tried to land on my binoculars.

On the way out of South Gare there was a superb Hen Harrier hunting behind the pools, a Red Backed Shrike near the lagoon and a Ring Ouzel on top of a bush near the steel works. - superb.

Then on to Hartlepool Headland. Woodchat Shrike posed beautifully in the Croft Gardens - Goldcrest were everywhere this Shrike was also picking of the goldcrest. Another yellow browed warbler, then I saw a Dusky Warbler near the Jewish Cemetry - thanks to other birders for pointing it out - I wouldnt have been able to identify it.

Also around the locality were Shore Lark at Seaton Carew, Red flanked Bluetail - Saltburn didnt see these though.

South Gare - Red Backed Shrike

2010-10-05T18:59:00.000+01:00

This Red Backed Shrike was around all week and I couldn't get off work to go and see it, so I was so relieved that it was still there on Saturday 2nd Oct. It hadn't been found when I got there. So I went hunting around the bushes and soon found it round the back. I got the scope on it then somebody started to come though the bushes and put it up. Grrr. However it did settle again and I managed to get some good shots although I was against the sun.

A photographer was hounding the bird a bit too much though and it flew south. It did turn up later in the day and a few days since.

The shrike is my favourite bird and its great that these have been around this autumn, however I did miss the Great Grey Shrike at South Gare because it turned up midweek - can't have everything.

Cleasby 26th Sept

2010-10-05T18:48:00.001+01:00

CLEASBY

Decided to have a local trip down to Cleasby to see if there was anything around. Saw Great Crested Grebe, Little Grebe and Common Sandpiper on lakes, then up river a Dipper and 2 Kingfisher, also signs of otter. On the way back I saw this area that looked likely to hold a little owl and a quick scan showed that sure enough it did - managed to walk within 25 yards and get a few digiscope shots - they look so aggresive - "come on then if you think your big enough" is the expression that springs to mind.

HARTLEPOOL HEADLAND
I got home at lunch time only to see a Woodchat Shrike had been reported at Hartlepool, I couldn't resist so off I went - it was a very dull afternoon and the pics are only so-so.

Autumn Migration

2010-09-13T19:30:00.001+01:00

Autumn migration

Decided to spend the day looking for migrants down the coast although I missed a big fall of them during the week -damn work. Over at South Gare I quickly found Spotted and Pied Flycatcher there were a few of them about. On the cabin rocks a Wryneck had been seen and photographed at only a few feet away. It had flown and dissappeared and I spent the next hour searching with about 15 other birders eventually it was seen about 20 yards away - what camouflage. It flew a couple of more times before disappearing again - didnt get a photo but it was a first for me in this country.

I then when north to Hartlepool to the town hall gardens - and straight away got onto the Firecrest another first - then noticed it was hanging around with a Goldcrest. Got a rubbish photo of firecrest it is so twitchy. Also saw Barred Warbler and Treecreeper there. A good day with 2 new birds for me, there were also quite a few Wheatear down the coast.

Low Barns - more Kingfisher

2010-09-13T19:19:00.001+01:00

Kingfisher - Low Barns

Had an early trip to Low Barns where the kingfisher showed briefly landing on the island viewed from West Pasture Hide. It makes a nice change having some natural vegetation around rather than it sat on the pole. It was nearly an ex kingfisher when the sparrowhawk had a go at it. Luckily kingfishers are fast. Also saw a green woodpecker fly over the pasture. There was also a Dipper, and Grey Wagtail on the river

Green Woodpecker - Low Barns

2010-08-21T18:58:00.000+01:00

Had an early morning looking for a kingfisher at Low Barns with only a brief glimpse in 2 hours of waiting, I decided to stretch my legs and have a look around the reserve. A few minutes later I heard a green woodpecker call close by. I stood still for a couple of minutes and it flew up from the grass to a fence post.

I managed to get a shot -then it flew back to the grass - long grass obscured where it was, so I walked carefully for another 8 yards or so and could just see its head - it then flew and and landed on a telegraph pole and posed. I was rooted to the spot - it was very slightly hidden by a bush in the foreground but managed to get some nice shots of it.

This for me was better than getting the kingfisher - Green woodpeckers are so difficult to get close shots. Also on the reserve, Water Rail briefly, Dipper, Common Sandpiper, what I thought was a Sparrowhawk may have turned out to be a Hobby after reading reports from yesterday - just got a very quick view as it flew low over the lake. Also Jay, Nuthatch, tree creeper, long tailed tit, Marsh Tit, Coal Tit.

Kingfisher at Low Barns

2010-08-20T22:13:00.000+01:00

At last some kingfishers showing well at Low Barns - again in August. The kingfisher in the photo is a young kingfisher with a shortish beak. There were plenty in the hide getting photos of it - no surprise as it was camera club night. There was also a Green Woodpecker hanging around the gardens at the back of the visitor centre and was calling regularly.

Quite pleased with these photos - they were quite difficult as the sun was behind the bird making the water dazzling white. I know others got better photos though - young David did well - again. A tawny owl was also calling down towards the west pasture hide at dusk.

Witton Le Wear Kingfisher

2010-07-20T19:07:00.001+01:00

I was informed about a kingfisher nest on the river at Witton le Wear, so I spent about an hour and half watching this hole in the bank - the kingfisher showed about 5 times - each time flying straight into the hole without stopping then backing out of the hole and away up river - no matter how I tried I couldn`t get a photo of it - plenty of the hole, it was just too fast. I ended up videoing it just for a record shot. See video - nice to know that its there - thanks for the info.

Dotterel - at last

2010-07-20T18:55:00.000+01:00

Friday 9th July - just back off holday to reports of a Dotterel on Crimdon Beach. This finally gave me a chance to catch up with this beatiful bird and a female at that (female more colourful than the male). I took my digiscoping gear to work and ventured down to Crimdon Beach after work.

There were a number of birdwatchers already viewing the bird - good job as it was tucked down low amongst the pebbles - very difficult to see. It eventually sat up though and it was a beauty. I managed a few shots in the strong wind before dogs ran close by and chased the bird further up the beach. Don`t know why it was on a beach - it should have been on the moors in Scotland.

Bollihope - Ouzels and Pipits

2010-06-07T21:42:00.000+01:00

Had an early trip up to Bollihope in search of more Ring Ouzels and found 2 new sites (for me) where they were and both pairs had young ones, however never got good photos of either of them. However at one of the sites there was a few Tree Pipits (and Meadow Pipits) around, and I did mange to get good photos of them.

Also I finally got a decent picture of a Wren. It seems mad that I have struggled to get a good photo of these but it has just been a bit of a bogey bird.

Down at Deepdale Beck at Barnard Castle, I found a young Dipper in its usual breeding area on the river and it posed obligingly. I think it was rather sleepy and it wasn't dipping like a dipper dips.

Low Barns and Bollihope

2010-05-23T09:25:00.000+01:00

Went to Low Barns for 7 in the morning, trying to catch the owls in full sunshine. The young ones were calling so were found easily, they were wide awake and look like toy owl. I located an adult which looked like it had just had a bath. I think it has a bad eye it looks swollen and it doesnt open it properly.

Then I was up at Bollihope for about 8 before all the people arrive, to get some shots of Ring Ouzels. I could hear the birds calling up the gill, and found 2 adults feeding 3 young ones - on the other side of the gill. Got some distant pictures, then they moved down the gill to the car park, this gave a rare opportunity for some close up pictures, I normally have to walk miles to see this birds and never at such close range.

A good morning and both target species seen and digiscoped before 9 oclock.

Redstarts and Pied Flys

2010-05-16T19:11:00.000+01:00

Met up with Harrogate Pete today who said he knew a brilliant place for Redstarts and Pied Flycatchers. It was a couple of miles to the location where they were and on the way we saw our first Spotted Flycatcher of the year and Petes first ever Tree Pipit which landed next to a singing Redstart, the pipit displayed in its typical way. We also saw a Pied Flycatcher go into a box at the edge of a wood. Then a little further a Redstart was singing near a tree stump but couldnt get decent photos. Eventually we got to a wood with loads of nest boxes in it and there were Redstarts and Pied Flycatchers all over the place - its amazing.

After an hour or so watching these we went back to the first wood with the Pied Flycatchers in, and there were a few males singing here, but we watched the birds near the nest box and got some good photos - there was also some redstart here nesting in a natural hole close by, then we saw 3 males fighting over the hole / female. I have never seen so many Redstarts in one place - excellent.
Other birds seen were Nuthatch, Treecreeper, Buzzard, Little Ringed Plover, Mistle Thrush, Greater Spotted Woodpecker, Blackcap, Wren, Heron and Willow Warbler.
Thanks Pete.

Low Barns - Tawny Owls

2010-05-14T21:31:00.000+01:00

After my visit at the weekend I decided to see how the young owls were progressing - hoping for a cute picture of them. I only located one of the young ones - a bit hard to miss as it was sitting right on top of the nest box. I got some decent pictures of a very sleepy owlet. I thought the adult must be sat somewhere close so I spent the next 20 minutes searching the trees and eventually I spotted an adult - fast asleep. I walked to within 30 feet of it and it didnt wake - this was ideal for some digiscope shots. No point in trying to get closer even though I reckon I could have walked right up to it - well under it.

An excellent 2 hours after work.

Tunstall Resevoir

2010-05-14T21:18:00.000+01:00

Had a look up to Tunstall Res again to try and find the Redstarts and Pied Flycatchers, as soon as I walked into the wood I could hear a Redstart singing. I soon located and kept a watch on it. It regularly came down low as it was windy in the tree tops - this enabled me to get my best shots yet of a redstart.

A walk further along the wood and I could hear a Pied Flycatcher and again I located it but it wouldnt stay still for longer than a few seconds - no good for digiscoping. But on my return walk I spotted and managed a quick slightly blurred shot. I talked to a couple of guys who had said they had seen nothing yet on my return I saw and heard the redstart at the begining of the wood.

A look down to Low Barns and I had spotted two Tawny Owl chicks - one in the box and one under the box - only poor photos managed. A good morning out - I will retry for the Owls one evening

Hurworth Burn

2010-05-07T18:43:00.000+01:00

CHANNEL WAGTAIL

Went to Hurworth Burn to see the Channel Wagtail. There are loads of Yellow Wagtails there but I eventually managed to find the Yellow Wagail - its a smashing bird and likes to pose on the fence or tops of bushes, also loads of other warblers along the track - Willow, Sedge, Whitethroat and Blackcap. Also a cuckoo was seen in the distant and has been around for a while. I hadn`t even heard of a Channel Wagtail, and it is a rarity so I am pleased.

Channel Wagtail and Yellow Wagtail

2010-05-02T19:44:00.000+01:00

Went to Hurworth Burn to try and find the Channel Wagtail, (I had never even heard of this bird before Thursday) after going to far down the track I managed to locate it on my way back. There were plenty of Yellow Wagtails about too, but it was a very windy day which made the digiscoping very difficult. The Channel Wagtail is a smashing looking bird, and I will return to try and get a photo of it in the sun.

Barn Owl

2010-04-22T22:30:00.000+01:00

At last! a Barn Owl and what a beauty. This has been a real bogie bird for me and I have never had views close enough in day light hours to take a photo. This owl likes to pose and only takes a little patience befor it shows. I am very pleased - next is to try for some flying shots.

Weardale - Tree Pipit

2010-04-17T19:34:00.000+01:00

Spent my morning searching for Redstarts and Pied Flycatchers, although I heard a Redstart in Tunstall Res. Wood, I never saw despite searching for over an hour and a half. Saw GS Woodpeckers and loads of Nuthatch though also 2 Great Crested Grebes dispaying on the resevoir.

Moved on to Bollihope searching for Ring Ouzels but it was too busy with visitors there. However I did see this fine Tree Pipit - a first for the year for me. Also Stonechat, Wheatear, and Red Grouse.

Teesdale - Black Grouse 10th April

2010-04-10T17:14:00.000+01:00

Decided to get up real early and watch the Black Grouse do their displaying (Lech). So up at 5 and watching the grouse at 6, although they were not in their usual place I did find them. They were perhaps 120 yards away which was pushing it for digiscoping, but meant I could safely watch them without any disturbance.

Managed to take a few video clips which shows 2 males leching, altogether there were 12 males in the lech.

Also saw my first Redstart and Ring Ouzel of the year, plus Golden Plover, Snipe, Woodcock and heard a Merlin but didnt see it.

Potteric Carr - Lesser Spotted Woodpecker Mar 27th

2010-04-10T17:04:00.000+01:00

Had a trip down to Potteric Carr with Low Barns Photography group with the hope of seeing Bittern and Lesser Spotted Woodpecker. There was no luck with the Bittern but did see the elusive Lesser Spotted Woodpecker - a first for me.

Unfortunatley my cable release broke and I had manually press the shutter so I got the inevitable camera shake - also saw Kingfisher, Bullfinch, Heron, Chiffchaff. Was a nice day out.

Saltholme March 21st Hooded Merganser

2010-04-10T16:57:00.000+01:00

Spent ages watching this rare bird fish and swim in a circuit around the Salholme Hide area. It was fishing up the creek where I managed to digiscope some half decent shots of it.

It got really close to the hide but the sun was glaring off the water which just silhouetted the bird - this bird has been around the area all winter, and is a North American bird.

Cowpen Bewley - Ring Necked Duck 2nd February 2010

2010-04-10T16:44:00.000+01:00

I went down t Cowpen Bewley specifically to see the Ring Necked Duck that had been around for a while. It was very like a Tufted Duck and also came very close in - so close it was tough to digiscope it.

There were also the usual dozen or so Tree Sparrows around the feeders in the car park as well as a opportunist rat
.

Back to Newholm

2010-02-02T18:35:00.000Z

After my last attempts to photo the Black Throated Thrush on a dull and windy day I couldnt resist going back on a bright day. So off I tootled to see it - in the snow this time.

As soon as I arrived it flew off, but was confident it would come back and it did, although a bit bothered by local cats it sat up in the bushes nicely. Managed some decent shots, called back in at Scaling Dam, but nothing too unsual although I got super views of GS Woodpecker.

Sunderland area

2010-01-30T19:34:00.000Z

Went specifally to see the Black Necked Grebe that had been seen up on Wearside, first shock I got was the 4 inches of snow that was up there - none in Darlington to speak of. Found the place easily with other birders watching the bird - it was unbelievably approachable coming to within a couple of feet. But it spent more time under water than above - still got some decent shots.

Then down to Hartlepool - Eiders, Purple Sandpipers, Great Northern Diver, RB Mergansers. It was mission achieved today after last weekends dissappointment.

Saltburn Jan 25th

2010-01-25T18:55:00.001Z

Spent most of the day not finding birds - firstly Short Eared Owls at Coatham Stob - no sign. Next Smew at Coatham Marsh, found the Black Redstart though - still there. Then the Glaucus Gull at Saltburn - I couldnt find it after it had been seen earlier in the day. Got good shots of the Fulmars on the cliffs though - these were displaying to each other. Also took nice shots of cormorant at Coatham Marsh.

Newholm North Yorks, Jan 16th

2010-01-22T19:32:00.000Z

After dropping my wife off at Guisborough for work, I had a drive around the local area to see what was around - Hutton, plenty of tits around, Great Spotted Woodpecker and Nuthatch, but it was snowing fairly heavy and still lots of snow on the ground. Then decided to go up to Lockwood Beck, The drive was very dodgy but drivable, the res. was frozen over still, no sign of brambling or much else.

Then up to Scaling Dam, turned into the drive and saw the snow was real deep, and a guy was signalling me not to go into the car park - he was stuck. Helped him get out - recognised him as Dave Brown - from Bishop Auckland (photographer) He was much relieved. I turned round and came straight out - everything here was still frozen solid.

Went to Newholm to see the rare Black Throated Thrush, it gave great views but it was pelting down, so didnt bother with camera - wish I had because later on when it dried up, I didnt get anywhere near as good views. Too dark and windy to get good scope shots. A shame, because it was a cracking bird

Saltholme Jan 10th

2010-01-22T19:05:00.000Z

Went to Saltholme to try and get the Water Rails that have been spotted there. About 100 Skylarks in the carpark flying around and landing frequently - they are starting to really suffer in the cold now. At the wildlife watchpoint there were about 50 more skylarks and I managed to get some really good photos, but some were on their last legs.

There were 5 Water Rails showing but couldn`t get close to the windows due to photographers setting up shop and not moving, which is a shame because many people were wanting to view them.

South Gare - January 2nd 2009

2010-01-04T22:35:00.000Z

Went to South Gare this morning to specifically look for the Black Redstart that had been showing, the forecast was bad with more snow forecast for the afternoon so I had to find it pretty quick. Having tried a couple of days ago I couldn`t find it - it was blowing a hooly though.

Straight away another bird watcher put me onto the bird and initially it was quite distant but very mobile. It became apparent that it was doing circuits every 5 minutes or so which enabled me to get into a decent position without scaring it. I took about 40 shots and only about 5 of them are useable due to low light and a very twitchy bird - but there were a couple of good shots.

There was also a flock of about a 100 snow buntings on the beach, but fairly distant and dog walkers kept putting them up. Somebody said there had been a Peregrine on the mast at the base of the pier earlier, but I missed it. Then it started to snow - and boy did it snow, I decided to get home quick.

Hartlepool Area - Jan 3rd 2010

2010-01-04T22:13:00.000Z

Didn`t fancy a look up the dales today - to much snow. So went to Hartlepool to check things out. No joy with the Pudding Poke Little Owl so went straight down the marina to see if Great Northern Diver was still there. Couldnt see it initially so went for a walk around Jacksons Landing and it was in the other harbour and nice close views of it - and with the boats reflections it made great shots.

There were also about 14 Red Breasted Mergansers in the marina but they are wary, although with patience and time could get nice shots.

Then I went up to Ward Jackson Park to see if parrots were in range and they posed beautifully while feeding in the conifor trees near the bowling green.

Then off down to Newburn Bridge there were a few waders - dunlin, Ringed Plover, Oystercatcher and Knot really close in but were all asleep. A Mediterranean Gull was perched on top of a lamp post enabling really good shots of it. Going down through the Saltholme area just about all the water was iced over and the reserve was closed. Again quite a productive day with some nice digiscoped shots.

Teesdale / Weardale Dec 12th

2009-12-17T22:59:00.000Z

Decided to go up the dales for a change and went straight to the area where the Black Grouse show most frequent. I found the males straight away 11 of them sat on a wall 120 yards away. I tried some distant scope shots but only moderate results. I got farmers permission to walk so far down his drive and got to within 80 yards or so and got half decent shots. Then I had a drive round the back roads and noticed a lot of pheasants, and want I assumed initially to female pheasants on the verge of the road as I drove past they flew up, and I noticed the female black grouse - very close. They flew onto a wall in full sunlight and I managed to get my scope out and got some great shots from about 15 yards - brilliant!

I then drove over the moor to Weardale and had a look at Tunstall Res where a Black Throated Diver had been present for a week or so. I managed to find it and Hillary (photographer) was also photographing it. However it would not come very close. I walked around the lake to the other side but it was very wary even through the woodland it noticed me. Light was also bad on this side so only moderate shots.

Seaton Ponds Dec 5th

2009-12-17T22:12:00.000Z

Had a ride up to Seaton Ponds area to try and find the Short Eared Owls that had been much reported. Had trouble finding Seaton Pond to start with as my sat nav and map took me down a track which looked like it would get to the area but was gated off at a farm. But eventually found it and was straight on to the owls, which were sheltering from the wind in the hedgebacks to north of the road. Too far to digiscope! However after a while I spotted another sat on the hedge near a farm, I went to the farm road and luckily it was a public footpath which enable me to get closer, managed to scope 4 photos from 60 yards away, before the farm dogs scared the owl and me off.

Happy, I went down to Hartlepool to sea if Great Northern Diver was there, however no luck as yachts were in the harbour. A quick look down to Saltholme was less fruitful as a Bittern had been reported, went to check it out and after 2 hours I gave up as a storm was building. - Got this nice Kestrel though.