Draycote Water

Great Northern Diver


Great Northern Diver


Great Northern Diver


Great Northern Diver


Great Northern Diver

Arrived late afternoon, in warm sunshine and decided to walk to the Valve Tower and back. The hordes were still present with children climbing on the rocks and fishermen on every bank so I did not expect to see too much, so a total of 45 was pleasing. Chiffchaff were singing in the Country Park but little else until Rainbow Corner. Here at least 4 Snipe were in the field at the back with several Yellowhammers. Just before the Inlet, a White Wagtail flitted between the rocks until flushed away by rampant kids. Three Hares were in the fields off Draycote Bank and two female Goosander flew overhead. Between the Inlet and the Valve Tower, all four Great Northern Divers (above) were together and impressively calling, a sound I had not heard before. It was here that a solitary Sand Martin flew over and a Buzzard circled over Draycote Hill. Returning to the car park produced several Skylark, Reed Bunting, Pied Wagtail and Lapwing (8 flying over). From the sailing club hill, I noted a raptor heading towards Daventry, and closer scope view revealed a flyover Osprey. Not a bad day! Ahh well back to the decorating..........................................................!