Previously “Diary of a Birding Medic”; “Rugby Birder”; "Bempton Birder”. All views expressed in this blog are my OWN and do not represent the opinions or policies of any organisations or entities whatsoever with whom I have been, am now or will be affiliated. Reference to Bempton Cliffs in NO way promotes the organisation known as RSPB Bempton Cliffs, but rather the FREEdom of the cliffs.

Saturday, 2 January 2010

Draycote Water & Long Lawford



I seem to rely on "windows of opportunity" at the moment, and when one opened this afternoon, I headed down to Draycote for a couple of hours. Meeting a couple of birders near the visitor centre, I was informed that a Black Necked Grebe had been seen earlier but had not been relocated. Disappointing as I did not see one last year. A brisk walk to the Valve Tower and back soon had me touching base with two Great Northern Divers (still distant) and the drake Smew. Just past the sailing club, I was able to get to grips with an obliging Kestrel, before meeting Bob D and others, who confirmed my fears that the BN Grebe had gone.



Kestrel


Kestrel


Teal


Smew


Smew


Dabchick



A message from RBA informed me that the Great White Egret was again in the Long Lawford area, so it would have been rude not to pay a visit. Initially I could not locate it near the A428 so headed for Clayhill Lane where I again met Bob D. Bob informed me that the Egret had flown into the fields near the West St footpath so I guided him to this area. The Egret was again located in the stream but as always was very nervous and soon took flight. I managed a few "record" shots - disappointing when compared to those taken before Christmas.









"Angel of Light"


Todays Sightings (Draycote):

Robin; Magpie; Blackbird; Wood Pigeon; Rook; Carrion Crow; BH Gull; Mallard; Tufted Duck; Coot; LBB Gull; Pied Wagtail; Lapwing; Great Northern Diver; Dabchick; Teal; Gt Cr Grebe; Herring Gull; Smew; Goldeneye; Cormorant; Gadwall; Moorhen; Goosander; Common Gull; Canada Goose; Grey Heron; Wigeon; Pochard; Jackdaw; Ruddy Duck; Blue Tit; GBB Gull; Kestrel; Dunnock; Bullfinch; Fieldfare; Chaffinch; Gt Tit.

Great White Egret (Long Lawford).
















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2 comments:

  1. Max Silverman3 January 2010 at 09:14

    Nice shots Kevin.You had a better day at Draycote than I did on Friday.I keep missing the GWE.

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  2. Kevin Groocock3 January 2010 at 21:13

    Cheers, Max. The GWE appears to be a very "nervous" bird, easily put to flight and is now being seen in a number of locations around Lawford. Apart from Clayhill Lane, you could try the footpath opposite West St or the bridleway at the end of Chapel st. In either case, walk down to the stream. Current locations appear to be just off the A428 near Lawford Heath lane.I am sure you will soon touch base with it.

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