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, 15 May 2010

Draycote Water


Following on from this mornings rather disappointing visit to Daventry Country Park, I decided to pay a quick visit to Draycote Water this afternoon, braving the hordes and walking to the valve tower and back. Was it any better? Not a chance! Saving grace was a very obliging photogenic Kestrel at the end of Hensborough Bank.

Draycote is definitely in decline and I am not referring just to the birds. A notice informs of the closure of the visitor centre in June and another one informs of the removal of all the portaloo's along the perimeter road. Aah well, at least the bushes have leaves on them at the moment to hide peoples embarrassment!

Best of the birds were Garden Warbler (5), Lesser Whitethroat (1), Yellowhammer (3), Yellow Wagtail (2), and Buzzard (3). A full list at end of post.



The Cuties - Mallard Chicks

Great Crested Grebe attempting hop, skip and jump!

Pied Wagtail (about to have fly for lunch)

Kestrel

Kestrel


Kestrel

Kestrel


(More images on my website - see link opposite)


Todays Sightings 1545 - 1820:

Wood Pigeon; Carrion Crow; Rook; Kestrel; Mallard; Coot; Great Crested Grebe; Swift; House Martin; Blackbird; Great Tit; Canada Goose; Jackdaw; Pied Wagtail; Dunnock; Chaffinch; Pheasant; Stock Dove; Tufted Duck; Magpie; Garden Warbler; Blackcap; Robin; Yellowhammer; Lesser Whitethroat; Willow Warbler; Buzzard; Yellow Wagtail; Swallow; Black Headed Gull; Cormorant; Grey Heron; LBB Gull; Moorhen; Wren; Blue Tit; Green Woodpecker; Greenfinch; Whitethroat.

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