Mandarin
This was my first visit to Earlswood Lakes and I must say that I was impressed. The goal for the day was of course the Night Heron which failed to show, until fifteen minutes after I left! Typical! However, the day was not lost with a very obliging drake Mandarin taking over the starring role. This was actually my first Mandarin in Warwickshire (true!) and my first to be seen in three years! Not really bothered about "plastic" claims! It was rather "seasonally fresh" standing on the causeway from 3pm until 8pm but the company was good, with a good gathering including Matt G (original finder of the Night Heron), Craig (MidlandsBirder), Steve S & Ann, Dave H, Bob D, Di S plus others whose names escape me! I shall return!
Protective & Proud - Mallard Family
Lovely photos of the Mandarin Kevin! I have never seen one other than in photos. I don't like the term 'plastic' either.
ReplyDeleteI had never heard of Earlswood Lakes so have just looked it up, it's about an hour from me so may well be worth a visit.
Well done with the Black-throated Diver on the previous post too!
The Night Heron is very tricky to catch unless you are Dave Hutton.I've had a very brief flyover and that took a few visits.
ReplyDeleteCheers ShySongbird - it was my first trip to Earlswwod Lakes and I must say that I was impressed. It is worth a visit.
ReplyDeleteMax, I agree the Night Heron is a very tricky bird! Got him nailed though!