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.

Sunday, 2 February 2014

Draycote Water.

Long Tailed Duck

Draycote Water on a Sunday morning is not exactly my up of tea! Far too busy and loads of disturbance! But, needs must and the sun was shining! It was my first "out of the garden" outing with the 500mm lens, which is taking some getting used too!

Light effects looking from Farborough Bank to the Grandborough Valley




Initially I walked from the car park to Farborough Spit, taking the opportunity to photograph the Goldeneye. On my return, I met a couple who drew my attention to the long staying Long Tailed Duck which had popped up just over the fishing pontoons, and giving excellent views.

Goldeneye







Long Tailed Duck






I decided to walk to Rainbow Corner and the Inlet where the Red Breasted Merganser was picked up. Unfortunately, I could not locate the Great Northern Diver and drake Smew.

Red Breasted Merganser





Finally, it was also good to get Tree Sparrow on my 2014 list.
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6 comments:

  1. Jason K3 February 2014 at 09:35

    A great selection of Wildfowl there Kevin...definitely worth the Sunday morning visit

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  2. Kevin Groocock3 February 2014 at 09:57

    Cheers, Jason. I agree, but glad I went early! You couldn't move by 1100hrs!

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  3. Unknown3 February 2014 at 20:11

    Lovely Photos as usual Kevin, great stuff.

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  4. Kevin Groocock3 February 2014 at 20:20

    Thanks Bernard, I'm glad you're enjoying them.

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  5. Central Birder5 February 2014 at 23:31

    Hi Kevin,great shots, Draycote is great before it gets light as the Gulls are quiet until the sun comes up & there's nobody about either. Enjoy being retarded :-)

    ReplyDelete
  6. Kevin Groocock6 February 2014 at 06:43

    Thanks Steve - I love Draycote especially very early morning, and look forward to the Spring. Retarded LOL! you know me better than I thought!

    ReplyDelete

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