I arrived at Nethergong this morning at 6:45am where after parking up and winding the window down, Redwing and Fieldfare could already be heard calling in the growing light. I spent about 3 hours wandering around the area and fields in freezing conditions and managed to note 6 Woodcock, 11 Snipe, 1 Raven seen and heard cronking early morning before flying off to the north. There were c30 Redwing, 1 Common Buzzard, 1 Kestrel, 2 Great spotted Woodpecker, 1 Kingfisher, 2 Jay, 1 Grey Heron, 1 Lapwing, 1 Marsh Harrier, 2 Yellowhammer, 1 Mistle Thrush and 1 Bullfinch. As I scanned across the stream to a ditch looking for Jack Snipe which I have been looking for all week, I could make out what I thought was the shape of a head sticking out of the reeds. A few quick snaps with the camera and somehow, I was indeed right, a Jack Snipe (70), a real bonus bird to get here. I made my way around the stream and managed to get a little nearer and took a few photos showing the bird and then backed off so as to not disturb it. All those cold walks along every ditch and stream in the snow in the past week were all suddenly forgotten. With this coming week off work i'm hopeful of a few more visits during the week.
Delighted to see you eventually got your Jack Snipe, Marc. I still find myself astounded by the richness of wildlife you find at Nethergong. I love the light on that Marsh Harrier image - I guess that the snow underneath helped with that.
ReplyDeleteBest wishes - stay safe and make the most of your week off - - - Richard
All thwvwandering finally paid off. Looking forward next month to recording regularly at night to see what is flying over. Bound to be some surprises here for the year list. The snow did indeed give me some good light underneath for that shot. It can be hard work here but like anything, keep going and the rewards will come. Take care and thanks for visiting.
DeleteBeautiful snowy images Marc. I love the Marsh Harrier and Jack Snipe, excellent Marc.
ReplyDeleteThanks Bob. It's been a busy cold week but very enjoyable to add a few good birds.
Delete