Nethergong Birding

With the snow still very much around and temperatures not getting above freezing at all, I have spent a few hours over the past couple of days again at Nethergong enjoying what birds are to found. After a few good birds moving a few days ago in the cold weather, I was hopeful of a few other birds moving but apart from Lapwing, Snipe and an increase in Woodcock, I have yet to find any duck or other waders but I'm still hopeful of a 'goody' in the next week or so. Quite often in these conditions, bird seem to let their guard down as they struggle to find food and they seem to be slightly more approachable and this has proven to be the case with a few species. Redwing which are normally very skittish and hard to approach have allowed me to get a few images of them and my last few visits have seen me being able to approach a female Kingfisher to within five metres or so. I have never before been able to stalk a Kingfisher like this in the open and today proved to be a memorable moment when I managed to get quite near again and in good light, take a few pleasing images. She was so preoccupied with hunting that she took very little notice of me. With the snow melting quickly now, I suspect it won't be long until she is fully alert of all humans again but what a bird to be able to photograph at quite close range.

Female Kingfisher

Other notable birds noted in the past few days have included up to 10 Woodcock, 1 Green Sandpiper, c10 Snipe but no sign of any Jack Snipe despite searching all suitable habitat. 1 Grey Wagtail has been hanging around and I was able to grab some photos today which I shall post in due coarse. As I stood at the eastern gate this afternoon, a Fox was seen in a nearby field hunting. The beautiful colours standing out in the snow made for a nice photo so I rattled off a few images. She started to move my way so I tucked myself into the gate to hide  and just waited. She continued to walk along the bank towards me and with the wind in my face taking my scent away, was unaware I was there. Eventually, I decided I'd had better take a few shots before she saw me and still walking towards me, I managed to take my best ever photos of this stunning animal, and in the snow showing off those lovely colours. Eventually I was seen and within seconds, she was across the field and out of sight. A real privilege to spend a few moments in her company. Hopefully back tomorrow to spend a few hours in the hope of a  year tick or a photo opportunity. 

Red Fox