Patch work Monday

Monday morning was here and with a clear sunny sky and a frost on the ground i decided to head straight for Langenhoe point in hope of spotting some Bearded Tits. And i wasn't disappointed with 25+ individuals feeding on the reed tops, as the thawed in the early morning sun allowing them to feed. During my stroll round the point 6 separate water rails could be heard squealing in different locations.

After spending a few hours on the point i decided to have a look down the centre track. This area has been out off bounds recently. As i scanned the Hawthorn bushes through my Binoculars i noticed a pale patch on a Hawthorn bush. On closer inspection with the scope it revealed 4 Short-eared Owls in a Parliament meeting. 

 

Another is in the top right back corner

After leaving the Owls the seawall was my next port of call but i was stopped in my tracks by a Cattle Egret and the Great white Egret flying around the marsh from one spot to another. A final look over the sea wall produced a good number of winter ducks and a quick snap of my favorites the Pintails. What a lovely end to a bird filled day on my Patch. A quick look at my watch and 6 hours has passed and it was time for home. Roll on next week  

Commandants OK!!

Finally got permission from the commandant to visit the Ranges. And my first visit for 2015. First sighting of the year was a group of five Bearded Tits feeding in the reeds. 

Monthly moments.

Above Curlew Sandpipers and below Little Stint.

(below) One of the 16 Whinchats found on the 7th Sept.

                             And around 40 Beard Tits (below) were counted on the 28th Sept.

Never knowing what might turn up on the M.o.D Ranges is what makes my Sunday mornings birding exciting, especially during Autumn migration. After searching through hundreds of waders roosting at high tide and hunting under bushes and reed beds these are my Favourite monthly moments.

Lazy Sunday Morning

Dragged myself out off bed this morning, no time for a dig in the grave (shave), then finding a frost on the car windscreen ?. Was it worth it !!!. Most defiantly after a few fruitless trips i finally connected with a small group of bearded tits feeding in the still conditions with wonderful light -- Happy days ;-).

Blinging Warbler

Went back to Old Hall marsh again, hoping to catch up with an adult beared tit as the winds were still but no joy. I did however see a party of 5 juvenilles (top picture).
Also in the same area was this Reed Warbler with a ring on his leg. I have sent the little detail that i have off so hopefully find out some history on this birds movements.

Baby Bearded Tit

The pinging of this juvenille bearded tit alerted me to his presence.This bird could be a striking male by next year.