A Ray of Light

Isn't it weird how after thirty years of birding you can still be surprised by the sheer beauty of even the commonest birds.
Today at Cowpen Bewley Woodland Park, I was watching Tree Sparrows when one was caught in a shaft of sunlight. The orange colours in its back were highlighted and it made me realise what little stunners they really are...

Back to work......

... after a long weekend. Shame about the weather not being good for birding but managed a fruitless search for Green Woodpeckers in the drizzle at Urlay Nook. Nice views of Willow Tit and Water Rail were some compensation though. Can't wait for the spring... nicely coincides with my retirement plans :-)

Miserable Weather

A morning at Hartlepool in the rain. No sign of any divers today but the large scoter flock was close inshore off Parton Rocks. Two Velvets among the many Common and a Long-tailed Duck was a treat. The gull numbers around the estuary are really impressive, there must be a goody amongst them somewhere.....

Thayer's Gull

With few WPal ticks available, I'm wondering why I'm sat on my arse doing nowt when there's a mega in Ireland that I've yet to see. MONEY!! I reckon it'll cost well in excess of £100 quid which I haven't got spare :-(. With an Israel trip to fund at the end of the month, it's a straight choice between the gull or Nubian Nightjar. If only I was rich..........

Welcome to my new blog. Here you'll find updates on local birding and trips abroad, including details of guided tours around some of the birding hotspots of Europe.