Cattle Egrets

We have been a bit slow in going for the three Cattle Egrets near Ramsey in Cambridgeshire. Turns out they are pretty showy and in the Peterborough recording area- though only by a few metres!

Peterborough-on-Sea

From the above photos of two coastal species, you can believe Peterborough was by the sea this weekend. The Common Scoter was found by Hugh Wright  today (Sunday 10th) Maxey Gravel Pits-a good month before we usually get inland Scoters as the move between the Seven and Wash.

The Common Seal was found by my Dad on January 1st from a moving car at the Dog in a Doublet, near Whittlesey. At the time we were partaking in a 'big day' (seeing as many species of bird as possible in a day) we had no time to stop. Over a month later this marine animal is still seemingly enjoying life over 25 miles inland.

Waxwing overload

A 'few' more photos from Saturday of Werrington's current celeb Scandinavian Pretty Boys.

Marsh Harrier roost

A pretty reasonably weekend. Saw the 15 White-fronts found by Josh at Baston & Langtoft GP, photographed the Waxwings in Werrington and had 5 Long-eared Owls at Deeping Lakes. Finished Sunday with the Harrier roost at Titchwell- incredible scenes, 38 Marsh Harriers in the air together. With others arriving afterwards, there were easily 50 birds. Plus two Hen Harriers and a Woodcock feeding in the undergrowth on the walk back to the car (the first time I have seen one actually feeding!).

Waxwing lyrical

The pair of Waxwings in Werrington were found by John Saunders on Monday but became more elusive on Thursday and Friday so it was great to hear from John on Saturday (02.02.19) to say they were still present. Incredibly confiding and proved popular with Joe Public and birders alike. As ever, click for bigger images.

Snow Bunting

Everyone loves Snow Buntings and even 'Joe Public' was stopped and watching. Around 20 Shorelarks and a Dartford Warbler were the other highlights from Holkham Gap on an amazing calm, crisp January afternoon.

Grey Partridge

Don't see many Grey Partridge in an average year, usually have to make do with calling birds in the spring. However, this drake (part of a pair) was calling close to Lady Anne's Drive at Holkham, Norfolk this afternoon and showed well. Perhaps not long out of a game keepers cage but nevertheless was pleasing to see this declining species.

Red-necked Grebe at Ferry Meadows

Back in the day, at the end of 2004, I photographed at Red-necked Grebe at Ferry Meadows quite well. This weekend had another go as one was discovered earlier in the week, again at Ferry Meadows. Mike Weedon had absolutely nailed it and I wanted in on the action.

Sadly, yesterday it just didn't play ball but today was much better though far from ideal with the hoards of humanoids not helping matters. Hopefully it will winter on site and more opportunities will be had.

Rough-legged Buzzard in Cambs

Rough-legged Buzzards are a highly sort after winter visitor to our shores but occasionally you get good years. This winter looks set to be one of those bumper years. I found one at Gedney Drove End on the Wash with Dad last weekend and visited this one on the Great Fen near Holme south of Peterborough today with Mike Weedon. It showed well at times and at one point came incredibly low and close but was into the sun. Hope it (and the other round the corner!) sticks around for the winter- good potential of more shots.

Wryneck

Forgot I had taken these in September in Suffolk, at Landguard on the 9th September. Not exactly vintage photos but still one of the best birds on the British list surely?