From the achieves No 12.....

It may not be from the distant past, but I’ve only just had the chance to look at my Pallas’s Warbler photos from Ferry Meadows in December last year. This one-day stayer was a complete surprise to all of us keen Peterborough birders, capping off a remarkable year of rare bird sightings in the area.

This was my fifth new species in the Peterborough area in 2024—a fantastic way to round off an exciting year of birding! It was amazing to see this Siberian seven-striped sprite so close to the heart of the city, a rare treat for local birdwatchers and wildlife photographers alike.

Have you ever been lucky enough to spot a Pallas’s Warbler in the UK?

More Short-eared Owls

Still going through the mountain of images I have taken of these birds so far this month. Hopefully more to come!

Winter Thrushes in the sunshine

Lovely to see winter thrushes in the sunshine this weekend. I haven't seen many Redwings lately, so it was great to spot a few alongside the Fieldfares, both feeding on worms in a grassy field. These beautiful migratory birds won’t be here for much longer, as our winter visitors will soon begin their long journey northward for the summer.

If you're lucky, you might still catch a glimpse of these seasonal birds in open countryside, parks, or gardens before they leave. Keep an eye out for their distinctive markings and listen for their calls while they're still around!

Battling Short-eared Owls

The Short-eared Owls performed really well last week and occasionally engaged in battles over airspace. Fantastic birds, and it was great to hear their calls.

Male Hen Harrier

I was surprised to see the male Hen Harrier that's been roosting at Willow Tree Fen while looking for the owls last week. It was very distant from my position, but some lucky people had a stunning fly-by!

Dream Garden Bird!

Another of the Hampton Black Redstart from last weekend. Would be great to see one on my garden fence!

Stunning male Black Redstart!

 

Fantastic find by Mike Weedon by Beeby's Pit on Sunday, Just a stones throw away from the 1st winter/female that's also wintering at CEGB reservoir. 

Short-eared Owl Dive

This weekend, I spent some time watching the local Short-eared Owls, and what a sight they were! Judging by the high numbers of Kestrels and Barn Owls around this winter, it must be a good vole year, and the Short-eared Owls seem to be making the most of it.

At one location alone, there was an incredible nine Short-eared Owls hunting together. These striking winter visitors are always a highlight of the colder months, and with such high numbers around, I’m looking forward to capturing more of their aerial prowess over the coming weeks.

Hopefully, time allows for plenty more encounters as the season continues!

Patch Brambling pair

 

This winter, a spectacular finch flock is feeding in the game cover near the Lake at Deeping Lakes. As always, I’ve been keeping an eye out for Brambling, and to my delight, I discovered a male and female that have been present for several weeks. 

Today, patience paid off as Dad and I spotted the pair together after carefully scanning the flock. Brambling are among my favourite finches, and it’s a joy to see them so early in the year at this special location.

Up Helly Aa: Shetland’s Fiery Winter Spectacle

Tucked away at the northernmost tip of the British Isles, the Shetland Islands are famous for their dramatic coastlines, rich Norse heritage, and one incredible winter tradition: Up Helly Aa. This fiery festival, held annually during the darkest months, is a celebration of Shetland’s Viking roots and an experience like no other.

At the weekend, I finally had the chance to witness the magic of Up Helly Aa in Scalloway, Shetland’s ancient capital. After braving the winter weather and embarking on a whirlwind journey—including an overnight ferry and snow-dusted landscapes—we arrived just in time for the festivities.

At 7pm sharp, the torch-lit procession began. Leading the charge was the Guizer Jarl, Shetland’s Viking-in-chief for the day, dressed in full Norse regalia—helmet, shield, axe, and all. Alongside the Jarl was the Jarl Squad, a band of equally fierce Vikings, who marched proudly through the streets, singing and carrying flaming torches. The atmosphere was electric, a fiery spectacle that truly brought Shetland’s history to life.

The grand finale was the dramatic burning of the Viking galley at the harbour. Watching the flames roar into the night sky, surrounded by the cheers of onlookers and the smell of smoke in the crisp winter air, was an unforgettable experience. Fireworks lit up the snowy hillsides, adding a final touch of magic to an already extraordinary night.

While the largest Up Helly Aa takes place in Lerwick, Scalloway’s more intimate festival offers a unique opportunity to get up close to the action and immerse yourself in Shetland’s welcoming community spirit. 

Britain's 10th American Coot

 

Just back from a brilliant weekend in Shetland for the Scalloway fire festival, where I was lucky enough to see Britain’s 10th American Coot at Loch Spiggie. This rarity has been around for a few months, and I was thrilled it stuck around for my visit, securing my first new bird of the year.

Although it stayed distant, I managed a few record shots in the winter sunshine. A fantastic start to 2025!