Blackcap and others

Had two female Blackcaps in the garden this morning feeding on honeysuckle berries,plus a female Redpoll. The honeysuckle was grown for Blackcaps. The photo of a male is from my files.

After Chris's report of Mandarin, thought I would have a run out to Llyn Du lake which is on the road between Guilsfield and Meifod. This is a private lake and as far as I know has no public access, so keep to the highway! Parking is a bit dodgy and the best places found were at the bottom area of the lake and at the top. There is a low hedge by the side of the road, and this is probably the best viewing point at this time of year.
Birds seen were a Kingfisher on the far side of the lake, 8 Goosander (3 males and 5 females), 2 Cormorant, 2 Tufted duck, and several Mallard.
Hope these may be of use to you Paul!

I'm afraid that the lake is not really suitable for photography Mark, although along the lake on the road side are some very nice Common Alder the tops of which are almost level with the road, and these could produce Lesser Spotted Woodpecker! The best lighting is from the road.