grown ducklings may now survive the attentions of Lesser Black-Backs, but I am less optimistic about 2 fluffy Tufted Ducklings, whose mother has them in deeper water which makes them potential prey for pike.2 pairs of Oystercatcher still territorial too.
At least 2 successful pairs of Reed Warbler in front of the hide, with 7-8 young seen.
Likewise Coot numbers are well up at 37, after 4 pairs during April/May breeding season. Mute Swans only 15 today, after 23 last week, and no sign today of the Black Swan present 3 days ago.
My only local Hobby this year flew south over Red Bank yesterday.
Thanks for the update on bird numbers etc Chris. Just got back from an evening visit to LCyD as Steve's brother is staying with us and always enjoys a visit - the Black Swan was there, as were 54+ Greylags and a pair of Common Sandpipers. Lucky you seeing a hobby - not seen one locally this year yet.
ReplyDeleteI have a photo of that bird too from a few weeks ago but assumed it was a peregrine falcon, I'll have to brush up on my ID skills.
ReplyDeleteI find that Hobbies resemble large swifts, with a fast, direct flight. they are much less bulky than a Peregrine, and obviously smaller. However , as with all scarcities, it is difficult to build up I.D. skills, particularly with species which are often just flyovers. But that's part of the challenge of birding!
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