Stars of RSPB Blacktoft Sands

The RPS Nature Group outing to Blacktoft Sands RSPB reserve near Goole produced some great close views of commoner waders (including Blacktailed Godwit),ducks etc plus one star species, White-winged Lapwing (last image - an accidental from Iran), at a distance. It was very cold and icy there and 4 of the 6 hides produced no birds at all but was compensated by these great views (all quickly converted from Raw files - will process fully when home and replace)

 

Winter Birds in Toft

A few birds from a walk round our village. . Lots of Redwings feeding on the ground along with Blackbirds and Fieldfares. Great to see a Siskin in the trees - it was only a dark silhouette to the eye so pleased to be able to do the ID on the computer after lightening the file. The Starling is definitely the star of the set with his iridescent plumage

New Year Walk at Barton

We took a walk round the fields at Barton hoping to photograph a Hare or two. We briefly saw one retreating so here a miscellany from the morning. Several very smart -looking Reed Butings. There are a couple of very strange scarecrows - the one with dolls' heads is enough to scare anyone let alone a Crow. 

Redwings etc at Paxton Pits

Very enjoyable walk at Paxton Pits today where the star performers were the Redwings plucking and swallowing berries. Bluetits were also feasting on the berries while Goldfinches seemed to be pecking at galls on the willows. Strange rook with white feathers on the flanks.