New Forest Beetle and Birds

A walk along the disused railway at Burbush produced a variety of birds and this intriguing Whirligig beetle, which apparently has two pairs of eyes - one to see above water and the other to see under the water. The Goldcrest was in very dark conditions but the bright head flash showed up fairly well.

Stanpit Marsh, Christchurch

Sunday started with clear skies and temperatures of minus 4 degrees so there was still ice around when we walked around Stanpit Marsh near Christchurch. Lovely large clumps of March Marigolds plus a few species of birds and even one hoverfly.

Wood Ants at Arne

Despite the very cold temperatures the wood ants at Arne were fairly active and provided a great macro subject.

RSPB Arne's Elusive Dartford Warbler

Our target for the RPS Nature Group visit to Arne was obviously the Dartford Warbler. It was certainly very elusive with brief views at quite a distance. However, with mainly sunny weather I enjoyed our walk around the reserve in great company. Life in the gorse  included Dartford Warbler, Dunnock, Stonechat - male and female, Robin, Chiffchaff, and Tree Pipit

Birds on Brownsea Island

We visited Brownsea Island yesterday on a bright sunny day but with a very strong northerly wind. Red Squirrels were sheltering and were not seen but the hides over the lagoon produced some sightings including Greyshank and Redshank, Avocet and Black-tailed Godwit. The Black-headed and Mediterranean Gulls (black heads and no black on primaries) were beginning to pair up. Most exciting view was of a Peregrine repeatedly flying at the flocks of waders.

Stormy Skies at Hengistbury Head

I am spending a few days in Dorset and, having travelled through snowstorms yesterday afteroon, decided a visit to Hengistbury Head might would give a good view of the sunset. In fact, the sun sets a bit too far over the land for good sky reflections but great views across to Bournmouth one way and to Isle of Wight the other.