From Dorset to Glasgow

We've been away for a few days down in Dorset and despite the poor weather managed some birding. The highlights included c300 Brent Geese and 96+ Mediterranean Gulls (!!!!) at Ferrybridge and yet more Med Gulls at Radipole Lake RSPB Reserve, two of which were ringed ...........

Ringed Med Gull - car park Radipole Lake - 9 Nov 2014

 

However, the best sighting was of a Kingfisher from the hide at Radipole ....

Kingfisher - Radipole Lake - 9 Nov 2014

 

Back home, I can report that today there were 6 juvenile Mute Swans on Bingham's Pond, possibly the largest number since the pond was drained and naturalised some years ago. It will be interesting to see if any settle down and become the 'resident breeding pair' and chase-off all comers!

 

Finally, a few recent sightings from the Greater Glasgow area, courtesy of SOC Clyde Grapevine:

 

13 November 2014

A female/immature Black Redstart still at Lochcraig Reservoir, south of Newton Mearns NS528509, mainly near the tower, also a Brambling at  South Moorhouse Farm.
30 Tree Sparrrows at East Millichen Farm.

12 November 2014
A Woodcock flushed at Top Wood, Linn Park, Glasgow.

9 November 2014
A female/immature Black Redstart at Lochcraig Reservoir, south of Newton Mearns NS528509.
Seven Jack Snipe (one of which had been ringed in 23/10/12) and 60 Snipe at Windlaw Marsh, near Carmunnock NS603580.
A Nuthatch calling in Dougalston Estate, Milngavie.

8 November 2014
 A Jack Snipe in Hogganfield Park marsh, also eleven Gadwall and eight Whooper Swans on the loch.