Huggy and Garganey Success

On Friday morning I arrived at Hogganfield Park LNR (Avenue End Road entrance) and was soon being serenaded by Chiffchaff, Willow Warbler, Blackcap, Dunnock, Wren, Robin, Blackbird and Greenfinch(!)

Chiffchaff - Hogganfield Park - 17 April 2015

Willow Warbler - Hogganfield Park - 17 April 2015

Greenfinch - Hogganfield Park - 17 April 2015

 

Lots of birds were nest building and a few already on their nests ..

 

Mute Swan - Hogganfield Park - 17 April 2015

Grey Heron - Hogganfield Park - 17 April 2015

 

I also met a Council officer regarding the small number of dead Mute Swans at the loch and was advised of the procedures being adopted to ascertain the cause.

 

In the afternoon I headed down to Lochwinnoch RSPB Reserve and this time was rewarded with great views of a pair of Garganey. Record shots follow:

 

 

I was also pleased to get nice views of a Great Spotted Woodpecker ..

 

 

Whilst at Lochwinnoch I bumped into Judith and Mike. After enjoying the birds we went for a nice coffee and I was grateful for a lift home! 

 

And I'll end with more updates for Greater Glasgow, courtesy of the SOC Clyde Grapevine:

 

Thursday 6 April 2015

14 Shovelers (nine drakes), two pairs of Gadwall and still 29 Pink-footed Geese at Bridgend Farm Pool.
A Nuthatch in song at Dougalston Estate, Milngavie with another calling nearby at a possible nest site.
A Cuckoo at Snypes Dam, Neilston.
Four male Swallows back on territory at Stables, Pollok Country Park.
Blackcaps, Willow Warblers and Common Sandpipers now fairly widespread.