Moors and Ogden

I took a drive out to the nearby(ish) moors , for a change, to have a hunt for a Wheatear - but no joy today.

It was cold this morning in a strong wind but the afternoon sunshine was quite warm and I had a really pleasant 5 hours or so strolling about.

10:00 - 13:00 Moors.

First up was was a quick photo of a distant Meadow Pipit,(the photo opportunity interrupted by an inquisitive dog walker),
looking at the photo now that I've got home reveals a M. Stonechat.

The moors were alive with Lapwing and calling Curlew.
A fly over of 12 Lapwing > E was a pleasing sight.
Canada Geese were up and about as well.

Lots of Meadow Pipit and singing Skylark in the sunshine.
2 Pied Wagtail, 2 Red Grouse, 2 Reed Bunting and 2 Red Legged Partridge.

A large flock of 100+ Starlings, Pheasant and Chipping Snipe - heard but not seen as per usual for Snipe.

Top of the bill , if you'll pardon the pun, was a pr. Stonechat.

I had a enjoyable chat with Gary a runner who passed by.


14:00 - 15:30 Ogden.

A lovely day and I managed to get parked in the lower car park without any problem.

2 Tufted Duck were by the Hovis hurler area and the large contingent of 11 Goosander were still here - scattered about a bit but all managing to stay a long was from the camera.

It is the first time that Goosander outnumbered Gulls that I can recall, with just 1 Common and 1 Black Headed Gull on the water when I arrived.

A few more Gulls did turn up later, including 2 Lesser Blacked-backed Gulls.

A walk along towards the Golf Club, to look for Wheatear, did not bring much reward.

A look at the feeders for Nuthatch only produced a Coal Tit and a few other small birds.

A real enjoyable afternoon out, and  a bit less strenuous than of late.
When you are on your tod you can take your time,with the bins and camera without upsetting the apple cart!!

Reed Bunting

Ogden:

I thought I'd post all the Goosander photo's (as poor as they are) in case a Merganser has sneaked in - can't see one though!!!