Looking up the Estuary to Warkworth Dunes |
Mid month had my pulse racing, watching Gulls and being aware that early spring is a good time to check groups of these birds. They always seem to resemble a group of disgruntled locals sitting out the cold weather but if you spend a little time with them you can see the birds arriving and leaving constantly.
The morning of the 15th I was due to meet Stewart in The Braid car park and I was late, and keen. I sped along the road glancing towards the river as I did and noticed gulls on the grassy bank by the weir and a single bird on the river itself. I pulled into The Braid car park, no Stewart. I slumped in my warm car seat a little and settled to Classic FM for a few seconds.
My mobile rang, Stewart was later than I and had noticed an Iceland Gull as he was passing the Weir, fabulous!!, I sped back 'upstream' and enjoyed the bird....
Iceland Gull |
The day wasn't over though, common birds have their place. A Grey Wagtail was working a pool in the highways compound on the opposite side of the road to the river.
Grey Wagtail |
A break away from the patch on the 18th. Holy Island, a lovely wander around, quiet. Raven just over the Causeway and Black Tailed Godwit seen.
Lindisfarne Castle and Brent Geese |
The end of the month saw a visiting birder discovering three Short Eared Owls in Warkworth Dunes. I think I became more worried about how I felt than actually getting out to see these birds. I left work early on the 27th, met Stewart who although had seen the birds well joined me on my walk. They didn't disappoint, these birds were once a regular sight but I honestly would have to consult notebooks to find out when I last saw a Short Eared Owl on the coast.Three were seen and a very obliging Barn Owl was hunting the same area as we walked back to the car.
what a place.. what will March bring