UK Bird Photos 2015 - 2019

All photos copyright of the author unless stated otherwise

Eastern Yellow Wagtail Motacilla tschutschensis
Sedgeford, Norfolk, December 2019.

Nice to see and study this rare visitor, especially in this plumage.



















Rough-legged Buzzard Buteo lagopus
Stainforth, South Yorkshire, December 2019.

A cracking winter visitor showing well near Doncaster.





















Scotland - December 2019.

Crested Tit Lophophanes cristatus scoticus
Showing well at Loch Garten.

Treecreeper Certhia familiaris
Also seen at Loch Garten.

Capercaillie Tetrao urogallus
Simply stunning, after over 2 hours walking around numerous forest tracks the next wooden stump turned out not to be another stump!

Golden Eagle Aquila chrysaetos
A lucky sighting of one hunting a mountainside late afternoon.

Ptarmigan Lagopus muta
One sitting on a crag and then all of a sudden there were 4 walking across The Cairnwell, Glenshee. They landed and settled below the rocks towards the bottom centre of the photo.




























Eastern Yellow Wagtail Motacilla tschutschensis
Prestwick Carr, Northumberland, December 2019.

A very obliging rare Wagtail for whcih 2019 has been a bumper autumn for them.
















Caspian Gull Larus cachinnans
Snaresbrook, London, December 2019.

The returning Caspian Gull to Eagle Pond, now in adult plumage, showed well in early December.



































Pink-footed Goose Anser brachyrhynchus
Ewden Valley, South Yorkshire, October 2019.

Early morning movement west, 3 skeins totalling around 400.






















Red-breasted Flycatcher Ficedula parva
Kilnsea, Spurn, East Yorkshire, September 2019.

A slow day for migration at Spurn, but the strong easterlies produced this welcome rare flycatcher to the east coast.


















Pectoral Sandpiper Calidris melanotos
nr Blackpool, Lancashire, September 2019.

One of the smartest sandpipers, this juvenile was present by itself in a small flooded field on the outskirts of Blackpool. Only Pied Wagtails and, arguably unusually for the lowlands, a couple of flyover Ravens for company.

















Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis
Marshside RSPB, Southport, Merseyside/Lancashire, September 2019.

About a dozen of the flock of 15 visible amongst the undulating fields at the RSPB reserve wandering past and in between the 'Pink-feet'.


















Pink-footed Goose Anser brachyrhynchus
Marshside RSPB, Southport, Merseyside/Lancashire, September 2019.

They're back, seemingly earlier than ever for the winter. Always a fantastic sound and sight.
















Red-necked Phalarope Phalaropus lobatus
Marshside RSPB, Southport, Merseyside/Lancashire, September 2019.

A very showy juvenile 'spinner' fed constantly and was chased around by a Black-headed Gull.
























American Golden Plover Pluvialis dominica
Lunt Meadows, Merseyside/Lancashire, September 2019.

Two moulting adults, one brighter and perhaps retaining more breeding plumage than the other. The rare visitors from North America were present at this fine meadowland habitat on the outskirts of Liverpool.





















Long-billed Dowitcher Limnodromus scolopaceus
Fairburn Ings RSPB, West Yorkshire, September 2019.

A distinctive juvenile present at this fine West Yorkshire RSPB reserve and only the second record for the area.


















Hobby Falco subbuteo
Rainham Marshes RSPB, London, August 2019.

One of 4 present on the RSPB reserve taking advantage of the (Migrant Hawker?) dragonfly food source.















Lesser Black-backed Gull Larus fuscus graellsii
Erith, London, August 2019.

A colour-ringed individual 'RSRS' present at Erith pier in late August.
















Yellow-legged Gull Larus michahellis
Erith, London, August 2019.

A large 1st winter present at Erith pier in late August.




















Caspian Gull Larus cachinnans
Erith, London, August 2019.


Fantastic views of 3 juvenile Caspian Gulls on the rising tide just by Erith Pier.









































































Yellow-legged Gull Larus michahellis
Erith, London, August 2019.

One of many juveniles present.


















Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis
Rainham Marshes RSPB, London, Aug. 2019.

This rare visitor joined Little Egrets at the RSPB reserve at almost the same spot as where the Great White Egret (below) was seen a couple of weeks earlier.
















Great White Egret Ardea alba
Rainham Marshes RSPB, London, July 2019.

This elegant Heron shared a pool with Little Egrets and an annoyed Grey Heron.























Herring Gull Larus argentatus
Erith, London, July 2019.

This interesting gull grabbed my attention, but just a dark-eyed Herring Gull.
























Red Kite Milvus milvus
England, May 2019.

This Kite was patiently hunting a newly harvested field .















Mediterranean Gull Larus melanocephalus
Rainham Marshes RSPB, London, July 2019.

A 1st summer bird showing on the Thames just east of the RSPB centre.
















England - May 2019. 

Ring Ouzel Turdus torquatus 
One in typical moorland habitat.

Marsh Harrier Circus aeruginosus 
A passage 'cream crown'.

Buzzard Buteo buteo 
Just to think, this was a description bird in this area when I first started birding.

Peregrine Falco peregrinus 
A wandering Peregrine, stay safe!



















Great Reed Warbler Acrocephalus arundinaceus
Wintersett Res., West Yorkshire, May 2019.

Singing and showing at the edge of the boathouse reedbed, a nice Barnsley Area and Yorkshire tick.
















Iberian Chiffchaff Phylloscopus ibericus
South Kirkby, West Yorkshire, May 2019.

A good performance from this rare Spring overshoot to the UK, holding territory. It gave two song types including the one with the distinctive rattle flourish.


















Ferruginous Duck Aythya nyroca
South Kirkby, West Yorkshire, May 2019.

This smart looking diving duck swam on the pond in the company of a couple of Tufted Ducks.



















Red-footed Falcon Falco vespertinus
Rendlesham Forest, Suffolk, May 2019.

A cracking adult male showing well at the disused airfield, good to study its hunting technique using the landing lights as lookouts.

















Spurn, East Yorkshire - April 2019. 

Red Kite Milvus milvus 
One moving through late afternoon heading from Sammy's Point towards Kilnsea.

Ring Ouzel Turdus torquatus 
Two seen at Sammy's Point.

Wheatear Oenanthe oenanthe 
One of several present in the first paddock at Sammy's Point - is this one a Greenland Wheatear?

White Wagtail Motacilla alba alba 
One wandering along the edge of Beacon Ponds.


















Common Crane Grus grus
Low Moor / Midhope Reservoir, South Yorkshire, Thursday 18 April 2019.

A very nice surprise as these magnificent birds flew in fairly low from over Langsett Res.,circled Midhope Res. and Low Moor before gaining height and heading south. 


















Brambling Fringilla montifringilla
Ingbirchworth Res., South Yorkshire, March/April 2019.

The small flock of wintering Brambling lingered until around Easter, with several males singing their "swoosh" song, amazing to hear!



















Yellow-legged Gull Larus michahellis
Rainham Marshes RSPB, London, March 2019.

A smart 3rd calendar year Yellow-legged Gull (left) showing extensive and darker blue-grey upperparts when compared to an immature Herring Gull (right) of a similar age.

















Bonaparte's Gull Larus philadelphia
Erith, London, February 2019.

Finally caught up with this stunning Nearctic visitor on its 3rd weekend. Brilliant views as it joined the many Black-headed Gulls off Erith Pier.






































Gull sp. Larus sp.
Rainham Marshes RSPB, London, January 2019.

An interesting gull, probably a leucistic Herring Gull

















Black Guillemot Cepphus grylle, Snow Bunting Plectrophenax nivalis and Twite Carduelis flavirostris
South Gare, Yorkshire, Dec. 2018.


Black Guillemot is rare in Yorkshire, this one up in the old VC62 showed well at the edge of the Yorkshire birding range. Snow Bunting and Twite are winter visitors to such north east coasts.

















Brent Goose Branta bernicla bernicla
Rainham Marshes RSPB, London, Nov. 2018.

Nice views of a Brent Goose drifting on the tide into Aveley Bay in late November.
















Gull sp. Larus sp.
Rainham Marshes RSPB, London, Nov. 2018.

What do you reckon? Large gull - hooded appearance, smokey dark-grey upperwings (darker than Yellow-legged Gull), with extensive black in the primaries. All too brief a view, but whereas thoughts could point to Azorean Yellow-legged Gull, could it be a Lesser Black-backed x Herring Gull hybrid?
















Pink-footed Goose Anser brachyrhynchus
South Yorkshire Moorlands, Nov. 2018.

Two more skeins heading N along the moorland edge one November morning.

















Rustic Bunting Emberiza rustica
Wanstead Flats, London, Oct. 2018.

Record photo of a typically elusive individual present on rough ground, a very rare sighting for the capital.
















Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis
Rainham Marshes RSPB, London, Oct. 2018.

Showed nicely with a Little Egret along the northern boardwalk.


















Pink-footed Goose Anser brachyrhynchus
South Yorkshire Moorlands, Sep. 2018.

A skein of 25 'Pink-feets' heading NW to their Lancashire wintering grounds, following on from a flock of 60 earlier in the day and over 140 presumed 'Pink-feet' heading in the same direction the previous day.
















Grey Phalarope Phalaropus fulicarius
Old Moor RSPB, South Yorkshire, Sep. 2018.

News broke and I was only a few hundred yards away in another hide on the reserve. Nice to catch up with another Wath Tick #194.















Spotted Crake Porzana porzana
Old Moor RSPB, South Yorkshire, Sep. 2018.

Surprised to see it out in the open during a very heavy rainstorm. It didn't mind the company of Teal, but the previous Saturday it wasn't made welcome by the Moorhens.
















Black Tern Chlidonias niger
Anglers CP, West Yorkshire, Sep. 2018.

Nice views of this regular Spring and Autumn wanderer from Europe.















Semipalmated Sandpiper Calidris pusilla
Skippool Creek, The Fylde, Lancashire, Sep. 2018.

Lucky to catch up with this rare visitor from the Nearctic. It was just around the marshes from the Pallid Harrier, and I managed to beat the tide to have a few minutes scoping this diminutive shorebird.















Pallid Harrier Circus macrourus
nr Cockerham, Lancashire, Sep. 2018.

All of a sudden several of these rare Harriers appeared in the UK. This one seemed to enjoy tangling with a Crow, it gave as good as it received!





















Great White Egret Ardea alba
Old Moor RSPB, South Yorkshire, Sep. 2018.

Elusive during the day but showed nicely on Wath Ings from the Warbler Way railway embankment.















Dipper Cinclus cinclus
Bolton Ings/Old Moor RSPB, South Yorkshire, Sep. 2018.

One of many good birds in 'The Wath Area' during mid September 2018, this Dipper being only the 2nd area record here in the lowlands.















Hobby Falco subbuteo
Rainham Marshes RSPB, London, Sep. 2018.

These fast Falcons return to the marshes in late summer before their migration south for the winter.
















Yellow-legegd Gull Larus michahellis
Rainham Marshes RSPB, London, August 2018.

A regular sight along the Thames shore in late summer.

















Ruff Calidris pugnax
Old Moor RSPB, South Yorkshire, August 2018.

A regular passage wader throughout the UK.















Red Kite Milvus milvus
England, August 2018.

Nice views of several of these graceful raptors.

















Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis
Fairburn Ings, Yorkshire, August 2018.

Still a scarce visitor to Yorkshire, this one showing on the Flash where I saw my first Yorkshire Little Egret.
















Honey Buzzard Pernis apivorus
Midhope, Ewden Heights and Agden Side, South Yorkshire, August 2018.

This moulting Honey Buzzard was a very nice surprise. It was tracked flying south over several miles late morning on Sunday 05 August 2018, as it moved along the moorland edge before it was last seen heading away towards Sheffield.

























Little Owl Athene noctua
Yorkshire, August 2018.

Resting quietly in the summer sunshine.

















Raven Corvus corax
Yorkshire, August 2018.

Stunning corvids enjoying the summer breeze.

















Lesser Black-backed Gull Larus fuscus intermedius
Sheffield, South Yorkshire, August 2018.

A colour-ringed bird from Stavanger, Norway (black J793H) - per Andy D.
















Marsh Sandpiper Tringa stagnatilis
Rainham Marshes RSPB, London, July 2018.

An excellent record for the reserve, this elegant wader spent most of its time roosting in windy conditions with a couple of Greenshanks at the back of Aveley Pools.



















Spoonbill Platalea leucorodia
Rainham Marshes RSPB, London, June 2018.

Two birds snoozing at Aveley Pools.
















Ring Ouzel Turdus torquatus
Yorkshire, May 2018.

Nesting on the moorlands.

















Temminck's Stint Calidris temminckii
Old Moor RSPB, South Yorkshire, May 2018.

A scarce visitor to the Wath Area in Spring, nice to be able to twitch it - Wath Tick #192.
















Whimbrel Numenius phaeopus
Rainham Marshes RSPB, London, April 2018.

A regular passage visitor to the Thames shore in Spring and Autumn, this one was feeding near to Aveley Bay.



















Red Kite Milvus milvus
Rainham Marshes RSPB, London, April 2018.

Two migrating Red Kites moving NW in quick succession over the marsh in late April.





















Great White Egret Ardea alba
Rainham Marshes RSPB, London, April 2018.

Finally a prolonged stay at Rainham for this increasing visitor to the UK.

















Black-necked Grebe Podiceps nigricollis
Rainham Marshes RSPB, London, April 2018.

A nice looking grebe spending a few days on Aveley Pools on passage.

















Iceland Gull Larus glaucoides
Rainham Marshes RSPB, London, April 2018.

Up to 3 present mid morning (14 April) at the Stone Barges. Two were 1st summer types and a whiter bird was probably an advanced 2nd summer.
































Iceland Gull Larus glaucoides
Rainham Marshes RSPB, London, April 2018.

A bit late in the season but early Spring can be good for seeing 'white-winged gulls' before they finally move north towards the Arctic. This 1st summer type was present with other large gulls offshore from the RSPB centre.

















Whooper Swan Cygnus cygnus
Strines Reservoir, Sheffield, March 2018.

Part of a flock of about 60 migrating Whoopers staging before journeying to Iceland.















Raven Corvus corax
Yorkshire, March 2018.

Their wingspan approaches that of a Buzzard, and they are equally as graceful when soaring over the uplands.















Great Black-backed Gull Larus marinus
Rainham Marshes RSPB, London, March 2018.

A fake 'white-winged gull'. On arriving at the Stone Barges (10 March) this bird quickly drew my attention. It looked like a leucistic adult Great Black-backed Gull as opposed to an immature Glaucous Gull. It was colour-ringed (black) but no code could be read at distance. Apparently a bird from Norway, now in it's 5th winter.















Firecrest Regulus ignicapilla
Wombwell Ings RSPB, South Yorkshire, March 2018.

Another scarce visitor to the Wath Area. This stunning 'Crest' delighted all as it fed along the river bank bordering the Ings. It was fairly close to where the 'Yellow-browy' was feeding but we never saw them in the same bush or same field of view.

















Yellow-browed Warbler Phylloscopus inornatus
Wombwell Ings RSPB, South Yorkshire, March 2018.

A scarce visitor to the Wath Area and surely the first winter/spring record? A very nice addition to my Wath List #192.




















Peregrine Falco peregrinus
Walthamstow Wetlands, London, March 2018.

One of two birds patrolling the north London skies. 

















Little Bunting Emberiza pusilla
Walthamstow Wetlands, London, March 2018.

A cracking little bird, very elusive as typical for this rare passage bird and occasional winterer. It's in the top photograph, at 5 o'clock from the Reed Bunting!

















Caspian Gull Larus cachinnans
Snaresbrook (Eagle Pond), London, February 2018.

A couple of visits one weekend and the 3rd winter bird showed briefly in the afternoon before flying off northwest. Clean head, pale long bill, small dark eye were all characteristic, as was its posture which I picked it up on as it swam at the back of the pond. It gave a typical Caspian Gull top-heavy swimming posture, with its back end sticking up. Otherwise it spent most of its time bathing.


















Mediterranean Gull Larus melanocephalus
Rainham Marshes RSPB, London, February 2018.

An adult with a much developed hood roosting with other gulls at Coldharbour Point along the Thames shore.















Scaup Aythya marila
Walthamstow Wetlands, London, February 2018.

This dapper duck showed well with a small flock of Tufted Ducks and a Pochard for company.


















Horned (Shore) Lark Eremophila alpestris
Staines Reservoir, London, February 2018.

The bird seen last autumn/winter reappeared in late January 2018. Here it is in early February eventually showing well despite the icy rain. In flight it regularly gave a distinctive "tee-de" call. Its striking plumage has been much discussed on the internet and it's thought to be one of the alpestris, praticola or hoyti types from across the pond.




















Black-headed Gull Larus ridibundus
Thames Barrier Park, London, January 2018.

An adult with Yellow ring (2SCX) suggests it was ringed locally.
















Yellow-legegd Gull Larus michahellis
Thames Barrier Park, London, January 2018.

This subadult was there only notable gull on the receding tide.
















Parrot Crossbill Loxia pytyopsittacus
Howden Res, Derbyshire, December 2017.

One male of the elusive flock of 12 roaming the plantation. One of several groups present in the UK this autumn/winter. Fog hampered viewing on this occasion.

















Hawfinch Coccothraustes coccothraustes
Broomhill Flash, Barnsley, South Yorkshire, December 2017.

Caught up with this excellent 'Wath Area' patch tick (#191) just before Christmas, part of the amazing influx this autumn/winter. 















Peregrine Falco peregrinus
Yorkshire, November 2017.

An adult a wandering as its name suggests, stay safe!


















Firecrest Regulus ignicapilla
Rainham Marshes RSPB, London, November 2017.

Record photos of a smart but elusive individual on the edge of the woodland section.



















Black-headed Gull Larus ridibundus
Thames Barrier Park, London, October 2017.

Adult - yellow ringed (2DCH) present at The Thames Barrier was rung by the North Thames Gull Group further down river at Rainham landfill in February 2014.



















Yellow-legged Gull Larus michahellis
Thames Barrier Park, London, October 2017.

A smart adult on the foreshore on the rising tide. Nice comparison with Herring Gull.

















Birding UK - Easington, Spurn, East Yorkshire (Sep. 2017).

Red-backed Shrike Lanius collurio
Probably the same bird seen several days apart south of Easington.

Turtle Dove Streptopelia turtur
Almost a full on twitch for this declining summer visitor.

Rose-coloured Starling Pastor roseus
Elusive scarce visitor to the UK present in an Easington garden.



















Scops Owl Otus scops
Ryhope, Durham, Sep. 2017.

One of the contenders for bird of the year 2017. Did it come from southern Europe or from Asia?






















Birding UK - Early Autumn 2017 - Hen Harrier, Marsh Harrier, Peregrine and Raven Circus cyaneus, Circus aeruginosus, Falco peregrinus and Corvus corax

Two tumbling Ravens and sparring raptors gliding over a moorland edge.




















Peregrine Falco peregrinus
Old Moor RSPB, South Yorkshire, Sep. 2017.

This youngster contemplating a wader supper.


















Curlew Sandpiper Calidris ferruginea
Old Moor RSPB, South Yorkshire, Sep. 2017.

A very showy juvenile present at one of the best inland birding reserves in the UK.


















Grey Phalarope Phalaropus fulicarius
Worsbrough Reservoir, South Yorkshire, Sep. 2017.

This active 1st winter was a good performer during its brief visit to this inland site.




















Ring Ouzel Turdus torquatus
Ewden Heights, South Yorkshire, Sep. 2017.

A smart Ring Ouzel hanging around with flocking Mistle Thrushes. Lots of this summer visitor seen recently not far away in the area around Ewden cabin.
















Red-throated Diver Gavia stellata
Scout Dike Reservoir, South Yorkshire, Sep. 2017.

Several moving off the Yorkshire coast during the period this one made a few hours visit to inland Yorkshire.

















Hobby Falco subbuteo
Spurn, East Yorkshire, Sep. 2017.

This juvenile was showing off flying around the bottom of Kilnsea triangle by the entrance to Spurn Point.


















Arctic Warbler Phylloscopus borealis
Easington, Spurn, East Yorkshire, Sep. 2017.

This rarity showed well on and off mid afternoon after going to ground early morning. A fantastic Yorkshire tick, dipped one at the Point many years ago.


















Hobby Falco subbuteo
Rainham Marshes RSPB, London, Sep. 2017.

These 2 Hobbies had a bit of a row and headed south over the river. At least 5 were present hawking insects over the reserve in early September 2017. Most looked like immatures, possible 1st summer types with at least one juvenile present that was very fast!















Osprey Pandion haliaetus
South Yorkshire Moorlands, Aug. 2017.

For the third year in a row the moorland edge was graced by a passage Osprey over August Bank Holiday. This bird was spotted moving low over the moor battling the strong wind before gaining height at the next valley and power gliding its way south.



















Birding UK - Fairburn Ings RSPB (August Bank Holiday 2017).

Osprey Pandion haliaetus
A bird that was lingering in the Aire Valley commuting between Fairburn Ings and Swillington Ings. It showed well but wasn't liked by a Red Kite present in the same airspace.

Red Kite Milvus milvus
The Osprey's unwanted friend.

Peregrine Falco peregrinus
Keeping an eye on the Osprey.










































Yellow-legegd Gull Larus michahellis
Rainham Marshes RSPB, London, Aug. 2017.

Regular summer visitor to the Thames with several present on the north shore on the ebbing tide including this juvenile and subadult/adult.



















Spotted Flycatcher Muscicapa striata
Rainham Marshes RSPB, London, Aug. 2017.

A passage bird performing well in the woodland area of the reserve.



















Peregrine Falco peregrinus
Yorkshire, July 2017.

A juvenile taking to the skies in northern England.

















Mediterranean Gull Larus melanocephalus
Southend-on-Sea, Essex, July 2017.

18 or so on show at the end of the pier, most adults including white-ringed 'E494'. A couple each of juvs, 1st and 2nd summers also present. 3x adults, 1x juv and 1x 1st summer shown here.





















Bonaparte's Gull Larus philadelphia
Oare Marshes, Kent, July 2017.

This returning visitor from North America showed well, loafing with Black-headed Gulls close to the road at the first pool.




























Peregrine Falco peregrinus
West Sussex, June 2017.

The flight photos are of one patrolling Pagham Harbour RSPB, and the perched adult seen at Chichester Cathedral. 




















Birding UK - Mid to Late Spring 2017.

Black-winged Stilt Himantopus himantopus
Decent influx into the UK this Spring, several well watched birds in southern England including this pair.

Pallid Harrier Circus macrourus
Sighting of the year, this adult male setting up territory for a brief period in Lancashire.

Osprey Pandion haliaetus
This beauty flew low up the Thames much to the dislike of a Black-headed Gull just after 2pm on Saturday 20 May 2017. It quickly turned inland at Aveley Bay and headed high NE over Rainham RSPB. A crazy few minutes, several birders managed to connect despite its brief stay.

Wheatear Oenanthe oenanthe
Photographed at Rainham Marshes RSPB, London in late May.

Marsh Warbler Acrocephalus palustris
A singing male at a publicised site in eastern England allowed for good study of its plumage and song.

Wood Warbler Phylloscopus sibilatrix
The Langsett Banks Wood singing male, sadly it's perhaps the last of its kind to hold territory in the Barnsley Bird Study Group Recording Area.

Hobby Falco subbuteo
One hawking insects near the woodland section of Rainham Marshes RSPB, London in early June 2017.


























































































Birding UK - Early Spring 2017.

Red Kite Milvus milvus
Nice views of one on a sunny March day.

Ring Ouzel Turdus torquatus
Two females on Spring migration in Yorkshire.

Buzzard Buteo buteo
Several migrating over Rainham Marshes RSPB, London.

Nuthatch Sitta europaea
One singing in a Yorkshire woodland.

Lesser Black-backed Gull Larus fuscus (intermedius?)
A dark individual at Old Moor RSPB, South Yorkshire, looks like an intermedius.

Blue-winged Teal x Shoveler Anas discors x clypeata
A striking hybrid drake showing mixed characters at a marsh down south.

Black Tern Chlidonias niger
Up to six passage birds at Broomhill Flash, South Yorkshire.



















































Jack Snipe Lymnocryptes minimus
Rainham Marshes RSPB, London, March 2017.

One of 2x Jack Snipe on Purfleet Scrape. Cracking little birds, one was simply elusive and the other was ridiculously elusive.
















Short-eared Owl Asio flammeus
Rainham Marshes RSPB, London, February 2017.

One of two birds patrolling Aveley Bay.

















Herring Gull Larus argentatus
Millenium Dome / O2, London, February 2017.

Nice comparison of argenteus (back) and argentatus (front).

















Pink-footed Goose Anser brachyrhynchus
Ingbirchworth Res., South Yorkshire, January 2017.

A flock of 8 flew onto the reservoir joining Greylag (160), Canada (275) and White-fronted Geese (31).
















White-fronted Goose Anser albifrons albifrons
Ingbirchworth Res., South Yorkshire, January 2017.

A flock of 31 birds present on the reservoir, moving to and from nearby fields. Nice to hear their distinctive 'yapping' like call.



















Black-headed Gull Larus ridibundus
Millenium Dome / O2, London, January 2017.

Two adults with rings, Yellow ring (2CPH) suggests ringed locally but the white one (VH37) was from Denmark.


















Herring Gull Larus argentatus
Millenium Dome / O2, London, January 2017.

Several adults had colour-rings, the Orange/Red colour suggests bird ringed on the Thames. Two examples here - V9FT and F6NT.


















Yellow-legged Gull Larus michahellis
Millenium Dome / O2, London, January 2017.

A 2nd winter that was seen initially at the Thames Barrier Park (top left) was then present with gulls roosting on the sand just by The O2.




















Caspian Gull Larus cachinnans
Thames Barrier Park, London, January 2017.

This 1st winter showed well but all too briefly on the ebbing tide.





















Waxwing Bombycilla garrulus
Rainham Marshes RSPB, London, January 2017.

A lone bird feeding on berries outside the RSPB centre.



















Mediterranean Gull Larus melanocephalus
Rainham Marshes RSPB, London, January 2017.

A smart 'adult winter' roosting with other gulls at Coldharbour Point along the Thames shore.
















Stonechat Saxicola rubicola
Richmond Park, London, January 2017.

The grey/pale Stonechat sp. present at Richmond Park since the autumn. DNA analysis revealed it (and also the more or less identical bird currently at Dungeness, Kent) to be (European) Stonechats. Nevertheless an interesting bird to see. For comparison a more typical plumaged bird shown at the bottom as photographed the previous day at Rainham Marshes RSPB, London.




















Waxwing Bombycilla garrulus
Sheffield, South Yorkshire, January 2017.

A flock of 50 around Hagglers Corner, Lowfield - up to 400 in the area on 02 January 2017.
















Caspian Gull Larus cachinnans
Anglers CP, West Yorkshire, January 2017.

This bird was regularly sighted at the Anglers CP gull roost over the Xmas/New Year period. Possibly a young adult and could well be a returning bird that has been seen in immature plumages over recent years.




















Short-eared Owl Asio flammeus
Welwick, East Yorkshire, December 2016.

At least 2 birds showing well on the Humber saltmarshes.





















Hen Harrier Circus cyaneus
December 2016.

A fantastic look at a ringtail Hen Harrier.

























Cormorant Phalacrocorax carbo
Anglers CP, West Yorkshire, December 2016.

Nice to study Cormorant face patterns, assuming sinensis shown here.

















Barn Owl Tyto alba
Yorkshire, December 2016.

One on the wing before dusk on a frosty day.
















Waxwing Bombycilla garrulus
Yorkshire, December 2016.

This winter's irruption finally saw birds moving south over the Xmas/New Year period. First Three - Stannington, Sheffield. Bottom Three - Hessle, East Yorkshire.





















Robin Erithacus rubecula
Low Moor, Midhope, South Yorkshire, December 2016.

A confiding individual that also took an interest in the car's wing mirror!


















Pink-footed Goose Anser brachyrhynchus
Old Moor RSPB, Barnsley, South Yorkshire, December 2016.

A skein of ~60 heading NW over the RSPB reserve.















Black Brant Branta bernicla nigricans
Kilnsea, East Yorkshire, December 2016.

The adult Black Brant stood out from its dark-bellied Brent Goose (B. b. bernicla)relatives as it fed north of Kilnsea village.


















Pallid Harrier Circus macrourus
Welwick, East Yorkshire, December 2016.

This wintering rarity performed well on the Humber saltmarshes, sometimes to the annoyance of Short-eared Owls.

















(Eastern) Black Redstart Phoenicurus ochruros phoenicuroides
Skinningrove, Yorkshire, December 2016.

This smart long staying rare visitor to the UK showed well as it fed between the rock boulders on a windy day.




















Great Skua Stercorarius skua
Rainham Marshes RSPB, London, December 2016.

Record shots of the bird present mid morning (Saturday 03 December 2016) on the Thames in Aveley Bay to the west of the RSPB centre. As well as resting in the middle of the river it also joined the gulls circling the landfill and chased a couple of Herring Gulls. A couple of brave/daft Black-headed Gulls and a lone Carrion Crow mobbed it when airborne.





















Canada Goose Branta canadensis
Ingbirchworth Res., South Yorkshire, November 2016.

500 Canada Geese in 3 flocks in the fields near Ingbirchworth Res. yielded 2 with red darvic leg rings.

With thanks to Kane B, Tom L and Martin W on twitter for help with their origin.

BAZN adult male 29/06/2014 Bowness-on-Windermere, Cumbria. vv 27/112016 Ingbirchworth Reservoir. 123 kms SE. 2 yrs 151 days.

CAFK adult female 29/06/2014 Bowness-on-Windermere, Cumbria. vv 27/11/2016 Ingbirchworth Reservoir. 123 kms SE 2 yrs 151 days















Red Grouse Lagopus lagopus scotica
Barnsley Moors, South Yorkshire, November 2016.

Nice views along the moorland track.

















Pugneys CP, West Yorkshire - November 2016.

Long-tailed Duck Clangula hyemalis
A bird present on Calder Wetlands.

Sparrowhawk Accipiter nisus
This smart raptor was looking for a Song Thrush breakfast on this cold November morning.

Yellow-legged Gull Larus michahellis
A stunning 1st winter Yellow-legged Gull with a group of 1st winter Herring Gulls. It looked more striking in real life as opposed to through the camera lens.


















Brambling Fringilla montifringilla
Ingbirchworth Res., South Yorkshire, November 2016.

A flock of 70+ of these winter wanderers in the tops of the Beech trees around the reservoir.

















Merlin Falco columbarius
Rainham Marshes RSPB, London, October 2016.

This cracking fem/imm was seen briefly at Rainham 'West' on the morning of Saturday 29 October 2016 and the first photograph is a record shot of it when it was present briefly later that day on Wennington Marsh. Take two - Sunday 30 October 2016. It was hunting along Rainham 'Ridge' and flew towards the landfill early afternoon after perching on the hillside posts. A stunning bird.
























Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis
Rainham Marshes RSPB, London, Oct. 2016.

One of two birds present on Wennington Marsh on Sunday 23 October 2016. A cracking record and also the first of our three Egret species in a day - as we were lucky to see a group of 3 GW Egrets heading downriver and then the reserves Little Egrets were on show!



















Sparrowhawk Accipiter nisus
Rainham Marshes RSPB, London, Oct. 2016.

Along with the Buzzards several Sparrowhawks were evident moving over the reserve on Saturday 22 October 2016.


















Buzzard Buteo buteo
Rainham Marshes RSPB, London, Oct. 2016.

One of over 20 birds moving over the reserve on Saturday 22 October 2016.















Bean Goose Anser fabalis rossicus
Kilnsea, Spurn, East Yorkshire, Oct. 2016.

A flock of 'Tundra' Bean Geese along the road between Easington and Kilnsea. All 'Tundra'?















Siberian Accentor Prunella montanella
Easington, Spurn, East Yorkshire, Oct. 2016.

Bird of the year? Bird of the decade? Bird of the century? Take your pick. So glad this stunner from out east stayed to the Sunday the day after I got back from Cyprus. A ridiculous influx into north west Europe!




















Hobby Falco subbuteo
Rainham Marshes RSPB, London, Sep. 2016.

Still chasing dragonflies over the reserve as summer turned to autumn.
















Great White Egret Ardea alba
Rainham Marshes RSPB, London, Sep. 2016.

This giant flew past 3 sandwich eating birders on the balcony at Rainham. We struggled to shout "Great White", bread everywhere! It flew onto the reserve and landed near Aveley Pools where it was hidden for a while showing occasionally at distance.


















Raven Corvus corax
Barnsley Moors, South Yorkshire, Sep. 2016.

One of several patrolling the moorland edge .
















Marsh Harrier Circus aeruginosus
Midhope Res., South Yorkshire, Sep. 2016.

This passage cream crown came in high from the north and left high to the north-east.















Hobby Falco subbuteo
Old Moor RSPB, South Yorkshire, Sep. 2016.

This sleek Falcon haunted the waders resting on Wath Ings making a couple of unsuccessful swoops at Dunlin.


















Wood Sandpiper Tringa glareola
Old Moor RSPB, South Yorkshire, Sep. 2016.

A smart Wood Sand toured the Wath Area.






















Little Egret Egretta garzetta
Old Moor RSPB, South Yorkshire, Sep. 2016.

One of 2 colour-ringed birds present. This one is LN, the other being FJ. Cheers to Bamf and Nige for the gen.

LN - 15 Jun 2013 Newark, Notts. First seen in Wath Area in Apr 2014.

FJ - Ringed as a nestling on 14 May 2011 Tettington St. Clement, Norfolk and first seen at Old Moor RSPB in March 2012.

















Ruff Philomachus pugnax
Old Moor RSPB, South Yorkshire, Sep. 2016.

One of several juvs. on Wath Ings
















Marsh Harrier Circus aeruginosus
Old Moor RSPB, South Yorkshire, Sep. 2016.

One of 2 cream crowns present one evening.
















Garganey Anas querquedula
Old Moor RSPB, South Yorkshire, March 2016.

Three juv/eclipse birds on the Mere.
















Yellow-legged Gull Larus michahellis
Ingbirchworth Res., South Yorkshire, Sep. 2016.

This 1st winter resting on the water with a small flock of LBB Gulls.



















Peregrine Charadrius alexandrinus
Hatfield Moors, South Yorkshire, Sep. 2016.

Circled the lake west of Packards.


















Kentish Plover Charadrius alexandrinus
Kilnsea, Spurn, East Yorkshire, Sep. 2016.

A great start to Mig Fest, this Yorkshire rarity and first here for 16 or so years.


















Purple Gallinule (Western Swamphen) Porphyrio porphyrio
Alkborough Flats, Lincolnshire, Aug. 2016.

Nice to see this bird especially as couldn't get for the Minsmere bird earlier in the summer. Potential 1st/2nd for GB.




















Barnsley Moors, South Yorkshire - August 2016.

Osprey Pandion haliaetus
A bird over Ewden Heights on 30 August 2016. The second Osprey through this area in 2 days.

Marsh Harrier Circus aeruginosus
An immature moving high over Ewden Heights on 30 August 2016.

Common Buzzard Buteo buteo
One of a handful of local/passage birds seen from Ewden Heights on 30 August 2016.

 


































Caspian Gull Larus cachinnans
nr Ingbirchworth Res., South Yorkshire, Aug. 2016.

An adult resting with LBB Gulls in fields a mile or so west of Ingbirchworth Res.



























Arctic Skua Stercorarius parasiticus
Kilnsea, Spurn, East Yorkshire, Aug. 2016.

This Skua spooked the waders on the Humber before flying out to sea over The Warren. Is it just an immature Arctic Skua? At first it looked big, but is this because the sighting was out of context for a Skua. To me, photos suggest Arctic.



















Mediterranean Gull Larus melanocephalus
Kilnsea, Spurn, East Yorkshire, May 2016.

Over 10 birds on or around Kilnsea Wetlands on this visit at August Bank Holiday. 2 of the 3 juveniles present are shown here.
















Gull sp. Larus sp.
Rainham Marshes RSPB, London, Aug. 2016.

This 2nd calendar year (1st summer) Gull caused a bit of debate. Some observers strongly favour Caspian Gull whilst others strongly favour Herring Gull. What do you think?
























Caspian Gull Larus cachinnans
Ingbirchworth Res., South Yorkshire, July 2016.

A silky smooth juvenile with LBB Gulls on Ingbirchworth Res., and in a nearby ploughed field. At times quite aggressive to its companions!






















Hobby Falco subbuteo
Rainham Marshes RSPB, London, May 2016.

A 1st summer type Hobby, one of two resting on fence posts on Wennington Marsh.

















Red-backed Shrike Lanius collurio
Kilnsea, Spurn, East Yorkshire, May 2016.

A very smart bird on passage on the Yorkshire coast.
















Black Tern Milvus milvus
Broomhill Flash, Barnsley, South Yorkshire, May 2016.

This breeding plumage bird toured the local area.
















Pied Flycatcher Ficedula hypoleuca
Yorkshire, May 2016.

This bird was competing with another male for this nest box.
















Red Kite Milvus milvus
Yorkshire, May 2016.

Becoming a regular sight back in Yorkshire.


















Wheatear Oenanthe oenanthe
Rainham Marshes RSPB, London, April 2016.

A passage bird sheltering from a cold wind.
















Red Kite Milvus milvus
Rainham Marshes RSPB, London, April 2016.

A superb look at this presumed continental passage bird.




Lesser Black-backed Gull Larus fuscus graellsii
Old Moor RSPB, South Yorkshire, March 2016.

Setting up territory amongst the Black-headed Gull colony.




Red Grouse Lagopus lagopus scotica
nr Langsett, South Yorkshire, March 2016.

Very active on the moorland edge.




Firecrest Regulus ignicapilla
Wath Area (Warbler Way), South Yorkshire, March 2016.

A little cracker, although elusive at times. An influx into the UK with some crazy numbers (100+) at Dungeness, Kent.





Buzzard Buteo buteo
South Yorkshire, March 2016.

Buzzards on territory near Barnsley, unheard of 20 years or so ago!





Raven Corvus corax
UK, March 2016.

Always an impressive sight.




Peregrine Falco peregrinus
UK, March 2016.

An immature Peregrine on patrol.





Meadow Pipit Anthus pratensis
Barnsley, March 2016.

Back on territory and parachuting.






Little Owl Athene noctua
UK, March 2016.

A pair of Little Owls sheltering from the raw wind.





Jack Snipe Lymnocryptes minimus
Rainham Marshes RSPB, London, March 2016.

This smart 'bobber' showed well on Purfleet Scrape.





















Marsh Harrier Circus aeruginosus
Rainham Marshes RSPB, London, March 2016.

This smart adult male Marsh Harrier showed well before having a day trip across the river.
















Falcon Falco?
Rainham Marshes RSPB, London, February 2016.

This brute of a Falcon present at Rainham Marshes over the weekend of 12/13 March 2016, seen a few weeks earlier as well. Is it a hybrid? Features noted.
  • Closed wing seen briefly to judge wing tip to tail tip.
  • Looked like wing tip approached or was equal to the tail tip.
  • Pale underparts with dense but fine brown streaks
  • Pale trousers looked streaked.
  • Pale cheeks looked considerably whiter than the underparts.
  • White supercilium stronger behind eye forming a wrap around.
  • Crown pale with feathers above 'super' looking a bit chestnut in strong light, but looking really white crowned in dull light.
  • Dark moustache stripe extensive looked black and appeared to be broader at the tip. Black extending to behind the eye.
  • Upperwing brown and uniform.
  • Underwing barred and appeared to be uniform, didn't note a contrast between underwing coverts and rest of wing. Pattern close to immature Peregrine shown in 'Collins' guide.
  • Tail paler than upperwing and tip looked dark but not black.
  • Hunting style. Low level attack frightening anything in its way. Does this style of hunting betray it's identity or parentage?




















Short-eared Owl Asio flammeus
Rainham Marshes RSPB, London, January 2016.

Two birds hunting the riverwall and reserve on a misty March morning.






























Pink-footed Goose Anser brachyrhynchus
Broomhead Moor, South Yorkshire, March 2016.

A skein of 60 birds heading north west over the moorlands, on their way back to Iceland.






Black-tailed Godwit Limosa limosa
Rainham Marshes RSPB, London, February 2016.

A dozen or so birds wintering along the shore near the RSPB centre.





Iceland Gull Larus glaucoides
Rainham Marshes RSPB, London, February 2016.

This 1st winter type Iceland Gull graced the shore on the Kent side of the river opposite the centre for several hours on Saturday 27 February. If only it came closer. It appeared to fly upriver during the afternoon.






























Fulmar Fulmarus glacialis
Rainham Marshes RSPB, London, February 2016.


A nice surprise was this Fulmar spotted floating upriver past the centre during the afternoon of Saturday 13 February 2016. A very rare record for the area.





Merlin Falco columbarius
Rainham Marshes RSPB, London, January 2016.

This fem/imm graced Wennington Marsh for an hour or so before dark on the last Saturday of January 2016. Brilliant to see it hunting passerines.





Great Grey Shrike Lanius excubitor
Edgware, London, January 2016.

Record photos of one present on scrub/marshland outside of Edgware not too far from the M1.






Short-eared Owl Asio flammeus
Rainham Marshes RSPB, London, January 2016.

Nice views of one patrolling the marsh between the path and the Target Pools.











































Rainham Marshes RSPB, London - January 2016.

Stonechat Saxicola rubicola
One of over 10 seen on one visit in January 2016.

Marsh Harrier Circus aeruginosus
A male flying onto Wennington Marsh.

Red Kite Milvus milvus
For the second Saturday in a row a Red Kite seen heading west over the reserve and landfill heading towards town.





































Rough-legged Buzzard Buteo lagopus
Choseley/Brancaster, Norfolk, December 2015.

Two of these winter wonders from Scandinavia hawked over a copse and nearby fields on the "North Norfolk Ridge" to the east of Choseley and south of Brancaster.







Red Kite Milvus milvus
North Norfolk, December 2015.

Adding to the raptor list, 10 seen in total in twitching Norfolk in late December, was one of several Red Kites seen along the north coast.




Pallid Harrier Circus macrourus
Flitcham, Norfolk, December 2015.

Afforded good views of this elegant raptor early one morning at the year's end. It was hunting over stubble fields and couldn't half put it's foot down in pursuit!














Yellow-legged Gull Larus michahellis
Anglers CP, Barnsley, Yorkshire, December 2015.

Caught up with this adult Yellow-legged Gull (not Psycho) on a couple of visits to the gull roost, also connected with Iceland Gull (3rd winter) on one visit and a Glaucous Gull (juv) on three visits.





Brent Goose Brant bernicla bernicla
Ingbirchworth, South Yorkshire, December 2015.

This dark-bellied Brent Goose joined the Canada Goose flock in the fields to the west of Ingbirchworth on one December day, literally down the road from the Greenland White-fronted Goose and it's Greylag friends.





(Greenland) White-fronted Goose Anser albifrons flavirostris
Ingbirchworth, South Yorkshire, December 2015.

This smart adult Greenland White-fronted Goose joined Greylag Geese and Canada Geese in the fields to the west of Ingbirchworth, present now for several weeks.



























Richard's Pipit Anthus richardi
Flamborough Head, East Yorkshire, December 2015.

Shortly after twitching the Surf Scoter connected with a couple of Richard's Pipits present in the cliff top field near North Landing. The birds called on one occasion when I was there, though it was not very loud.




























































Surf Scoter Melanitta perspicillata
Filey, North Yorkshire, December 2015.

A Yorkshire tick, this immature male Surf Scoter was just off the Brigg often alongside a GN Diver.





Great Northern Diver Gavia immer
Pugneys CP, West Yorkshire, December 2015.

This giant still present on the boating lake around Christmas time.





Short-eared Owl Asio flammeus
Rainham Marshes RSPB, London, December 2015.

Continuing into December the Rainham "Short-eareds" were still showing hunting the rough ground.




















Water Pipit Anthus spinoletta
Rainham Marshes RSPB, London, November 2015.

One of several present on the reserve in this winter period.




















Pochard Aythya ferina
Rainham Marshes RSPB, London, November 2015.

Not a rarity or a scarcity. I just like this photo taken using phonescoping, it's brilliant what can be done with modern technology.





Pink-footed Goose Anser brachyrhynchus
Rainham Marshes RSPB, London, October 2015.

A scarce winter visitor to the Thames estuary.
















Short-eared Owl Asio flammeus
Rainham Marshes RSPB, London, October 2015.

Hopefully back to form as a winterer at Rainham, due to this autumn's influx.


















Yellow-browed Warbler Phylloscopus inornatus
Kilnsea, East Yorkshire, October 2015.

One of the many "yellow-browys" on the east coast. This one was elusive but did show ok at times by the Crown & Anchor.
















Jack Snipe Lymnocryptes minimus
Kilnsea, East Yorkshire, October 2015.

Good looks at this "bobber".

















Citrine Wagtail Motacilla citreola
Kilnsea and Spurn Point, East Yorkshire, October 2015.

Just yards away from the Pied Wheatear on the Saturday (3rd), a smart looking Wagtail, nice to hear it calling. Some of the photos from the Canal Scrape on Monday (5th) as well.
























Pied Wheatear Oenanthe pleschanka
Spurn Point, East Yorkshire, October 2015.

A Yorkshire tick, this stunning rarity from the east.





















Wilson's Phalarope Phalaropus tricolor
Pitsea, Essex, September 2015.

A record shot of a long staying Nearctic rarity.
















Sparrowhawk Accipiter nisus
Rainham Marshes RSPB, London, September 2015.

Soaring over the Serin mound, one of several raptors present including a getting late Hobby.


















Great White Egret Ardea alba
Old Moor RSPB, Barnsley, South Yorkshire, September 2015.

The long stayer on Wath Ings in company with a Little Egret.
























Green Sandpiper Tringa ochropus
Old Moor RSPB, Barnsley, South Yorkshire, September 2015.

Always nice to see.

















Yellow-legged Gull Larus michahellis
Ingbirchworth Res., South Yorkshire, September 2015.

Record shots of a moulting adult amongst a couple hundred LBB Gulls resting on the reservoir (and in nearby fields).























Woodchat Shrike Lanius senator
Nosterfield, North Yorkshire, September 2015.

Unusual to see this rare passage species so far inland.




















Short-eared Owl Asio flammeus
Kilnsea, Spurn, East Yorkshire, September 2015.

One of 2 possibly 3 birds hunting over the wetlands.





















Redstart Phoenicurus phoenicurus
Kilnsea, Spurn, East Yorkshire, September 2015.

A smart moulting male Redstart showed well by the roadside at Kilnsea on a quiet day for migration.
















Black Stork Ciconia nigra
Sunk Island, East Yorkshire, September 2015.

A nice Yorkshire tick. Caught up with the long staying, and sometimes elusive, East Yorkshire bird in September.


















Spotted Flycatcher Muscicapa striata
Rainham Marshes RSPB, London, September 2015.

One of two hunting from the tops of bushes around the woodland area of the reserve.















Falcons at Rainham Marshes RSPB, London - September 2015.

Peregrine Falco peregrinus

One juvenile seen over the marsh, it dived on a Kestrel on a couple of occasions, the photo below shows it at the start of one of the dives.

Hobby Falco subbuteo
2 birds showed well in the afternoon hawking insects over the marsh. At least another 3 moved over at great height with 2 Common Buzzards.

Kestrel Falco tinnunculus
One of many Kestrels hunting over the reserve.



















Red Kite Milvus milvus
South Yorkshire Moors, September 2015.

One of an amazing count of 9 different raptor species seen on the moorlands on this visit.

















Red-backed Shrike Lanius collurio
Kilnsea, Spurn, East Yorkshire, August 2015.

One of the first returning scarce/rare visitors characteristic of the east cost in autumn.

















Great White Egret Ardea alba
Wombwell Ings, Barnsley, South Yorkshire, August 2015.

Finally caught up with this species in the 'Wath Area' - number 186 for me in this legendary birding patch.



















Black-tailed Godwit Limosa limosa
Rainham Marshes RSPB, London, August 2015.

Up to 50 Black-tailed Godwits on Aveley Pools included 4 colour-ringed birds, 2 shown here (Birds 1 and 4).

Bird 1 (Red Lime - Green Lime)

Debate about the ring colours. Looks like the above combination is favourite. Female ringed in Iceland in May 2010 wintering mainly in Sussex, UK with sightings in Hampshire, Kent, The Wash and the inner and outer Thames Estuary. Seen at Rainham Marshes RSPB in August 2015.

Bird 2 (Yellow Blue - Green Green flag)

Debate on combination as well, likely to be as listed above. Male ringed in November 2012 in Portugal, wintering there in subsequent years. Observed in Dordrecht, The Netherlands in March 2015. Seen at Rainham Marshes RSPB in August 2015.

Bird 3 (Lime Green - 'Dark')

Possibilities being considered. Await further details.

Bird 4 (Red White 8 - Yellow Red)

Adult male ringed in Iceland in July 2010. Wintering on the Swale Estuary, Kent, UK since. Seen at Rainham Marshes RSPB in August 2015.




















Red Kite Milvus milvus
Rainham Marshes RSPB, London, July 2015.

This majestic raptor moved through Rainham air space heading west towards London.





















Yorkshire - Spring 2015.

Tawny Owl Strix aluco
One of two juveniles exploring a woodland during the day.

Nuthatch Sitta europaea
Always nice to see.

Corvid sp. Corvus sp.

Second generation Hooded x Carrion Crow, or aberrant plumage corvid?























Whinchat Saxicola rubetra
Rainham Marshes RSPB, London, April 2015.

Showing well with 3 Wheatears on the wires along the path to 'Rainham Ridge'.






















Hobby Falco subbuteo
Rainham Marshes RSPB, London, April 2015.

This passage (1st summer?) bird gave a brilliant aerial performance hunting insects over Wennington Marsh.



















Spoonbill Platalea leucorodia
Rainham Marshes RSPB, London, April 2015.

This immature Spoonbill showed at a distance from the hide overlooking the Target Pools. It was feeding well and was well enjoyed by experienced birders and newcomers alike.












































Osprey Pandion haliaetus
Howden Reservoir, Derbyshire, April 2015.
Finally after spending many hours on the South Yorkshire Moors over the Easter weekend, reward came in the form of this Osprey moving up the Upper Derwent Valley just over the hills into Derbyshire. This bird was in view for 5 minutes or so as it powered its way north.







































Whooper Swan Cygnus cygnus
Swillington Ings, West Yorkshire, April 2015.

This flock of 20 "Whoopers" were a bit unexpected. They moved west early evening on Saturday 04 April 2015 flying over Swillington Ings, last seen heading over Astley Lake.














































Common Scoter Melanitta nigra
Anglers CP, West Yorkshire, April 2015.

Always nice to see a seaduck inland. This female spending time alongside one of the remaining 'wintering' Goldeneye and a Great Crested Grebe.
















American Wigeon  Anas americana 
Swillington Ings, West Yorkshire, April 2015.

This over-wintering drake still with the diminishing Eurasian Wigeon flock.
















Rainham Marshes RSPB, London - March 2015.

Spotted Redshank Tringa erythropus The wintering (Crayford Marshes) bird spending time on the north side of the Thames in late March. Phonescoped.

Little Ringed Plover Charadrius dubius "Lurps" are back! Phonescoped.

Woodpigeon Columba palumbus This 'leucistic' individual looks distinctive in flight and more stunning on the deck. Seen it several times over the last few years, but not seen it for a while.






























Water Rail Rallus aquaticus
Rainham Marshes RSPB, London, January 2015.

This very confiding individual attracted a lot of attention.



















Rough-legged Buzzard Buteo lagopus
Grindale, East Yorkshire, January 2015.

The wintering "Rough-legged" was elusive but eventually showed well despite the blustery conditions.
























Mediterranean Gull Larus melanocephalus
Scarborough, North Yorkshire, January 2015.

At least 7 adults and 1 1st winter present at Holbeck.