Arrived up in the dales to be greeted by several male Black Grouse lekking across a valley. It was only a mere -2 this year as opposed to -7 the last. On the way up a few Red Grouse were tasty, as were several Barn Owl, Grey Partridge and the McDo's brekkies that we started with. We being me, Mike(Skink1978), Michael Flowers(Birdflower) & John(Birdieboy123) as the East Yorks contingent to the latest BF meet. Also in attendence were Graham (Bitterntwisted), Marcus Conway(Ebirder), Rob(Zatcatzooba), Keith Dickinson, Mark (Knocker7800) & Jim (JTW521).
Also at the Grouse site were a few Buzzards, drumming Snipe, Golden Plover, Fieldfare, and Meadow Pipits a go-go. We moved onto the Stang and got some of the most mindblowing views of Goshawk display you can imagine with birds Rollercoastering and chasing all over. At least 4 birds seen and very nice they were too. Also Siskin and a few distant Buzzards.
Next we moved down the valley to try for Ring Ouzel but mainly to enjoy the warming sun. By now it was much warmer and Dipper, Grey Wag and a couple of Wheatears made up for the lack of Rouzel action. Time was pressing on and we called in at Nosterfield on our way back noting a few Goldeneye and a Red-necked Grebe. A couple of LBBG made for 3 self found year ticks (with Dipper and Red Grouse) for a good day. Check Michaels blog for pics.
2 comments:
i still have not seen a black grouse.
that said, i have been too lazy to haul my skinny b.hind up in to the mountains as 4am to wait for them.
would you mind catching one and UPSing it to me. I'll pm my day-time postal address if you are up to it.
Dale
http://alpinebirds.blogspot.com
No problem Dale - as soon as I get close enough to nab one consider it sent!
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