Moorside Meanderings

Im still Meandering

2011-06-20T14:24:00.001+01:00

Ha, well hello there.

Whilst out pursuing my new hobby of Field Archery at a private l;ocation near Castleside Co Durham i came across this beauty. I spent all of last summer looking for one of these and here it was right in front of me today.

A Golden Ring Dragonfly.

Also seen today whilst not looking for were Tree Pipit, Redstart, Yellow Hammer, Cuckoo, Garden Warbler and two yes two Tawny Owls along with nesting Curlews Red Kite and Buzzard not bad for not actually going out birding.

Good to be back will keep posting any more unusual sitings whilst out playing Robin Hood.

This is field Archery by the way if anyone interested.

Club i belong to is Butsfield Bowmen we play around in a secluded tree lined valley shooting at 3D Targets of Lions, Tigers and Bears oh my. Nothing is harmed though.

Part of the NFAS.

An evening at Holywell

2010-08-11T20:36:00.006+01:00

Quick late evening trip to Holywell yesterday. There was a Yellow Wagtail, Green Sandpiper and a couple of Snipe from the public hide. Two Sparrowhawks above the members hide.

Loads of Wall Browns on the footpaths through the wheat fields. Barn Owls knocking around the fields in the same area.

A few pics below

Nice evening good to meet Bob and Cain again.

Garden Hedge

2010-07-30T08:40:00.008+01:00

Firstly, Hello to Anthony and welcome to the Blog. I answered your comment sorry about delay Ive just seen it.

In the garden the other day whilst hanging out the washing, i noticed the Box Hedge was absolutely covered in insects. There was about five variety of Bees and three types of Butterflies. I let the hedge grow this year to try and block out the annoying neighbours and thus in doing so it flowered which Ive never seen before.

So here's a few pics from the garden.

Canny Eh !

Only Five weeks left and counting.

Last couple of days

2010-07-28T09:25:00.011+01:00

I went to Kielder area on Sunday with my bro to see if we could clock Black Darter up at Falstone Moss. When we got to the Mire in the bleak windy conditions we found nothing flying at all. We did come across this bonny little plant.

Bog Asphdel

And this cracking Toon Army Lichen, Black and White.

So next stop we headed to Sidwood near Greenhaugh. Here we were after Golden Ring Dragonfly.

It wasn't long before we came across a Common Hawker weaving along the forest ride.
That was to be the only one though. For the rest of the trip we saw no Dragons at all. However, we did see some more nice Lichens including this Cladonia.

And for the Fungi fans among you:

So not the best of trips having seen nothing that we set out to see.

Washington Survey part three on Sunday had all the usual with Common Darter, Emperor, Broad Bodied Chaser Dragonfly and Blue Tailed, Common Blue and Emerald Damselfly. Butterflies were Meadow Brown, Green Veined and Small White. A few pics below to show findings.

So the holidays drag on. The kids have bankrupted me already and i mark the days left until they return to school on the wall. Lets hope it rains everyday for the next six weeks so i dont miss anything.

Life comes to a halt

2010-07-23T14:50:00.002+01:00

That dreadful time of the year is again once upon us, the school holidays. My life will now come to an end for the next six weeks whilst i entertain the kids. No birding, no photographing no nowt.

So there will be little posting activity on this blog for that time period but please drop in now and again as i may get the odd day in.

My survey at washington will of course continue and i will update on that.

As the Americans would say Happy Holidays. I can feel the tears starting to well up already.

Washington WWT Survey part 2

2010-07-18T17:02:00.017+01:00

Part two of my Dragonfly survey at Washington this morning produced some more cracking sights. This Broad Bodied Chaser was oviposting on the Lilly pond, a very good sign. Just press play.

There was also a male Broad Bodied Chaser who kept chasing off a Four Spotted Chaser.

The numbers of dragonflies/damselflies were high on all the ponds. With Common Blue, Azure, Emerald and Blue Tailed. There was lots of pairs in tandem and in wheels and oviposting.

On blades of reed i noticed a couple of Exuvia clinging to the stems. So this all points to a successful cycle of breeding at the ponds.

Other species seen included Common Hawker and Common Darter. The former being a first for me and what a cracking sight to watch. It wouldn't land though so no pics. Butterfly wise there were a few knocking around. Speckled Wood, Ringlet, Comma, Large White, Small White (high numbers), Green-veined White, Meadow Brown and Small Heath. Strangely no Burnet Moths seems a bit early for them to have gone ? A few pics of the Butterflies seen.

Something else I'm just getting into are Bees and their vast variety. I got a fantastic book describing the different types and how to id them. Something else i have to study now along with Dragonflies. I came across this subdued individual who let me come within macro distance of him. Now looking at the photo i can see why, his wings are rather torn and tattered. I havent id him yet but will get onto it as soon as possible.

A flower I'm not sure of, it looked like an Orchid of some kind. Standing about three foot high amongst the grass.

I met some nice folks whilst doing the survey. They showed a lot of interest in what i was doing and why i was doing it. I met Scribbley Jack of Bird Forum and his lass who name escapes me to which i apologise and had a good crack with them.

So if you see a handsome, well toned, strapping lad sitting by the pond ignore him because i will be the old fat one counting Dragonflies over the other side, come and have a chat.

I had a quick stop of at the bird hides on wader lake. There were some good waders knocking around the best being a Green Sandpiper. Year tick for me.

Ok very poor record shot but it was miles away.

Canny day.

Silverlink Shuffle

2010-07-16T14:20:00.003+01:00

Quick visit to Silverlink Bio Park produced loads of Meadow Browns, Small and Large Skipper, Common Blue, Burnet Moths, Large White, Speckled Wood, Comma and Small Tortoiseshell. Common and Blue Tailed Damselflies. Emperor Dragonfly, Common Darter and this cracking Four Spotted Chaser.

Washington WWT Wow.

2010-07-12T07:10:00.019+01:00

The Survey of Dragonflies and Damselflies began yesterday and what a start i had.

As i was walking down to the ponds something rather large caught my eye. Upon further inspection i came across this beauty. Only a Southern Hawker Dragonfly. WOW !

This cracking Dragonfly has only recently started to spread to our part of the country so it was a very nice and unexpected find.

As i continued my walk i saw a Common Darter resting on the floor.

Fandragontastic Mate

So with stool set up by the pond i began my survey. There was plenty to see with Common Blue, Blue Tailed and Azure Damselfly.

Both Azure Damselfly

Common Blue

The Damselflies were mating and laying eggs so a good sign of a healthy Damselfly world. I also spotted two Common Blue Tenerals drying their wings out.

Then something glimmered like a jewel in the sun. And it was indeed a jewel. A stunning Emerald Damselfly.

Emerald

Three male Broad Body Chasers did what there name suggests and chased a female around the pond for a good twenty minutes. They proved very hard to photograph but i eventually manged to capture a couple of record shots.

Broad Body Chaser

A single Large Red Damselfly tried its best to have a rest but the Common Blues were having none of it and kept chasing him away.

There was also a good number of Butterflies visiting the area around the pond. Four Comma put on a show amongst the leaves. Chasing each other away until only one remained. Although he was a little Moth eaten (excuse the pun) .

Other species noted were, Speckled Wood, Red Admiral, Large Skipper, Small Skipper, Small Tortoiseshell, Large White, Painted Lady and Meadow Brown.

A few pic below to show the variety of species found.

Other creatures of interest seen were, two Newts and a Frog of which type i have no idea.

So a truly enjoyable day which i shall repeat next Sunday.

New Role

2010-07-06T14:21:00.008+01:00

From this morning i became an official Wildlife Survey Assistant at Washington WWT.
For the next couple of months i will be monitoring Dragonflies, Damselflies and Butterflies within the reserve. Then moving onto another survey after that and so on. I will be covering all Flora and Fauna so its all very exciting and i cant wait to get stuck in. So expect lots of photos of the above.

Anyhoo's, heres some Moths i clocked this morning resting in one of the bird hides.

Brimstone

Coxcomb Prominent

Yellow Shell

Snout

Light Arches

I take it they were all night flying Moths and will find out asap.

Free Bird Watching Mags

2010-07-02T10:10:00.001+01:00

I have the following up for grabs for nowt if anyone wants them.

23 Bird Watching Mags

6 various dates 2008

and all of March 2009 to July 2010

Good info on bird id, areas to visit, equipment etc may be good for beginner or anyone for that matter.

4 Waterlife WWT magazine

7 RSPB Birds Magazine various dates.

All in excellent condition no stains etc. Ooo errr.

All you have to do is collect them, or if not to far away im sure i could drop them off.

Druridge and East Chev with a bit of Linton as well

2010-06-29T13:02:00.011+01:00

Came across these cracking Common Blue females within East Chev Dunes. I didnt realise that the females could differ in colour so much. Take a look.

A few more sightings at various sites produced:

Shaded Broad-bar (Scotopteryx chenopodiata)

Common Carpet (Epirrhoe alternata)

Yellow Shell (Camptogramma bilineata)

Ringlet

Cinnibar Moth caterpillar

Loads of Damselflies seen. No Dragonflies. Loads of Skippers small and large, Totrtoiseshells, Painted Ladies and Burnet Moths.

Good day out a bit windy though which probarly kept the count down.

Old Backworth Scrapyard

2010-06-25T14:20:00.011+01:00

This is the old Backworth Scrapyard site which has now become a fantastic wildlife zone. Unfortunately i think it is earmarked for development as part of the Earsdon View estate. Which is a p**s take in its self as it has blocked my view of Earsdon. Ironic or what.

Anyhoo, a few pic of what i came across this morning whilst meandering.

The site as it is now.

I counted five species of Butterfly but i was there for only forty Min's so not bad.

Small Tortoiseshell

Common Blue

Meadow Brown

Large Skipper

Small Skipper

Orchid of some kind

The ground was covered in Orchids

I also saw about six varieties of Bees. There were Goldfinch, Linnets and Skylarks. And Two kestrels hunted the area.

All in all there was about thirty species of plants and that was just a quick count.

I am very tempted to plant something rare and get the site listed as a SSSI and stop the building of houses which dont sell anyway.

Last couple of days

2010-06-24T13:17:00.023+01:00

I have been keeping local the last couple of days. So here are a few pics from Silverlink Bio Park and Banks Pond.

Narrow-bordered 5-spots. The Silver Link Bio Park is a Mecca for these Moths. They are in huge numbers all over the site.

Narrow-bordered 5-spots

Came across this very pretty looking Moth. It was only about 20mm across.

Latticed Heath

No apologies for the Four Spot Chaser again. I just love this Dragonfly.

Four Spot Chaser

Small Skipper

Large Skipper

I couldn't resist this little beauty. been told it is a Nine Spine Stickleback. I didn't even know there was more than one type. Fascinating.

Onto Banks Pond this morning. The weather unfortunately had took a downturn. Although still warm it was windy and cloudy. I think this may have had an effect on the number of species seen this morning.

This has to be one of my favorite Butterflies i have seen so far. It is stunning.

Common Blue

A few Damsels though im not sure what yet. I would guess Common Blue and Large Red.

There was also a bloody great big blue Dragonfly whizzing around but would not stay still to photograph so no idea what that was.

So heres another Four Spot Chaser from Banks Pond as well.

Doing chinups to impress the ladies

Brown China-mark (Elophila nymphaeata). There were loads of these all over the place.

And this little chap.

Another cracking couple of days and thanks to Richie for on the spot location information. It only took me four attempts to find Banks Pond.

Secret Location

2010-06-21T14:16:00.014+01:00

Certain local bloggers seem to be keeping their wildlife locations secret lately not wishing to share their sightings with the rest of us. Which leads to the question, why do they keep a blog. Is it just to Brag "look at what I've found and you haven't". So i have jumped on the band waggon and will keep this location all to myself as they do.

All i will say is, there is heathland and a few puddles and Pylons. You know who you are.

I luckily bumped into a chap who advised me on what i was looking at. So i thank him for that. Mike i think he was called from Durham. Bloody nice chap. Anyway here are a few of the sightings from today's top secret location.

Black Tailed Skimmer

I was advised by the nice chap that this was quite a find. He was there specifically just for this one species.

There was a single Emperor Dragonfly and plenty of Blue Tailed, Large Red and Azure
Damselfly's. A Banded Demoiselle put in a brief appearance unfortunately to far away to photograph.

There were lots of Four Spotted Chasers.

They were sunning themselves within four feet of me.

Flower wise plenty of Orchids with this Common Spotted Orchid amongst the Marsh Orchid.

Spotted Orchid

Anchusa arvensis Vipers Bugloss

I think this may be White Campion

And i do believe this is Red Campion.

There were Butterflies galore. Highlights were Common Blue, Small Heath, Six Spot Burnet yes i know that's a Moth and many others of which names i do not know yet.

Small Heath

So a absolutely fantastic morning out in the glorious sunshine at Kibblesworth Brickworks. Ahh Dam just gave the location away.

Washington Wonderings

2010-06-17T16:28:00.010+01:00

A trip to Washington WWT this morning produced a few new species for me.

Like this Bee Orchid.

And this Speckled Wood Butterfly.

Yellow Rattle in the Meadow.

And this Chimney Sweeper Moth.

Garden Moths

2010-06-16T13:49:00.005+01:00

Unfortunately my idea of having a wild meadow ( Buttercups, Daisys, Thistle and long grass etc)for a garden was not the same idea of the council. So having been told they were inspecting gardens i had no option but to cut it. Fascists !

Whilst doing so i came across these three Moths

Heart and Dart Agrotis exclamationis

Garden Grass Veneer Chrysoteuchia culmella

Timothy Tortrix Aphelia paleana

Day or Night Moths you decide cause i dont know yet.

All ids provided by Ispot.

Druridge and other places Meander

2010-06-13T10:24:00.028+01:00

I was going to go to Kielder on Monday to try a see the Green Hairstreaks. But with the weather not doing what i told it to do i ended up at along the coast.

First stop was Cresswell. There may not of been a vast variety of birds but the insect life was amazing. The path to the hide had insects in abundance. Here are a few.

I believe this is called a Frog Hopper

There were a good number of small Moths flapping around.

Silver ground carpet

The next photo I'm not sure if it is a Moth, Butterfly or Fly i am awaiting id from ISPOT.

Nemophora degeerella

A Scorpion Fly (Panorpha species)

A Snipe Fly

Next stop onto Druridge. There was a bird singing where the Marsh Warbler had been seen. It sounded very much like a Sedge Warbler but with a few Blackbird and other birds songs thrown in for good measure. I got a brief glimpse of it. Small brown buff coloured underneath not sure if it was the Marsh Warbler still hanging around ?

Anyway, there were a large number of Blue Tailed and Azure Damsel fly.

Along with a few species of Butterfly's including this Large Skipper.

And this Orange Tip.

As i went into the South facing Hide (who ms name escapes me) this was the fantastic view.

Brilliant eh !

There were some lovely Lesser Spotted Orchids along the path.

Next stop Widdrington Tip. I followed a side road and arrived at a Methane monitoring plant that advised to keep at least 2km away in case of explosion due to naked flames. So as i lit a tab i wondered down the road. I couldn't find an entrance onto the old tip as it was all fenced off. I did see this though. First time I've seen this cool looking bug. looks like something out of a sci fi movie.

A Sawfly Symphyta

So i returned to the car and had another tab whilst reading the sign about explosions and then headed to East Chevington.

On the big lake were a good number of Sandwich Terns but not much else. Yet again there was a good turn out of insects to keep me interested.

The next set of photos are for over eighteens only so if you are younger look away now.

That time of year to get it on

And this handsom Caterpillar to admire.

A Drinker Moth

Also a Ground Beetle

And this

I know its only a Green Bottle but look at the sheen on it, fantastic.

And to finish because im running out of time, a Bunny munching on Dock leaves at Hauxley

A Fantastic day out.

Gossy Quickie

2010-06-08T07:39:00.007+01:00

I managed to get 30 mins at Gosforth Park Nature Reserve before i got a call to inform me that i was needed else where. I had just opened the shutters on the pyle hide ? when there in front of me were two Reed Warblers

Now i had only previously seen them from a distance so this was a real treat to have them ten foot away from me.

On the way back to the car i clocked a few insects new to me. I haven't had time to find out their names yet so i will update the blog when I've got the info.

Here's some pics of the new beasties

Soldier Beetle

Whoops bit out of focus that one

And to finish, this Little Grebe chick exploring the lake.

It is amazing what can be seen in 30 mins.

All quiet on the Moorside front

2010-06-02T14:52:00.009+01:00

I wont be posting much this week as i am stuck with the kids for the half term.
Normal service will resume as soon as possible.

But to be going on with a few photos from Sundial Hill Country park this morning with my son.

Blue Tailed Damsel

Six Spot Burnet

Northern Marsh Orchid

Ragged Robin

Salad Burnet

This plant is found all over the Sundial hill. It is covered in Six Spot Burnet caterpillars which are starting to go into the Chrysalis stage.

Whitethroat

Back To normal soon.

Another Bothal meander

2010-05-28T09:18:00.007+01:00

I Couldn't decide where to go yesterday. I was going to go to Druridge but ended up at Bothal again.

When i got there the first thing to strike me was the high numbers of Orange Tip Butterflies. They seemed to be attracted to the Giant Butterbur or Bog Rhubarb as my dad used to call it. Note for Emma, I know its a bit out your way but they were very easy to photograph keeping still for long periods.

Unfortunately another thing to stike me was the high number of campfires that have been made. The two mile stretch that i walked had about ten separate fires (distinguished i must add) including trees that had been torched. I don't know if its people fishing or numpties with their packs of Fosters but its a sad site to see.

Anyways, Birds seen were Blackcap in abundance, Willow Warbler , Chiffchaff, Great Spotted woodpecker , Grey Wagtail , Dipper , Grey Heron x3, Song Thrush, Common Buzzard calling above the trees and briefly glimpsed, Chaffinch, Blackbird and Robin.

Below a few photos from the day. Not much new to see since my last visit.

You got to have the baby bunny pic this time of year.

Wood Aven i doth believe.

Twas a carpet of Ransom that cloaked the floor.

Plenty of these chappies Mayfly i think.

Bridge near Morpeth

So a canny couple of hours. The best thing was i never passed a soul. Bliss.

Low Force Meander

2010-05-24T13:56:00.022+01:00

Some of the family were going to Low Force on Sunday so i thought i would tag along having never been.

As i walked through the woods to the Wynch Bridge a Spotted Flycatcher and a Tree Creeper gave a nice start to the day.

The falls soon came into view a what a treat they were.

The view however, was soon spoiled by a group of Foster Beer wielding teenagers turning up to do a bit of Tombstoning into the deep pools below the falls.

Anyway, further up the river two Common Sandpipers were spied along with Grey Wagtail.

There were some interesting flowers to see. One of which was pointed out to me by a kind gent who informed me that it was quite rare to see now.

Bird's Eye Primrose

Below, some of the others seen.

Globe Flower

Early Marsh Orchid

Water Avens

Not sure on this one Vetch Maybe ?

Bugle

Bird's Foot Trefoil

And a couple of Wee Cowrin' Timorous Beasties.

It had a very humourous face this one.

A Weevil of some kind

And a Moth Caterpillar of the Aphelia Genus

We returned to the falls which by now had become a Lido for the numpties. They were everywhere throwing empty beer cases and cans straight into the river. WHY ?

We stopped at the visitors center to have a coffee and got a wonderful show of Crepuscular rays from above.

A path led away from the visitors center to another waterfall of who ms name escapes me at the mo. We saw two Dippers along the burn and plenty of Brown Trout in the pools.

It was nice and quiet here no numpties. To far for them to walk.

A few more pics from the day

A fantstic place that deserves another visit perhaps midweek when the numpties are signing on.

Side note thanks to Emma for flower updates. Cheers.

More Bothal and a bit of Fontburn

2010-05-20T13:37:00.015+01:00

A few pics from Bothal woods yesterday.

Cuckoo Pint i think

Cream Spot Ladybird

Not a Bee but a Greater Bulb-Fly (Merodon equestris)

A Leaf Beetle so I've been told

14 Spot Ladybird

Pendulas Sedge Grass

The wooded banks were covered in Blue Bells and Ransom. The smell was overpowering.

Also had a quick visit to St Andrews church in Bothal. The ground was also covered in Ransom and these fantastic Brown Birch trees gave a nice contrast. Kind of spring meets autumn. Nice.

Today i thought i would save you dear readers, the trouble of checking out Rayburn Lake near Netherwitton. Good job i did because there was nowt there of interest.
list as follows:
Yellow Hammers, Linnets, Reed Bunting, Mute swan, Mallard, Tufty and two Little Grebes. I thought there may be Black Necked Grebe that's why i checked it out.

However, I did come across these two chaps that had been delivered with a pint of milk.

They were very stressed and flapping around in their little prison. Poor things. I didn't know whether to let them go or let be and not intervene. The last time i saw this was up in the Cheviots. I let them go but unknown to me i was being watched by two Game Keepers/Poachers who sped up to me in their Land rover and gave me a right bollocking. So this time i ignored it. Hard to do though.

On the way back to the car i passed this Gym for Moles. They were having a right good workout doing chin ups. One handed as well impressive.

Next onto Fontburn. Nowt here of interest. There was the usual Great Spotted Woodpecker, Willow Warbler, Chiffchaff, Canada Geese, Coot and Chaffinch.

Some nice views of the reservoir though.

Canny morning out.

Beacon Hill

2010-05-16T14:58:00.007+01:00

A few hours spent at Beacon Hill this morning produced Spotted Flycatcher, Redstart, Tree Pipit, Willow Tit and the usual others. A Cuckoo called but was not seen. There were also two Hares in the woods. And a strange fellow staring at me through his bins. Very odd.

Also Corn Bunting at a near by location.

Two Tawnys in a week

2010-05-13T14:11:00.010+01:00

I don't know it takes me a year and a half to see my first Tawny then i get another one a week later. All be it a Young one.

It sat quite content on its branch surprisingly out in the open. Not the best looking thing i must say. But then again, wor lass would say the same about me.

A few butterflies were knocking around mainly Peacocks and Small Whites.

And lots of Orange Tips

Sitting on a Forget me Not

Plenty of LBJ. With Blackcaps, Reed Buntings, Willow Warbler, Sedge Warbler and Grasshopper Warbler. No photos though as they were to swift this morning.

Moved onto Druridge next where there was very little to see. I did get this lovely Ringed Plover though from the Oddie Hide.

And today's plant.

Lady's Smock (Cardamine pratensis)

As well as today's Insect.

Hoverfly Leucozona lucorum.

Last stop onto Bothal down by the sawmill. I haven't been here since i was a kid. So it was good to visit and remember the fun times of canoeing up the river.

Anyway, Bird wise there was Dipper, Grey wagtail, Blackcaps, Willow Warbler and best of all a Wood Warbler.

A few shots of the Bluebells and Ransom carpeting the bank side.

and one of the river for good luck.

So a brilliant morning out.

Gossy Meander

2010-05-12T17:48:00.006+01:00

After ironing and painting ( a woman's work is never done they say, So how come i end up doing it) a trip to Gosforth Park Nature Reserve was in order. As i walked into the reserve i met Paul the resident warden who informed me that the feeding station hide had been torched the previous Saturday. Probably only a matter of time before the others are as well i should think. Anyway, the skies were blue and the clouds were fluffy, ideal for photos.

The Sedge warblers were singing their hearts out and deep within the reeds a Water Rail was Sharming.

There wasn't much to see on the water. Just some Coot, Moorhens, Little Grebe, Mute Swans and a few Common Tern checking out the artificial island. But it was just glorious to sit in the sun and soak up the rays and watch the Swifts doing their aerobatics over the water.

As i continued around the reserve all the usual woodland species could be seen and heard. There was Chiffchaff, Whitethroat, Willow Warbler, Nuthatch, Coal Tit, Great and Blue Tit, Great Spotted Woodpecker, Chaffinch and a Tree Creeper put in an appearance for me.

But best of all for me anyway was the majestic buck Roe Deer keeping a wary eye on me.

To finish of the morning this beautiful Orange Tip.

Washington WWT

2010-05-11T14:22:00.020+01:00

A few Pics from Washington WWT this morning. There were two fantastic Little Ringed Plovers there giving me my 200th Lifer.

Plenty of Young'uns around as well. The best being this little family of Grey Lags.

The Avocets had laid eggs but unfortunately they have been destroyed by unknown predators. They have however been seen mating again.

A Grey Heron was getting a lot of grief of the Common Terns. He was getting a bit to close to comfort to their eggs.

The Grey Heron in question

Whilst I'm on about the Common Terns these two were performing a circus act. Look at the balancing skills on that.

Drum Roll and TaaDaa

All this was happening on Wader lake which for a change was busy with birds today.

A view of Wader Lake for those that have not been before.

Thought i would throw this pic of a Shellduck in because i like them.

Common as muck i know but they are rather bonny

Next stop up to the feeding station. Where there seemed to be thousands of Bullfinches . And very photogenic they are too.

Go on then I'll throw another one in.

A few of the plants today.

Green Alkanet (Pentaglottis sempervirens)

And another

Yellow Archangel (Lamiastrum galeobdolon)

And this chap to finish the morning off. Singing his heart out on top of the branch.

So a lovely morning out with plenty to see.

Tawny at last

2010-05-07T23:00:00.004+01:00

Got me a Tawny Owl this evening at Prestwick Carr. Fantastic.

Its there honest

This was the best view i could get to photograph it other than going into the field and standing underneath. Which one does not do.

Thanks to Andy Cowell (i think he was called) who entertained me whilst there, Bloody nice man.

Also had a Snipe calling from the top of a tree, very weird. I have never witnessed this before. It kept returning to the same spot.

Snipe sitting high up calling

And of course the RNP at Prestwick village. Poor thing keeps trying to feed its reflection by the look of it. Thanks again to Andy for pointing it out to me.

Other birds noted were : Linnet, Willow Warbler, Gropper, Reed Bunting, Yellowhammer, Swift, Swallow, House Martin and a Roe Harrier. Yes i mistook a Roe Deer rear end (Much to Andy's amusement) for the top of a Female Marsh Harrier Head. It was some distance over in the woods. Its easy done.

Rising Sun Wednesday Morning and Prestwick Wednesday Evening.

2010-05-07T13:51:00.011+01:00

Had a ramble around the Rising Sun CP to mainly look at what plants may be springing up. First thing i got however, was this beautiful little fella.

Plenty of plants and trees in bloom heres a few,

Now on Johnnys Blog http://sedgedunumwarbler.blogspot.com he mentions seeing the Red Deer without antlers

Copyright of Sedgedunum warbler

which is funny because i saw the the same Deer earlier that day and there was clearly a tree growing out of his head.

Alright cheap joke.

Anyway up to the cafe for a nice Tuna and Cheese melt and a cup of tea. Highly recommend this place.

In the evening , i thought at the last minute i would give the Tawny a try at Prestwick Carr. So i headed up there at 19.00hrs. It was a lovely still evening. Very little wind and loads of midges. The Sedge Warblers were in fine voice and a few Grasshopper warblers were Reeling in the fens to the right. A Redstart gave a fantastic view sitting watching me.

I found the spot where the tawny has regulary been seen. But alas, it was not to be. I stayed for an hour and just took in the peace of the Carr. I will get my Tawny one of these nights.

Druridge to East Chevington Meadander.

2010-05-04T13:08:00.016+01:00

The Sedge Warblers were going nuts this morning. Every reed and scrub seemed to have one in there. A few pics follow unashamedly because i never thought i would get a decent one of this flighty bird.

An absolute stunner this bird, beautiful.

Further on up the links path to East Chevington there was a good number of Wheatears. Another beautiful bird to watch.

There was a swarm of flies so most of the birds were having a feeding frenzy. Fantastic to see.

This Meadow Pipit was just sitting in the bush and virtually letting the flies land in his mouth.

Fly to the right about to land in his mouth

Two Kestrels patrolled the grasslands making a few successful sorties

And this McCoo lazily chewed on the grass.

A view of East Chevington Nature reserve for those that haven't been.

Flower wise there wasn't much to see yet. This is some type of Speedwell but not sure which yet. I will wait for Ispot to id or Dean who seems rather good at this.

And this Lesser Celandine (Ranunculus ficaria). You thought birds were hard to id, try learning all the wildflower names. Yeegads.

So an absolutely fan-dune-tastic morning with the sun beating down and the Sedge warblers serenading me along the way. A lucky man i am.

Spooky Sunday

2010-05-02T19:56:00.020+01:00

Thought i would have an hours meander around Earsdon Church Yard this afternoon. The birds were in full riot with their song. If they were humans they would have been served an asbo. I actually managed to get Chiffchaff pictures for the first time after many attempts.

I saw a Willow Warbler but it proved to quick to photograph. But this Blackbird obligingly gave me a few poses.

And of course the day wouldn't be complete without a few spooky shots of the church and the grave yard as follows

Spooky looking church

Spooky looking churchyard

So anyway, moved onto Backworth flash area for a wonder along the waggonway. Plenty of Reed Bunting.

Fat and content

other birds noted were Kestrel, Goldfinch, Yellowhammer, Willow Warbler, Robin, Blackbird, Jackdaw, Carrion Crow, Wood Pigeon, Mistle Thrush and Mute Swan.

Not many butterflies around only got the two Tortoiseshell and large White (first of the year for me though)

Plant wise got a few new ones for me

Lady's-Smock or Cuckoo Flower

Spanish Bluebell me ma says this is a bit naughty and needs to be destroyed?

Now this one is unknown to me at the moment but i am waiting for id from Ispot website

Along with this one as well

Saw a Primrose that was twice the size of the ones at Allen Banks the other day

So with the trip coming to an end (family for tea had to get back ) i noted this lonely Snail and a bit of Tree Blossom to end with.

Therapy over with i headed back home to bedlam.

Allen banks Thursday, Holywell Lifer Saturday

2010-05-01T16:47:00.010+01:00

Went to Allen Banks in the hope of getting the Bluebells and Ransom in full flower. Not to be, though i think it will be another week at the most. However, i did get the following

Wood Sorrel was in abundance cloaking the wood floor in some places.

I think this one is Red Campion

And of course Primroses. An absolutely beautiful flower.

A few Common violet dotted around here and there

And this bad boy Toothwort. I belive i read somewhere that it is a Parasite of some kind. Hard to belive looking at it.

Some Vinca Minor or Periwinkle

And this gorgeous little Barren Strawberry

Birds seen included Pied Flycatcher, Chiffchaff, Blackcap, Dipper, Pied wagtail, Grey wagtail, Buzzard, Siskin and kesterel.

Holywell this afternoon my first Garden Warbler.

Something a bit different

2010-04-28T10:49:00.025+01:00

I fancied something a bit different yesterday other than chasing after birds and finding them not there (costing to much in petrol). So off i went to Tynemouth Priory to get some pics. The sky was a flat dull grey giving no life to the ruin.

see what i mean

So i ventured over to the cliff edge (don't worry i wasn't thinking of that) and noticed Alexanders (Smyrinium olusatrum) growing in abundance.

Read somewhere that this was used like celery when introduced by the Romans

In abundance it was

This stuff was a mecca for insects. It was absolutely crawling in them (excuse the pun). I had things like this:

an ichneumon (Ichneumon)

and this:

Also:

Seven Spot is this the bad boy ?

As well as:

A Bibionid (Dilophus sp.)

And a canny few of these:

a subfamily of craneflies (Limoniinae)

And not forgetting:

Faninsectastic mate.

There were plenty more but proved a bit harder to catch. All in all i saw about 20 different types but alas only one butterfly.

So after all this excitement i had to cool off and what better place than the old chapel.

The Chapel which is old.

The windows in here are beautifully crafted. I have never seen colours so rich before in other churches.

St Cuffy i think

Some dude carrying a head

And the Beautiful Rose window at the back of the chapel

So i left the chapel and had a wonder around the grounds. There were quite a few Linnets knocking around about 12 in all

And this gorgeous Starling shining in the light

and to finish before i left i saw this delicate Ivy-leaved Toadflax (Cymbalaria muralis) growing on one of the priorys stones.

So a nice morning with no stress on list bagging which is becoming tiresome now.

Not so bad coastal trip

2010-04-26T13:33:00.010+01:00

A toodle along the coast was in order this morning. I thought on the off chance i may get the wagtails that had been seen earlier in the week. But it was not to be. After text pestering Gordon (Liverbirder) for location details i finally found the spot but there was nowt to see.

I moved on up to Druridge where from the Budge hide i could see Black tailed Godwit , Shoveler, Teal and the usual other suspects. Then all of a sudden a cracking Marsh Harrier caught my eye sitting just 100ft away.

You beauty i said to myself. It took off and bothered two Gadwalls by dipping onto their heads. They were not impressed at all. Then Two Lapwings decided to chase it off.

It was last seen flying off to the south beyond Cresswell.

One off the rock hard Lapwings that chased the Harrier

So after a cup of tea to warm me cockels up as it was bloody freezing i headed of into the dunes to see what was about flower wise.

Not much in flower yet but got these lovely Violets i think which were in abundance all around.

Violets in abundance

Along with Cowslips

and Daisy's

So yet again a lovely morning filled with the song of Willow Warbler and Meadow Pipits. Fantastic.

Birthday wonder

2010-04-22T14:13:00.013+01:00

Happy Birthday i hear you all cry. Why thank you.

Anyway had a wonder up to Gosforth Park Nature Reserve this morning. The woods were yet again full of bird song. The Nuthatch was calling a different tune. So from never hearing a Nuthatch i have now heard two calls in 48 hours mad or what.

There were a few more people in the park (how dare they) so sightings of the Roe Deer were a bit thin on the ground. Did get this pic though.

There are lots of signs that summer is on the way with flowers starting to bloom and trees starting to blossom. At last eh.

Forget me nots

Coltsfoot

Grey Willow Salix cinerea Ssp. oleifolia

And something i have never seen before, the seed casing still stuck to the seedling in this case a Sycamore i think

Some canny Fungi as well

Cramp Balls

Polypore (Bracket Fungi)

So a canny morning nice and warm as well hidden amongst the trees.

Holywell Quickie

2010-04-21T12:32:00.003+01:00

Having lots of chores building up i decided a quick visit to Holywell was in order this morning.

The Pond was very quiet. There were numerous Tufted Ducks, a Female Goosander, Cormarants x2, A drake and female Gadwall and a proud Mallard mother with her ducklings

The Mallard had eight chicks though it was reported yesterday as nine. So it looks like maybe ones bit the dust already.

Over on the North side of the pond there was a large number of Passerines. With about thirty Swallows, ten House Martins (year Tick) and a few Sand Martins.

The feeders had the usual Greenfinch, Goldfinch, Chaffinch, Blackbird and a few Reed Buntings . And over on the other side Willow warbler, Black Cap and Chiffchaff could be heard.

On the paths back to the car there were signs of summer flowers starting to bloom. Got this lovely little plant Red Dead Nettle

Canny morning out again, now to tackle the ironing mountain.

New patch

2010-04-20T13:09:00.016+01:00

Having just joined The Northumbria Natural History Society i thought i would explore my new patch Gosforth Park Nature Reserve.

When i arrived i was the only one there ahhh bliss. The birds were singing and the bees were buzzing and the butterflies were fluttering. The sun shone through the woods giving it a ethereal feeling.

With map in hand (its a big place you know )i set off around the reserve. It wasn't long before i heard a bird calling that i did not recognise. It didn't take me long to trace the critter. Twas a Nuthatch the first time i have heard one call. The woods were alive with Great Tits and Blue Tits calling from every tree almost.

I was told that there are still Red Squirrels in the woods but are seldom seen now. I must of had my lucky pants on because within about 10 minutes i saw one.

Happy Red Squirrel

I watched Red for a good 20 mins it was quite happy in its tree chewing on its food.

I then went on when something caught my eye. There standing to my left was a large Roe Deer watching me with suspicion. He stood for a couple of minutes before leaping off into the woods.

Big Lad

As i walked deeper into the woods i kept getting brief flashes of white rumps melting into the woods. Deer seemed to be all around me.

I came across this fungi yet another new one to me but do not know the name of it yet.

Looks past its best

The path led to a screen over looking the lake at the racecourse end of the reserve. Willow Warblers and Chiffchaffs could be heard calling and it wasn't long before i got my first year tick for the said Warbler

View from the screen

Following the path i came across another five Deer. They didn't seem that bothered by my presence and continued feeding allowing me to get some close up shots of them.

Beautiful

I left them be as i didn't want to disturb them and continued on me way.

I then went to one of the hides over looking the other end of the pond. A Water Rail could be heard Sharming deep in the reeds. On the man made island five Swallows sat on the wire.

The walk was coming to an end but i did hear a Grasshopper Warbler Chirruping away in the reeds unfortunately i couldn't see it.

So as i neared the entrance this Peacock Butterfly caught my eye sunbathing.

And to end the day a Jay called from high up in the trees giving me brief glimpse.

A fantastic peaceful start to my new patch to which i will return many times.

Coastal Meander

2010-04-16T14:19:00.013+01:00

What a day to have a coastal meander it was absolutely boiling. I arrived at Cresswell to find i was the only one there. As i walked along the path to the hide i came across this rather tired and ragged looking chap.

Tortise Shell me thinks

I don't know if hes a survivor of the winter but he didn't look his best.

So anyway, onto the hide. There was very little on the pond today in fact nothing worth noting at all.

Next stop was Druridge. I popped into the budge hide but there was little to see here as well.

So next onto Hauxley Nature Reserve. There were large numbers of Canada Geese and Greylag with a few Barnacle thrown in for good measure.

Seven Barnacles in all

A quick trip to the Ponteland Hide. Yet again large numbers of Greylag and not much else. I did get this lovely Redshank though chasing flies

I know they are common but i like to watch them

Across at the hide opposite somebody decided it was a good idea to let their dogs chase the birds on the pond side. How clever of them ! I am starting to hate dog owners more and more each day. Gordon the Liverbirder excluded.

Also this cracking Grey Heron which was constantly getting mobbed of the Black Headed Gulls but just ignored them.

Next stop onto the beach to get some Vista shots

Coquet Island

Druridge Beach

I found this thing washed up at the high tide mark but not sure what type of fish it is ? A Ginger Dory i think

A sand scape to finish with.

So a beautiful morning out with very few people knocking around surprisingly but had to end to get ready for work. Dam its eyes.

Great Grey Shite

2010-04-11T15:16:00.006+01:00

I thought i would have a wonder on up to Harwood this morning to catch up with the GGS. Arriving at the location my heart sank when i saw the area needed to be watched. It was a grey wilderness of dead trees and here i was looking for a grey bird amongst it. I will just put a side note in here, There is no need to slog up the path for 40 minutes you can drive right up to the spot, not permissively but there was no one else there so who the hell would know. Just a hint.

Anyway, myself and my brother spent some time looking to no avail. WE did see however, Tree Pipit a lifer for me and bro, A Common Lizard, Meadow Pipits, Siskin, Willow Tit and Common Buzzard.

Not a Grey Shrike

So back we trudged to the car our hearts heavy and onwards to Cairston Lake. I have never been along this road that leads to the lake and all i can say is WOW. What a beautiful drive the scenery is fantastic.

We arrived at Cairston with only an hour left to explore. I had a quick word with the owner who was very friendly and pro Birding. He pointed out the hides and gave a quick rundown of what had been seen including two Otters. We set out along the river towards the hides on the south shore but realizing what a big place this was decided to leave it for another day. On the river bank we did get Grey Wagtail, Pied Wagtail, Dipper, Oyster Catcher, Greylag, Canada Geese and Meadow Pipits galore.

This will be a fantastic site to explore with more time on hand. The place was stunning with crystal clear waters.

Some photos below to show Cairston.

So although i didnt get me bird i went out for i had a wonderful peaceful morning spoilt only by having to return to screaming kids and wife.

Washington Avocets

2010-04-09T13:15:00.006+01:00

At last third time lucky i dropped in on the Avocets at Washington. Beautiful bird to look at. The wardens there say they have already mated and are waiting to see if nest building starts.

Poor record shot they were quite distant

There was not much else on wader lake just Redshanks, Oyster catchers, Teal, Shelduck and Wigeon. Waders seem to be far and few between at the moment.

Also got this fantastic fungi it looked like hazelnuts.

Glistening Inkcap (Coprinellus micaceus)

Blue Tit car thief

2010-04-07T09:43:00.006+01:00

This little chap and his mate have been sussing out my car all morning are they:

A) Going to break in and nick my Harvest Cereal Bar from the glove compartment

B) Admiring how good they look

C) Looking for insects behind the mirror

D) None of the above

Press play to view in case you dont know which i know you do know but you never know some may not know

Any ideas or knowledge would be welcome folks. They have been at it for over 3 hours now.

Two lifers in a day

2010-04-05T12:38:00.002+01:00

With thanks to all those for their encouragement to keep the blog going i have decided i will.

I decided to go for the Great White Egret and Common Crane this morning. Having been ill over the last 36 hours i dragged myself out of bed and drove up to Druridge. I met John Howden Blogger wondering around. He advised i had just missed the Egret with it being seen flying north. We had a wonder up to the Budge Hide anyway just in case. There we met my work mate Ritchie Dunn and had a good craic with him for a while. Thanks for the words Ritchie ;-). Myself and John then decided to head up to Shaw farm to clock the Common crane. The Crane was in the Stubble field opposite Shaw farm entrance showing really well. I went to get my camera only to discover i had left it in the house ahhhhhhhhhhhh. What a dork. Anyway we had a good view for 10mins before it decided to hop over the fence and disappear

So back to Druridge. I was nearly there when i recieved a call from Ritchie advising G W Egret was back. In true Sweeny style i handbraked turned into the car park, jumped out of the car, and rolled over the bonnet. Grabbed my scope and ran through the mud to bag my G W Egret. And there and behold it was. Fantastic views as it pranced around the wetlands. Two lifers in a day what more could a man ask for.
.