We've finally some signs of spring over the past few weeks. Last week at Low Newton there was a couple of
White Wagtails and a few
Scandinavian Rock Pipits.
Another trip out yesterday produced a few more birds. A
Wheatear at Newbiggin was the first proper migrant, and was followed by a smart
Little Ringed Plover at Cresswell. Also at Cresswell was a
Water Rail,
Red-breasted Merganser and a funny goose which resembled a
Lesser White-fronted Goose, but the white on the forehead didn't extend far enough back and it was perhaps a little too big.
There was further quality at Chevington with the long-staying
Red-necked Grebe and
Black-throated Diver still on the North Pool. The Grebe was already acquiring summer plumage, and if it stays another few weeks it will certainly look pretty smart. 3
Long-tailed Ducks were also still there, with another
Red-breasted Mergansers and 2
Avocets flew over.
Finally 2
Sand Martins were at Bothal Pond on the way back.
 |
| White Wagtail |
 |
| Scandinavian Rock Pipit (?) |
 |
| Herring Gulls |
 |
| Great Black-backed Gull |
 |
| Eiders |
 |
| Escaped Goose |
