Saturday 27th January

Just a walk round with the dogs late morning before tomorrow's official walk.
Not much on Fingers except 7 Teal lurking under the willows opposite the main spit. Moorhens were busy disputing territory. Cetti's called and sang well and a Water Rail spotted under a bush later squealed on several occasions.12 Fieldfare over and a party of Redwing (16) at the north end of Fingers. Three pairs of Bullfinch encountered also.
Goosander was present on the main lake, the usual 25 or so Tufted and c.120 Pochard. Didn't count the Shoveler. Green Woodpecker and Mistle Thrush along the river.

Don't forget the guided walk!

Next Sunday Errol Newman guides us, around the park, for the final time before he retires. Be at the visitor centre for 09:00 on Sunday 28th January. There is no charge so come along and enjoy the flora and fauna of your local country park.

Sunday 21st January 2007

Another cracking day with bright sunshine tempered by a cold wind. A Sparrowhawk was hunting along the hedge at the back of the sailing club and gace all the roosting gulls a bit of a scare while it was at it.

On the main lake:

Pochard 85
Tufted 25
Shoveller 50
Goosander 1
Cormorant 27

On the Finger Lakes:

Teal 10+
Little Grebe 9+
Gadwall 2
GC Grebe (Pair) nest building again.

There was a single Greylag on Kingsmead with the Canada geese. Another large flock of Lapwing passed over the park. I estimate 180+ birds. Also seen were Bullfinch, Great Spotted and Green Woodpecker. The Cettis Warbler was in its usual place in the crescent reedbed.