Another random patch check

Yes indeedy, I notched up a visit to my 5th different patch already this year, with a random spot check at Boghall this very afternoon.

As the proclaimers often proclaim, there were few birds on patch. Although they tried quite hard, they couldn't prevent me from picking out a couple of tree sparrows, which was nice.

Much of the visit revealed feck all, while the proclaimers regaled me with tales of where they regularly find such wonders as chiffchaff and willow warbler.

Ignoring some stonechats, I was quite surprised when the proclaimers proclaimed "stonechat!" quite excitedly. Apparently its good to get them in the fields in January, as they are normally up on the hill later in the year. I was certainly relieved not to have to go anywhere near the hill, so that was a bonus.

All too soon, the spot check was over. All appears to be in order. I could find no evidence of percentage fixing or erroneous claims.

Until the next time!

Seppy

2,228 days

After 2,228 days of patch birding at Longhaven ... GREENFINCH!!!

Happy Days

Bushveld

January... Dull

Thankfully January is over and done with for another year.  A few visits onto the Longhaven patch produced the usual winter fare.  Best birds of the month were collared dove (annual but scarce) and barn owl, which was enticed into a net one dark night and ringed as was short-eared owl.

The total so far is a modest 37 species (32.86%).

Still, the joys of February to look forward to now!

Happy Days

Bushveld.

Confused of Boghall

We were delighted to encounter a singing redwing on Sunday. Yes, in a voice far sweeter than ours this thrush did a great job in brightening up a driech day. Top work redwing - my first nomination for the Top Find award.

Other stuff brings us to 48, or 61.53%. Closing on Tintin again.