Field work

Yet another visit was made to Headley Heath yesterday afternoon. I have been checking elsewhere for 'you know what' but have so far come up with blanks - Juniper Top, Juniper Bottom, Box Hill, Mickleham Downs and Norbury Park, but in the process have been able to reacquaint myself with some beautiful parts of northern Surrey. Whereas there might not have been any H*******, there were plenty of Marsh Tits, Bullfinches and Redwings, so it was time ornithologically well spent.

Back to yesterday afternoon. The 'big bills' we're still present, but not as numerous as they have been. 15 was my estimate, with a largest flock of five. No birders seen, funny how the lure of such events does quickly wear off, but that's fine by me, as I wandered the quiet valleys and had a couple of close encounters, both dull females. I also flushed a Woodcock. As the light started to fade I couldn't help wonder how much longer these testosterone-fuelled finches will remain, whether they will fade away in the coming month or decide to hang around for the winter. Whatever happens, it's been a tremendous influx to observe.

Comments

Derek Faulkner said…
Lucky you, they still remain a picture in a bird book for me.
14 November 2017 at 16:16
Arjun Dutta said…
Sounds like a decent few days!
Steve where's the best place in Surrey to see Marsh Tits as surprisingly I've never seen one? Thanks
14 November 2017 at 16:25
Steve Gale said…
Park in the White Hill Car Park at Mickleham, then walk either up the steep slope steps (across the road) or better still take the lower right fork opposite. Any where here will provide you with Marsh Tits Arjun. Listen to recordings of their calls before you go, as this will lead you to them quickly and easily. Headley Heath (western side) is also very good.
14 November 2017 at 17:15
Steve Gale said…
It's good to have unfulfilled targets Derek - I've got plenty myself!
14 November 2017 at 17:17
Gibster said…
"No birders seen, funny how the lure of such events does quickly wear off, but that's fine by me, as I wandered the quiet valleys and had a couple of close encounters, both dull females".....so that dogging car park is still active up there then, huh? ;)
15 November 2017 at 10:44
Steve Gale said…
You little rascal Seth...
15 November 2017 at 11:16
Arjun Dutta said…
Thanks for the advice; at least a few of them are hanging on, with virtually no sightings of Willow Tits wherever I go in the UK it feels like.
16 November 2017 at 21:11
Phil Slade said…
This happens too often. So much initial interest and then after a while nothing. There is much to learn about your when birds leave, not just when they arrive.
19 November 2017 at 18:45
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