A lady from Knott End rang me to ask why there was more than one bird watcher near the jetty. I had to explain about the Black Redstart there. That’s the most exciting thing to happen at Knott End for many years. The cafe should sell a few more bacon butties this weekend.
It’s still too breezy for ringing at winter sites, and stuck in the box for almost two weeks my pliers complained about feeling unloved and redundant. After several weeks of nothing much, a few Chaffinch, Goldfinch and Blackbirds returned to the garden this week, so I put up a single net to see what came along.
A few hours later I had caught a good selection of 15 birds; 6 Goldfinch, 2 Blackbird and one each of Dunnock, Chaffinch, Coal Tit, Robin, Blue Tit, Song Thrush and Starling. Not bad really as I don’t normally ring many Starlings, or even Song Thrushes now they are so scarce. I'd forgotten how good looking Starlings are, but only when they behave well.
Goldfinch can be tricky, especially now that some first year birds moult primary feathers, but the one below still has brown primary coverts.
The Chaffinch was a first calendar year male – pale, worn tertial feathers, worn and thin central tail feathers.
Wow - I've never seen these birds up so close. Such gorgeous shots!
ReplyDeleteHey Phil...Are you going to be buying buddy burgers too...is this the first time you have seen this bird??
ReplyDeleteSorry about all the blustery winter winds ...should I send your ringing pliers a card of encouragement? : }
That close up of the starling really shows his true colors : } ...we have them and I think they are pretty, but a pesky!!
Thanks for you comment on my post my good buddy old pal...I have to think about the header thing ..hummer's are out of season ; }
In this spare time you could help the wife with Christmas decorations..brownie points ; }!!
Grace
OK Phil, was it not enough to place the wonderful looking Black Redstart and other beautiful feathered friends on your post, but then you mention bacon...I love bacon;) I must ask though...what would bacon butties be? Have a grand weekend!
ReplyDeleteLovely to get so close to these birds. Great photos and a very enjoyable post.
ReplyDeleteCongrats on the Black Redstart sighting. Great birds and wonderful photos, Phil! Have a great weekend and happy birding.
ReplyDeletethey're all adorable
ReplyDeletethe starling is beautiful!
Marvelous birds!
ReplyDeleteGorgeous shots of beautiful birds.
ReplyDeleteYour post would be perfect for World Bird Wednesday.
Wow I can't believe how close you get to these birds! I'm beyond jealous! Fantastic captures!
ReplyDeleteGorgeous shots! Happy critter day!
ReplyDeleteWhen the male Black Redstart was first recorded in Thailand 10 years ago in the backyard of a professor's house, the place became crowded with twitchers from all over Thailand. Luckily, at least he's a birder too. I've seen the Black Redstarts a few more times in India and haven't seen any since then. Wish to see it again...
ReplyDeleteBlack Redstart AND a bacon sarnie? Does it get any better than that?
ReplyDeleteComo siempre las fotos que nos dejas, son estupendas.
ReplyDeleteSaludos y feliz domingo.