A third attempt came up trumps as the W. Hartford Great grey Shrike showed well searching for prey from it’s tree perches,frequently dropping to the ground. I watched from a few hundred metres away as a “non-birding ” long -lens chap approached at close range. The Shrike flew off out of sight towards the trees bordering the river . A feeding flock of Meadow Pipits alighted from the rough grass- 18 in total, quite unusual in winter. During the recent hard winters, barely a single one remained in the county. One or two Kestrels hovered nearby. This declining species seems to have done well this year,with good numbers seen on each day out.
On up to Q.E. 2 lake,where the Black necked Grebe was allowing close approach for some photographers.
At Widdrington Moor , several birders were looking for the reported Hen Harrier,but all to be seen were 2 Buzzards and 3 Kestrels. At the roadside, a solitary Redwing joined a feeding Mistle Thrush. I headed a little north to Maidens Hall Lake,where 2 more Buzzards and Kestrels hunted,then bingo, the Harrier , a ringtail was quartering the rough grass among newly planted trees. Good ‘scope views were had for 20 mins,before it drifted south towards West Chevington.
Now down to Druridge where a huge flock of Pink footed geese were on the wing between here and Chevington. I estimated 3,ooo.
At Cresswell a male Stonechat was noted and 20+ Tree Sparrows at the feeders. The pond held many Wigeon and 300 Lapwings in nearby fields. A few Snipe sat near the hide. The 9 Whoopers remained at Warkworth Lane.
At Swallow Pond a mixed flock of Siskins and Redpolls were good to see.
A,S,Jack