Blatherwycke Lake, 8 November 2003
by Helen Moore & Margaret Smith
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PBC Trip Report Blatherwycke Lake, 8 November 2003 by Helen Moore & Margaret Smith |
It was one of those mornings when you looked out of the window and thought 'Why on earth are we doing this?' It was cold, dull and drizzling and it would have been quite easy to spend another hour or so in bed. However, the thought of going on another one of PBC's (in)famous field trips, especially one so close to home, was too much of a temptation. So we rose, showered, donned several layers of clothing and made our way to Blatherwycke.
By the time we arrived (just before 9am) about five people had already positioned themselves by the side of the lake and had identified just about every bird in sight! With a warning about being careful to avoid the local speed kings, we crossed the road and got ourselves set up, hopeful of seeing some interesting birds. All the time, other cars were arriving and on the final count, over 25 people had turned up.
We were not disappointed with what we saw, both on and off the lake. To name but a few of the waterfowl identified, we saw Wigeon, Pochard, Shoveler and Gadwall, as well as one of my favourite species, Pintail. Mac Bell found a Mandarin, typically fast asleep and hiding under the far bank.
As we had hoped and expected, at least six Red Kites showed well. A highlight for me was being able to compare the size and shape of a Kite against a Buzzard when both conveniently flew within a short distance of each other.
Wandering down to the village, we added Fieldfare, Redwing, Jay, Great Spotted Woodpecker and Red-legged Partridge to a day-total of 51 species. We all had fantastic views of a Red Kite when it decided to perch in a tree near to the bridge where we were standing. Totally oblivious of the crowd lurking in close proximity, it proceeded to enjoy a tasty morsel held tightly between its talons. Despite our best efforts, the morsel could not be identified! After three hours, we were all chilled to the bone, despite having drunk copious amounts of coffee and decided to call it a day.
The morning was every bit as eventful and enjoyable as I had anticipated it would be, despite the weather. One particular incident stuck in my mind, which I would like to share with you. During our walk towards the village, I was busy chatting to someone about nothing in particular, thus taking my eye off the ball, so to speak.
Gordon then tried to direct everyone's attention to a bird that was flying overhead, which in a flash he identified as a Snipe. I was far too slow in focussing in on it and didn't recognise it at all. When I queried how on earth he had managed to identify it so quickly, Gordon, in his inimitable style and with tongue stuck firmly in his cheek, quipped 'That's why I'm the leader and you're not!' All I can say Gordon is watch this space!
Margaret Smith added: When I left the group this morning it was suggested that I drove back via the Bulwick/Southwick road, which I did. I couldn't see anything at all so thought I'd stop in a gateway and have my coffee. I saw some Pheasants running across the field and a little way away there was a small clump of something, which didn't look all that interesting so I thought I'd drink my coffee first and then get my binoculars on to it.
The next thing I knew the 'clump' had flown upwards and lo and behold there were four Red Kites with one remaining on the ground - WOW! The one on the ground was there for ages but the other four flew over a rise so I moved the car and caught up with them. Then the one that was still on the ground decided he'd kept me waiting long enough and also flew over my head - another Wow!
