Somerset Wild Walks: Goldeneye

Friday, 5 January 2018

Cheddar Reservoir 4/1/18 Mandarin and Goldeneye

The weather forecast was pretty grim with 60 plus mph winds promised with sunny spells. Not much sun to speak of but the strength of the wind didn't disappoint as we made our way around the lake. The wind gusts were so severe at times that it felt like there was a possibility of being blown into the lake! The water was very choppy which made it more difficult to search out birds as was trying to hold the binoculars in the wind.

For our efforts we were rewarded with great views of the Mandarin Duck pair which are very photogenic. Also great to see a Goldeneye in the 'waves' and good number of Pochard with Tufted Ducks. Huge numbers of Coot on the lake as well as Great Crested Grebes that are starting to get their Spring colours. Nice to spot a single Common Gull in amongst the Black headed Gulls.

Other birds seen whilst walking around were Buzzard, Kestrel, Raven, Cormorant, Pied Wagtail, Mallards and a Green Woodpecker was heard.

Mandarin Ducks

Riding the waves

Juvenile Common Gull

Goldeneye

Winter Great crested Grebe

Tufted Duck

Mandarins in a little closer

Striking Male

Beautiful subtle female

Handsome couple!

Thursday, 9 November 2017

Chew Valley Lake 2/11 Great White Egret Festival

A very misty start delayed our journey to Chew Valley but as we travelled over the Mendips the mist started to clear. We arrived at Chew and Herons Green lay by at about 10am to the most picturesque scene of still water, blue skies, Autumn colours and reflections with just a little mist in the distance and no fewer than 29 Great White Egrets with hundreds of ducks etc feeding in the bay. Just simply breathtaking! Plenty of Little Egrets also present as well as a few Black tailed Godwits, a single Green Sandpiper, Tufted, Mallards, Wigeon, Teal, Cormorants, Great Crested Grebes, Herons numerous gulls and the first Goosanders of the winter.

Not too much to report from Villice hide as a fishing boat came into the bay and every bird just upped sticks and flew away. There was however a lone Dunlin before the boat appeared. A quick drive to the dam area and there was a lone female Goldeneye amongst the ducks.

There were reports of Water Pipits from Moreton Hide but alas we didn't see them. So another trip back to Herons Green to see the wonderful show of Great Egrets. We could watch this stunning bird for ages its flight, the way it fishes and stalks simply amazing. In fact the whole drama with all the birds at Herons Green today was priceless! We can't wait to return as winter progresses.