August 2013 Spoonbill Slimbridge Gloucestershire

I remember seeing this bird in bird books when I was a young boy.  It seemed one of the birds that would only ever be in books.  It's great to see this one regularly at Slimbridge Gloucestershire even though it spends most of its time asleep.

Spoonbill

Spoonbill 

August 2013 Little Miracle Willow Warbler

On last years holiday we went to the Gambia which entailed a flight across the Sahara Desert.  Looking down from the plane the sand and baron wilderness seemed to go on for ever.  Its amazing to think that the Willow Warbler  weighing 7-15 grams migrates across this vastness to breed in our country.
Sometime between now and October he will return to sub-Saharan Africa.
Good Luck on this amazing journey!!!

Willow Warbler

July 2013 Avocets Feisty Waders

I was watching some of the Avocets that have successfully raised young at Slimbridge this year. I remarked to one of my friends John (Who is always there) that Avocets don't seem to like Shell ducks as they are always squabbling.   He replied Avocets don't like anything even other Avocets! I could soon see what he meant!!

Always squabbling

Avocet action

July 2013 A good time of year for Sandpipers in Gloucestershire

This is a great time of the year for migrant Sandpipers.  Here are some shots of the ones most likely to be seen.  There are some rarer species found occasionally in Gloucestershire but getting to know these is a great start with identification.

Common Sandpiper

Green Sandpiper

Wood Sandpiper

July 2013 Hot and Sunny - Dragonflies

Sometimes in mid-summer the birding can go a bit quiet.  When it's hot and sunny in July it's great to get out by some water and see what dragonflies are around.

Broad Bodied Chaser in flight

Broad Bodied Chaser

Emperor Dragonfly in flight

Emperor Dragonfly Ovipositing

Four Spotted Chaser

June 2013 Common Cranes in flight over Gloucestershire

Don't believe I would ever take these large beautiful birds for granted.  Here's hoping they will soon be a successful breeding bird in Gloucestershire.  They came so close this year. The young bird that hatched from the egg at Slimbridge didn't survive, but hopefully it will happen in another year.  They look so great in flight it's really exciting to see them.

Beautiful, Awesome Common Cranes. 

June 2013 Many birds now with young in Gloucestershire UK

Its great to get out early and find out what is breeding in Gloucestershire.  There are many birds with young now.

Black Headed Gulls

Newly fledged Sedge Warbler

Stretch those wings but don't loose balance!

Oyster-catcher chick well grown