September 2013 2nd Year wild Common Crane at Slimbridge WWT

A second year wild Common Crane (No Rings on Legs) has now been around Slimbridge Wetland for the last few days.  Previously the cranes seen have been those released as part of the Great Crane Project.  Its really nice to have a truly wild one around.

Wild 2nd year Common Crane

September 2013 Pink Flamingo's southern Spain

Pink Flamingo's Odiel Salt Marsh southern Spain.

Pink Flamingo's southern Spain

September 2013 Azure-Winged Magpie southern Spain

Spent a week all inclusive at Punta Umbria in southern Spain but still managed to get the camera out on a few occasions. The Azure-Winged Magpie was a real treat.

Azure-Winged Magpie

Azure-Winged Magpie

August 2013 Cormorant forest bird?

Had a trip to the Forest of Dean on the bank holiday Monday.  First stop Canop Ponds.  One thing I did not expect to see was this Cormorant fishing.  May not be the fisherman's best friend but still great to see drying out in the sunshine in this classic pose.

Cormorant drying out in the sunshine

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