Tuesday, 29 December 2015

Medina

Last morning with Graham and we'd decided to twitch the GREATER YELLOWLEGS (an American vagrant found back on September 23rd 2015 and seemingly hasn't left the IOW since). Whilst walking along the cycle path we soon came upon a firecrest (Graham's had 8 during his stay), always a top bird. Quite a few Redwing and finches, plus a singing song thrush (?!).

Then got to the area we were told to check for the yellowlegs and sure enough it was there, seen as it flew off across the Medina calling (interesting to hear its greenshank-like though subtly different call). However our encounter was enough to tick it off as island ticks.
Then decided to check out another area along the path and a stunning short-eared owl was up and about; a good influx of them this autumn/winter. Traversed the area and found a Jack snipe; looked great in the sunshine. Walked back and ended with 2 firecrest - not too shabby - so a really enjoyable walk with much quality.

Final stop was Ryde: scanned out west of the pier and 1 black-necked grebe was showing, a great northern diver, and though distant, 3 eiders (2m/1f) were out in the solent too.



 
Distant SE owl - Medina
 
 
Looking north
 

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