Rolling Rolling Roller!

After catching the train to Oxenholme, I met up with Mike and we were soon on our ways to East Yorkshire. We arrived at Aldbrough by late morning and were soon enjoying nice scope views of an absolutely stunning adult Roller. I have been lucky to see this species in the UK twice before and have also seen them abroad; however it would be impossible to tire of seeing this beautiful species. Photography was tricky due to distance, heat haze etc, but I gave it a go with my digiscoping set up!

Roller

Roller

Roller

Roller

Roller

Roller

Once the Roller had rested for a good while, it took flight. This is one of those species that looks even better in flight! The Roller seemed to feed by sitting in the firld than waiting until it saw its prey moving and the flying up a short distance to pounce! Fascinating to watch!

It was also great to meet a few folks, including old friend Paul Hackett who I am sure will have managed some far better pics than me!

Next we made our way to Blacktoft Sands RSPB reserve where we hoped to see the Marsh Warbler. The Marsh Warbler was incredibly elusive and I only heard it singing, However, great views of Marsh Harrier, Avocet etc made the visit worth while! The biggest surprise was seeing two Downy Emerald flying over the reeds. I am not sure if they are regular here, I would be surprised if they were.

In the area where the Marsh Warbler was, there was a Whitethroat giving nice photographic opportunities.

Whitethroat

Whitethroat

However this juvenile Tree Sparrow certainly stole the show!

Tree Sparrow

Tree Sparrow

Tree Sparrow

Tree Sparrow

Tree Sparrow

Tree Sparrow

Tree Sparrow

Tree Sparrow

Today was one of those days when I really felt lucky to have an interest in wildlife