Saltholme Rules!
Today Chris and myself made our way to Nosterfield LNR in the hope of seeing the Buff-breasted Sandpiper that had been there the previous day. Unfortunately it was not present, but it was great to see Avocet amongst the commoner wader species. The densities of Little Ringed Plover were also surprisingly high, with at least ten birds present. This was probably the most I had seen together at one site, ever!
Next we made our way to Teesmouth. We had a look at the saline lagoon where we enjoyed great views of Common Terns, Avocets and more Little Ringed Plovers/
Little Ringed Plover
Little Ringed Plovers
The new walk way and viewing screen looked really good. It was nice to see Yellow Wagtail along the path. Also big numbers of Early Purple Orchid and smaller numbers of Northern Marsh Orchid looked very impressive! From the visitor centre at Saltholme Pool RSPB reserve we managed the the best views of Red Fox either of us had seen for many years.
Red Fox
Red Fox
Red Fox
Red Fox
Red Fox
Red Fox
The next bonus came in the form of very nice views of the subtly stunning Stock Dove; this is a species I frequently see near my home but very rarely this well!
Stock Dove
From the hide overlooking Saltholme Pools we had great views of Avocet. A 1st summer Arctic Tern showed well, albeit a bit distantly for photography. There was a great selection of birds present as there always is on this reserve. It was great to catch up with Toby, a true gent of a bloke!
I attempted to photograph the Swifts was as they whizzed past the hide. Not an easy task!
Common Swift
Common Swift
It had been another enjoyable days birding, and it was soon to head home. I am helping out at Watchtree Nature Reserve this evening and tomorrow, they are having a BioBlitz event. Moths, Bees and Butterflies is my task!
