Had a leisurely breakfast at 8:30am. Headed outside to catch the 9:42am Coasthopper Bus for the short ride from Brancaster Staithe to Titchwell. Walked to the feeders that are across from the visitor center and saw Chaffinch, Blue and Great Tit, Greenfinch and House Sparrow.
Walked towards Fen Hide and was quite happy to see a male and female Bullfinch and a Hawfinch. Brilliant!! Nothing seen at Fen Hide, so I headed over towards Island Hide, which is quite nice with several large (floor to ceiling) windows. Hundreds of Northern Lapwing and Golden Plover, along with Pintail, Pochard, Avocet, Little Grebe, Wigeon, Shoveler, Shelduck, Teal.
Decided to do a bit of sea watching and was rewarded with Long-tailed Duck, Goldeneye, Common Eider, and Great Crested Grebe. It was getting close to 1:00pm, so headed over to the visitor center for some lunch. Had a tasty Stilton and Mushroom hot baguette, Diet Coke and chocolate cake.
Headed back out to Meadow Trail, then on to the track leading to the beach. Another visit to the Island Hide produced Red Knot and Brent Goose. Walked up the track a bit and saw a good size flock of Twite. It was time to work my way back to the bus stop. On the way out, I saw Wren and Blackbird.
Got the 15:14 Coasthopper bus to for the short ride to Brancaster Staithe. Had a bit of dinner and packed. Back to London tomorrow. I will miss this area, as I had a wonderfully fantastic time discovering Norfolk.
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Cley Marshes - Norfolk Wildlife Trust - December 8, 2009
Had a quick breakfast at 8:30am, then grabbed my gear and got on the 9:10am Coasthopper Bus for the hour-long ride from Brancaster Staithe to Cley. Got off the bus about ½ mile from Cley Marshes reserve and went to the Picnic Fayre deli to get some lunch. I asked for granary bread with ham, stilton cheese and tomato. I also got a piece of Dundee cake, which was quite yummy. I was disappointed with the sandwich since there was barely any ham to speak of, so there was more bread than fixings. Oh well. I had a tasty apple as I walked to the reserve.
Went inside the Cley Marshes Visitor Center and, although their website this morning stated that the entrance fee was £3.75, they asked for £4.00. Got my reserve map and headed towards the hides. Enjoyed views of many ducks and waders including Avocet, Ruff, Curlew, Teal, Garganey, Pochard, Shelduck. A Peregrine Falcon stirred up the Lapwings, and there were four Marsh Harriers hunting the nearby fields.
Walked up the west side of the reserve to the beach at Blakeney Nature Reserve. Saw two Red-throated Divers, and a lovely Grey Seal was close to the shoreline. Had my lunch at the shelter, then headed over to the North Scrape hide. There was a reported sighting of a Green-winged Teal, and several of us tried to relocate it today but with no luck.
It was a bit after 14:00 and time to make my way back to the A149. Got on the bus back to Brancaster Staithe and we were treated to cracking views of a Barn Owl flying alongside the bus. Great way to end the day.
Going to relax and decide where to go tomorrow.
Went inside the Cley Marshes Visitor Center and, although their website this morning stated that the entrance fee was £3.75, they asked for £4.00. Got my reserve map and headed towards the hides. Enjoyed views of many ducks and waders including Avocet, Ruff, Curlew, Teal, Garganey, Pochard, Shelduck. A Peregrine Falcon stirred up the Lapwings, and there were four Marsh Harriers hunting the nearby fields.
Walked up the west side of the reserve to the beach at Blakeney Nature Reserve. Saw two Red-throated Divers, and a lovely Grey Seal was close to the shoreline. Had my lunch at the shelter, then headed over to the North Scrape hide. There was a reported sighting of a Green-winged Teal, and several of us tried to relocate it today but with no luck.
It was a bit after 14:00 and time to make my way back to the A149. Got on the bus back to Brancaster Staithe and we were treated to cracking views of a Barn Owl flying alongside the bus. Great way to end the day.
Going to relax and decide where to go tomorrow.
Monday, December 7, 2009
Joy at Holkham National Nature Reserve - December 7, 2009
Traveled by bus (at 11:05am) from The Lodge in Old Hunstanton to the White Horse Inn in Brancaster Staithe without a hitch. Once inside my room, had a look at the Coasthopper bus schedule and decided to go to Holkham since time was short.
Walked up Lady Anne’s Drive at Holkham and decided to slowly scan the nearby fields to the west. Could not believe my luck in locating a sole White-fronted Goose which was a life bird. Woohoo!! I was truly overjoyed since there were hundreds of Pink-footed Geese in the field. Persistence paid off since this was my fourth trip to Holkham.
I watched the White-fronted Goose (Greenland species) for about 15 minutes and decided to move further down the road to try for a better look. Relocated the bird and continued to enjoy watching it feed on the grass. A couple was passing by, I asked if they had seen the White-fronted Goose, they said no, and I invited them to look through my scope. Identification confirmed!! Another fellow from Sheffield came over and asked for a look and was pleased to see the goose.
After about 10 minutes, I decided to walk down the track that leads to the Washington Hide. Came across a European Robin, Wren, Dunnock, and Treecreeper. The weather was looking a bit threatening, so decided to go back to the B&B.
At the Holkham Victoria bus stop, there were 10 Eurasian Collared Doves in a tree across the road. I heard House Sparrows, and some Starlings passed overhead.
Fantastic, short, but productive trip to Holkham. Tomorrow, Cley.
Walked up Lady Anne’s Drive at Holkham and decided to slowly scan the nearby fields to the west. Could not believe my luck in locating a sole White-fronted Goose which was a life bird. Woohoo!! I was truly overjoyed since there were hundreds of Pink-footed Geese in the field. Persistence paid off since this was my fourth trip to Holkham.
I watched the White-fronted Goose (Greenland species) for about 15 minutes and decided to move further down the road to try for a better look. Relocated the bird and continued to enjoy watching it feed on the grass. A couple was passing by, I asked if they had seen the White-fronted Goose, they said no, and I invited them to look through my scope. Identification confirmed!! Another fellow from Sheffield came over and asked for a look and was pleased to see the goose.
After about 10 minutes, I decided to walk down the track that leads to the Washington Hide. Came across a European Robin, Wren, Dunnock, and Treecreeper. The weather was looking a bit threatening, so decided to go back to the B&B.
At the Holkham Victoria bus stop, there were 10 Eurasian Collared Doves in a tree across the road. I heard House Sparrows, and some Starlings passed overhead.
Fantastic, short, but productive trip to Holkham. Tomorrow, Cley.
Snettisham and beyond with Ken Reeves and Charlie Dobbs - December 6, 2009
Last night’s dinner at The Lodge (Old Hunstanton) consisted of a delicious bowl of Carrot and Coriander soup. Yum. After a good night’s sleep, I was ready to hit the ground running.
Had the pleasure of meeting Ken Reeves when he picked me up at 9:00am. We then went round to collect his pal, Charlie Dobbs. I could tell right away that these two gents were keen birders and really nice guys.
I was happy to hear that our first stop was to be Snettisham RSPB reserve. It started raining really hard, so we waited in the car for about five minutes, then walked out to The Wash. There were loads of Golden Plovers, Northern Lapwing, Brent Goose, Curlew, Snow Buntings, Shore (Horned) Lark, Goldfinch, Twite. But the star bird was the Ferruginous Duck. We had excellent views of the duck. We also saw hundreds of Red Knot displaying in the sky. Brilliant.
We then headed over to Wolferton (Dersingham), but dipped on the Great Grey Shrike. Ken had brought along some tasty sandwiches and mince pies for lunch, which we ate near the Sandringham estate.
Next stop was Flitcham and the Abbey Farm hide. Saw at least two Common Buzzards, Redwing, Greylag Goose, Teal, Song Thrush and a fair amount of rabbits.
It was amazing at how quickly the time had passed. We headed over to a roost at Roydon Common, got into position, and had cracking views of four Hen Harriers (two male and two female). Excellent. We also saw Fieldfare and Meadow Pipit.
I had a fantastic time with two lovely gentlemen. Tomorrow, I’ll head back to Brancaster Staithe for three nights.
Had the pleasure of meeting Ken Reeves when he picked me up at 9:00am. We then went round to collect his pal, Charlie Dobbs. I could tell right away that these two gents were keen birders and really nice guys.
I was happy to hear that our first stop was to be Snettisham RSPB reserve. It started raining really hard, so we waited in the car for about five minutes, then walked out to The Wash. There were loads of Golden Plovers, Northern Lapwing, Brent Goose, Curlew, Snow Buntings, Shore (Horned) Lark, Goldfinch, Twite. But the star bird was the Ferruginous Duck. We had excellent views of the duck. We also saw hundreds of Red Knot displaying in the sky. Brilliant.
We then headed over to Wolferton (Dersingham), but dipped on the Great Grey Shrike. Ken had brought along some tasty sandwiches and mince pies for lunch, which we ate near the Sandringham estate.
Next stop was Flitcham and the Abbey Farm hide. Saw at least two Common Buzzards, Redwing, Greylag Goose, Teal, Song Thrush and a fair amount of rabbits.
It was amazing at how quickly the time had passed. We headed over to a roost at Roydon Common, got into position, and had cracking views of four Hen Harriers (two male and two female). Excellent. We also saw Fieldfare and Meadow Pipit.
I had a fantastic time with two lovely gentlemen. Tomorrow, I’ll head back to Brancaster Staithe for three nights.
Sunday, December 6, 2009
Holkham National Nature Reserve (Lady Anne’s Drive) and Beach - December 5, 2009
Well rested and ready to get started. Had breakfast at 8:00am and was at the bus stop before the 8:55am arrived. Paid the £3.90 for a return ticket to Holkham Victoria and the bus driver was kind enough to drop me off at Lady Anne‘s Drive.
Walked down Lady Anne’s Drive and saw thousands of Pink-footed Geese in the fields and in the air. Awesome. I then headed west towards the hides. A small flock came through including Long-tailed, Coal, Blue and Great Tits. Also saw Dunnock and Wren. Stopped at the Washington Hide but the view was difficult as you were looking into the sun.
Walked further down the track to the Joe Jordan Hide and the nearby fields were virtually empty. Then headed over to a sandy track and walked up towards a bank for a good view of the fields. Scanned the fields with my scope and mostly saw Brent Goose, Shelduck, Wigeon, Teal, Curlew.
Headed back towards Washington Hide, then onto the beach for a sea watch. I had just finished looking at two Red-throated Divers when my phone rang. It was Ken Reeves passing along helpful information on sightings and also trying to figure out where we will bird tomorrow. Should be great fun.
I was surprised at how quickly the day had gone by, so I headed back so as not to miss the bus since it only runs every hour. Was happy to see the Barn Owl hunting over the fields on the way out. At the bus stop, thousands of Pink-footed Geese flew overhead on their way to roost. It was a fantastic sight.
Another great day of birding in Norfolk. Can’t wait for tomorrow!!
Walked down Lady Anne’s Drive and saw thousands of Pink-footed Geese in the fields and in the air. Awesome. I then headed west towards the hides. A small flock came through including Long-tailed, Coal, Blue and Great Tits. Also saw Dunnock and Wren. Stopped at the Washington Hide but the view was difficult as you were looking into the sun.
Walked further down the track to the Joe Jordan Hide and the nearby fields were virtually empty. Then headed over to a sandy track and walked up towards a bank for a good view of the fields. Scanned the fields with my scope and mostly saw Brent Goose, Shelduck, Wigeon, Teal, Curlew.
Headed back towards Washington Hide, then onto the beach for a sea watch. I had just finished looking at two Red-throated Divers when my phone rang. It was Ken Reeves passing along helpful information on sightings and also trying to figure out where we will bird tomorrow. Should be great fun.
I was surprised at how quickly the day had gone by, so I headed back so as not to miss the bus since it only runs every hour. Was happy to see the Barn Owl hunting over the fields on the way out. At the bus stop, thousands of Pink-footed Geese flew overhead on their way to roost. It was a fantastic sight.
Another great day of birding in Norfolk. Can’t wait for tomorrow!!
Friday, December 4, 2009
Titchwell Marsh Nature Reserve (RSPB) - December 4, 2009
Could have easily slept longer, but wanted to prep for the day since I hadn’t done so.
Finally had breakfast here at 8:00am and it was typical of what is usually served: cereal, yogurt, small bits of fruit, toast and your choice of hot food. Went back to the room, got my gear and walked the short distance to the Coasthopper bus stop. Got on the bus, paid my £2.40 for a return ticket to Titchwell, which was only about 5 miles away. Saw a Barn Owl on the way there.
Although I had been to Titchwell with Colin and the guys last weekend, we just went straight to the beach (1 km) and did not go to any of the hides or walk down the trails. I did a bit of sea watching on the beach but didn’t see much other than Common Scoter, Goldeneye, gulls and a few peeps. Went back to the reserve and there were loads of European Golden Plover, Northern Lapwing, Wigeon, Brent Goose, Little Grebe.
Walked down the Meadow Trail (about 1:45pm) and saw quite a few Chaffinch, then a stunning male and female Bullfinch. Wow…what a pleasant surprise. Also came across a small flock of Long-tailed Tits.
Went to the Fen Hide and got cracking views of a Water Rail feeding outside the reedbed.
Birds at the feeders near the Visitor Center were Great and Blue Tit, Goldfinch, Greenfinch, European Robin, Chaffinch, House Sparrow. Opportunistic birds on the ground near the feeders were Common Pheasant and Moorhen!!
I thoroughly enjoyed the first full day of Norfolk birding on my own. Tomorrow, I plan to go to Lady Ann’s Drive in Holkham.
Finally had breakfast here at 8:00am and it was typical of what is usually served: cereal, yogurt, small bits of fruit, toast and your choice of hot food. Went back to the room, got my gear and walked the short distance to the Coasthopper bus stop. Got on the bus, paid my £2.40 for a return ticket to Titchwell, which was only about 5 miles away. Saw a Barn Owl on the way there.
Although I had been to Titchwell with Colin and the guys last weekend, we just went straight to the beach (1 km) and did not go to any of the hides or walk down the trails. I did a bit of sea watching on the beach but didn’t see much other than Common Scoter, Goldeneye, gulls and a few peeps. Went back to the reserve and there were loads of European Golden Plover, Northern Lapwing, Wigeon, Brent Goose, Little Grebe.
Walked down the Meadow Trail (about 1:45pm) and saw quite a few Chaffinch, then a stunning male and female Bullfinch. Wow…what a pleasant surprise. Also came across a small flock of Long-tailed Tits.
Went to the Fen Hide and got cracking views of a Water Rail feeding outside the reedbed.
Birds at the feeders near the Visitor Center were Great and Blue Tit, Goldfinch, Greenfinch, European Robin, Chaffinch, House Sparrow. Opportunistic birds on the ground near the feeders were Common Pheasant and Moorhen!!
I thoroughly enjoyed the first full day of Norfolk birding on my own. Tomorrow, I plan to go to Lady Ann’s Drive in Holkham.
Holkham beach, Redwell Marsh, and Holme Norfolk Wildlife Trust with Chris Mills - December 3, 2009
Well rested this morning and eager to get started.
Met Chris Mills out front at 7:30am for the third and last day of guided birding. The day started out cold and rainy with poor visibility, but got a bit drier by late morning.
Making our way to Holme Beach, we came across thousands of Pink-footed Geese. Impressive. Chris estimated that we had seen about 10,000 Pink feet today. We headed down Lady Ann’s Drive and soon after parking, we saw a Barn Owl hunting over the fields. We headed over to George Washington Hide to get closer looks at the Pink-footed Geese. Small birds just outside the hide included Long-tailed, Great and Blue Tit, Dunnock, Jay, Goldcrest and Treecreeper.
At Holme Beach, we had excellent views of Great Northern and Red-throated Diver, Great-crested and Red-necked Grebe (lifer), Razorbill and Mediterranean Gull.
Highlight of the day was watching a Great Bittern (lifer) fly over to its roosting reeds. In this same area, we had Tufted Duck, Teal, Pochard, Great Cormorant and Shoveler. Also saw Marsh Harrier and a Buzzard.
I had a fantastic time birding with Chris Mills. He is an extremely knowledgeable birder and has a great sense of humor. Species count for three days was 116 which included 13 lifers. Very impressive. I would recommend Chris to anyone keen to bird Norfolk.
Met Chris Mills out front at 7:30am for the third and last day of guided birding. The day started out cold and rainy with poor visibility, but got a bit drier by late morning.
Making our way to Holme Beach, we came across thousands of Pink-footed Geese. Impressive. Chris estimated that we had seen about 10,000 Pink feet today. We headed down Lady Ann’s Drive and soon after parking, we saw a Barn Owl hunting over the fields. We headed over to George Washington Hide to get closer looks at the Pink-footed Geese. Small birds just outside the hide included Long-tailed, Great and Blue Tit, Dunnock, Jay, Goldcrest and Treecreeper.
At Holme Beach, we had excellent views of Great Northern and Red-throated Diver, Great-crested and Red-necked Grebe (lifer), Razorbill and Mediterranean Gull.
Highlight of the day was watching a Great Bittern (lifer) fly over to its roosting reeds. In this same area, we had Tufted Duck, Teal, Pochard, Great Cormorant and Shoveler. Also saw Marsh Harrier and a Buzzard.
I had a fantastic time birding with Chris Mills. He is an extremely knowledgeable birder and has a great sense of humor. Species count for three days was 116 which included 13 lifers. Very impressive. I would recommend Chris to anyone keen to bird Norfolk.
Holme Beach, Thornham, Brancaster, Warham Greens with Chris Mills - December 2, 2009
Have to lay off of the sugar in the evening as I did not sleep much last night. What a drag.
Met Chris Mills out front at 8:00am for the second of three days guided birding. The day started out cold and rainy, but got drier by late morning.
We headed out to Holme Beach and came across a flock of about 60 Snow Buntings. Got excellent views of the birds feeding. Highlights of our sea watch included Long-tailed Duck, Red-throated Diver, Common Eider, and Red-breasted Merganser. Throughout most of the day, we saw about 4,000 Northern Lapwings making their way west. Impressive.
At Thornham Harbor, we saw about 20 Twite and along the coastal path leading to the NOA, we saw six Bearded Reedling.
We then went to Brancaster brackish marsh (near the golf course) and had cracking views of a Short-eared Owl (lifer) and Rock Pipit.
Moving on to a roost site at Warham Greens (Holkham National Nature Reserve), we saw 11 Bewick’s (Tundra) Swans, ringtail Hen Harrier (lifer), loads of Pink-footed Geese and Red Knot, and a Peregrine Falcon on the beach.
Fantastic day. Two day species total is over 100. Tomorrow, Holkham Beach. Can’t wait!!
Met Chris Mills out front at 8:00am for the second of three days guided birding. The day started out cold and rainy, but got drier by late morning.
We headed out to Holme Beach and came across a flock of about 60 Snow Buntings. Got excellent views of the birds feeding. Highlights of our sea watch included Long-tailed Duck, Red-throated Diver, Common Eider, and Red-breasted Merganser. Throughout most of the day, we saw about 4,000 Northern Lapwings making their way west. Impressive.
At Thornham Harbor, we saw about 20 Twite and along the coastal path leading to the NOA, we saw six Bearded Reedling.
We then went to Brancaster brackish marsh (near the golf course) and had cracking views of a Short-eared Owl (lifer) and Rock Pipit.
Moving on to a roost site at Warham Greens (Holkham National Nature Reserve), we saw 11 Bewick’s (Tundra) Swans, ringtail Hen Harrier (lifer), loads of Pink-footed Geese and Red Knot, and a Peregrine Falcon on the beach.
Fantastic day. Two day species total is over 100. Tomorrow, Holkham Beach. Can’t wait!!
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Thetford Forest and beyond with Chris Mills of Norfolk Birding - December 1, 2009
Lovely, comfortable, newly-refurbished room at The Lodge in Old Hunstanton. The showerhead is one of those huge ones…can’t remember the name, but the shower this morning was fantastic. Can’t believe my luck with these nice rooms.
Met Chris Mills out front at 8:00am for the first of three days guided birding. Although it was cold (about 40 degrees), it was sunny with absolutely no wind. Our first stop was Dersingham Park in search of, but dipped on, Great Grey Shrike. Saw Stonechat and Meadow Pipit there.
I was quite happy to learn that our next stop was Thetford Forest-Lynford Arboretum. Chris found two lifers for me: Firecrest and Common Crossbill. We had cracking views of both birds. Also saw loads of other birds including Redwing, Marsh Tit, Mistle Thrush, lovely view of Greenfinch, Nuthatch and Treecreeper.
Next stop was Lakenheath Fen. Although we dipped on Common Crane, we saw at least four Marsh Harriers, Song Thrush, Cetti’s Warbler (heard), two Barn Owls, Yellowhammer, and Common Chiffchaff. Also saw hundreds of Starlings (from Russia) coming in to roost.
All in all, it was a fantastic day with 61 species under our belt. Tomorrow should be equally as brilliant!!
Met Chris Mills out front at 8:00am for the first of three days guided birding. Although it was cold (about 40 degrees), it was sunny with absolutely no wind. Our first stop was Dersingham Park in search of, but dipped on, Great Grey Shrike. Saw Stonechat and Meadow Pipit there.
I was quite happy to learn that our next stop was Thetford Forest-Lynford Arboretum. Chris found two lifers for me: Firecrest and Common Crossbill. We had cracking views of both birds. Also saw loads of other birds including Redwing, Marsh Tit, Mistle Thrush, lovely view of Greenfinch, Nuthatch and Treecreeper.
Next stop was Lakenheath Fen. Although we dipped on Common Crane, we saw at least four Marsh Harriers, Song Thrush, Cetti’s Warbler (heard), two Barn Owls, Yellowhammer, and Common Chiffchaff. Also saw hundreds of Starlings (from Russia) coming in to roost.
All in all, it was a fantastic day with 61 species under our belt. Tomorrow should be equally as brilliant!!
Monday, November 30, 2009
Brancaster Staithe to Old Hunstanton - November 30, 2009
Slept quite well in the newly-refurbished room at the White Horse Inn (Brancaster Staithe). Asked for the same room on my return in seven days and that is where I’ll be.
Ventured outside at about 8:00am to rather blustery conditions. After a half hour of checking out the area, I went back inside for breakfast in the conservatory, which was quite nice. Poured some oats with nuts (cashew, pistachio) in my bowl and added cold milk to it. After a few mouthfuls, I realized it was porridge and needed hot milk. Gees, you’d think I would recognize this porridge since we had it virtually every day at Lama Camp (Eagles Nest) and other places we stayed in NE India earlier this year.
Got bundled up, grabbed my bins and scope and headed back outside in search of Twite. The wind was blowing quite hard with gust after gust, which made it tough to use the scope. Most of the birds were hunkered down and doing their best not to get blown away.
Dipped on the Twite, but I will try again when I go back there. Did manage to see several birds, some of which were: Pink-footed Goose, Teal, Oystercatcher, Common Redshank
Since it had started raining, I didn’t feel like fussing with the Coasthopper Bus, so I got a taxi to The Lodge in Old Hunstanton. Well worth it in this crummy weather. Lovely, lovely room called the “Garden Shed” with its own entran from out back. Very modern and comfy. Have to go inside the main building to get free wifi. Bummer. I’ll do that in a bit. Just going to take it easy today since tomorrow is the start of three days guided bird watching with Chris Mills of Norfolk Birding. Can’t wait!!
Ventured outside at about 8:00am to rather blustery conditions. After a half hour of checking out the area, I went back inside for breakfast in the conservatory, which was quite nice. Poured some oats with nuts (cashew, pistachio) in my bowl and added cold milk to it. After a few mouthfuls, I realized it was porridge and needed hot milk. Gees, you’d think I would recognize this porridge since we had it virtually every day at Lama Camp (Eagles Nest) and other places we stayed in NE India earlier this year.
Got bundled up, grabbed my bins and scope and headed back outside in search of Twite. The wind was blowing quite hard with gust after gust, which made it tough to use the scope. Most of the birds were hunkered down and doing their best not to get blown away.
Dipped on the Twite, but I will try again when I go back there. Did manage to see several birds, some of which were: Pink-footed Goose, Teal, Oystercatcher, Common Redshank
Since it had started raining, I didn’t feel like fussing with the Coasthopper Bus, so I got a taxi to The Lodge in Old Hunstanton. Well worth it in this crummy weather. Lovely, lovely room called the “Garden Shed” with its own entran from out back. Very modern and comfy. Have to go inside the main building to get free wifi. Bummer. I’ll do that in a bit. Just going to take it easy today since tomorrow is the start of three days guided bird watching with Chris Mills of Norfolk Birding. Can’t wait!!
Sunday, November 29, 2009
Sheringham and Lady Ann's Drive in Holkham - November 29, 2009
Had another restful night at the Pheasant Hotel in Kelling. Met Colin and the guys downstairs for breakfast. Was hoping for some hot porridge, but no dice. We checked out and were soon on our way to Sheringham beach in search of Purple Sandpiper. We dipped on the Sandpiper, but got Fulmar and a lifer Manx Shearwater. Woohoo!! Other birds of note were Shag, Great Cormorant and Grey Wagtail.
Started raining, so we stopped at the Cley Marshes Visitor Center for tea and coffee. While there, we saw Wigeon, Greylag Goose and Ruff. Then off again to Lady Ann’s Drive in Holkham.
The weather turned brighter and a bit warmer (44 degrees) with no wind. As Colin said, the weather was tropical compared to yesterday. Mercifully, there were a lot less dog walkers out so we figured our chances would be better for Shore Lark (Horned Lark) today….and we were right!! Colin counted 14 Shore Larks. We had cracking views of these birds as they flew overhead and once they landed. Then the excitement went up a few notches when we spotted three Snow Buntings…another lifer for me.
We then went down the path towards Washington Hide in search of Firecrest and saw Chiffchaff along the way. We dipped on Firecrest even though we had a good chance of seeing one when we came across a large flock of Goldcrest, Long-tailed, Blue and Coal Tits, Chaffinch, Goldfinch. We also saw Treecreeper and Wren.
We headed back towards the Lady Ann’s Drive car park but stopped to see a Barn Owl hunting in the field. Also seen were Merlin, Buzzard, Kestrel and, just behind us, a Water Rail.
All in all, another fantastic day with great company. Colin dropped me off at the White Horse Inn (Brancaster Staithe) and I bade the guys a fond farewell. Had a nice steak and onion sandwich in the bar and am going to relax for the rest of the evening. Tomorrow morning, I’ll be searching for Twite.
Started raining, so we stopped at the Cley Marshes Visitor Center for tea and coffee. While there, we saw Wigeon, Greylag Goose and Ruff. Then off again to Lady Ann’s Drive in Holkham.
The weather turned brighter and a bit warmer (44 degrees) with no wind. As Colin said, the weather was tropical compared to yesterday. Mercifully, there were a lot less dog walkers out so we figured our chances would be better for Shore Lark (Horned Lark) today….and we were right!! Colin counted 14 Shore Larks. We had cracking views of these birds as they flew overhead and once they landed. Then the excitement went up a few notches when we spotted three Snow Buntings…another lifer for me.
We then went down the path towards Washington Hide in search of Firecrest and saw Chiffchaff along the way. We dipped on Firecrest even though we had a good chance of seeing one when we came across a large flock of Goldcrest, Long-tailed, Blue and Coal Tits, Chaffinch, Goldfinch. We also saw Treecreeper and Wren.
We headed back towards the Lady Ann’s Drive car park but stopped to see a Barn Owl hunting in the field. Also seen were Merlin, Buzzard, Kestrel and, just behind us, a Water Rail.
All in all, another fantastic day with great company. Colin dropped me off at the White Horse Inn (Brancaster Staithe) and I bade the guys a fond farewell. Had a nice steak and onion sandwich in the bar and am going to relax for the rest of the evening. Tomorrow morning, I’ll be searching for Twite.
Saturday, November 28, 2009
Salthouse, Cley Marshes, and Holkham-November 28, 2009
Had a good night’s sleep at the Pheasant Hotel in Kelling. Bed was very clean and comfortable. Took forever for water to get hot. When I switched over from bath faucet to hand-held shower device, the water came out cold. Very strange, so opted for a bath. Excellent choice.
Saw a few nice birds from my window and on the hotel grounds: Goldcrest, Long-tailed, Coal, and Great Tit, European Robin.
Met the guys downstairs for breakfast at 8:00am. Opted out of the sausages and bacon. Soon afterwards, we were on our way to Salthouse for some sea watching. It was extremely cold and windy, about 40 degrees with wind gusts of 23 mph. Highlights were Guillemot, Northern Gannet and Red-throated Diver. Then on to Cley Marshes East Bank where we had Marsh Harrier, Wigeon, Linnet, Pink-footed and Brent Geese.
We headed down the road to Holkham, then walked to the beach for some sea watching. Yipes…it was freezing!! We stayed for several hours and had decent views of Common and Velvet Scoter, Great Crested Grebe, Red-breasted Merganser. We dipped on Shore Lark (Horned Lark) and Snow Bunting. I should hopefully have a few more chances at the bunting.
Gotta pack. We're going to do a bit of birding in the morning before the guys have to drive back home. Purple Sandpiper (seen in Sheringham) is on the agenda tomorrow, which would be a lifer for me and Colin.
Saw a few nice birds from my window and on the hotel grounds: Goldcrest, Long-tailed, Coal, and Great Tit, European Robin.
Met the guys downstairs for breakfast at 8:00am. Opted out of the sausages and bacon. Soon afterwards, we were on our way to Salthouse for some sea watching. It was extremely cold and windy, about 40 degrees with wind gusts of 23 mph. Highlights were Guillemot, Northern Gannet and Red-throated Diver. Then on to Cley Marshes East Bank where we had Marsh Harrier, Wigeon, Linnet, Pink-footed and Brent Geese.
We headed down the road to Holkham, then walked to the beach for some sea watching. Yipes…it was freezing!! We stayed for several hours and had decent views of Common and Velvet Scoter, Great Crested Grebe, Red-breasted Merganser. We dipped on Shore Lark (Horned Lark) and Snow Bunting. I should hopefully have a few more chances at the bunting.
Gotta pack. We're going to do a bit of birding in the morning before the guys have to drive back home. Purple Sandpiper (seen in Sheringham) is on the agenda tomorrow, which would be a lifer for me and Colin.
Friday, November 27, 2009
On the road to Norfolk - November 27, 2009
Restless night. Oddly enough, I could hear noise from upstairs and next door. Very uncharacteristic of Premier Inn hotels. Went downstairs at 7:15am to wait for Colin and his friends. Good to see Colin and Gerald again, and had the pleasure of meeting Roger. Traffic was a bit heavy since it was Friday, but lightened up once we left the motorway.
Just before our arrival at Welney WWT, we saw hundreds of Pink-footed Geese in the sky, which were my first lifers of the trip. We also saw Bewick and Whooper Swans in a field.
Arrived at Welney WWT and nearly choked on the entrance fee. Once we recovered from sticker shock, we made our way to the hides. There were loads of Northern Lapwing, Greylag Geese, a lone Bar-headed Goose, Pintail, Teal, Golden Plover, Peregrine Falcon and Sparrowhawk. We moved on to the Lyle Hide in search of Common Cranes but were not fortunate to see them.
Next stop…Titchwell Nature Reserve. I have wanted to visit Titchwell for years and was so happy to finally make it there. We arrived around 2:00pm and knew we only had about two hours to spend here before sunset. There were nice birds on and around the feeders near the visitor center. We saw Goldfinch, Great Tit, Siskin, Chaffinch, European Robin. On our way to the beach for some sea watching, we had excellent views of a Water Rail. We also saw Avocet, Common Redshank, Oystercatcher, Little Grebe, Bar-tailed Godwit, Coots, Moorhens, Ruff.
We set up our scopes on the beach and started our sea watch. I spotted a lone wader and asked for Colin’s help with the ID and it was a female Common Scoter, which was another lifer. We also saw Eider, Goldeneye, Ruddy Turnstone, Sanderling, Herring Gull. The light was fading fast, so we started our way back towards the visitor center and saw two Marsh Harriers.
Made our way to the Pheasant Hotel in Kelling, which is where we will spend the next two nights. Room looks comfortable and clean. Nice cookies, including my favorite chocolate Bourbon Creams. Yum.
All in all, it was a fantastic day and I couldn’t ask for better company. Tomorrow, we’ll visit several more places including another reserve that has been on my wish list forever…Cley Marshes. Woohoo!!
Just before our arrival at Welney WWT, we saw hundreds of Pink-footed Geese in the sky, which were my first lifers of the trip. We also saw Bewick and Whooper Swans in a field.
Arrived at Welney WWT and nearly choked on the entrance fee. Once we recovered from sticker shock, we made our way to the hides. There were loads of Northern Lapwing, Greylag Geese, a lone Bar-headed Goose, Pintail, Teal, Golden Plover, Peregrine Falcon and Sparrowhawk. We moved on to the Lyle Hide in search of Common Cranes but were not fortunate to see them.
Next stop…Titchwell Nature Reserve. I have wanted to visit Titchwell for years and was so happy to finally make it there. We arrived around 2:00pm and knew we only had about two hours to spend here before sunset. There were nice birds on and around the feeders near the visitor center. We saw Goldfinch, Great Tit, Siskin, Chaffinch, European Robin. On our way to the beach for some sea watching, we had excellent views of a Water Rail. We also saw Avocet, Common Redshank, Oystercatcher, Little Grebe, Bar-tailed Godwit, Coots, Moorhens, Ruff.
We set up our scopes on the beach and started our sea watch. I spotted a lone wader and asked for Colin’s help with the ID and it was a female Common Scoter, which was another lifer. We also saw Eider, Goldeneye, Ruddy Turnstone, Sanderling, Herring Gull. The light was fading fast, so we started our way back towards the visitor center and saw two Marsh Harriers.
Made our way to the Pheasant Hotel in Kelling, which is where we will spend the next two nights. Room looks comfortable and clean. Nice cookies, including my favorite chocolate Bourbon Creams. Yum.
All in all, it was a fantastic day and I couldn’t ask for better company. Tomorrow, we’ll visit several more places including another reserve that has been on my wish list forever…Cley Marshes. Woohoo!!
Thursday, November 26, 2009
Retail Therapy in London-November 26, 2009
Had a restful sleep. Went downstairs to the restaurant in the Premier Inn at about 6:00am thinking that I could just have a bowl of cereal, but nooooo. I had three choices: Full breakfast for £7.95, then roll out of there having consumed mass quantities of food; Grab & Go for £2.95, which consists of a croissant and coffee (obvious rip-off and not exactly a meal); then decided on the Continental Breakfast for £5.25, which was actually quite nice. The orange slices were a bit on the sour side, but then again this ain’t Florida!!
At around 9:00am, I went back downstairs to catch the Hotel Hoppa Bus to begin my journey to Covent Garden (London) to buy a jacket at the Paramo store. It was cold and windy outside, which it made it feel like an eternity for the bus to arrive. Paid my £4 and we were off to Heathrow Terminal 3. On the way, I saw Magpie, Woodpigeon, House Sparrow and a Sparrowhawk (very nice).
Arrived at the airport, then walked to the Underground (Tube) station to catch the Piccadilly Line train to Covent Garden. While standing in line at the ticket machine, a woman approached me and asked if I spoke Spanish. Gees, I must look the part!! Anyway, I helped her get two tickets to Hammersmith and pointed out where she should get on the train. Paid £8 and got my roundtrip (return) ticket. I was happy as a clam, enjoying the ride, until the conductor said there was a problem with the train and that everyone would have to get off at Hammersmith. Lovely. Mercifully, it was only about a two minute wait for the next train.
The stores in Covent Garden were nicely decorated for Christmas and teeming with shoppers. Walked for about three minutes and easily found the Paramo store. Having done my homework, I went straight to the Ladies section in search of the “Pajaro” jacket. My heart sank when I couldn’t find the jacket in my size. I must have looked rather dejected when a store clerk asked if I found what I was looking for. Nope. She checked in the back and found one. Woohoo!! Although I wanted a more girly color, like plum, my only choice was moss (dark) green. It is still a fantastic, warm and waterproof jacket. Now I’m ready for birding on the Norfolk coast!!
Wearing my new, toasty jacket, I walked around the shops for a bit, noticed it was noon by my rumbling tummy, and indulged in a Cornish pasty. Got a small “traditional” pasty with steak and onions. Yum. Bought three apples from a street vendor, then made my way back to the airport. Stopped at Marks & Spencer to buy two packets of Digestive biscuits (double yum), then relaxed in the room.
My vacation starts in earnest tomorrow morning when Colin, Gerald and Roger pick me up for the drive to Norfolk. Can’t wait.
At around 9:00am, I went back downstairs to catch the Hotel Hoppa Bus to begin my journey to Covent Garden (London) to buy a jacket at the Paramo store. It was cold and windy outside, which it made it feel like an eternity for the bus to arrive. Paid my £4 and we were off to Heathrow Terminal 3. On the way, I saw Magpie, Woodpigeon, House Sparrow and a Sparrowhawk (very nice).
Arrived at the airport, then walked to the Underground (Tube) station to catch the Piccadilly Line train to Covent Garden. While standing in line at the ticket machine, a woman approached me and asked if I spoke Spanish. Gees, I must look the part!! Anyway, I helped her get two tickets to Hammersmith and pointed out where she should get on the train. Paid £8 and got my roundtrip (return) ticket. I was happy as a clam, enjoying the ride, until the conductor said there was a problem with the train and that everyone would have to get off at Hammersmith. Lovely. Mercifully, it was only about a two minute wait for the next train.
The stores in Covent Garden were nicely decorated for Christmas and teeming with shoppers. Walked for about three minutes and easily found the Paramo store. Having done my homework, I went straight to the Ladies section in search of the “Pajaro” jacket. My heart sank when I couldn’t find the jacket in my size. I must have looked rather dejected when a store clerk asked if I found what I was looking for. Nope. She checked in the back and found one. Woohoo!! Although I wanted a more girly color, like plum, my only choice was moss (dark) green. It is still a fantastic, warm and waterproof jacket. Now I’m ready for birding on the Norfolk coast!!
Wearing my new, toasty jacket, I walked around the shops for a bit, noticed it was noon by my rumbling tummy, and indulged in a Cornish pasty. Got a small “traditional” pasty with steak and onions. Yum. Bought three apples from a street vendor, then made my way back to the airport. Stopped at Marks & Spencer to buy two packets of Digestive biscuits (double yum), then relaxed in the room.
My vacation starts in earnest tomorrow morning when Colin, Gerald and Roger pick me up for the drive to Norfolk. Can’t wait.
Winging my way to the UK - November 24, 2009
Departed from Miami International Airport on a rather uneventful flight to Heathrow Airport. As usual, I was not able to sleep on this late night flight, but did see a few good movies, including The Taking of Pelham 123.
Arrived in London on time, breezed through Customs, got my bag, exchanged some money, then went outside and nearly froze waiting for the Hotel Hoppa Bus. It was about 40 degrees outside but the stiff and steady wind made it a bit more miserable.
Tomorrow, I will make my way over to Covent Garden to buy a warmer/waterproof jacket at the Paramo store. I may stop at The Cove for a Cornish pasty at lunchtime since it is in the neighborhood.
It is nice and cozy here at my usual haunt, Premier Travel Inn on Bath Road near Heathrow. Comfy, clean and quiet…it doesn’t get any better.
Saw a Common Magpie, Woodpigeon and Carrion Crow on the way to the hotel.
Can’t make up for lost sleep, but I’m going to relax for the rest of the day.
Arrived in London on time, breezed through Customs, got my bag, exchanged some money, then went outside and nearly froze waiting for the Hotel Hoppa Bus. It was about 40 degrees outside but the stiff and steady wind made it a bit more miserable.
Tomorrow, I will make my way over to Covent Garden to buy a warmer/waterproof jacket at the Paramo store. I may stop at The Cove for a Cornish pasty at lunchtime since it is in the neighborhood.
It is nice and cozy here at my usual haunt, Premier Travel Inn on Bath Road near Heathrow. Comfy, clean and quiet…it doesn’t get any better.
Saw a Common Magpie, Woodpigeon and Carrion Crow on the way to the hotel.
Can’t make up for lost sleep, but I’m going to relax for the rest of the day.
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Countdown continues
Two more days until lift-off to London, then on to Norfolk. Debating whether I should try for the Brown Shrike at Staines before or after travel to Norfolk. From what I understand, it is easy to get to Staines via public transport by taking the 441 bus from Heathrow. Getting off at Stanwell Moor and walking about 15 minutes to the bridge. We'll see. I have seen Brown Shrike in India and Sri Lanka.
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Typo regarding shortened name for bus
Opps... The abbreviation for the Coasthopper Bus is "Chopper" not "Copper".
Birding via Coasthopper Bus
Packed the Norfolk UK Coasthopper Bus schedule and am ready to bird by bus. The convenience of the "Copper" is that the bus stops in front of Cley and Titchwell reserves, so there is no need for a car. Thus, you avoid the 3-4 Pound car park fee.
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Guided Birding
Confirmed three days guided birding with Chris Mills of Norfolkbirding.com. It is so much more convenient to have someone show you around their local patch rather than struggling on your own. Can't wait.
Monday, November 16, 2009
Getting Psyched
One week from tomorrow, November 17, 2009, I'll be on my way to London to begin a birdwatching adventure that will take me to the north Norfolk coast of England. The main goal is to visit the many reserves via the Coasthopper Bus.
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