29th January

Great crested Grebe: The pair have now started to build a nest by the side of the island in area 5. Lets hope this next cold snap dosen't freeze the waters around the nest.
Little Grebe: One was feeding under the bridge by the entrance nearest to Baker Street.
Water Rail:
Still two birds present in area 2, though they are being a little more secretive during the day. The mornings and late afternoons are probably best.
Common Gull: Numbers on the lake were up today to above 25 birds. This species never seems to get above much above thirty birds.
Blackcap: A male was in area 24 this morning before flying to the island in area 26.
Siskin: Five birds were still in area 24 on and off throughout the day.
Goldfinch: The flock of fourteen birds were feeding at the feeding station in area 24. They would come down to drink amongst the Elm suckers in the southern corner, as they off them safety from attack by the local Sparrowhawks.

Comments

Anonymous said…
Hi Tony

Do the common gulls form their own flock or do they mix in with the black-headers?

Cheers

Pete
Reuben said…
Hi Tony, thanks for the gen on the little owl and thanks for the offer of an accompanied viewing if they become more regular - that would be really good. In the meantime, I'll keep trying to find one on my local patch, Hampstead heath. There must be one somewhere!
Hi Pete.

They do not really mix that much. The B H Gulls like to roost on the rowing boats, ocassionally joined by a Common. The majority of the Commons roost on the posts in the lake. From early March we will be on the lookout for Med Gull, one normally puts in a brief appearance.
Hi Reuben.

It is worth getting to know the call of the owl, then late afternoons, early evening or just after first light are the best times if you want to see one on the ground.