However, due to family commitments and a lack of transport, my movements have been restricted, and 2011 has started with a whimper rather than a bang.
1st January
Managed to scrounge a lift to Paxton Pits NR early doors. Frozen lakes and dull, drizzly weather hampered my birding, but I did manage a nice selection of ducks on the River Ouse, including Goldeneye, Pochard, Wigeon, Gadwall, Tufted Duck and Mallard. A small patch of open water nearby held Shovelers and Shelduck, as well as both the 'Great' Grebe and the Little Grebe.
There weren't many highlights, but there were a few lowlights. Firstly, Foxy nonchalantly scampered across the ice.
Later I found 4 different Yaffles, most unpleasant characters indeed.
2nd January
A family outing around Grafham Water on hired bikes allowed for a bit of birding and biking. The Lake was teeming with Goldeneye, and, amongst the commoner birds, I picked out a nice flotilla of 20 Goosander. Meanwhile, in the damp woods, a familiar call brought my attention to a nice Marsh Tit, probably bird of the day.
Grafham Water above, and Goldeneyes (male and female) below.
3rd January
A small run through Huntingdon yielded good numbers of duck (2 Goldeneye, 2 Pochard and feeding flock of 600 Wigeon). I also came across a couple of stalkers.
We're use to 'Fisherman's foe' making a nuisance of himself. There's no doubt that he thinks he rules the riverside roost...
But don't worry about his rival...'Fishkeeper's Foe'. This particular Cormorant was sat on the river bank hoping for a New Year's Fish Dinner. Knowing how successful these guys are at plying their trade, I wouldn't be surprised if he got what he wished for.
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