Goody Goody Two Smews

A stroll down to Minsmere today bumped the non-motorised tally upto 72 species. Although I didn't catch up with the Green-winged teal which has been around for a few days wilfowl did provide some highlights. Two Smew (drake and a redhead) were on Island mere, Common and Velvet scoter plus Eider were on the sea along all the usual suspects around the reserve. Marsh harrier was readily seen on the walk in as was a calling Cetti's warbler and the classic Minsmere sight of a Bittern was had from Island mere.

Start of the 2011 Non-motorised list

After spending yesterday taking part in the Suffolk new years day birdrace it wasn't until this morning that I had the chance to start my non-motorised year list. The rules for the year are simple, I can only count birds on the non-motorised list if I see them either on foot or bike.
Whilst dozing in bed this morning an alarm calling Blackbird was the first on the list. On opening the curtains and still yet to get out of bed I began to log the visitors to the garden feeders. Blue, Great, Coal and Marsh tits were all buzzing around feeding actively and they were soon joined by a couple of Chaffinch's. A Great-spotted woodpecker and Robin also put in an appearance. After getting up and getting ready to go out I went out in the garden whilst I waited for my wife, Louise to get ready to take me to work. Out in the garden I added Carrion crow, Rook and Jackdaw. Several Woodpigeon were flapping around and a lone Pheasant wandered through the undergrowth. A Stock dove bombing across the garden was a welcome addition as was a female Sparrowhawk flapping across a neighbouring stubble field. A dozen Redwings landed briefly on the apple tree before heading of south. It was them time to get in the car and go out with my tally standing at 21. This evening whilst in the toilet a Tawny owl (22) was heard calling outside.
I'm walking down to Minsmere in the morning so the tally should start to really increase.....