Goosander.

A smart male Goosander was at the top end today, but no sign of the three Shelduck. Water levels are rising with both outflow filters now partially hidden. One larch had been blown over by the strong winds.

None, then 3 come along!

I did not record Shelduck last year at Thornton, so it was a pleasant surprise to have 3 during this mornings squall. They were still present at 3pm.

Welcome 2012.

2012 started dry and mild and the juv. Whooper was still present to help with the New years day count. Other notables were Kingfisher, Siskin, Lesser Redpoll, and male Goldeneye. My final total for the day was 52.

New record for 2011.

Red Admiral on Japonica, 27/12/2011

Tortoiseshell, 31/12/2011

2011 ended with very mild weather and little change in the species frequenting the reservoir. Duck numbers remained high with plenty of Wigeon, Teal and Gadwall. On the 28th a Peregrine was seen and on New years eve a pair of Goosander were fly overs. The exceptionally mild weather produced a Red Admiral on the 27th and a Tortoiseshell on the 31st. My final species total for the year is 124, which is my new highest annual total. My aim is to reach 130 in 2012. Happy New Year and a bird filled 2012.