2014 commenced with a wet and windy day and I did not venture down to the dam until 1320. Almost immediately I noticed a bird flying towards me from across the reservoir. It was at about tree top height. As it approached me to within about 30 metres it then banked so that I had an excellent side on view. I realised that it was a diver species. I noted that the bill was dagger like and pointed, not up-turned. The size and skull structure pointed towards Black -throated Diver. The bird then flew back across the reservoir and off to the north east, I presume to Swithland reservoir. I would be interested to know if anyone saw the Swithland bird depart or return at between 1300 and
1400. Black-throated Diver photographed at Swithland res.
Once I had recovered from having a site tick on the first day of the year I continued my walk and ended the day on a respectable 44, Brambling being another good addition.
Other species added since have included 3 Ravens, a Peregrine and a female Goosander.
