Tony, Sue and Jon wanted to see something different rather than the birds down on the Chester meadows, so we set off for our first port of call at Abergele. A bitter wind greeted us and a search out to sea gave us good views of Red Throated Diver and Common Scoter. A few Red Breasted Merganser were in with the Great Crested Grebes, whilst on land, Meadow Pipits, Greenfinch and Goldfinches battled the elements on the nearby fences.
Next was Rhos on Sea. Here the tide was receding but with the sun blazing onto our backs a good selection of waders were seen. Redshank, Oystercatcher and Curlew were abundant with a few Dunlin scattered about as well a Ringed Plover. In amongst the rocks Turnstone's started to show themselves and numbers of these increased as we quickly got to grips with spotting them feeding in the seaweed. To finish off a Purple Sandpiper was found feeding with the Turnstone's.
A short drive down to the Little Orme, a beautiful part of the rugged coast, gave us some splendid views of a few North Wales specialities. Chough and Raven competed for the skies with the Jackdaws, whilst Fulmar glided on stiff wings across the cliff face.
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| Raven |
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| Fulmar |
Then a rarity showed itself to us. A Black Redstart, overwintering in the area was a welcome sight whilst Stonechats sat bolt upright on the bushes. Down in the bay, Grey Seals basked in the sun and some were playing in the water whilst Shags were sunning themselves along the lower cliffs.
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| Grey Seals |
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| Grey Seals |
We could have stayed there longer but the chance of seeing some Hawfinch up in the Conwy valley was too much of a temptation.
Arriving, still in glorious sunshine, we had tea and coffee and an excellent slice (well two) of Victoria sponge cake lovingly made by Sue. Sparrow Hawk and Buzzard soared overhead whilst Redwing and Nuthatch entertained us in the trees. Scanning these trees, increased the bird list with 5 Goldcrest being the highlight.
HAWFINCH, I shouted as one flew into a pine tree and huddled up close to the trunk. I managed to get the telescope onto it but it was not the best of views as it was partially hidden by a branch. Jon found a couple feeding further up the road. Fleeting views were had of them and we found a spot where the other finches were feeding on the ground. Hoping that the Hawfinches would join, them we watched and waited but none turned up. As a Red Kite drifted by and a Great Spotted Woodpecker drummed away close to us, the soothing welsh countryside noises were drowned out by a quad bike from the local farmer racing by.
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| Hawfinch picture from previous visit |
The finches flew away in all directions but a Treecreeper, unperturbed by the noise, was the only bird left to be seen. 55 species of bird had been seen and 5 of those were seen by Sue for the first time, lifers!!
Driving back, a Kestrel hovered over the dual carriageway, bringing the total birds seen to 56.
A very enjoyable day.
If you would
like an introduction to Birdwatching by having a guided walk around
Marbury Country Park, just give me on a call on
07731 658 125 or send me an e mail at JGILLY53@GMAIL.COM
Start time arranged to suit you. The cost is £10 P/P.
If
you would rather have a private day trip out around Cheshire, Wirral or
North Wales, Price for a full day for one person is £60.
Each additional guest is £15 / person.
Max 3 guests.
Max 3 guests.
Children under 16 go free.
Why not treat a loved one to a gift voucher for a future day out.
Contact: John Gilbody: e-mail: jgilly53@gmail.com
Telephone 07731 658 125
Glad to see you're up and running. Hopefully the clients will come flocking.
ReplyDeleteThanks Vernon
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