Sadly those beardies were elusive today, though fellow volunteer and all-round good egg Rob Robinson did spot a male bird near the Reedbed Screen this morning.
Here’s a summary of the birds seen at Old Moor today…
Seen briefly today were three goosander heading from Bolton Ings towards the river; a lesser redpoll that seemed not to have stopped on the reserve; and – just up the road, at Wombwell Ings – a marsh harrier.
Another tricky bird to find today was the recent green sandpiper. The field pool seemed to be its last known address, though it was by no means easy to pin down.
Lastly, the day ended with a small murmuration of around 2000 starlings. The birds gathered on the ‘cowslip pylon’ at 15:40 and put on quite an extended show before diving into the reedbeds to roost.
And, speaking of roosting, I’m off to re-charge my batteries tomorrow, so I shall take this opportunity to wish you a very merry Christmas!
Have a good one!