Bigger than a song thrush but smaller than a mistle thrush, fieldfares are striking winter visitors. Several flocks have been spotted at Fairburn this week, distinctive for their leisurely flight and, if you’re close enough, their beautiful plumage. Quite heavyset compared to other thrushes, hundreds of thousands arrive each winter to take advantage of our berry stocks and flocks of them travel the countryside in search of food, forming large roosts each evening at dusk. Their arrival is a true sign of winter’s approach.
Fieldfare, Mike Langman (rspb-images.com)
There have been several stonechat sightings, and some stunning photos sent to us by visitor Barry Nield, head over to our Facebook page, RSPB West Yorks to take a look! Keep an eye out all over the reserve; they’ve been spotted at both Lin Dike and on the Riverbank Trail.
Female stonechat, Andy Hay (rspb-images.com)
Following on from last week’s blog, more goosander have been seen on the top ponds and plenty of redwings are about. Also, if you are on the Riverbank Trail, pop in to Bob Dickens and the viewpoint to see if you can spot any goldeneye out on the water. Their short bills and large, almost bulbous, heads are distinctive features to look out for, and of course those bright, piercing eyes.
Red-throated diver, Chris Gomersall (rspb-images.com)
Otherwise, there has been a whole host of exciting wildlife seen around the reserve. A red-throated diver flew south over stacks on Monday, a male pintail was spotted up on the moat and two lesser redpoll were heard calling and they flew over the visitor centre. If you come to visit this week make sure to pop in for a chat and a coffee, and to write any of your own sightings in the book.