It's been another storm force week here in the eastern Solent. Like many in the south of the United Kingdom and Ireland, we've mostly been staying inside for the last five days, occasionally going out to see what damage has been created by the wind and storm surges. Wednesday saw yet another escaped yacht beaching on South Binness island and with the current prediction for the weekend, it may not be the last! In the midst of all this though there have been some sunny intervals which the local wildlife has taken advantage of.
Above: a keen eyed Little Egret making the most of the calm. Photo by M.Eagles.
As usual for this time of year, there's quite a selection of waterfowl and shorebirds around the harbour. In just the first half of the week, we had several different types of Grebe present including little grebes, great-crested grebes, at least one black-necked grebe and a potential red-necked grebe. Be sure to keep an eye out for slavonian grebes too as they are in the local area.
Above: Little grebes at the West Hayling Oysterbeds. Photo by M.Eagles.
Also, I can't resist sharing some photos of a wintering red-breasted merganser couple we have. They are a privilege to see and a species that the harbour is much more colourful in the winter for having.
Above: A male red-breasted merganser in the lagoon. Photo by M.Eagles.
Above: Just as beautiful in her own right, a female red-breasted merganser. Photo by M.Eagles.
Finally, the gulls are in fine form with groups of black-headed gulls changing into their summer breeding plumage and a common (or mew) gull present to nicely illustrate the difference.
Above: A common or mew gull. Notice the yellow legs and beak. Photo by M.Eagles.
Take care over the weekend, the newly designated storm 'Ruth' looks like it could have a big impact. We'll update you on it's affects here as soon as we get a chance to put our heads back above the parapet but until then, I'll leave you with another great sunset over the harbour.
Above: Sunset over Langstone Harbour, but the storm clouds are gathering..