Editors Page The new year will soon be with us and the festive season is a time for giving and receiving. The change in the seasons leaves the wildlife needing that extra helping hand. The movement of birds such as Fieldfare and Redwing from Scandinavia in late autumn herald the approach of winter. As the natural food is exhausted it becomes more important to aid the birds by providing them with a substitute. There are so many different types of food which will attract a vast array of different species to your garden. The black sunflower will see wintering Bramblings with their gaudy black and orange plumage possibly visiting your feeders. The Njger seed feeder will attract Goldfinch, Siskin and if you are really lucky Lesser Redpolls. By giving in this way you will be rewarded with hours of enjoyment during the winter months by helping our feathered friends to survive the worst of the weather conditions. With the new year approaching use your resolution to renew or join the many organisations in your area that help to maintain the habitat to protect the wildlife. In North America the festive period is also a time for bringing birders together as groups have organised an event known as the Christmas counts. This event is probably one of the most important census of birds in the world where teams scour the countryside looking for different variety of birds, and then meet at the end of the day to share a glass of eggnog. In the UK January the 1st is seen as major day for birding with hundreds starting their new years list off with a bang. The symbol of Christmas, the humble Robin, is probably the first many birders will hear as they pack the car for day out. We hope to see our wildlife continue to flourish in 2015 and the hope these organisations continue to work tirelessly to decrease wildlife crime throughout the country. The protection of the Hen Harrier must be maintained as shooting estates continue to persecute these amazing birds of prey. The British Birdwatching Fair in August will help to spread this important message The Scottish Bird Fair is also an important event on the Calendar for getting this kind of information across to the general public We hope that the Scottish Bird Fair breaks it connection with Hopetoun House in Scotland which has major connection with the shooting estate at Leadhills in South Lanarkshire. The Norfolk Birdfair is now planning its second year and we hope to see many new faces old and new in 2015. Happy Christmas and a great new year Jill and Robert Wilson
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4. 5. 6. 8. 10. 12. 14. 16. 19. 21. 22. 24. 26. 29. 30. 32 34. 38. 40. 41. 42.
Contents Page
Editors Page Cricket or Grasshopper. Barn Owl Photography. Blast from the past. Habitat: ; Cemeteries. Wildlife Artist: Richard Johnson. Non Uk Reserve. Finland, Utsjoki. Identification of Redpolls Raptor Trust. Did you know?. Alien Invaders. Egyptian Geese. Uk Reserve. Gigrin Farm. Suffolk Reserve. Lackford lakes SWT Taking Care of Wildlife. Fat Balls. Ecology of Pond Dipping. Wildlife Events December to January Rarity Round-up September to Octobrer. Norfolk Bird List part 4. Readers Page Puzzle Page. Information Page.
Contact: Wildlife East Anglia 3a St Johns Close, Norwich NR1 2AD 01603 219119 We strive to make articles as accurate as possible at the time of writing
Front cover. Whinchat by Richard Johnson
Cricket or Grasshopper Crickets, grasshoppers, Locusts and Katydids are all members of the Orthoptera order which is then split further into Caelifera for grasshoppers and Locusts and Enisfera for Crickets and Katydids. In the UK there are 52 species of this order. They can be found in a wide range of habitat from heathland to woodland There are seven families in Europe,
the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. There are several ways to tell them apart in the field. The first is by looking at the antennae. If they are short and stubby they will belong to a grasshopper. If the antennae are long then it will be a cricket. Generally you will find a grasshopper by the noise it makes during the daytime as they are diurnal. If it can be heard at dusk it is more
Grasshoppers, Bush Crickets, Mole Crickets, Cave Crickets, Pigmy Mole Crickets, Groundhoppers and True Crickets. It is possible the Mole Cricket is already extinct in the UK and has been made a priority under
likely to be a cricket as they are nocturnal. Both make noise using their bodies. Crickets stridulate by rubbing their wings together whereas grasshoppers rub their long hind legs against their wings
Striped Sided Grasshopper
Field Grasshopper
Speckled Bush Cricket photo by Alan Paine
Roesels Bush Cricket photo by Alan Paine
to sing. The parts that they rub together to stridulate are called the file and scraper. Both male and female Orthoptera make noise but the females are generally quieter. Grasshoppers tend to have brighter colours than crickets on the under wing. They use this flash of colour to communicate with other grasshoppers when they fly. If the wings are absent or atrophied then it will be a cricket as crickets do not fly. If you are given the opportunity to look really closely, look for the ears. A cricket has its ears in its legs which can be seen as a single white dot near the bend on each front leg. Grasshoppers have their ears on their abdomen. They do have some similarities in that both have legs that are much bigger than their bodies allowing them to jump large distances and the head area is large and saddle shaped. Dark Bush Cricket photo by Alan Paine
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Photographing
Barn Owls The Barn Owl is often seen quartering the marsh and on agricultural land throughout East Anglia with Norfolk being one of the strongholds of this night time hunter. They are predominantly nocturnal but due to the weather in the UK the barn owl has adapted its habits to feed throughout the day time, mainly, when the previous nights weather has been poor. The Barn Owl has suffered over the last two winters with a dramatic decrease in the population with some suggesting a decrease in the region of 80%. This means greater care should be taken to minimise disturbance when photographing at close quarters. The Barn Owl is protected under schedule 1 licensing laws and in conjunction with the Wildlife and Countryside Act of 1981 it is illegal to disturb the parents during the breeding season and when young birds are totally dependent on the
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adults for food. With this in mind locating a suitable subject can prove to be difficult as the birds have a huge range and will often choose different areas to hunt in. Generally most people spot Barn Owls during the breeding season, as they spend more time hunting. Unnecessary disturbance could lead to a criminal conviction so positioning yourself near to a nest site must be avoided. This may seem a bit strong but the emphasis must be
to protect the welfare of bird and it’s young. The winter months of December through to March give good opportunities to achieve the best results as the Barn Owls will often be seen hunting in the midday sun. You will need to have patience and watch the movement and feeding patterns of birds hunting in the daytime. If the night time weather has been poor there is greater chance birds will be hunting during daylight hours as Barn Owls require relatively still conditions to hunt prey using their acute hearing. To get the best results the best equipment would be a long lens such as a 500mm or 600mm with a suitable DSLR and a motor drive which will allow a burst of shots, but this not essential. The most important aspect is being prepared with the camera set on the right settings for the lighting conditions. Then you need to position yourself so that you can illuminate the subject with the available light ensuring that the sun is behind you. If you
are after flight shots then set your shutter speed as high as the light will allow to capture the detail in the wings and to get them sharp right to the tips. To get the perfect photo remember to concentrate on the landscape as much as the bird to get a nice neutral background. A barn owl flying towards you is looking for food and will not be interested in what you are doing unless you are moving or making noise. If you are really lucky the bird may land on a fence post at close quarters. Waiting quietly and preferably alone will enable the best opportunities, and probably the best advice is to stay in one place and let the bird come to you. This may take several days of observation to know where the best place to stand will be. The Barn Owl will cover vast distances in a very short period as they quarter the fields and grassland in search of food. If breeding has been successful it is possible to see up to 5 different birds working the same small area.
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Blast from the past
Pallid Swift (Apus pallidus) The very warm weather in March 2010 saw a number of very early swifts and in Kessingland, Suffolk, Alpine and Pallid Swift. were recorded together. The Pallid Swift is a species which is found across Southern Europe and returns to the breeding sites in early spring after spending the winter in Southern Africa. They can be tricky to identify when mixed in with Common Swifts,but on this occasion the bird was loosely associating with an Alpine swift and the key features could easily be seen in both the field and photographs obtained of the bird at the time. The generally pale appearance and scaling on the underparts was clearly visible which helped identify this southern over shoot. The bird remained in the area over the caravan park and adjacent sewage works for a number of days allowing many birders to add this difficult bird to their lists. The Pallid Swift migration is earlier arriving in spring and has a later departure in autumn giving
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numerous records of birds found in late October or even early November across Northern Europe. This was always seen as a major rarity with only the second record in Kent in 1978 but since there has been over 8o records which could be due to more experience of observers.
Red Throated Pipit
(Anthus cervinus)
They are common throughout their range in Northern Europe where they breed in a variety of habitats across to the far east with birds wintering in Africa and throughout South East Asia. The spring often saw summer plumaged birds recorded on passage throughout the UK with some very confiding individuals such as the Cuckmere Haven bird in June 1991 and this bird photographed at Weybourne Norfolk in May 1997. There seems to have been a decline in records of this distinctive Pipit in the UK which would also mirror the lack of Bluethroats which have been recorded along the east coast in the same period. The Norfolk coast and especially Blakeney Point was one of best localities to see both species. In May 1992 three Red-throated Pipits were found together in fields near to the lighthouse at Happisburgh Norfolk. The 1997 bird at Weybourne arrived in fairly misty conditions and remained faithful to the coastal footpath until the weather cleared.
White Throated Sparrow (Zonotrichia albicollis)
A very striking adult male was found at Fagbury Cliffs on the 31st of May 1992 adjacent to the Port of Felixstowe where containers arrive daily from around the world. It would seem likely that the bird arrived in Port on a recent container ship arriving from Canada. It was was terribly elusive during its stay and gave birders the run around. Whilst the site was saturated with birders looking for the elusive sparrow other good birds where found such as Greenish Warbler, Icterine Warbler and a splendid male Black-headed Bunting which was seen briefly on the Friday afternoon. The Sparrow then moved inland and began giving excellent views to the patient birders arriving on site and allowed some excellent photographs to be obtained. The bird was accepted to the British list
Ortolan Bunting (Emberiza hortulana)
Ortolan Buntings are widespread across Europe but have been in decline for a number of years with birds deliberately being trapped for food throughout France. The practise was banned in 1999 but didn’t really take effect until 2007 when the French Government agreed to enforce the European directive. In September 2009 this first year bird was found at Corton in Suffolk opposite the old sewage works where the bird gave outstanding views. It was feeding on seed heads along the furrows of the field but would often fly inland and disappear for several hours at a time which was quite frustrating and meant birders had to wait for it to return.
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Habitat
Cemeteries and Churchyards There are around 14,000 cemeteries in the UK and no matter what the size they all offer a fantastic home for wildlife, even in the most manicured sites. Every town and city has at least one cemetery or churchyard and many are untouched apart from a bit of mowing, pruning and rubbish clearing. The Wildlife Trusts have spotted the potential of these areas and now actively manage some specifically for the wildlife which can then create differing habitats in a fairly undisturbed place. Some of these are now being visited by people as if they were actually a nature reserve and they now have their own management plans. One such cemetery is Great Yarmouth. This is a very large cemetery covering over 40 acres, divided by a fairly busy road with one part older than the other. Great Yarmouth Council purchased the first 10 acres in 1855 and put a flint wall arround the cemetery. It is a particularly important cemetery with 3000 graves and lots of resident and migratory wildlife due to its proximity to the coast. It is a popular spot with local famOx-eye Daisy and Small Copper
Goldcrest
ilies to come and feed the tame Grey Squirrels. Although these are classed as a pest they bring in visitors that may not normally be interested in wildlife. If only a small percentage of these children then become interested in other species, the Grey has done its bit for the environment. They also make
for a nice photograph perched on the lichen covered gravestones. Over the years shrubs and trees have grown in the cemetery that are currently being cleared and thinned whilst volunteers conserve the diverse headstones. However, it is being done carefully so as not to take away the scrubby habitat
Spotted Flycatcher
for the visiting wildlife. Some areas are managed for wildflowers so some areas in the summer are a sea of Ox-eye Daisies and other flowers that encourage the butterflies and insects. If you enjoy butterflies, September is a great time of year for this cemetery to catch the second broods of many butterflies such as Small Copper Common Redstart
and Red Admiral who feed on the Ivy. Come back again in a few weeks for the autumn migration to see Redstarts, Pied Flycatchers and other birds such as Yellow Browed Warbler and Firecrest passing through. Redstarts can sometimes be easy to pick up as they like to sit on the top of grave stones. Habitat differs in Great Yarmouth cemetery which is why it is so good for wildlife. There is an area of Yew Trees and berry bushes perfect for migratory birds such as redwings, areas of small tangled shrubs for skulking birds like the Firecrest and grassed areas for Song Thrushes and Blackbirds. Evergreen trees are also prevalent throughout, providing good cover all year round for all wildlife and taller trees have been planted to create a walkway along the footpath. In general, due to the age of cemeteries, they often have mature trees creating homes for woodpeckers and jays. Many cemeteries are attached to churches or buildings giving the opportunity for other species such as barn owl, to live and nest. Little owls also like churches and of course the well
Grey Squirrel
publicised peregrines now nesting on cathedrals which need open spaces such as church yards to hunt in. Great Yarmouth Green Gym is one of the organisations helping to clear and maintain this fascinating site. They meet on the 1st Tuesday of every month. Students on the construction course at Great Yarmouth College have also been helping in the repair of some of the monuments. When visiting a cemetery it is best to consider safety and visit with company as sometimes they can be very quiet places offering opportunists the chance to ruin your day.
Statue
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R I C H A R D J O H N S O N Wildlife Artist 12
I have been very fortunate that for the past 16 years or so I have been able to make some sort of living from looking at the natural world and in particular birds. It’s not always been easy, but it has been highly enjoyable and continues to be so to this day. Most of what I’ve been attempting over the years is to gain some sort of understanding of what I’m looking at through repeated observation, and then interpreting this understanding with pencil and paint. It sounds simple, but it’s taken a long time obsessively practicing to feel slightly competent in what I do and I feel there’s still a long way to go. A passion for birds and drawing them started when I was around eight years old. At first it was birds Snipe at Cley
of prey which most fascinated me and I distinctly recall producing a series of copied drawings from a favoured book of raptors and creating a book out of them. Birds of Prey - Volume 1 it was called and it including such diversity as Goshawk, Gyrfalcon and Monkey-eating Eagle. Volume 2 is still waiting to come out! A family holiday to the Scottish Highlands at this time further fuelled the interest with sightings of Golden Eagle as well as a visit to the Ospreys at Loch Garten. I joined the YOC and Watch (the junior section of the Northumberland Wildlife Trust) and both were very influential as my interest in birds and wildlife grew. I enjoyed going on the field trips and often attend-
Red-footed Falcon, Lakenheath
ing lectures put on by Watch at the Hancock Museum in Newcastle. At the age of 11 one such lecture was by the late James Alder, a renowned north-east wildlife artist. After his
inspiring talk the children were invited to go into the museum and draw a subject from the
museum’s extensive collection of stuffed birds. A group of children would be picked from the resulting drawings to be tutored by James. I remember drawing a Goshawk and when James went round all the children to see what they were producing he got to me and was very enthusiastic about my drawing. I was chosen along with several other children. James or ‘Jim’ as we called him was a lovely and very inspirational man and spent many hours over two years patiently guiding us to a final exhibition held at the museum and opened by the Duchess of Northumberland. These were exciting times for a young lad and the experience had a lasting impact. Around this time I also acquired the books Shorelines by Michael Warren and Bird Island by Lars Jonsson. I would get lost for hours among their pages trying to fathom the artists techniques. At the age of 13, already a constant visitor to my local patch in northeast England, I found my first ever rare bird, a male Ring-necked Duck at Holywell Pond. This began an interest in rarities which took me the
length and breadth of the British Isles. I soon began to dream of birding further afield, and travelled to many parts of Europe, North Africa, India, Nepal, China, North America and South America. It was an expedition to Paraguay in 1995 which lead to a commission for plates on a field guide to the Birds of Argentina, a book which unfortunately still hasn’t seen the light of day! I graduated in 1997 from the Kent Institute of Art and Design, with a degree in Visual Communication, and since then have spent much of my time in East Anglia. I’ve had spells living in North Norfolk, but I’m now based in Cambridge where
I work in my studio or ‘the shed’ on field guide illustrations or new paintings. I also try to get out into the surrounding countryside whenever I can to paint and sketch the wildlife. Burwell Fen has become a favoured place. Drained since the 2nd World War for agriculture purposes, the National Trust flooded the site in November 2012, returning it once again to a vibrant wetland. For a wildlife artist it has the added significance that it was the place the great Eric Ennion spent much of his time sketching the wildlife at the beginning of the last century. When out sketching I use a telescope to bring my subject in close without disturbance and use pencil and watercolours because of their immediacy, especially when painting in the field. These sketches are the inspiration for the more finished paintings in the studio. In 2012 I was asked to become an associate of the Society of Wildlife Artists and also won the coveted Hawk and Owl Trust’s Roger Clarke Award. Currently I have a selection of paintings and prints for sale at the Birdscapes Gallery in Glandford, Norfolk. For a constant update of new work search for my public Facebook page at Richard Johnson - Wildlife Artist. For enquiries about original art or prints I can be contacted at
rjohnson.birdart@gmail.com .
Barn Owl in the evening in a North norfolk Meadow
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Wildlife Abroad
Utsjoki Finland Utsjoki is in the region of Sami in a beautiful part of Finland. It is situated on the northern end of Highway 4 right on the border of Norway in Lapland. The River Tenojoki follows the border and is the most prolific Salmon river in Europe. It is also one of the best places in the world to see the Aurora Borealis with up to 200 viewings a year, due to the low levels of air pollution and clear skies as trees in the area are low growing and scarce. The river valley is surrounded by fjelds or the high mountains of the Karigasniemi range. This area is rich in wildlife with Lemmings on the tops of the mountains, Snowy Owls, Reindeer, Ptarmigan and other breeding birds such as Redpolls and Brambling. The area is good to visit all year round with picturesque winters and bright, sunny summers. The Ox-eye Daisy and Red Fox
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fantastic Kevo Nature reserve runs for 63km through a canyon and the River Teno offers possibilities of river trips to see the wildlife. There are plenty of Hotels and Lodges in the area for quality accommodation and there is one that offers the chance for a cup of tea whilst watching a very busy feeder station. The Hotelli Pohjan Tuli (or Hotel North Fire) is situated on the Mantojarvi Lake surrounded by small mountains. Interestingly it gets its name from the spectacular show of colours around the lake from Autumn Trees. It has had an established feeder station for many years and is happy for visitors to come and stay and see the birds close to or just pop in for a snack and watch from the window. The proprietor is very happy for you to go outside and pop underneath his restaurant bay window where he
has set up a hide with camouflage netting. Here you can see, Northern Bullfinch, Brambling, Greenfinch, three species of Redpolls, Twite, Pine Grosbeak and occasionally Siberian Tit and Siberian Jay. Local Villagers are all proud of their wildlife but there is a culture of shooting in the area. This area is particularly suited to a long weekend but also has plenty to do for longer stays with its close proximity to the Norwegian Fjords and sites where there are White Tailed Eagles, Bluethroats, Stellars and King Eider Northern Bullfinch
Greenfinch
Brambling River Tenojoki
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Identification
Redpolls With winter approaching and Redpolls moving from their breeding grounds in Northern Europe into the UK, an identification conundrum may occur. Some flocks have a mixture of birds including Lesser, Mealy and if you are lucky even an Arctic Redpoll. They are generally a species that has a short migration but some years the birds disperse further afield giving multiple sightings of Arctic and Mealy redpolls in various sites in the UK.
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The Lesser Redpoll (below)
is native to the UK and breeds in suitable woodland habitat throughout its range and is by far the most common of the family. The name suggests that it is the smallest of the Redpolls and is a member of the finch family, with a small yellow cone shaped bill, a black chin and the overall plumage is brownish with streaks and two distinct wing bars. The male and female both have red caps on their heads but males in summer plumage can have pinkish tones to the breast and face. The birds are more heavily streaked on the upper-parts
and the flanks are buff with dark streaks and the belly and under-tail coverts are whitish. The juvenile or immature birds lack the red cap to the head and the black chin is not so obvious as on the adults, but they tend to have far more streaking on the breast and flanks.
The Mealy Redpoll breeds in
Northern Europe and may be found in the UK wintering with mixed flocks of Lesser Redpolls. They are generally bigger with an overall paler appearance which gives the impression of a whiter bird. The rumps appear whitish with streaks, and the flanks are also heavily streaked. Some Mealy Redpolls can be confused with Arctic Redpoll so care should be taken when checking through flocks of Redpolls. In the winter of 2013 a number of Mealy type Redpolls were coming to feeders at Sculthorpe Moor Nature Reserve in Norfolk
Lesser Redpoll, Whitacre. Over the page. Top Mealy Redpoll, Sculthorpe Moor, bottom. Coues Arctic Redpoll, Kelling
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The Arctic Redpoll is split
to two definite sub- species with the nominate race Hornemann’s Arctic Redpoll, which breeds in Greenland and eastern parts of Canada, and Coues’s Arctic Redpoll which breeds in the Northern Tundra of North America and Northern Europe. The Hornemann’s is more commonly found on the Northern islands with Shetland a particular favourite for this species with the occasional record popping up further south. A very showy bird at Aldeburgh in Suffolk in December 2012 was very confiding and allowed incredible photographic opportunities. The distinctive features of the white rump with faint streaking, lack of streaking on the under-tail and under-tail-coverts combined with the very small bill and
Hornemann’ Arctic Redpoll,, Suffolk
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generally whiteness of appearance make this easy to identify. The creamy or buff tones help in the identification of the nominate race. The more regular records in East Anglia are of the form Coues’s Arctic Redpoll which has been recorded on a number of years. In 1996 good numbers were found in Norfolk at two locations, Cromer and Langham. They gave birders the opportunity to study seperate Arctic Redpolls in different states of plumage at the same time. It is generally thought that most birds arriving in the UK are first winter but some birds at Cromer appeared to be adult which
made identification more difficult. The last birds recorded in Norfolk visited feeders in Kelling in Norfolk throughout February 2012, where at least two Arctic Redpolls where on show. The birds where viewable from the road whilst visiting feeders in a private garden. To summarise the Arctic Redpolls are generally whiter with clean white rumps and clean under-tail coverts which may have slight streaking. Both forms of Arctic Redpoll have the appearance of a pushed in face which is more evident on the image of the bird photographed at Kelling, Norfolk in February 2012.
Wildlife Rescue
The Raptor Trust
Today is another busy day for the Raptor Trust! My name is Claire Halls and I am one member of the registered charity, which operates in Norfolk. I started my day with a phone call as a member of the public needed some advice on the helpline phone at 6am. After which I tube feed a starved Barn Owl (which gets repeated every 4 hours until bedtime). Then I dealt with a number of press inquiries (both email and phone) as well as communicating Buzzard release
with the other committee members. This was followed by cleaning out the aviaries and preparing lunch for the diurnal birds. Today I have two highlights to look forward to. The first being a daily pleasure. Once lunch is ready I get to spend some time with my captive bred Little Owl, Biggles, and a Kestrel, Pip (not at the same time!). Making sure they are reminded of their manners over the winter period and getting some 1:1 time
Kestrel
with them. Come the Spring this time will be spent retraining and flying them so that they are ready for displays over the Summer and Autumn. Both are quite vocal as they have been hand raised, although this isn’t always a positive unfortunately. Pip didn’t have the best start. When we get calls about ‘orphaned’ birds the first course of action, assuming the bird is well, is to get it back to the nest site. Many people find it surprising at some of the locations our native raptors use for nesting. If the bird cannot be raised in the wild then we have to hand rear them. This is a careful process to make sure that the youngster does not learn that the food comes from a human and that they spend as little time with a human as possible. This retains their wildness and once they are ready they go through a hacking process to return them to the wild whilst supporting them to hunt. This didn’t happen with Pip. The member of the public tried to rear her themself. Saying she is human-
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ised is an understatement. She does not know she is a bird; she thinks she is a human. She has health problems, which we can manage, behavioural problems, which we have dealt with as far as will ever be possible, and most importantly she can never return to the wild. We have been granted a licence to keep her and use her for educational purposes thankfully, otherwise she would most likely have to have been put to sleep. The police and ourselves had the bird handed over to us after the gentleman discovered that the
Biggles
situation was not legal. Having a Little Owl and a Kestrel to use for education purposes is a huge advantage at the moment as they are two of our raptors currently declining. This evening I have to go out to South Norfolk to meet with a BTO ringer who will place rings on three owls’ legs to prepare them for their upcoming releases, at which point the members of the public that found them which get to watch as they fly back into the wild. After this Pip and Biggles get some social time. We visited a Scout group a few months ago to give a talk and since then they have been doing some fund-raising and would like to present us with a cheque. The children and the birds will get to see each other again. It is always a highlight of the day if we get to visit a school or group to talk about the work we do and spread some knowledge and passion for these birds.
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Sparrowhawks. Here is a photo of a buzzard that was taken to the Hawk and Owl Trust (a number of birds we look after are birds that are taken to Sculthorpe Moor needing help and are passed to ourselves), the photo’s were taken on arrival, and during release. Buzzard
We are organising our talks for the next few months and only ask for a donation in return, this is a negotiable amount, which allows us to continue our work. Not only do vets bills for injured birds mount up but paying for natural coloured mice and other food items can be costly too. (Not to mention fuel costs for collecting the birds.) We are all volunteers and work from our homes so although expenditure is kept as low as possible, we do rely on fund-raising and donations. We attend many events and talks each year but also have memberships available as well. Unfortunately quite a few birds have to be put to sleep, but if we can end their suffering then we have still helped. The main causes this year have been birds that have been shot or poisoned and birds with irreparably broken wings after car collisions. It is a joy to have had a number of buzzards in this year, although they were ill or injured it just shows that we now have so them back in Norfolk, and generally doing very well. Many people often think the worst of these birds and often the reasons are misconceptions, similarly with
Things you can do to help; -Put up a nest box for a Barn Owl, Little Owl, Tawny Owl or Kestrel -If you have a nest box ensure you clean it out every two years to keep it disease free and check it is safe for use, not forget over a few years with all of its contents a box will get heavier and eventually fall, usually with the chicks in it! -if you find or accidently injure a raptor remember it needs a quiet, secure, dark and warm place to rest. Cardboard boxes with air holes are ideal. Do not try to feed or give it water. Simply phone us for advice and assistance. -Report any suspected crime including shooting, trapping and poisoning. Try not to disturb the scene if possible. You can ring ourselves or the police. -Try not to use rodenticide or insecticide but humane traps instead. -Reduce the amount of barbed wire fencing. -Use window stickers on conservatories. -Check for any signs of raptors in tress or hedges before trimming or cutting them down, especially old rotten ones! -Never disturb a bird of prey nest, if you need assistance, ring for help.
Did you know? There are nearly 100 different species of Kingfisher. The UK has just one, Alcedo atthis. The largest Kingfisher in the world is Australia’s Laughing Kookaburra.
Dormice can sometimes be heard snoring when sleeping. They need to get their body weight up to 35g from 20g before they hibernate for around 182 days from October onwards.
Bullfinches uses to be legally trapped in English orchards because they are rather fond of buds and will happily eat the new growth on trees in the spring.
Poppy seeds can lay dormant in the soil for over 20 years until conditions are right for them to grow and flower.
Grey Heron have a wingspan of over 6ft but yet weigh only half as much as a Greylag Goose. The fat of a heron killed on the full moon was said to be a cure for rheumatism.
Red Deer survived the ice age. The diet of deer determines the size of their antlers. The more nutritious the food, the bigger the antlers.
The collective noun for stoats is a trip or pack. Female stoats are called Jill’ and males Jacks, like with ferrets.
When a dragonfly hatches it can live for up to 6 years although most of this time is as a nymph. They live for around 2 months as an adult dragonfly.
The swallowtail is the UK’S rarist butterfly and is also its largest. Adult butterflies only live for one month.
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Alien Invaders Egyptian Geese
Alopochen aegyptiaca Egyptian Geese originate from sub-tropical Africa and are widespread across all southern African countries but mainly in Southern Israel, The Nile Valley and the South Sahara area. It comes from the duck, goose and swan family, Anatidae, but is closest in appearance to the Ruddy Shelduck which is not surprising as it is actually a duck. The English name of Egyptian Geese causes the confusion. Ruddy Shelducks and Egyptian Geese have similar colouration and are almost the same in size. Identification of the Egyptian goose is fairly straightforward. They have bright pink legs and a dusky bill with brown sides and a black tip. The feathers are grey/brown hiding a large white wing panel which shows in flight. They have a chestnut eye patch, yellow eyes and a brown patch on the chest. They were first introduced into the UK in the 17th Century on ornamental lakes at private estates. A few then escaped to the wild or were released but they did not tend to thrive and breed in numbers as they are used to warmer weather. Their choice of egg-laying in January did not make it easy for them to raise chicks in the UK either but as this date has drifted towards late February/March, so chicks began to survive. Many ornamental lakes have also been cleared of trees which can cause problems as they prefer to nest in the holes of trees. There is no noticeable difference between the male and female and it is believed they mate for life. The females make the nests from leaves, grass and reeds but both parents take turns in incubating the eggs. Clutches are usually around 5-8. By making a nest in a tree they easily keep away from predators but could also take a nest from a Little Owl (also non-native) or other species, especially
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as they nest long before most others will be ready to. In the last 40 years there has been a significant rise in numbers, particularly in their stronghold of Norfolk. Here they are now seen on most rivers, lakes and arable fields in the winter months and it is believed there may be more than 950 pairs. Some have inevitably moved to other counties where they can be seen in small numbers including the rest of East Anglia and the South East and a small colony has recently appeared in the Midlands. Due to its rise in numbers it is considered by some as a pest. In its homeland they damage crops and can chase away nesting waders so it has been added to the list for shooting rights in the UK and cannot be released if injured. There is also some evidence of hybridisation with the non-native Canada Goose so there are concerns it could breed
with a native species. It was formally added to the British list in 1971. Above Egyptian Goslings and Below adult Egyptian Geese. Both taken at Whitlingham Country Park
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Uk Wildlife
Red Kites at Gigrin Farm Rhayader, Powys The Red Kite feeding station at Gigrin Farm is open every day of the year and no matter when you visit you will have excellent views of one of Britain’s most beautiful birds of prey. The centre first opened in 1992 as the official Red Kite feeding station with guidance from the RSPB. At this time the owner, Mr Powell, began feeding the Kites Rabbit when available. In the early days there were 6 Kites roosting in the area but by 2006 the number soon increased to around 400. The feeding is designed to top up the natural food source in the area and not to make the birds dependent. The kites will feed during the early morning and then visit the station if needed in the afternoon. Red Kites are scavengers and feed on carrion, small mammals and birds. This means that the birds do not come every day – only when they need to. Mr Powell’s family still run the centre. The kites are now fed on up to 700kg of lean beef a week. The kites used to feed in the same field as Mr Powell’s sheep without any incidence of the Kites taking lambs. However, after the incident of Foot and Mouth in 2001 a licence was introduced for the feeding of wild birds with meat 24
and this licence required a fence to be put around the pasture. This fence is there to stop the sheep ingesting any residue left on the grass. The meat is checked before use and is laid out in front of the hides for the Kites to see. Usually the Crows come in first followed by the Kites who circle to select a piece before folding in their wings and diving dramatically to pick up a piece of the meat. The feeding
lasts for around an hour and is an amazing sight to see the sky full of birds calling and swooping down. It is very reasonably priced for such a spectacle and is ÂŁ5 per adult to sit in the hides. There are 5 hides with plenty of space and also specialist hides that are raised for photographers. These specialist hides need to be booked in advance from the centre and are ÂŁ12 per person. Tickets can be purchased by cash or cheque on the day. During the winter the feeding is at 2pm and during the summer 3pm but the site is open from 1pm for a coffee and a walk around
the little farm trail. There is good accessibility for disabled visitors to some of the hides and the coffee shop. The Red Kite Trust of Wales opened a rehabilitation centre at Gigrin in 2003 offering facilities to allow injured Kites to recuperate after veterinary care. Many of the birds seen at Gigrin have wing tags. These tags are part of the identification scheme created in 1998 to identify where the bird was tagged and when. The left wing shows the location and the right wing its year. Each tag gives both parts of the identification in case you can only see one wing, if it is sideways on. The bottom of a tag shows a stripe of colour from the opposite wing. Gigrin has one unusual regular - a white Red Kite, or leucistic Kite. It was hatched 30 miles away in 2003
and is often seen at the station. This bird has now become the first White Red Kite to be recorded nesting. For photography, it is the perfect place to get some fantastic shots,but it can be difficult due to the light. March to April is better when the sun is lower in the sky and you can try to get shots without shadow under the wing. The centre is well signposted from the main road and is positioned with lovely views over the Wye and Elan Valleys in Mid Wales with plenty of other wildlife on the site including Badgers, Ravens, Buzzards and a few resident peacocks. The surrounding countryside is also worth a visit, particularly the drive through the Elan Valley with 72 miles of nature and reservoirs. The area is part of the Cambrian Mountains and has a visitor centre at the Caban Coch Dam 25
Suffolk Wildlife Trust Reserve
Lackford Lakes Set in 128 hectares of beautiful wetland habitat, Lackford Lakes is arguably one of the Suffolk Wildlife Trusts most popular reserves. It is situated on the edge of the Brecks in between Mildenhall and Bury St Edmunds with access from the A1101. There is a small visitor centre by the car park with lots of information about the reserve and the wildlife you can see and when open there are plenty of very knowledgeable volunteers to give extra guidance. The centre has good facilities with toilets and a small shop selling seed, tea and coffee and a few local products. The site was formally a gravel pit and around 3.5 million tons of sand and gravel were extracted between 1968 and 2000. From the 1980’s the extraction company worked with the Trust to convert the closed pits into fantastic wildlife habitat enabling the site to be designated a SSSI in 1997 for its dragonflies and wildfowl. Parts of the reserve did have access before Cemex gave the site to the Trust in 2000 but visitors parked in the sailing club car park and the area was much smaller. Occasionally rare birds such as Caspian Tern visited during this period. With continued work on the gravel pits and the purchase of further arable fields by the trust in 2005 the reserve is now a wildlife rich environment with diverse habitats and relaxing walks. The water filled pits are now home to plenty of waterfowl and waders with islands for terns and shallow edges for feeding. The River Lark also runs through the reserve on its boundary with the West Stow Country 26
Grey Heron
Park creating flowing water habitat for otters, kingfishers and waterfowl. Near the middle of the reserve is a band of woodland with a dappled walkway, Woodpeckers and nuthatches are a common sight here as are Muntjac and Roe Deer. Drier areas of the reserve are being allowed to remain to develop naturally as a traditional Breckland heath. From the visitor centre there is a short circular route of half a mile with a path leading off it near Jason’s Pool. There are 9 well posi-
tioned hides scattered around the reserve with the Charlton Webster hide being double tiered. This is often the busiest hide and the most well known as it is overlooking a pool with plenty of Kingfisher perches and activity. This has become a very good spot for Kingfishers but also has regular visits by Little Egrets, Green Sandpipers and often birds of prey such as Hobby and Sparrowhawk. Bess’s Hide and Reed Hide can also be good for kingfisher viewing. Many bird species are resident here but in spring and autumn migratory birds often drop in so you never know what you will see.
Lackford Lakes is not just about the birds, there have been 17 species of dragonfly and damselfly recorded on the site. Otters breed on the reserve in a more secluded area and Water Voles are doing well and feed on the lake edges and shallows. With plenty of wildflowers in the spring and summer this reserve has plenty of butterflies and opportunities for a macro lens and good photography. Wildflowers found here include Yellow- flag Iris, Yellow Loosestrife, Purple Loosestrife, Common Fleabane and Gypsywort Flower. Grass snakes are often seen on the paths and swimming in the pools and hares and stoats sometimes rush out of the undergrowth. This is a great reserve to visit for the whole day or just to nip in for a few minutes as you are straight
into the wildlife areas when you arrive. The car park and drive in from the road are often productive as sometimes turtle doves sit on the wires near the centre, nightingales in spring sing in the car park shrubbery and woodland birds visit the feeder behind the building. It has even been known for a Red Kite to drift over your head whilst parking. Immediately to the left of the centre going through a path in the bushes and then through a gate, is a second feeder station which attracts tree sparrows. This is all within a minutes walk of your arrival. The reserve is free to enter with a small donation requested for the use of the car park. However it is highly recommended to join the Suffolk Wildlife Trust to get the benefits of all the reserves and plenty of information, these beautiful places cost a great deal to upkeep. Other reserves to visit in the area are Cavenham Heath and Weeting Heath Postcode: IP28 6HX
Left Hare. Above Grass Snake and Cinnabar Moth Caterpillers. Below Kingfisher
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Puzzle Page Native Tree Word Search M A E B N R O H E B H E C L Z V C L
D E L D N I P S W Y G W O R E I S O
T G A S P E N W Y H I H M O G Y A G
K S S R H W J Z G R S I M B F R J L
K V M A H Y J X Y E I T O N V R W E
Alder Ash Aspen Bird Cherry Black Poplar Blackthorn Box Buckthorn Common Lime
V H O L C C U R O D L E N L Z E E E
R S E P B H N M S L V B L D H H U R
E A L O W E I L E A E E I B A C K T
F E D P O L P E S R R A M U W D J E
L A E K L M E Z S U B M E C T R X C
Dogwood Elder Field Maple Grey Willow Hawthorn Hazel Holly Hornbeam Juniper
X G R C L H R A I W I E U K H I D I
R Y B A I P F H L R R D G T O B O V
V L X L W R H Z E O C K J H R M G R
O L O B Y W F Q O W H Y M O N W W E
R O B V E E I U A A P H R R Y O O S
O H C I R Y H F K N Z P L N F K O C
P K M Y G N R O H T K C A L B Y D A
D Q B R N S F I E L D M A P L E N X
Osier Rowan Service Tree Sessile Oak Silver Birch Spindle Whitebeam Wych Elm Yew
Spot the Difference. There are 7 differences to find. Answers on the readers page
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Invertebrate Investigation A bit of science behind pond dipping at the first Norfolk Bird Fair held at Mannington Hall On the 17th - 18th May, we set out to perform an ecological survey of the freshwater pond within the grounds. With the help of many enthusiastic volunteers, the pond was thoroughly swept, and a vibrant host of invertebrates identified to family level. Each invertebrate family has a rating designating by the BMWP (Biological Monitoring Working Party). These ratings consider the species’ sensitivity to pollution, the rarity, and the stability of habitat needed to support that invertebrate. The higher the rating, the more sensitive the organism is to pollution or disruption. The presence of higher rating organisms indicates a healthier pond or stream. The pond considered under this survey is typically used for pond dipping, which would suggest a relatively constant level of disturbance. Set within relatively marshy lowland, it is accessed via boardwalk from the Mannington Hall gardens. The surface consists predominantly of open water (40%) with equal amounts of emergent and surface vegetation (30%). [See Fig.1] The open water provides ideal habitat for pond skaters, and the greater and lesser water-boatmen, while the surface and emergent vegetation provide habitat for a variety of dragonfly and damselfly nymphs and larvae. Sweeps were taken from all three areas of the pond, in an effort to observe as many of the different families as possible. Fig. 2 shows the invertebrate families identified, as well as their BMWP score. These include Planarid and Annelid worms, Chironomid fly larvae, Planorbid snails, and two families of Odonata – Dragonfly larvae. Two small fish were also discovered, but were too small to identify. With ten families identified, the average score is calculated as 5.7.
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samanthabenfield@rocketmail.com
Invertebrate Family Planariidae
BMWP Score 5
Hirudidae
3
Heptageniidae
10
Lestidae
8
Coenagriidae
6
Phyryganeidae
10
Gerridae
5
Corixidae
5
Chironomidae
2
Planorbidae
3
Figure 2 - Invertebrate families identified as present, with designated BMWP scores
Illustration 1: The pond under survey
This is a relatively good score for a small pond, considering the amount of disruption expected with pond dipping. The two ten scoring families indicate that the pond is not troubled by pollution. The surround of the pond was also noted as very good habitat, with evidence of Barn Owls (Tyto alba), and sightings of birds including Wrens (Troglodytes troglodytes), a Sparrowhawk (Accipiter nisus) and a Common Whitethroat (Sylvia curruca). A variety of odonata and lepidoptera were also noted in the vicinity of the pond, including Peacock Butterflies (Inachis io), Common Blue Damselfly (Enallagma cyathigerum), and Broad Bodied Chaser (Libellula depressa). A return to further survey this pond is recommended, to monitor the impact of continued pond dipping on the invertebrates and the pond environment. Further monitoring will also provide warning regarding any changes in the environment that may have a lasting or significant impact. Samantha Benfield BSc Natural History
Over page. Common Toad, Pond Skater and Common Newt
Wildlife Events December and January 15 November to 14 January Saturday and Wednesday. RSPB Snettisham December and January at 7 am. Price: £15 includes full English breakfast. Booking essential. Join our guide in the Snettisham RSPB car park to witness one of the UK’s finest avian spectacles... the dawn flight of tens of thousands of pink-footed geese leaving their night-time roost on the Wash! We need to be leaving the car park before dawn. It’s early, but it’s worth leaving your duvet for! On returning to the car park we’ll drive the short distance to Poppyfields garden centre in Snettisham village for a hearty breakfast. It’s essential to pre-book your place, as the walk and breakfast are very popular. To book, please ring RSPB Titchwell Marsh on 01485 210779. The walk from the car park and back is approx 2.5 miles and a torch may be handy at the start. The cost of the walk is £15 including a full English breakfast (veggie options available) 7th December, Sunday. Suffolk Wildlife Trust. Foxburrow Farm. 10:00am - 1:00pm, £15 per person. Jo Hammond is a professional local basketmaker who has run very successful and enjoyable courses for us over the last few years. This half-day course is suitable for beginners with no prior knowledge of willow weaving. Make a natural willow garland or wreath for the festive season and decorate with pine cones, leaves, berries and other seasonal plant material. Learn about shaping, weaving, joining and finishing. Handouts and inspirational reference books will be available. The price includes all tools and materials. Please bring secateurs if you have them, but if 32
not, there will be some available to borrow on the day. Tea, coffee and biscuits will be provided and are included in the cost. 01473 890089 13th December, Saturday. Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust. Shoresearch at Anderby Creek. 2:00.pm. Beachcombing with a purpose: no previous knowledge of marine wildlife is required to take part in these surveys of the beach that are helping build a better picture of what lives where. For more information and to book your place, so we know you’re coming, please call 01754 898057. 13th December, Saturday. Essex Wildlife Trust. Belfairs Reserve. Winter Bird Watching Walk. 10-1pm. £5 Join our Woodland Ranger Ashley for a walk through the reserve to look for our winter residents! Meet at the Belfairs Woodland Centre to join Ashley on a walk through the Belfairs reserve. We will be looking for resident such as great spotted woodpecker, nuthatch and tree creepers and migrants like woodcock, redwings and brent geese. Ideal for age 12 upwards. BOOKING IS ESSENTIAL 01702 477467 17th December, Wednesday. Sculthorpe Moor Hawk and Owl Trust, Warden’s Christmas Wander. 9 to 11am. Join our Warden at Sculthorpe Moor Nature Reserve for a festive wander to parks of the reserve that are not normally open to the public. Join him afterwards for a cup of hot chocolate or mulled wine! It has been
rumoured that Father Christmas may make an appearance! Wear sturdy footwear and suitable clothing for the weather. £5 non members £4 HOT/FOSM members. For more information or to book a place call 01328 856 788 or emailsculthorpe@hawkandowl.org or drop into the centre and speak to one of the staff. 20th December, Saturday 10-3pm. Essex Wildlife Trust. Christmas Stocking Workshop. Make a stocking from scratch in this creative and very glittery workshop. Booking essential. Venue location. Thurrock Thameside Nature Park, Stanford-Le-Hope, Essex, SS17 0RN Grid reference TQ696806 suggested donation of £5 per person. 01375 643 342 20th December, Saturday. Essex Wildlife Trust. Abberton Reservoir. Stargazing 6-9.30pm. £3.00 donation per child £5.00 donation per adult. An evening with Essex Wildlife Trust and North Essex Astronomical Society. Join Essex Wildlife Trust and North Essex Astronomical Society to look at the night sky through large telescopes at Abberton Reservoir. Booking essential please call 01206 738172. 21st December, Sunday. Norfolk Wildlife Trust, Cley Marshes. Walk with the warden. 10:30am - 12:30pm / £3 NWT members and children, £5 adults. Advance booking required.Please call the visitor centre on 01263 740008. A Sunday morning guided walk onto the reserve looking at the birds that spend autumn and winter at Cley. The walk lasts about two
hours, returning to the centre in time for lunch. 22nd December, Monday. Suffolk Wildlife Trust. Frozen. 10.3012.30pm £.2.50. Family event. Reindeer, snowmen and ‘arctic’ adventures. Please book. Venue location. Saddlemakers Lane, Melton, Woodbridge, Suffolk, IP12 1NA foxburrow.education@ suffolkwildlifetrust.org 27th December, Saturday. RSPB Suffolk. Christmas Walk. Normanston Park to Everitts Park, Lowestoft. 10am - 12.30pm Price: No charge all welcome. Walk of the Christmas excesses from Normanston Park to Everitt’s Park. Meet at Normanston Park car park at by Leathes Ham viewpoint at 10am.Leader: Howard Bayliss. Normanston Park Lowestoft NR32 2QB
teers on board the 118-year old Thames Sailing Barge Victor for a first-class wildlife spectacle along the Stour Estuary. If the thought of seeing thousands of birds swirling against the backdrop of Suffolk and Essex countryside appeals, then this trip is just for you. Our experts will help you identify all of the birds (and hopefully a seal or two) that we will come across as we motor from Harwich to Mistley and back. Hot food and drinks are served below deck and included in the package. Telephone: 01206 391153. email:stourestuary@rspb. org.uk 18th January, Sunday. RSPB Cambridgeshire, Ouse Washes. Wonderful Wildfowl. 10.30am to 1.00pm. Price: £2 members £3 non members. Booking essential. Ouse Washes, in the heart of the Fens,
is one of the best places locally to see the spectacle of wintering wildfowl, when thousands of ducks and swans flock to this area from the north. Wrap up warm and come with us to see how many we can spot! We will organise car shares to this event due to the distance details to be arranged closer to the date. Please email us by 15 January to book your place. fowlmerebullfinches@hotmail.co.uk 26th January, Monday. RSPB Dingle Marsh. 10.00 am - 1pm Price: No charge all welcome. Guided walk. Meet at Hoist Covert car park, Lodge Road Walberswick, IP18 6UP. Turn sharp right after church - car park on right after 30mph signs No facilities Leader: Richard Straton
4th January, Sunday. New Year Walk, Essex Wildlife Trust. Hanningfield Reservoir.10-1pm. £7 per person. Start the New Year off with a spring in your step and walk off all those mince pies on our New Year Walk! Approx 6 mile walk through the surrounding countryside and starting and finishing at Hanningfield Visitor Centre. Return to the centre for soup and a roll. Booking Essential. Venue location. Hanningfield Reservoir Visitor Centre, Hawkswood Road, Downham, CM11 1WT. 01268 711001 13th January, Thursday. Essex RSPB Birds by Barge on the Stour (Saturday 15 November to Tuesday 28 January. Sat 15 Nov 8:30am, Sun 16 Nov 10am, Sat 29 Nov 8am, Sun 30 Nov 8:45am, Sun 14 Dec 8am, Mon 15 Dec 9am, Tues 13 Jan 8am, Wed 14 Jan 9am, Tues 27 Jan 8:15am, Wed 28 Jan 9:15am. Price: £42.00. Booking essential. Join local RSPB staff and volun-
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What has been around
September and October some of the exciting species that were found.
On the 6th of September Britain’s earliest Pallas’s Grasshopper Warbler was trapped at Titchfield Ha-ven in Hampshire. The bird represented the second record for the south coast but after release there were no further sightings.
The 4th of September a Juvenile Little Crake was found at Black Hole Marsh near Seaton in east Devon which remained there until midday on the 5th but did not show again. Just across the Irish Sea an Adult Stilt Sandpiper was present from the the 3rd of September near Tacumshin and then on Swords Estuary near Dublin from the 4th where the bird remained there until at least the 7th of September and then reappeared on the 10th at Lady Island. The 6th of September news broke of a Snowy Owl that had been present since the 19th of May and Little Bunting, Spurn Barred Warbler, Salthouse
These two months can be the most important for the serious lister, with birders watching the weather patterns carefully to see where they need to be heading to catch autumn migrants on passage. As the winds swing from the east the anticipation is heightened for East Anglian watchers as it increases the possible number of birds that could reach these shores. The migration started well and within the first few days of September rarities were being reported. The following is a round-up of
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was still present on Ben Macdui
The first Isabelline Shrike was trapped on the 15th on North Ronaldsay and was confirmed as Adult female Daurian Shrike.
The first Lanceolated Warbler was found on the Isle of May in Scotland on the 11th and proved difficult to see as it skulked in the undergrowth. The 13th of September saw the Isles of Scilly attract its second Olive-backed Pipit, Wells Woods
record of Whiskered Tern found on the great pool on Tresco.
The first Red-flanked Bluetail of the autumn was found at Sumburgh Head, Shetland on the 19th of September and the east coast saw a large fall of eastern migrants including Red-breasted Flycatchers, Yellow-browed and Barred Warblers to name a few.
Saturday the 20th of September Britain’s 3rd Masked Shrike was discovered at Kilnsea, East Yorkshire and remained on site until at least the 2nd of October. The bird was very popular as birders added this very rare bird to their lists. The Spurn Observatory where trapping the usual haul of migrants which included Kingfisher and Little Bunting on the 28th of September. The 21st of September a very showy and confiding Olive-backed
Pipit was delighting the crowds on the edge of the dell in Wells Wood, Norfolk.
A brief Red Eyed Vireo at Sumburgh Shetland on the 25th of September represented the third record for the Islands. The last weekend in September saw an Ovenbird being discovered
in Ireland at Mizen head on the 27thand a Swainsons Thrush at Norwick, Unst on the 28th. Shetland continued to produce exciting and showy birds with a Myrtle Warbler and Whites Thrush both on South of Shetland mainland.
One of the highlight birds of September was the adult male Eyebrowed Thrush found on North Ronaldsay on the 30th of September which showed well to the fortunate birders staying on the island.
The Little Crake at Minsmere was showing occasionally from Bittern Hide from the 27th of September and remained there until at least the 12th of October.
The Shetlands soon struck back on the 3rd of October with a superb adult male Siberian Rubythroat being discovered at Levenwick and remained there until the 8th of
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covered on the 15th and 16th with birds at Kilnsea East Yorkshire. Warham Greens Norfolk and Sandwich Bay in Kent.
The ex-hurricane Gonzalo brought a number of very rare birds to our shores with Black-billed Cuckoo being discovered on North Ronaldsay on the 23rd of October which was the first since October 1990 and was sadly only seen briefly by the few local observer who found the bird. Its close cousin Yellow-billed Cuckoo was found at Porthgwarra Cornwall on the same date but was far more easy to see as the bird remained in the area until the following day the 24th.
Steppe Grey Shrike,Burnham
October. The Norfolk coast attracts birders from around the country and the first record of Steppe Grey Shrike was discovered at Burnham Norton on the 5th of October. The bird became a star attraction as many visitors travelled to see this showy and confiding bird.
The 6th of October a first year Scarlet Tanager was discovered on Barra which remained there until the 9th but proved to fairly elusive during stay. The 10th of October an Eastern Bonelli ‘s Warbler was discovered at Scalloway on the Shetlands where the bird was showing well and heard calling on the 11th confirming the birds identification.
A second winter Auduions Gull was photographed at Dungness Kent on the 12th with no further reports. The 13th and 14th of October saw a major influx of migrants but no real highlights. The Red flanked Bluetails in Norfolk at Warham and
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Stiffkey would have set pulses racing in the past but since the early 1990’s this is no longer the case.
The 15th Shetland saw Britains ninth record of Siberian Thrush which had been trapped in Norway on the 24th of September at Husoy. This is great information from the ringing of birds. Three Isabelline Shrikes were dis-
The Western Isles was certainly not left out as a very confiding Hermit Thrush was found on North Uist on the 22nd. A Grey cheeked Thrush was found on Bara on the 23rd and another on North Ronaldsay on the 23rd and another on Fair Isle on the 24th. A very confiding Hoopoe at Kessingland in Suffolk attracted many admirers where the bird gave incredible photographic opportunities at the end of October.
The star bird at the end of October was the discovery of Britain’s third record of Eastern Crowned Warbler Hoopoe, Kessingland
in a wooded ravine at Hunley Hall Golf course in Cleveland where the bird was attracting visitors from all parts of the UK. The bird found on the 30th remained there until the 1st of November but had departed on the Saturday night. It seems incredible that there has been 3 records in just 5 years of this extremely rare warbler.
To summarise the winds from the west were quite poor with most North American passerines ending up on the Scottish Islands. There was a general lack of waders with only a small number of waders such as Pectoral Sandpiper and White-rumped Sandpiper reaching our shores. The East coast saw a vast influx of migrants throughout September and October with the star birds of Eastern Crowned Warbler and Masked Shrike stealing the show. Masked Shrike, Yorkshire
Long-eared Owl, Walsey Hills above and below Grey Phalarope Watch, Cley-next-the-sea
Grey Phalarope, Cley
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Bird List Part 3
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Bird Watching is a hobby where many like to record what they have seen - listing. The Bird Watcher can use any forms of listing, from the simple check list where all new sightings are just ticked on a list or using special software to creat a more comprehensive
list of their sightings. If you are serious about listing you may consider: 1. Garden list - including anything that has flown over or landed in the garden. 2. Patch list including anything in your
local area. 3. County List - this first list is for Norfolk. 4. British Life List. 5. Year List. Part 5 and other counties to follow.
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Readers Page Mystery Bird
Answer on last double spread inside the back cover.
Answers to spot the difference
Peacock Butterfly Taken by Allegra Cerea This stunning shot was taken by 14 year old Allegra in her back garden in Stoke Holy Cross, near Norwich. The photgraph is made even more beautiful due to the lovely texture of the flower pot covered in lichens. creating aa attractive background. The peacock butterfly feeds on nectar but the caterpillars need nettles to survive so if you have them in your garden, don’t be too quick to pull them out. The females particularly like areas of nettles that are in the sun and when she finds a suitable spot , can lay up to 500 eggs. This reminder of summer was taken on a mobile phone and proves you can take nature and wildlife anywhere, but we think this shot shows that Allegra has a good eye for an artistic photo. So thank you for submitting your picture for us to share and keep taking those photos.
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Taking Care of Wildlife Fat Balls and Cakes Fat balls or cakes can be designer food for birds with all kinds of extras now added to shop bought products, including fruit and insects. Many different types of birds will come to fat balls as they are a great source of energy in the cold winter months and help to give good feather growth in the breeding season and when moulting. Blue Tits, Great Tits, Coal Tits, Long-tailed Tits, Starlings and Robins will all enjoy visiting a fat feeder and other birds will pick up the crumbs that are dropped including Blackbirds, finches, Jays, Sparrows and Dunnocks. Once you have attracted birds to your garden fat balls do begin to go down quite quickly so you may wish to make you own. If you buy them in it is cheaper to buy tubs of 36 or 50 but make sure that if they have nets on, to remove them
before placing them outside. It is very easy to make you own fat balls using either melted lard or suet and ingredients from your kitchen cupboards, but don’t use chicken or turkey fat as this does not set so well and can clog the birds’ feathers. The amounts required vary a little depending on what you add, but around a third fat to two thirds seed and other ingredients will bind the ball together. You can add porridge oats, peanuts, seeds, sunflower hearts, dried insects, dried fruit, cheese, bacon, cake, digestive biscuits, cooked potato, cooked rice and breadcrumbs. Some items, like raisins and mealworms are more popular if you soak them first and remember to chop peanuts to make them more bite sized for the smaller birds. Birds cannot cope with salt in their diet so if you do make your own do not use salted peanuts or salty bacon, birds. Dried coconut is also very hard for them to digest, so
should not be included. Once you have mixed the ingredients into the melted fat you will need something to set the mixture in. Raid your recycle bin for yoghurt pots, margarine pots and damaged plant pots as these are perfect but remember if you wish to hang the pot out directly you will need string in the pot before you add the mix. Of course you can always empty out the set mixture straight onto a bird table but it is better to hang them to keep them away from local cats and rats. If making fat balls remember to mould knotted string into the centre of the ball and make it firm around the knot which is best done with your hands. Place the balls or tubs in the fridge overnight to set. For a better look several stores sell ceramic and other holders to make your fat balls in and then you can just hang them up in the holder Long-tailed Tits
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Wildlife East Anglia Articles to come: Frampton RSPB, Abberton Reservoir Wildlife Artist/photographer Brin edwards Alien Invaders - Lttle Owl Identification Papers. Blast from the Past Rarity Round Up Wildlife Events South Essex Rescue centre Northern Cyprus
Do you have something for the readers page? Please email it to wildlifeeastanglia@gmail.com For back editions please contact the
offices below. If you have a suggestion for a feature we would be delighted to hear your ideas. All articles are as accurate as possible but we may make mistakes. Let us know if we have and will try and correct it. For advertising from ÂŁ40 and editorials. If you would like to submit please contact us. Unfortunately until the magazine makes a profit we will be unable to pay for articles it Please contact: wildlifeeatanglia@gmail.com This editions mystery bird from the readers page is the Long-tailed Tit. A regular visitor to gardens, longtailed Tits ar often seen in large family groups and visit gardens all over the country. They are particularly fond of fat cakes and fat balls. This particular photo was taken in Norfolk.
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BTO is a national charity, based in East Anglia, that has led research into the changing fortunes of our birds for over 80 years. Help us understand the new challenges they face.
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Green Woodpecker by John Flowerday. The BTO is a Registered Charity No 216652 (England & Wales) No SC039193 (Scotland) and a Company Limited by Guarantee No 357284 (England & Wales). Registered Office: The Nunnery, Thetford, Norfolk, IP24 2PU