A Pelagic Wader and an Autumn Fall

A last minute decision Saturday morning (12th Oct), was to head off to Covenham Reservoir, in Lincolnshire for a storm blown pelagic wader, a Grey Phalarope. We had no idea if the bird was still there and the weather was foul, so even if it was, would we get any photos? Really dull low cloud, rain and wind blowing from the ENE, was ideal for migrant birds to make landfall along the east coast and later in the day we had a real surprise.

We made Covenham and after a long search, eventually found the Grey Phalarope. We spent at least an hour, photographing this smart little wader that showed down to very close range, as they allways seem to do. It wasn't bothered by us at all and posed for the camera. Other birds here – a Dunlin, 3 Greenshank, 2 Ringed Plover and a Rock Pipit.

With a report of an Olive-backed Pipit at Donna Nook and migrants begining to be found, we decided to head off there. On arrival, it was obvious that there had been a large fall of birds, as common migrants seemed to be everywhere. Good numbers of Robin (estimated around 100), Goldcrest (estimated around 40 -50), Chiffchaff (estimated around 40); Brambling (1 flock of 40 and smaller numbers elsewhere); several Meally Redpoll; 2 Great Grey Shrike, single Blackcap; several hundred Redwing; a single Little Egret, single Woodcock, but the OBP seemed to have disappeared.

All in all a great day, witnessing the arrival of a superb fall of autumn birds in atrocious weather conditions. A single year tick to take my year list to 242. Thanks to Glyn, Richard and Pete for their company and to Richard for all the driving. 

Grey Phalarope, Covenham Reservoir, Lincolnshire – 12th October 2013 – Tony Davison©