A male Black-throated Thrush had taken up residence at Tophill Low Nature Reserve, near Bridlington in Yorkshire. I had been meaning to go and see this bird, and eventually timing and a suitable day all fell into place. Along with a good photography pal, we made the journey on 16th January. A cold but bright and sunny morning, ideal conditions. Some great year ticks fell in place.
After a distraction on route to look at a mixed party of 70 Whooper and 4 Bewick’s Swan, we arrived at Tophill Low just as the site was being opened up for the day. After a 15-20 minute walk, we arrived at the birds favoured location, and after 10 minutes or so, I managed to locate the bird feeding on berries in Hawthorn scrub. What a smart looking bird, a real vagrant from the taiga forests of Siberia. Single birds find their way to Britain every so often. It’s a real treat to see one, especially when it’s a male. Eventually it moved into more central scrub and showed quite well. Whilst walking back to the car park, a Cattle Egret flew over. We finished off the day at Bridlington Harbour and had a session with the local Purple Sandpipers. A great day out.
