A Spring Snake’s-head

Saturday 11th April and no better place to spend a spring day than at Rutland Water. There is always a good variety of birds and the chance of some migrants at this time of year. With waterfowl now in full summer plumage, some good opportunities with the camera. Numerous migrants were around with first Willow Warbler, Blackcap and Sedge Warbler. Plenty of Chiffchaff, Swallow and Sand Martin. First House Martin earlier in the morning at Eyebrook Reservoir, along with a Little Owl here. Several Red Kite and an Osprey at Rutland. Singing Cetti’s Warbler and earlyCommon Terns were both year ticks. With some stunning Snake’s-head Fritillaries just coming into flower and a good variety of ducks and a very obliging Great Crested Grebe, we had a cracking day. The year list moves along to 169. 

Monday 13th April and a trip into the city of Derby for a couple of male Ring Ouzel and a bonus male Redstart all at the small local nature reserve at Pride Park. Taking the year list on to 171

Snakes-head Fritillary – This rare flower seems to be flourishing at Rutland Water – Tony Davison©

Great Crested Grebe – Rutland Water – Tony Davison© – What I call a “Top Notch” bird

Gadwall – summer drake – Rutland Water – Tony Davison©

 

Shelduck – summer drake – Rutland Water – Tony Davison© – Another cracking bird in summer plumage 

 

Shoveler – Rutland Water – Tony Davison©

Common Tern – Rutland Water – Tony Davison©

Chiffchaff – Rutland Water – Tony Davison© – My first shot of a warbler with the new gear, pity about the jewellery!!