Local patch Megas still present

The two Velvet Scoters, probably a female and a first winter drake, were still present today at Staunton Harold Reservoir, South Derbyshire. This morning, I was fortunate enough to be taken out onto the water in one of the local Yacht Club’s Ribs and was able to get a few good shots of one of the birds in flight, before this area of water was covered in sailing boats, thus moving virtually all of the wildfowl, in the dam area, down to the southern end. They were still showing well from the southern end during mid to  late afternoon, feeding on fresh water mussels. Also on view were at least 40 Great Crested Grebe, a few Wigeon a single first winter drake Goldeneye, a few Teal and Tufted Duck.

Velvet Scoter above 5 images – probably a female and a first winter drake – Staunton Harold Reservoir – Tony Davison©

Mallard – above 4 images – Staunton Harold Reservoir – Tony Davison©

Coot – above 3 images – Staunton Harold Reservoir – Tony Davison©

Black-headed Gull – adult winter – Staunton Harold Reservoir – Tony Davison©