A walk around the local fields on 3rd February produced a flock of 4 and another flock of 9 Yellowhammer. Good to see they are still close by, although none at Staunton Harold Res so far this winter. 2 Brambling at Staunton Harold on 5th Feb, 9 Red-legged Partridge, c200 Fieldfare and c50 Redwing and a Little Egret on 12th Feb. The Feb WEBS count produced following highlights on 23rd Feb – 105 Great Crested Grebe, 103 Tufted Duck, 3 Goosander, a Great White Egret, but not a single Teal anywhere. A drake Goldeneye and the juvenile Peregrine still around on 25th Feb. A Red Kite, 2 Oystercatcher, Great White Egret and c 50 Brambling on 27th Feb.
A photo session at Melbourne Pool during the month was productive, as a confiding female Goosander was a bonus. The two feral (dubious origin) Red-crested Pochards still present, still looking spectacular though. Plenty of Gadwall and a few Wigeon.
