Lockdown Gems

The ongoing lockdown has meant any birding has been local, but surprisingly successful. Three unphotographed raptors were welcome additions to the list; Merlin hunting at Burdon Moor, Osprey north over my house and best of all a male Marsh Harrier east along Whickham Front Street while I was out for a run.

My earliest ever Swift flew past my window on the 19th. It wasn't until today that after an obvious large influx I saw my next.

Swift

I've managed some decent views of Short-eared and Long-eared Owls on morning wanders.

Short-eared Owl

Long-eared Owl

There seem to be a large number of warbler's around, perhaps an upside of the harsh lockdowns in southern Europe keeping hunters and trappers out of the countryside. Normally scarce Garden Warblers and Lesser Whitethroats are popping up everywhere. Grasshopper Warblers had a slow start but are now reeling in numbers, with one showing particularly well.

Grasshopper Warbler

Hare

Wheatear

Stoat

Rook

A nice find was the Wood Sandpiper that spent the 4th May feeding up at Lamesley.