Cors Dyfi: 2 Osprey, 3 Raven, 2 Red Kite, Reed & Sedge Warblers.
Matt Potter said
Wed Apr 26 12:44 PM, 2023
The Dyfi Ospreys are doing well with three eggs laid. The incubation begins!
Andrew Jeffery said
Sun Feb 19 6:01 PM, 2023
Highlights of a weekend in Aberystwyth:
Around the Pier area: 42 Turnstone, 3 Purple Sandpiper, Little Egret, 4 Oystercatcher, 2 Rock Pipit & Black Redstart
Around Constitution Hill: A pair of Peregrines & 2 Stonechat
Tony Coatsworth said
Wed Nov 9 9:17 AM, 2022
Well, we have now moved to Berriew just south of Welshpool.
Garden ticks include up to six Red Kites overhead on any day, hundreds of Jackdaws, Pheasants and Woodpigeon. Also an Otter just over the road.
I've found a local ringer so I can continue training towards my C-Permit. Just seem to be catching Redwing at the moment.
I'll be back in Manchester from time to time, but it's unlikely I'll ever get to 200 for my GM list, as it is a 4 hour round trip to twitch anything :)
Andrew Jeffery said
Mon Nov 7 1:12 PM, 2022
Highlights of a w/e in the Aberystwyth area:
Aberystwyth: 32 Turnstone, 1 Gannet, 1 Rock Pipit, 1 Black Redstart (on the Old College roof) & a lovely Starling murmuration around the pier.
Ynys Hir: very quiet - Redshank, Snipe, Curlew, Raven, Red Kites, Kingfisher, Raven & some very distant Barnacle Geese.
Ian Yeomans said
Sun Oct 9 7:21 PM, 2022
We spent 90 minutes on the headland at northern edge of Aberystwyth. Individuals and pairs of Ravens with a large group of seven before we left. A group of four Chough with two more following behind. One Wheatear. One Stonechat. Three Wrens. Several Meadow Pippets One Rock Pippet.
Steve Judge said
Thu Jun 20 9:35 PM, 2019
14th June - 21st June 2019: Stayed in cottage in Dolgellau with River Arran flowing right behind cottage.
From lounge window of cottage - Dipper, Grey Wagtail and Red Kite sightings. Three cracking 'garden' ticks!
Other sightings included:
2 Ring Ouzel (1M/1F) on way up to summit of Cadair Idris (off Minffordd Path near Craig Cau). Gronking Raven also heard.1 Herring Gull on Summit! Also, male Stonechat and Kestrel on way down.: 18/6/19.
Male Pied Flycatcher, 2 Redstart (1 Female adult/1 Juvenile), Hobby, Wood Warbler, Willow Warbler, Chiffchaff, Great Spotted Woodpecker, 2 Buzzard, Song Thrush, Mistle Thrush, Siskin, Long-Tailed Tit and Coal Tit in 'Coed Y Garth' woodland: 20/6/19.
Wood Warbler, Willow Warbler, Chiffchaff, Treecreeper and Grey Wagtail in 'Coed Garth Gell' Reserve: 16/6/19.
1 Juvenile Redstart, 2 Great Spotted Woodpecker, 3 Mistle Thrush, 2 Adult Nuthatch (with 1 juvenile), Meadow Pipit and Skylark on 'Precipice Walk' (just north of Dolgellau): 17/6/19.
2 Stonechat, 3 Goosander, 3 Pied Wagtail, 1 White Wagtail, 2 Grey Wagtail, 1 Greylag Goose, 15 Canada Geese, Swallow, House Martin, 10 Oystercatcher on 'Dollegellau to Barmouth (Mawddach Trail)' converted from disused railway line: 15/6/19.
5 Siskin, 2 Nuthatch, Buzzard and 4 Jay in Coed-y-Brenin woodland (see photo attached of one of the male Siskin): 19/6/19.
-- Edited by Steve Judge on Thursday 20th of June 2019 09:39:45 PM
Stephen Fuentes said
Mon Jun 3 8:36 AM, 2019
We spent a week at our caravan last week near Machynlleth.
Species seen around the site and locally:
Blue tit, Great tit, Long-tailed tit, Coal tit, House sparrow, Robin, Dunnock, Blackbird, Goldfinch, Chaffinch, Blackcap, Garden warbler, Willow warbler, Chiffchaff, Wood warbler, Great spotted woodpecker, Pied flycatcher, Spotted flycatcher, Pied wagtail, Grey wagtail, Redstart, Red kite, Buzzard, Raven, Crow, Jay, Song thrush, Cuckoo.
Pied flycatchers are in good numbers this year.
A drive to Hafren forest to see the Ospreys by Clywedog reservoir offered good views of the pair around the nest protecting their three eggs from the local buzzards.
A midweek drive to the red kite feeding centre at Bwlch Nant Yr Arian didn't disappoint, with 100+ of the birds on view.
Cheers,
Steve.
-- Edited by Stephen Fuentes on Monday 3rd of June 2019 02:26:42 PM
Richard Thew said
Thu May 30 1:54 PM, 2019
I've had a few days in Llandovery, this time with my mother.
My last visit clocked up 52 species, this time I've had 59!
My highlights include:
1st. Red kites, which showed exceptionally well at my favourite feeding station just 8 miles north! This wasn't quite as good as what I had in 2017, but still addictive and full of thrills and excitement - most importantly, my mother love it to bits.
2nd Spotted flycatcher showed very well just a stones throw from our accommodation!
Also noteworthy was:
Swift Greylag geese Grey wagtail Garden warbler Willow warbler Blackcap Marsh tit Jay Raven Linnet Siskin Redpoll (very, very close on Wednesday - but didn't stay when I carefully reached for my camera) Redstart (brief views) Treecreepers
Only 1 bird heard and not seen throughout (i must be improving) - which was the wood warbler!
We only had one decent day of good sunny weather and that was Tuesday which was used for Castle Woods in Llandeilo (an easy way pronounced as like "land-day-low"). Unfortunately, the redstarts didn't show very well, but, I got great views of..
Goosander with 9 youngsters Sedge warbler Sand Martins 3 Little egret compared to only 1 Grey heron throughout the 3 days! Lesser black backed gulls Pied flycatcher Nuthatch Bullfinch Great spotted woodpecker Dipper flew through
The beautiful train journey had lapwing and pheasant extras to note.
If anyone wants to see my top 5 favorite picturs from this trip, I've timed this post to have them on my Flickr page ready for viewing on the link - you won't be disappointed!!! (I hope)
https://www.flickr.com/photos/135715507@N06
Neil Blood said
Tue May 7 9:17 AM, 2019
Moel Y Golfa, early morning walk 05/05/2019:
I had 2 Wood Warblers here in 2017 and I know they were present last year, but unfortunately no sign on this trip. I did however encounter: Pied Flycatcher 3 singing, Redstart 6+ singing, Willow Warbler 1 singing, Marsh Tit, Red Kite, plus all the usual woodland species.
Followed this route on foot and the views from the top are stunning. Also had the whole site to myself:
On exiting and heading down towards Criggion Quarry, the hillside was alive with singing Willow Warblers and a single Yellowhammer.
-- Edited by Neil Blood on Tuesday 7th of May 2019 09:18:44 AM
Rob Creek said
Mon May 7 2:22 PM, 2018
Sunday 6th May with Simon Gough.
Llan Bwch-llyn Lake in Powys.
- tried for the Ferruginous Duck but no sign - 1 Cuckoo, located a male on a moorside fence post in the distance - Blackcap (heard everywhere throughout the day) - Willow Warbler - Chiffchaff - Meadow Pipit - Great Crested Grebe - Tufted Duck - Reed Warbler heard only - 1 Sparrowhawk - Common Buzzard
Stephen Fuentes said
Mon Apr 16 10:31 AM, 2018
Visiting our caravan last week, we decided to go for a drive around Llyn Clywedog. Having driven around here many times before, I was surprised to come across an Osprey nest which has been set up along the shore of the reservoir. A single Osprey was by the nest when we were there last Wednesday, and the pair had been reported the previous day.
A bit of Googling revealed that a nest platform had been set up in 2004, but it was 10 years before it was taken up. There has now been a successful breeding pair there since 2014. The Welsh Wildlife Trust are watching the nest 24/7 and we did spot a warden in a vehicle watching from the opposite shore. This nest is clearly not well advertised, but there is an official hide there from which it can be viewed.
Clywedog Reservoir is situated between Machynlleth and Llanidloes. Take the minor road to the resr off the B4518, signposted 'Scenic Route' at the village of Staylittle. The hide is situated on the left as you enter Hafren Forest and before you reach the reservoir. Try not to blink or you'll miss it !
Cheers,
Steve.
-- Edited by Stephen Fuentes on Monday 16th of April 2018 10:50:32 AM
Simon Gough said
Sat Feb 17 8:00 PM, 2018
Powis Castle, Feb 16th 11.00-14.30
A pleasant visit with my parents to this superb stately home just outside Welshpool produced some great birds in and over the grounds, although in a recurring thread I failed to see any Hawfinches, which are regulars at this location. However there were some nice sightings; 1 or 2 Red Kite, a pair of displaying Ravens, lots of Nuthatch and a couple of Great Spotted Woodpeckers in the wooded grounds and so on.
I think we were just a bit late on in the day to catch Hawfinch, it felt a bit like Sizergh where you really want to be there early doors for your best chance. One tantalising sighting was a big raptor gliding over that I just couldn't turn into a Goshawk, there were plenty of Buzzards about and it was most likely one of them but it had a longish tail and I was excited for a minute.
A great spot to visit if you're in the area, although obviously it's the middle of nowhere!
Mark Jarrett said
Wed Nov 8 10:29 PM, 2017
A visit to Gigrin Farm, Rhayader this afternoon some twenty odd years after my last visit, not long after they started their Red Kite feeding enterprise. Great to see so many Red Kites now, somewhere in the region of four hundred. One part leucistic adult bird stood out as did a few lighter phased/juveniles. Also around were half a dozen Common Buzzard, corvids including Raven and a Grey Heron. A few photos attached.
Bit of a late post, I've just been too busy or too tired. Anyway, August 1st trip to see the red kites again from Llandovery, unfortunately I did get wet in the frequent mega heavy showers, thankfully I went prepared. Much simular to yesterday (previous post) only with less action but A buzzard landed even closer to the hide which was the days highlight. Other birds included lesser redpoll, nuthatch, great spotted woodpecker and a Jay.
August 2nd was a trip to Castle woods..... In the rain at Llandeilo. Highlights included Cormorant, little egret, redstart (briefly close), 3 goosanders on the river, red kite, raven and spotted flycatcher. Species totalling around 40.
Yesterday, before my train was due at Llandovery I found 2 juvenile dippers on the river.
Overall, the 3 days and a morning trip produced 52 species, with my favourite moment still being on Monday 31st July with the red kite and buzzard close experiences
Richard Thew said
Mon Jul 31 9:51 PM, 2017
Recently got into Llandovery (1pm) to enjoy the red kites paticularly.
I was going to go upto the local kite station tomorrow but I decided - why not go this afternoon. With my fold up bike, I endured 7 miles of steep ups and downs and got there just in time for the 3pm feed. I've been here 3 times before since 2008 and I still find it as exciting. Each visit is different in what dramas unfold. This time I've had two buzzards giving me the best photo opportunity I've ever had in my birding life.
I don't have wifi on my camera, but with a little inventive thinking, I've managed to transfer a few to my divice and I'm happy to say I now currently have two picture on Flickr! I'd post them here but they ain't rare birds so I doubt they will end up remaining on this post. (I've not yet looked at the flight pictures.)
Also present there was ravens, at least a dozen, Willow warbler, spotted flycatcher and stock doves to note.
Half way back to Llandovery, I realised I've dropped my note book somewhere at the top. Determined not to loose it I retraced my steps and managed to retrieve it ......or be it with a car tyre print on the back!
It was well worth it though as I found a nice buzzard feather not far from where I lost my book! Ta!!
Doc Brewster said
Sun Jul 16 10:21 PM, 2017
Seeing as how Carys has been away for 4 weeks nursing her mum we deserved a day out and so picked her favourite area of mid Wales, near where she was at Uni (Aberystwyth) and headed to Ynys-las just south of Ynys hir RSPB.
Parking here is on the beach, for £2 all day and the money goes to the wildlife trust so well worth it. We parked up and walked over to a small group on the foreshore looking out over the Dyfi Estuary. As expected they were looking at the star bird that has been here for over 2 weeks, a first-summer female King Eider, or the 'Queen Eider' as she has been nicknamed! The bird was quite distant on a sandbank and sat preening or sleeping most of the time, but with a scope views were good and this 'plumage tick' for me was studied at length. As we watched Carys picked up an Osprey flying towards us up the estuary. This flew low straight over the Queen and flushed her out onto the water, so we got to watch her take a short flight and then swim around. The tatty adult Osprey flew low directly over us which was great too. A Sanderling flew along the shore but with the tide rushing in we headed back to explore the dunes after eating lunch.
On reaching the seaward side of the dunes, mid afternoon, I did a little seawatch as it had been shearwater heaven offshore recently. Sure enough Manx Shearwater and Gannet were easily added to the day list but more unexpected were a party of 4 Sooty Shearwaters heading past north. I see from the pager Sooty Sheawaters were seen off the west coast of Scotland today so this sighting ties in nicely with this. We then headed back, with time moving on, to have a last look at the King Eider. She was again hauled out on a sandbank asleep but not more distant and the heathaze was awful. We had a mooch around and were rewarded with a single Chough and three Sandwich Terns. The final good birds were three Red Kites scavenging a field in which we had seen a car boot sale earlier, next to the road down to Ynys-las.
This site is only just over 100 miles from home but takes 2.5 hours to reach due to the windy roads whichever route you choose, but we reckoned after a day like today it is well worth it
Neil Blood said
Mon May 1 1:23 PM, 2017
Moel Y Golfa, early morning walk in poor weather conditions (rain, mist and low cloud):
Wood Warbler 2 (1 singing), Pied Flycatcher 3 singing, Redstart 7+ singing, Willow Warbler 3 singing, Marsh Tit, Green Woodpecker, Red Kite, plus all the usual woodland species.
It was absoloutely incredible to watch a few hundred red kites circling overhead and propping down to where the meat was. Many carrion crow joined in, a few of which had their lunch stolen by the kites, and a raven also appeared at one point. A the feeders there were several Siskin and a goldcrest
Chris Chandler said
Mon May 18 12:10 AM, 2015
Fantastic day out with the Stockport Birdwatching Group to Ynys Hir on Saturday 16/05/15
10.30am - 4pm
According to the wardens, the reserve is still very quiet for this time of year - many of the birds have only returned in the last week or so. All the same, a good range of 52 species were on display -
8 Pied Flycatcher - Mainly males, picked up on call. There were several great views, with a pair regularly returning to a nest box and another male fly-catching from a gate on the nature trail. 2 Redstart - Both males. One showed fantastically well in bare branches down to around 20 feet. I haven't seen Redstart for a while, so was delighted with the views. 2 Wood Warbler - Finally tracked a pair down in the last hour before we left. They were tricky to find, but once we were on them, they showed nicely in the canopy. 2 Tree Pipit - One bird was seen foraging in the leaf litter, before a 2nd gave far better views, singing and parachuting from a small tree. Lifer for me 2 Garden Warbler 2 Osprey - Visible with the scope at the nearby Cors Dyfi site 1 Red Kite 1 Garganey (m) 4 Whimbrel 3 Raven
Numerous Sedge Warblers, Blackcaps, Whitethroats, Chiffchaffs and Willow Warblers. Others in the group also had Hobby, Cuckoo and Sandwich Tern.
Stephen Fuentes said
Tue May 5 9:30 AM, 2015
Up at the caravan again this weekend. Good numbers of Pied flycatchers, Wood warblers and Redstarts around, as well as the more common warbler species. A cuckoo was also spotted near the site, and the sight of a female Goosander flying into a hollow tree (where it was obviously nesting), up a mountain, miles from any rivers or lakes took me by surprise.
Cheers,
Steve.
JOHN TYMON said
Sun Jan 25 6:08 AM, 2015
Gigrin Farm 25.01.2014
Trip to Gigrin Farm mid wales today with Dennis Atherton What a fantastic place -with today 500 + Red Kites, plenty buzzards and Ravens. And I remember in the 1970s when there only were 12 breeding pairs of Red Kite left in Wales. The promised sun was not present much but the birds were awesome. The sight of 500+ Red Kites spiralling around the site will not be forgotten too soon. Well worth the 250 mile round trip.
-- Edited by JOHN TYMON on Sunday 25th of January 2015 06:08:48 AM
Stephen Fuentes said
Tue Nov 4 2:07 PM, 2014
A stunning sight of 25 Red kites over our caravan site last Thursday evening. There are no feeding stations that I know of nearby so this really was an unusual sight.
Cheers,
Steve.
Stephen Fuentes said
Tue May 6 8:05 AM, 2014
A long weekend at the caravan near Machynlleth:
On the feeders:
Blue tit Great tit Coal tit Chaffinch Nuthatch Siskin Redpoll Goldfinch Great spotted woodpecker Robin Blackbird
This is MWT's largest reserve, an isolated expanse of moorland by Glaslyn lake, high in the Cambrian mountains between Machynlleth and Llanidloes.
Red kite Peregrine Buzzard Wheatear Meadow pipit Stonechat Skylark
Cheers,
Steve.
-- Edited by Stephen Fuentes on Tuesday 6th of May 2014 08:12:22 AM
-- Edited by Stephen Fuentes on Tuesday 6th of May 2014 08:14:54 AM
M Gannon said
Sun Apr 20 3:36 PM, 2014
Was in mid wales over the past few days. We had a fantastic time and saw lots of decent birds. We visited the ynys hir rspb reserve on Friday and had a lot of great sightings. The highlights were:
Pied flycatcher-3(possibly 4) Spotted flycatcher Stonechat Redstart-2 Blackcap-2 Greater spotted woodpecker-3 Siskin-5 Nuthatch-2 Treecreeper-2 Red kite Little egret
Common Lizard
The next day (saturday) we had a look at the Cors Dyfi nature reserve as we wanted to see the Ospreys. Only we didn't actually go to the reserve; instead we went to Dovey junction station, as the platform actually has great views of the Osprey nest. We manage to see 2 birds; one on the nest and the other flying around.
Overall, it was a brilliant trip to Wales with some fantastic birds
Matt Potter said
Mon Oct 21 4:47 AM, 2013
John Rayner wrote:
The Red Kite feeding station is called Bwlch Nant yr Arian. A nice centre and tearoom
31 August: The feeding time was 15.00 which we missed. There were 31 Kites sitting around waiting to be fed and the warden was expecting around 100 that day. Photographic opportunities would be excellent and it is well worth a look if you are passing.
Cheers, John
John
You should have said you were down in the area. We live two miles away from Nant yr Arian!
Paul Richardson said
Sun Sep 8 9:30 PM, 2013
While all the excitement has been going on about the Lesser Scaup at Penny Flash, I have had a week's holiday staying at Aberdyfi and exploring south Snowdonia and northern Mid-Wales (ish!!). What a fantastic area for bird life - even in September! Highlights were:
Red Kite feeding time at Nant yr Aryan (thanks to previous posters for the tipoff!) - about 90 birds, a wonderful spectacle on a sunny afternoon by the lake. Fantastic photo opps.
Spotted Flycatcher parents and 1 juv in Ceulan Valley near Tal y Bont, south of the Dovey. Feeding up the youngster for migration - bit late in the day really! Wonderful views.
A walk at the Dysinni estuary (Broad Water near Tywyn) watching an group of Common Sandpiper and Ringed Plover feeding on a sandbank, when a Peregrine swooped down and took one of the birds, sending all the others off in a panic, and putting all the nearby gulls into the air as well!
More Buzzards (including Juveniles) and Red Kites in the skies in general than we had ever seen. Superb views of a young buzzard in a remote valley, calling plaintively for a long time before flying off, presumably in search of its parent.
A walk up and around Bird Rock (Craig yr Aderyn) in the Dysynni valley - a spectacular place, which is the only inland breeding place in Wales for Cormorant, and also a favourite haunt of Choughs. Saw 4 Cormorant, and about 15 Chough - magical views of them enjoying the air currents around the crag.
Our first visit to this entrancing area, and characterised by a complete lack of other walkers - lonely and glorious scenery. Ynys Hir RSPB was a bit quiet, quieter than the surroundoing countryside to be honest - obviously a place to be in Spring.
58 species in the week - by no means exclusively a birding trip either.
-- Edited by Paul Richardson on Sunday 8th of September 2013 09:31:39 PM
John Rayner said
Sun Sep 1 11:48 PM, 2013
The Red Kite feeding station is called Bwlch Nant yr Arian. A nice centre and tearoom
31 August: The feeding time was 15.00 which we missed. There were 31 Kites sitting around waiting to be fed and the warden was expecting around 100 that day. Photographic opportunities would be excellent and it is well worth a look if you are passing.
Cheers, John
John Rayner said
Sun Aug 25 3:42 AM, 2013
71 Red Kites between Newtown and Aberaeron including a kettle of c50 at the feeding station between Llangurig and Aberystwyth (can't remember the reserve's name).
11 Whimbrel flying south at Fishguard Harbour.
Cheers John
Joe Wynn said
Thu Jul 18 2:26 AM, 2013
Spent the last week walking about the Devil's Bridge area near the Elan Valley, sadly no bins but still some brilliant birds to be had. Walked around a fair bit so sadly can't be to specific about locations, but highlights included:
1 Merlin 2 Redstart (1f and 1juv) 1 Sparrowhawk c20 Buzzard 3 Wheatear More Red Kites than i've ever seen before!
Also also found a Shrew and Common Lizard. :)
Stephen Fuentes said
Thu May 9 3:14 PM, 2013
First trip of the year to our caravan near Aberhosan (Machynlleth) over the weekend. On arrival Friday afternoon, I put the feeders out, and by the following morning they were swarming with Siskins, and up to 3 Redpoll visiting the sunflower hearts. All the other usual suspects also in good numbers including Great spotted woodpecker, Blue/Great/Coal tits, Goldfinch, Chaffinch, Nuthatch, and only a single Greenfinch (their numbers seem to be dropping everywhere). A very rare visitor for these parts was a male House sparrow.
When the sunflower ran out, I had to use mixed seed, and the Siskins and Redpolls lost interest barring the odd peck at the nut feeder. I must make sure I go well stocked up next time.
Around the site, the migrants were back in. Redstarts, Pied flycatchers and Wood warblers were easy pickings. They seem to be in stronger numbers this year. I couldn't walk more than a few yards in the local woodland without seemingly hearing a new Wood warbler chirring away, they seem to be in greater numbers than the more common Chiffchaffs and Willow warblers. The local sheep fields were full of Meadow pipits and Wheatears, and a Cuckoo was heard in the valley. Red Kite, Buzzard and Raven overhead as usual.
Cheers,
Steve.
Matt Potter said
Wed Dec 12 10:47 PM, 2012
Hi Dave
Up to two birds winter on the Old College building. Its interesting that you saw one there. Aber is so full of old buildings thats its possible they breed here, but no one has ever found them if they did!
Mind you, there isnt a huge number of birders round here, and the ones that are here can be a bit cliquey!
At the moment, good numbers of Scoters and Red Throated Divers are offshore along with a few Black Throated divers and the odd Great Norther Diver.
Greenland White Fronted and Barnacle Geese are back at their wintering site at RSPB Ynys Hir with the former in much reduced numbers than normal which is a bit concerning!
Whooper Swans are at various upland lakes and Red Kites are in huge numbers at the local feeding stations.
Cheers
dave broome said
Sat Nov 24 6:14 AM, 2012
Monday 19th Nov Black Redstart in Aberystwyth town centre between Owen Glyndwyr Square and railway station
Dave Thacker said
Wed Sep 5 2:36 AM, 2012
On a drive through mid Wales down to Milford Haven and back for a funeral on Sunday/Monday I saw over 40 Red Kites, 3 Buzzards, Merlin, and a Short eared owl. At the Crematorium near Narberth I saw a Green woodpecker and found a Redstart. Every phone line seemed to have a row of Swallows on it.
Rob Smallwood said
Sun Jul 29 11:51 PM, 2012
I think you did well with your sea watch at this time of year - Skuas are never numerous deep into Cardigan Bay, and it takes a real blow to bring in any Storm Petrels - but agree with your tactics for the Shearwaters.
Another good spot is the seafront at Tywyn further north - with handy shelters if there is a blow on - birds here tend to be passing by, or rather probably looping past and Balearics can be easy to spot at times.
Jonathan Platt said
Mon Jul 23 4:01 PM, 2012
Borth
Spent the weekend in Borth watching the Manx Shearwaters. Didn't manage to see any Balearics or, indeed, anything really unusual, but it's just simply amazing to see such huge numbers of birds. This is my third year at Borth and I still find it fascinating.
Apart from the shearwaters seawatching was pretty poor - I had a Bonxie on Sunday morning; several Mediteranean Gulls: Kittiwakes; large numbers of Sandwich terns along with two Arctics and a single Common; lots of Gannets; waders included Dunlin, beautiful summered-up Sanderling, four Whimbrel, Curlew, Turnstone and a single Common Sandpiper; small packs of Common Scoter flew through on Sunday morning along with a few RB Mergansers and a single female Shovellor.
On Saturday afternoon I had a drive into the hills - through Tal-y-bont then along an ever-climbing, winding minor road up to Nant-y-moch Reservoir. Redstarts flitted across the lane along the lower wooded slopes, replaced by Wheatear and Stonechats as I reached the open hill. Lots of Common Buzzards and Red Kites, the habitat looks excellent for several other raptor species too.
A couple of points if anyone is thinking of heading down there in the next few weeks: The 'feeding frenzies' are incredible to watch but if you want to try and find something different amongst all the Manxies I find it better to move away from the areas they are flocking in, otherwise you're simply overwhelmed by the huge number of birds! This weekend the birds were mainly flocking just to the south of Borth, under the cliffs - I found it better to go through them as they passed by the seawall just north of the town, or even out-of town from the car park at Ynyslas. Surfers use this car park, no-one seems to mind if you camp there or (as I did) kip in your car if you want to stay overnight. Skuas are few and far between in my experience but if you want to have a chance of seeing them the first few hours after dawn are best - in fact this applies to the seawatching at Borth in general, or anywhere else for that matter! The Manxies, Gannets, etc., can start flocking any time during the day, but your best chance is early morning or in the evening.
Finally, I put a video from my visit last year on YouTube if anyone's interested in what actually happens - watch in HD:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wQdS3p9N9fQ
Matt Potter said
Fri Jun 1 4:36 PM, 2012
Good and bad news for the Ospreys. the eldest chick has now died, but the other two chicks have now hatched and are still going! Such a shame after last years success of fledging all 3 birds.
All can be seen on Springwatch!
Keith Mills said
Tue May 29 9:21 AM, 2012
Wednesday 23rd. of May. Visit to Gwenffrwd-Dinas RSPB Reserve
This was the first stop for 8 Bolton RSPB Members on the way to Pembrokshire.
The reserve is in a beautiful area and has spectacular views of the Mid- Wales mountain country. It is a wooded hill with fast flowing streams and a river. The wood is old Oak and Alder etc. Llyn Brianne is just higher up the valley and Llandovery is the nearest town.
Birds seen:
Garden Warbler....2 Wood Warbler.... 12 Redstart....7 Pied Flycatcher...10 Buzzards....2 Red Kite...1 Dipper..1 Willow Warbler...2 Blackcap...1 Great Spotted Woodpecker...1 Goldfinch...1 House Martins...2 Swallows...4 House Sparrow...4 Common Tits.
-- Edited by keith mills on Tuesday 29th of May 2012 09:22:47 AM
Stephen Fuentes said
Thu May 17 4:29 AM, 2012
Another trip to the caravan at the weekend and as expected, the Redstarts and Wood warblers have now arrived. I had several views of male and female Redstarts as well as a male Wood warbler, although several more were heard. Also, Pied Flycatchers are now quite common around the site and a Cuckoo was heard up the valley. On the feeders the Siskins were back, as well as the Great spotted woodpecker amongst the usuals. A flock of around 6 Lesser redpoll was also seen locally. Red Kite, Buzzard and Raven also regular. Still no Greenfinches though.
Also seen locally one female Fox with 3 cubs.
Cheers,
Steve.
Matt Potter said
Wed May 2 6:14 AM, 2012
The Osprey pair now have three eggs! (well last week they did!)
So fingers crossed they successfully get three off again! Despite the bad weather.
I am sure they will feature on Springwatch again this year!
Roger Baker 3 said
Sun Apr 29 8:46 PM, 2012
Paid a visit to the Dyfi Osprey Project on the 27th April.
A brilliant set up ........ well recommended even for a non-birder.
If anyone intends a visit please note that using a sat-nav (post code SY20 8SR) it trys to take you off-road (where there are no turn offs at all) for some strange reason, but if you just keep going for a couple of miles the site is well posted. It is on the R/hand side going away from Machynlleth.
I actually stayed at Arthog, on the south side of the Mawddach estuary ....... watching the feeders outside the dining room window while having breakfast. Non-stop activity.
Scoped the estuary from the bottom of the garden (while listening to a cuckoo) .... bit quiet but 22 Shelduck and a pair of Red-breasted Mergansers.
Raven kronking and a Redstart singing in a private wood opposite the front of the B&B.
Slightly better birding than my usual haunts.
Roger.
-- Edited by Roger Baker 3 on Sunday 29th of April 2012 08:48:56 PM
-- Edited by Ian McKerchar on Sunday 29th of April 2012 09:03:05 PM
-- Edited by Roger Baker 3 on Sunday 29th of April 2012 11:07:08 PM
Stephen Fuentes said
Tue Apr 24 9:18 AM, 2012
We've just had a short weekend at the caravan to open it up for the summer. On the first morning, I opened the door to find a Pied Flycatcher singing away right in front of me. Later, on a trip to Machynlleth, we stopped by the road at a place called Forge to watch a dozen or more Red Kites patrolling low over the hillside. We've never seen them in such numbers before other than at a feeding station and wondered whether someone nearby had started another unofficial one.
Around the caravan site, the warblers have returned, with Chiffchaff, Willow Warbler, Black cap and Garden Warbler all in full song. Another Red Kite was flying low above us, under the watchfull eye of the Buzzards and Ravens higher up. I set some feeders up, and got good numbers of Chaffinch, Blue Tit, Great Tit, Coal Tit, Robin, Blackbird, Nuthatch and Siskins as well as regular visits from a Great Spotted Woodpecker, although Greenfinches were conspicuous by their absence. Goldcrest, Song Thrush, Goldfinch and Long-tailed Tit also went on the site tick list.
We'll be returning in a couple of weeks when I expect the Redstarts and Wood Warblers to have arrived by then.
Cheers,
Steve.
Matt Potter said
Thu Apr 19 3:59 PM, 2012
The first Osprey egg was laid yesterday! The next one is due on Saturday ish and hopefully a third on Monday! Its great news!
Apparently, its been 16 days since the pair got back together, the exact same time as last year before an egg apeared!
Matt Potter said
Mon Apr 16 4:00 PM, 2012
Over the Weekend, I saw my first Swallows and Redstart of the year at home.
Lots of Manx Shearwaters off Borth at the moment, plus passage through of Sandwich Tern, Gannets and Kittewakes.
Ospreys are still 'courting' at the moment!
Matt Potter said
Tue Apr 3 7:00 PM, 2012
Male Osprey now back too, so fingers crossed for another successful breeding season!
Matt Potter said
Mon Mar 26 8:12 PM, 2012
The female Osprey has now returned to the nest, awaiting the return of the male!
The pictures are now stunning of the nest as they have just installed HD cameras and a fibre optic cable!
Locally, Wheatear numbers are on the increase, as are Chiffchaffs. Plus a few very early Swallows about!
Stephen Fuentes said
Wed Aug 31 1:09 PM, 2011
Another long weekend at the caravan near Machynlleth, and a small party of Crossbills were showing well in pines right by the site. A nice addition to my 'caravan site' tick list, which includes Red Kite, Wood Warbler, Pied Fly, Spotted Fly, Redstart and Cuckoo as regular visitors. Also nearby was a leucistic Chaffinch amongst a large flock moving across a sheep field.
Cheers,
Steve.
-- Edited by Stephen Fuentes on Wednesday 31st of August 2011 03:11:31 PM
Stephen Fuentes said
Tue Aug 16 10:57 PM, 2011
A long weekend at our caravan near Machynlleth offered me the chance to finally bag one of my bogey birds. The Manx Shearwater. Up at the crack-of-sparrows on a blustery Sunday morning, we went to the Turn car park at Borth, and within a few minutes had several birds travelling North at close quarters. Having already spent numerous seawatching sessions off coastal sites at Northumberland, Spurn, Wirral, North Wales and Mid Wales, and still yet to see a Manxie, I was beginning to wonder whether these birds existed in my world. So result happiness.
At Ynyslas, the waders were in good numbers and included Ringed Plover, Dunlin, Knot, Turnstone and Sanderling, as well as a few dozen Sandwich Terns.
On Monday, we decided to visit the Red Kite feeding station at Nant-Y-Arian. A wonderfully picturesque location, offering forest walks, bike trails and picnic sites as well as a cafe and visitor centre. Parking is only £1.50 for a car, and you can watch the Kites feeding for free. The RSPB are on site, and a warden gives a short talk on the birds before ushering everyone to the watch point at 3pm (during summer, 2pm in winter).
At the alloted time, up to 100 Red Kites had already gathered in the sky above, and the 10kg of beef were dispensed. However, 45 minutes later, not a single bird had come down to feed. Some of the gathered crowd were starting to drift away, and with the kids in tow, and rapidly getting bored and hungry, we retreated to the cafe for lunch. According the the RSPB warden, some joker had let his dogs loose in the feeding area 10 minutes before 3pm, and this had spooked the birds.. However, eventually they did come down to feed, and we were still able to view from the cafe, where they have a live camera showing the feeding area. But all in all, a very enjoyable family day out.
The Dyfi Ospreys are doing well with three eggs laid. The incubation begins!
Highlights of a weekend in Aberystwyth:
Around the Pier area: 42 Turnstone, 3 Purple Sandpiper, Little Egret, 4 Oystercatcher, 2 Rock Pipit & Black Redstart
Around Constitution Hill: A pair of Peregrines & 2 Stonechat
Well, we have now moved to Berriew just south of Welshpool.
Garden ticks include up to six Red Kites overhead on any day, hundreds of Jackdaws, Pheasants and Woodpigeon. Also an Otter just over the road.
I've found a local ringer so I can continue training towards my C-Permit. Just seem to be catching Redwing at the moment.
I'll be back in Manchester from time to time, but it's unlikely I'll ever get to 200 for my GM list, as it is a 4 hour round trip to twitch anything :)
Highlights of a w/e in the Aberystwyth area:
Aberystwyth: 32 Turnstone, 1 Gannet, 1 Rock Pipit, 1 Black Redstart (on the Old College roof) & a lovely Starling murmuration around the pier.
Ynys Hir: very quiet - Redshank, Snipe, Curlew, Raven, Red Kites, Kingfisher, Raven & some very distant Barnacle Geese.
Individuals and pairs of Ravens with a large group of seven before we left.
A group of four Chough with two more following behind.
One Wheatear.
One Stonechat.
Three Wrens.
Several Meadow Pippets
One Rock Pippet.
14th June - 21st June 2019: Stayed in cottage in Dolgellau with River Arran flowing right behind cottage.
From lounge window of cottage - Dipper, Grey Wagtail and Red Kite sightings. Three cracking 'garden' ticks!
Other sightings included:
2 Ring Ouzel (1M/1F) on way up to summit of Cadair Idris (off Minffordd Path near Craig Cau). Gronking Raven also heard.1 Herring Gull on Summit! Also, male Stonechat and Kestrel on way down.: 18/6/19.
Male Pied Flycatcher, 2 Redstart (1 Female adult/1 Juvenile), Hobby, Wood Warbler, Willow Warbler, Chiffchaff, Great Spotted Woodpecker, 2 Buzzard, Song Thrush, Mistle Thrush, Siskin, Long-Tailed Tit and Coal Tit in 'Coed Y Garth' woodland: 20/6/19.
Wood Warbler, Willow Warbler, Chiffchaff, Treecreeper and Grey Wagtail in 'Coed Garth Gell' Reserve: 16/6/19.
1 Juvenile Redstart, 2 Great Spotted Woodpecker, 3 Mistle Thrush, 2 Adult Nuthatch (with 1 juvenile), Meadow Pipit and Skylark on 'Precipice Walk' (just north of Dolgellau): 17/6/19.
2 Stonechat, 3 Goosander, 3 Pied Wagtail, 1 White Wagtail, 2 Grey Wagtail, 1 Greylag Goose, 15 Canada Geese, Swallow, House Martin, 10 Oystercatcher on 'Dollegellau to Barmouth (Mawddach Trail)' converted from disused railway line: 15/6/19.
5 Siskin, 2 Nuthatch, Buzzard and 4 Jay in Coed-y-Brenin woodland (see photo attached of one of the male Siskin): 19/6/19.
-- Edited by Steve Judge on Thursday 20th of June 2019 09:39:45 PM
We spent a week at our caravan last week near Machynlleth.
Species seen around the site and locally:
Blue tit, Great tit, Long-tailed tit, Coal tit, House sparrow, Robin, Dunnock, Blackbird, Goldfinch, Chaffinch, Blackcap, Garden warbler, Willow warbler, Chiffchaff, Wood warbler, Great spotted woodpecker, Pied flycatcher, Spotted flycatcher, Pied wagtail, Grey wagtail, Redstart, Red kite, Buzzard, Raven, Crow, Jay, Song thrush, Cuckoo.
Pied flycatchers are in good numbers this year.
A drive to Hafren forest to see the Ospreys by Clywedog reservoir offered good views of the pair around the nest protecting their three eggs from the local buzzards.
A midweek drive to the red kite feeding centre at Bwlch Nant Yr Arian didn't disappoint, with 100+ of the birds on view.
Cheers,
Steve.
-- Edited by Stephen Fuentes on Monday 3rd of June 2019 02:26:42 PM
My last visit clocked up 52 species, this time I've had 59!
My highlights include:
1st. Red kites, which showed exceptionally well at my favourite feeding station just 8 miles north! This wasn't quite as good as what I had in 2017, but still addictive and full of thrills and excitement - most importantly, my mother love it to bits.
2nd Spotted flycatcher showed very well just a stones throw from our accommodation!
Also noteworthy was:
Swift
Greylag geese
Grey wagtail
Garden warbler
Willow warbler
Blackcap
Marsh tit
Jay
Raven
Linnet
Siskin
Redpoll (very, very close on Wednesday - but didn't stay when I carefully reached for my camera)
Redstart (brief views)
Treecreepers
Only 1 bird heard and not seen throughout (i must be improving) - which was the wood warbler!
We only had one decent day of good sunny weather and that was Tuesday which was used for Castle Woods in Llandeilo (an easy way pronounced as like "land-day-low"). Unfortunately, the redstarts didn't show very well, but, I got great views of..
Goosander with 9 youngsters
Sedge warbler
Sand Martins
3 Little egret compared to only 1 Grey heron throughout the 3 days!
Lesser black backed gulls
Pied flycatcher
Nuthatch
Bullfinch
Great spotted woodpecker
Dipper flew through
The beautiful train journey had lapwing and pheasant extras to note.
If anyone wants to see my top 5 favorite picturs from this trip, I've timed this post to have them on my Flickr page ready for viewing on the link - you won't be disappointed!!! (I hope)
https://www.flickr.com/photos/135715507@N06
Moel Y Golfa, early morning walk 05/05/2019:
I had 2 Wood Warblers here in 2017 and I know they were present last year, but unfortunately no sign on this trip. I did however encounter: Pied Flycatcher 3 singing, Redstart 6+ singing, Willow Warbler 1 singing, Marsh Tit, Red Kite, plus all the usual woodland species.
Followed this route on foot and the views from the top are stunning. Also had the whole site to myself:
http://www.ifootpath.com/display-ifootpath-walk?walkID=4764
On exiting and heading down towards Criggion Quarry, the hillside was alive with singing Willow Warblers and a single Yellowhammer.
-- Edited by Neil Blood on Tuesday 7th of May 2019 09:18:44 AM
Sunday 6th May with Simon Gough.
Llan Bwch-llyn Lake in Powys.
- tried for the Ferruginous Duck but no sign
- 1 Cuckoo, located a male on a moorside fence post in the distance
- Blackcap (heard everywhere throughout the day)
- Willow Warbler
- Chiffchaff
- Meadow Pipit
- Great Crested Grebe
- Tufted Duck
- Reed Warbler heard only
- 1 Sparrowhawk
- Common Buzzard
Visiting our caravan last week, we decided to go for a drive around Llyn Clywedog. Having driven around here many times before, I was surprised to come across an Osprey nest which has been set up along the shore of the reservoir. A single Osprey was by the nest when we were there last Wednesday, and the pair had been reported the previous day.
A bit of Googling revealed that a nest platform had been set up in 2004, but it was 10 years before it was taken up. There has now been a successful breeding pair there since 2014. The Welsh Wildlife Trust are watching the nest 24/7 and we did spot a warden in a vehicle watching from the opposite shore. This nest is clearly not well advertised, but there is an official hide there from which it can be viewed.
Clywedog Reservoir is situated between Machynlleth and Llanidloes. Take the minor road to the resr off the B4518, signposted 'Scenic Route' at the village of Staylittle. The hide is situated on the left as you enter Hafren Forest and before you reach the reservoir. Try not to blink or you'll miss it !
Cheers,
Steve.
-- Edited by Stephen Fuentes on Monday 16th of April 2018 10:50:32 AM
A pleasant visit with my parents to this superb stately home just outside Welshpool produced some great birds in and over the grounds, although in a recurring thread I failed to see any Hawfinches, which are regulars at this location. However there were some nice sightings; 1 or 2 Red Kite, a pair of displaying Ravens, lots of Nuthatch and a couple of Great Spotted Woodpeckers in the wooded grounds and so on.
I think we were just a bit late on in the day to catch Hawfinch, it felt a bit like Sizergh where you really want to be there early doors for your best chance. One tantalising sighting was a big raptor gliding over that I just couldn't turn into a Goshawk, there were plenty of Buzzards about and it was most likely one of them but it had a longish tail and I was excited for a minute.
A great spot to visit if you're in the area, although obviously it's the middle of nowhere!
Friday 6th October 2017
Red-breasted Goose
Snow Goose
393 Barnacle Geese
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zfByJfnQ9lE
August 2nd was a trip to Castle woods..... In the rain at Llandeilo. Highlights included Cormorant, little egret, redstart (briefly close), 3 goosanders on the river, red kite, raven and spotted flycatcher. Species totalling around 40.
Yesterday, before my train was due at Llandovery I found 2 juvenile dippers on the river.
Overall, the 3 days and a morning trip produced 52 species, with my favourite moment still being on Monday 31st July with the red kite and buzzard close experiences
I was going to go upto the local kite station tomorrow but I decided - why not go this afternoon. With my fold up bike, I endured 7 miles of steep ups and downs and got there just in time for the 3pm feed. I've been here 3 times before since 2008 and I still find it as exciting. Each visit is different in what dramas unfold. This time I've had two buzzards giving me the best photo opportunity I've ever had in my birding life.
I don't have wifi on my camera, but with a little inventive thinking, I've managed to transfer a few to my divice and I'm happy to say I now currently have two picture on Flickr! I'd post them here but they ain't rare birds so I doubt they will end up remaining on this post. (I've not yet looked at the flight pictures.)
Also present there was ravens, at least a dozen, Willow warbler, spotted flycatcher and stock doves to note.
Half way back to Llandovery, I realised I've dropped my note book somewhere at the top. Determined not to loose it I retraced my steps and managed to retrieve it ......or be it with a car tyre print on the back!
It was well worth it though as I found a nice buzzard feather not far from where I lost my book! Ta!!
Seeing as how Carys has been away for 4 weeks nursing her mum we deserved a day out and so picked her favourite area of mid Wales, near where she was at Uni (Aberystwyth) and headed to Ynys-las just south of Ynys hir RSPB.
Parking here is on the beach, for £2 all day and the money goes to the wildlife trust so well worth it. We parked up and walked over to a small group on the foreshore looking out over the Dyfi Estuary. As expected they were looking at the star bird that has been here for over 2 weeks, a first-summer female King Eider, or the 'Queen Eider' as she has been nicknamed! The bird was quite distant on a sandbank and sat preening or sleeping most of the time, but with a scope views were good and this 'plumage tick' for me was studied at length. As we watched Carys picked up an Osprey flying towards us up the estuary. This flew low straight over the Queen and flushed her out onto the water, so we got to watch her take a short flight and then swim around. The tatty adult Osprey flew low directly over us which was great too. A Sanderling flew along the shore but with the tide rushing in we headed back to explore the dunes after eating lunch.
On reaching the seaward side of the dunes, mid afternoon, I did a little seawatch as it had been shearwater heaven offshore recently. Sure enough Manx Shearwater and Gannet were easily added to the day list but more unexpected were a party of 4 Sooty Shearwaters heading past north. I see from the pager Sooty Sheawaters were seen off the west coast of Scotland today so this sighting ties in nicely with this. We then headed back, with time moving on, to have a last look at the King Eider. She was again hauled out on a sandbank asleep but not more distant and the heathaze was awful. We had a mooch around and were rewarded with a single Chough and three Sandwich Terns. The final good birds were three Red Kites scavenging a field in which we had seen a car boot sale earlier, next to the road down to Ynys-las.
This site is only just over 100 miles from home but takes 2.5 hours to reach due to the windy roads whichever route you choose, but we reckoned after a day like today it is well worth it
Moel Y Golfa, early morning walk in poor weather conditions (rain, mist and low cloud):
Wood Warbler 2 (1 singing), Pied Flycatcher 3 singing, Redstart 7+ singing, Willow Warbler 3 singing, Marsh Tit, Green Woodpecker, Red Kite, plus all the usual woodland species.
Followed this route on foot:
http://www.ifootpath.com/display-ifootpath-walk?walkID=4764
-- Edited by Neil Blood on Monday 1st of May 2017 02:24:11 PM
Dyfi Osprey Project
2 adult & 2 juvenile Osprey
(Also Asian Water Buffalo!)
5 pied flycatcher
1 wood warbler
1 cuckoo (heard)
1 garden warbler
3 chiffchaff
5 blackcap
2 buzzard
4 red kite
3 tree pipit
2 goosander
3 nuthatch
Bwlch many yr Arian red kite feeding station
250 red kite
4 Siskin
1 raven
1 goldcrest
It was absoloutely incredible to watch a few hundred red kites circling overhead and propping down to where the meat was. Many carrion crow joined in, a few of which had their lunch stolen by the kites, and a raven also appeared at one point. A the feeders there were several Siskin and a goldcrest
10.30am - 4pm
According to the wardens, the reserve is still very quiet for this time of year - many of the birds have only returned in the last week or so. All the same, a good range of 52 species were on display -
8 Pied Flycatcher - Mainly males, picked up on call. There were several great views, with a pair regularly returning to a nest box and another male fly-catching from a gate on the nature trail.
2 Redstart - Both males. One showed fantastically well in bare branches down to around 20 feet. I haven't seen Redstart for a while, so was delighted with the views.
2 Wood Warbler - Finally tracked a pair down in the last hour before we left. They were tricky to find, but once we were on them, they showed nicely in the canopy.
2 Tree Pipit - One bird was seen foraging in the leaf litter, before a 2nd gave far better views, singing and parachuting from a small tree. Lifer for me
2 Garden Warbler
2 Osprey - Visible with the scope at the nearby Cors Dyfi site
1 Red Kite
1 Garganey (m)
4 Whimbrel
3 Raven
Numerous Sedge Warblers, Blackcaps, Whitethroats, Chiffchaffs and Willow Warblers.
Others in the group also had Hobby, Cuckoo and Sandwich Tern.
Cheers,
Steve.
Trip to Gigrin Farm mid wales today with Dennis Atherton
What a fantastic place -with today 500 + Red Kites, plenty buzzards and Ravens. And I remember in the 1970s when there only were 12 breeding pairs of Red Kite left in Wales. The promised sun was not present much but the birds were awesome. The sight of 500+ Red Kites spiralling around the site will not be forgotten too soon. Well worth the 250 mile round trip.
-- Edited by JOHN TYMON on Sunday 25th of January 2015 06:08:48 AM
Cheers,
Steve.
On the feeders:
Blue tit
Great tit
Coal tit
Chaffinch
Nuthatch
Siskin
Redpoll
Goldfinch
Great spotted woodpecker
Robin
Blackbird
Around the site:
Red Kite
Buzzard
Raven
Pied Flycatcher
Wood warbler
Redstart
Garden warbler
Chiffchaff
Willow warbler
Blackcap
Treecreeper
Goldcrest
Song thrush
Tawny owl (heard only)
Glaslyn Nature Reserve (Montgomeryshire WT)
This is MWT's largest reserve, an isolated expanse of moorland by Glaslyn lake, high in the Cambrian mountains between Machynlleth and Llanidloes.
Red kite
Peregrine
Buzzard
Wheatear
Meadow pipit
Stonechat
Skylark
Cheers,
Steve.
-- Edited by Stephen Fuentes on Tuesday 6th of May 2014 08:12:22 AM
-- Edited by Stephen Fuentes on Tuesday 6th of May 2014 08:14:54 AM
Pied flycatcher-3(possibly 4)
Spotted flycatcher
Stonechat
Redstart-2
Blackcap-2
Greater spotted woodpecker-3
Siskin-5
Nuthatch-2
Treecreeper-2
Red kite
Little egret
Common Lizard
The next day (saturday) we had a look at the Cors Dyfi nature reserve as we wanted to see the Ospreys. Only we didn't actually go to the reserve; instead we went to Dovey junction station, as the platform actually has great views of the Osprey nest. We manage to see 2 birds; one on the nest and the other flying around.
Overall, it was a brilliant trip to Wales with some fantastic birds
John
You should have said you were down in the area. We live two miles away from Nant yr Arian!
Red Kite feeding time at Nant yr Aryan (thanks to previous posters for the tipoff!) - about 90 birds, a wonderful spectacle on a sunny afternoon by the lake. Fantastic photo opps.
Spotted Flycatcher parents and 1 juv in Ceulan Valley near Tal y Bont, south of the Dovey. Feeding up the youngster for migration - bit late in the day really! Wonderful views.
A walk at the Dysinni estuary (Broad Water near Tywyn) watching an group of Common Sandpiper and Ringed Plover feeding on a sandbank, when a Peregrine swooped down and took one of the birds, sending all the others off in a panic, and putting all the nearby gulls into the air as well!
More Buzzards (including Juveniles) and Red Kites in the skies in general than we had ever seen. Superb views of a young buzzard in a remote valley, calling plaintively for a long time before flying off, presumably in search of its parent.
A walk up and around Bird Rock (Craig yr Aderyn) in the Dysynni valley - a spectacular place, which is the only inland breeding place in Wales for Cormorant, and also a favourite haunt of Choughs. Saw 4 Cormorant, and about 15 Chough - magical views of them enjoying the air currents around the crag.
Our first visit to this entrancing area, and characterised by a complete lack of other walkers - lonely and glorious scenery. Ynys Hir RSPB was a bit quiet, quieter than the surroundoing countryside to be honest - obviously a place to be in Spring.
58 species in the week - by no means exclusively a birding trip either.
-- Edited by Paul Richardson on Sunday 8th of September 2013 09:31:39 PM
31 August: The feeding time was 15.00 which we missed. There were 31 Kites sitting around waiting to be fed and the warden was expecting around 100 that day. Photographic opportunities would be excellent and it is well worth a look if you are passing.
Cheers, John
11 Whimbrel flying south at Fishguard Harbour.
Cheers John
1 Merlin
2 Redstart (1f and 1juv)
1 Sparrowhawk
c20 Buzzard
3 Wheatear
More Red Kites than i've ever seen before!
Also also found a Shrew and Common Lizard. :)
When the sunflower ran out, I had to use mixed seed, and the Siskins and Redpolls lost interest barring the odd peck at the nut feeder. I must make sure I go well stocked up next time.
Around the site, the migrants were back in. Redstarts, Pied flycatchers and Wood warblers were easy pickings. They seem to be in stronger numbers this year. I couldn't walk more than a few yards in the local woodland without seemingly hearing a new Wood warbler chirring away, they seem to be in greater numbers than the more common Chiffchaffs and Willow warblers. The local sheep fields were full of Meadow pipits and Wheatears, and a Cuckoo was heard in the valley. Red Kite, Buzzard and Raven overhead as usual.
Cheers,
Steve.
Up to two birds winter on the Old College building. Its interesting that you saw one there. Aber is so full of old buildings thats its possible they breed here, but no one has ever found them if they did!
Mind you, there isnt a huge number of birders round here, and the ones that are here can be a bit cliquey!
At the moment, good numbers of Scoters and Red Throated Divers are offshore along with a few Black Throated divers and the odd Great Norther Diver.
Greenland White Fronted and Barnacle Geese are back at their wintering site at RSPB Ynys Hir with the former in much reduced numbers than normal which is a bit concerning!
Whooper Swans are at various upland lakes and Red Kites are in huge numbers at the local feeding stations.
Cheers
At the Crematorium near Narberth I saw a Green woodpecker and found a Redstart. Every phone line seemed to have a row of Swallows on it.
Another good spot is the seafront at Tywyn further north - with handy shelters if there is a blow on - birds here tend to be passing by, or rather probably looping past and Balearics can be easy to spot at times.
Spent the weekend in Borth watching the Manx Shearwaters. Didn't manage to see any Balearics or, indeed, anything really unusual, but it's just simply amazing to see such huge numbers of birds. This is my third year at Borth and I still find it fascinating.
Apart from the shearwaters seawatching was pretty poor - I had a Bonxie on Sunday morning; several Mediteranean Gulls: Kittiwakes; large numbers of Sandwich terns along with two Arctics and a single Common; lots of Gannets; waders included Dunlin, beautiful summered-up Sanderling, four Whimbrel, Curlew, Turnstone and a single Common Sandpiper; small packs of Common Scoter flew through on Sunday morning along with a few RB Mergansers and a single female Shovellor.
On Saturday afternoon I had a drive into the hills - through Tal-y-bont then along an ever-climbing, winding minor road up to Nant-y-moch Reservoir. Redstarts flitted across the lane along the lower wooded slopes, replaced by Wheatear and Stonechats as I reached the open hill. Lots of Common Buzzards and Red Kites, the habitat looks excellent for several other raptor species too.
A couple of points if anyone is thinking of heading down there in the next few weeks: The 'feeding frenzies' are incredible to watch but if you want to try and find something different amongst all the Manxies I find it better to move away from the areas they are flocking in, otherwise you're simply overwhelmed by the huge number of birds! This weekend the birds were mainly flocking just to the south of Borth, under the cliffs - I found it better to go through them as they passed by the seawall just north of the town, or even out-of town from the car park at Ynyslas. Surfers use this car park, no-one seems to mind if you camp there or (as I did) kip in your car if you want to stay overnight. Skuas are few and far between in my experience but if you want to have a chance of seeing them the first few hours after dawn are best - in fact this applies to the seawatching at Borth in general, or anywhere else for that matter! The Manxies, Gannets, etc., can start flocking any time during the day, but your best chance is early morning or in the evening.
Finally, I put a video from my visit last year on YouTube if anyone's interested in what actually happens - watch in HD:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wQdS3p9N9fQ
All can be seen on Springwatch!
Visit to Gwenffrwd-Dinas RSPB Reserve
This was the first stop for 8 Bolton RSPB Members on the way to Pembrokshire.
The reserve is in a beautiful area and has spectacular views of the Mid- Wales mountain country. It is a wooded hill with fast flowing streams and a river.
The wood is old Oak and Alder etc. Llyn Brianne is just higher up the valley and Llandovery is the nearest town.
Birds seen:
Garden Warbler....2
Wood Warbler.... 12
Redstart....7
Pied Flycatcher...10
Buzzards....2
Red Kite...1
Dipper..1
Willow Warbler...2
Blackcap...1
Great Spotted Woodpecker...1
Goldfinch...1
House Martins...2
Swallows...4
House Sparrow...4
Common Tits.
-- Edited by keith mills on Tuesday 29th of May 2012 09:22:47 AM
Also seen locally one female Fox with 3 cubs.
Cheers,
Steve.
So fingers crossed they successfully get three off again! Despite the bad weather.
I am sure they will feature on Springwatch again this year!
A brilliant set up ........ well recommended even for a non-birder.
If anyone intends a visit please note that using a sat-nav (post code SY20 8SR) it trys to take you off-road (where there are no turn offs at all) for some strange reason, but if you just keep going for a couple of miles the site is well posted. It is on the R/hand side going away from Machynlleth.
I actually stayed at Arthog, on the south side of the Mawddach estuary ....... watching the feeders outside the dining room window while having breakfast. Non-stop activity.
Tits .... Blue, Great, Coal & Longtailed.
Greenfinches, Chaffinches, Siskins & Redpolls.
Nuthatch
Great Spotted Woodpecker.
YELLOWHAMMER !
Scoped the estuary from the bottom of the garden (while listening to a cuckoo) .... bit quiet but 22 Shelduck and a pair of Red-breasted Mergansers.
Raven kronking and a Redstart singing in a private wood opposite the front of the B&B.
Slightly better birding than my usual haunts.
Roger.
-- Edited by Roger Baker 3 on Sunday 29th of April 2012 08:48:56 PM
-- Edited by Ian McKerchar on Sunday 29th of April 2012 09:03:05 PM
-- Edited by Roger Baker 3 on Sunday 29th of April 2012 11:07:08 PM
Around the caravan site, the warblers have returned, with Chiffchaff, Willow Warbler, Black cap and Garden Warbler all in full song. Another Red Kite was flying low above us, under the watchfull eye of the Buzzards and Ravens higher up. I set some feeders up, and got good numbers of Chaffinch, Blue Tit, Great Tit, Coal Tit, Robin, Blackbird, Nuthatch and Siskins as well as regular visits from a Great Spotted Woodpecker, although Greenfinches were conspicuous by their absence. Goldcrest, Song Thrush, Goldfinch and Long-tailed Tit also went on the site tick list.
We'll be returning in a couple of weeks when I expect the Redstarts and Wood Warblers to have arrived by then.
Cheers,
Steve.
Apparently, its been 16 days since the pair got back together, the exact same time as last year before an egg apeared!
Lots of Manx Shearwaters off Borth at the moment, plus passage through of Sandwich Tern, Gannets and Kittewakes.
Ospreys are still 'courting' at the moment!
The pictures are now stunning of the nest as they have just installed HD cameras and a fibre optic cable!
Locally, Wheatear numbers are on the increase, as are Chiffchaffs. Plus a few very early Swallows about!
Cheers,
Steve.
-- Edited by Stephen Fuentes on Wednesday 31st of August 2011 03:11:31 PM
At Ynyslas, the waders were in good numbers and included Ringed Plover, Dunlin, Knot, Turnstone and Sanderling, as well as a few dozen Sandwich Terns.
On Monday, we decided to visit the Red Kite feeding station at Nant-Y-Arian. A wonderfully picturesque location, offering forest walks, bike trails and picnic sites as well as a cafe and visitor centre. Parking is only £1.50 for a car, and you can watch the Kites feeding for free. The RSPB are on site, and a warden gives a short talk on the birds before ushering everyone to the watch point at 3pm (during summer, 2pm in winter).
At the alloted time, up to 100 Red Kites had already gathered in the sky above, and the 10kg of beef were dispensed. However, 45 minutes later, not a single bird had come down to feed. Some of the gathered crowd were starting to drift away, and with the kids in tow, and rapidly getting bored and hungry, we retreated to the cafe for lunch. According the the RSPB warden, some joker had let his dogs loose in the feeding area 10 minutes before 3pm, and this had spooked the birds.
Cheers,
Steve.