I have no reason whatsoever to not believe anybodys version of events Ian, and just to clarify, Im certainly not accusing anyone of lieing about what they did or what they saw whilst present. Yes Jonny certainly explains his and others actions very well, and I can see that if that was put out via the info services then so be it. Theres an important point here though thats been overlooked regarding this particular instance. I was there early morning and was back home in Manchester for 12 o clock. Jonny states he observed the bird mid-afternoon so Im assuming (I could be totally wrong in doing so) that he wasnt there in the morning, so I dont doubt one bit what he observed at the twitch whilst he was there, similarly I can only state what I observed in the morning Cheers
-- Edited by Rob Creek on Tuesday 11th of June 2019 12:03:25 AM
Jonny Scragg seems to explain his (their?) behaviour and presence quite well and given he's gone to the lengths of posting on here then I'd be fully inclined to believe his version of events Rob. There is no doubt that poor fieldcraft is on the increase but given the on site directions by locals were adhered to and the bird apparently suffered no disturbance I'm not fully sure of the issue in this instance. Then again, I wasn't there for good reason, I steer well away from such events!
Without wanting to start a conversation on the particular Flamborough post, I thought it would be more appropriate here.
Anyone who knows me or at least who has met me in the field will know Im a fairly calm, reasonable and diplomatic person, but theyll also know I wont hold my tongue if I think it need to be said. But Im one who looks at both sides of an argument before (or even if) I say anything. With reference to my Flamborough post, and subsequent reply, I stand by what I said. On my way home up Lighthouse Rd, I was bemused to see that not a single birder was stood on the road and viewing the hedges, then it was only when I glanced over towards Old Fall that I saw the large group of birders standing by the hedge etc etc (I wasnt going to mention the BLG but they were out too!).
When I was there earlier, the few birders present purposely didnt walk to the hedge to get close ups incase the bird was flushed. Could you imagine if the bird had flown and wasnt seen again? I wouldve been peed off if that happened whilst I was on my way to see it, knowing that those actions had caused it to go. So, youve got to ask yourself ... was I really making a fuss over nothing or was it a valid point?
Ideally, when out and about looking for birds, it helps if you try to blend into their surroundings and Camouflage yourself-not appear in bright colours, ESPECIALLY Lycra!!! You know who you are!
Another/the same bird scarer was seen at Ashworth Moor Res this afternoon
If you really want to "grip your mates off", when scanning a large gull flock for Med Gulls, find said gull then jump about like a mad (wo)man waving ones arms above your head shouting "got one" at the top of your voice. It tends to do the job as large flock of gulls takes to the air at once never to be seen again.
You know who you are! but at least you got excited this time
l'm sure the luvverly,excited person you speak of Riggers is sorry AND embarrassed at her actions,l believe she was trying to find one for you as you were struggling... wasn't there some talk of 'hush money'...(errr so l've heard) probably now withdrawn
If you really want to "grip your mates off", when scanning a large gull flock for Med Gulls, find said gull then jump about like a mad (wo)man waving ones arms above your head shouting "got one" at the top of your voice. It tends to do the job as large flock of gulls takes to the air at once never to be seen again.
You know who you are! but at least you got excited this time