I managed to nail the Savi's on Friday night after all but still took almost two hours to get the briefest of views. Got a very brief flight views, then followed these up with a view of the bird clinging onto a single reed strand and having elongated itself along the reed, so much so that I couldn't initially pick it out due to another reed strand in the way, but moved about 6 inches right and bang there it was, turing its head whilst reeling.
I too had the song in my head prior to going Paul and was rewarded by this individual putting on a bit of a show. l agree, not as much Green but certainly greener than the Chiffy's on my local patch and lighter legged as well as appearing a slightly larger bird to me. These were only evident with a good look at the bird. Nobody would spot these alone without the call though!
An early start this morning on the 6am RSPB guided walk at Old Moor failed to produce the goods with the Savi's not present. 2 Summer plumaged Med Gulls being the highlight. However, the day got much better with a trip to nearby Potteric Carr where a long walk was rewarded with good views of the Iberian Chiffchaff singing at the top of a hawthorn bush next to the path. After hearing it sing and studying it's plumage, it is easy to see why this species has now been seperated. Called in at Harewood Estate on the way back where 4 Red Kites gave great views including a pair circling low over the car.
Sue and I went to get the Iberian Chiffchaff today instead of the Savi's as we thought it would be easier. Decent views and a couple of half decent record photos were had. Didn't look as "green" as I expected - good job I checked out the call last night before going!
An early start this morning on the 6am RSPB guided walk at Old Moor failed to produce the goods with the Savi's not present. 2 Summer plumaged Med Gulls being the highlight. However, the day got much better with a trip to nearby Potteric Carr where a long walk was rewarded with good views of the Iberian Chiffchaff singing at the top of a hawthorn bush next to the path. After hearing it sing and studying it's plumage, it is easy to see why this species has now been seperated. Called in at Harewood Estate on the way back where 4 Red Kites gave great views including a pair circling low over the car.
Went to Old Moor last night in the vain hope of seeing the Savi's Warbler, which sang, or rather reeled brilliantly, but decided against adding 130 or so birds to its British List.
The highlight of the night was the 'reeling' battle between the savi's and a gropper!
Incidentally, if anyone is thinking of going over, I think the RSPB are opening up the reserve again tonight (Friday) and Saturday am and if you have a spare seat I would be very grateful.
