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Harewood Church to Wheldrake

We had been told about the Harewood Church Hawfinches in the proceeding week. We had also seen a couple of Twitter posts, I refuse to call it X so we were hopeful have a positive outcome to our trip. We parked in the Muddy Boots Café on Church Lane in Harewood village, £2 a bargin! We walked down to the church and there was already two birders there, they explained they had seen them from a distance at the very tops of the trees. Most of my friends said it’s a wonder I didn’t just burst into flames in the churchyard, I’m so anti religious. I’m not anti religion, I’m anti people ramming their beliefs down your throat.
The Hawfinches were visible but from a distance, so no worthy photographs, I’ll try harder next time. I did meet another birder Dave Ward, who has a really great website www.dwardphotos.org.uk check it out! We chatted about the past and it was great to meet someone older than me (he’ll chuckle at that) great to meet you Dave.
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Deer were also very visible as you walked towards the church and very photographable also unphased by our presence but we were distant. On the way back to the car we saw Great Spotted Woodpecker, Jay, three joggers and a lot of dogwalkers letting their dogs crap and not pick it up. We had a coffee sat outside the Muddy Boots café; it was absolutely rammed inside. We immediately attracted Red Kites and we were treated to a fabulous arial display as they swooped down to see if I had left any scraps. Good luck with that one, I didn’t get this big leaving scraps.
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Thorganby Viewing Platform reported Smew
 
There was a report on @yorkbirding and the website of the same name, the best website in the whole world that covers York and the surrounding area.  A Smew, and I wanted to see it. When we got there it was already in the scope of Jane & Rob Chapman and as I could only see a white blob in my bins, I was very grateful. We were soon joined by other notable York birders, Jonno Leadley, Duncan Bye and Craig Rolson, good birds on your patch attract birders and me. It was good to talk, one guy, sorry I don’t know your name told us that he had just seen a couple of Waxwings in Wheldrake village. We did know they were there, but on our way through although we checked we did not see any. We were driving back in that direction so we could re check.
 
Wheldrake Village.
As we drove through we immediately spotted the Waxwing and one other viewer, a local with a passing interest in birds. The villagers were absolutely smashing as we hung around for over an hour and joined by a small but select group including Rob and Jane along with a few others and lots and lots of passers-by. Thank you to all who stopped for a chat and to find out a bit more about the enigmatic Waxwing.

In Search of Short Eared Owls

St Aidens is a RSPB and a mixed use nature reserve on a former open cast coal mine and slag heap in Allerton Bywater in Leeds West Yorkshire. It's not only a great place to relax but also a great place for wildlife of all kinds. The site usually has hundreds of people visiting at any one time and can be very busy.

This mixture of walkers, dog walkers, cyclists and even open water swimmers does not seem to impact on the wildlife too much.
I went with my long time birding mate and photographer Phil Smithson, we are both fairly local to the reserve. It was cold, very cold and threatening rain all the time we were there. It was also very dark for the time of day, and getting darker all the time. In fact, the film above doesn't really show how dark it was when the film was shot. This is a testimony to modern cameras, definitely not the skill of the film maker.

Owls draw a crowd, always have and always will, there were ten or so people waiting near us. Not that you could see them in the darkness, you could hear their teeth chattering in the in the still air. As we walked back towards the car park, more and more people were arriving all to see the birds. I think while you have that much interest and that many people they will be relatively safe from human disturbance.
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The still images above were taken by @phil_smithson. Considering the very low light levels and despite ISO settings of 4-6000 I think these are incredible. All taken at 800mm. The birds were around 150 metres from where we were standing.

Ecology Report: Short-Eared Owl (Asio flammeus) in the United Kingdom
Introduction:
The Short-Eared Owl (Asio flammeus) is a captivating and enigmatic bird of prey that inhabits a variety of open habitats across the United Kingdom (UK). This report aims to provide an overview of the ecology of the Short-Eared Owl, emphasising its current status on the Red List of Birds of Conservation Concern.

Distribution and Habitat:
Short-Eared Owls have a widespread distribution in the UK, favouring open landscapes such as moorlands, heathlands, marshes, and coastal areas. They are particularly associated with rough grassland, where they hunt for small mammals like voles and mice. Breeding populations are found throughout the country, with significant concentrations in Scotland, Wales, and northern England.

Breeding Biology:
Short-Eared Owls typically breed on the ground, relying on tall vegetation or the shelter of rocks for nesting sites. Breeding season usually occurs from March to July, and the owls produce a clutch of eggs that hatch after a short incubation period. The survival of their young is closely linked to the availability of prey, particularly small mammals.

Conservation Status:
The conservation status of the Short-Eared Owl is of concern, leading to its inclusion on the Red List of Birds of Conservation Concern in the UK. The Red List categorises species based on their population trends and breeding success. The Short-Eared Owl faces multiple threats that contribute to its declining numbers, including habitat loss due to agriculture intensification, urbanisation, and climate change.

Threats to Short-Eared Owls:

  • Habitat Loss: Changes in land use and agricultural practices, including the conversion of natural habitats into farmland, have reduced the availability of suitable breeding and foraging areas.
  • Climate Change: Alterations in weather patterns and temperature can affect the distribution of prey species, potentially impacting the owls' ability to find food.
  • Human Disturbance: Increased human activities, such as recreational use of habitats, can disturb breeding birds and disrupt their nesting sites.

Conservation Efforts:
Several initiatives and conservation measures have been implemented to mitigate the decline of Short-Eared Owls in the UK. These include:
  • Habitat Protection: Efforts to designate and protect important habitats for Short-Eared Owls, including the creation of nature reserves and conservation areas.
  • Research and Monitoring: Ongoing research projects and monitoring programs help gather essential data on population trends, breeding success, and the impact of conservation interventions.
  • Public Awareness: Increasing public awareness about the importance of conserving the Short-Eared Owl and its habitat, involving local communities in conservation efforts.
Conclusion:
The Short-Eared Owl, with its distinctive appearance and unique behaviour, is an integral part of the UK's biodiversity. However, its inclusion on the Red List highlights the urgent need for comprehensive conservation strategies to address the threats it faces. Through collaborative efforts involving government agencies, conservation organisations, and the public, there is hope for the recovery of the Short-Eared Owl population and the preservation of its vital role in the UK's ecosystems.


Seaton Carew

In the footage above there is some far away dodgy quality, forgive me, it was a bad day at the office. There is a piece showing a Ringed Plover pretending to be injured or having a broken wing in order to make itself look weak. This is done in order to draw away other birds from its own chicks, if you've never seen it before, it's a really interesting thing to watch.

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The lifecycle of the North Eastern UK population of Little Tern (Sternula albifrons) begins in late spring when these small migratory seabirds return from their wintering grounds in West Africa to their breeding sites along the North East coast of the UK. They are colonial breeders and typically nest on shingle beaches, dunes, or salt marshes close to the shoreline.

Upon arrival, the pairs engage in courtship displays, which involve aerial acrobatics and vocalisations to establish pair bonds. Once a pair forms, they construct shallow scrapes in the sand or gravel, where the female lays 1 to 3 eggs. Incubation duties are shared by both parents, and this period lasts around three weeks.

After hatching, the chicks are precocial, meaning they are relatively independent and mobile from birth. The parents continue to protect and feed them, guiding them to foraging areas near the shoreline where they mainly feed on small fish and invertebrates.

The next crucial stage in their lifecycle is fledging, which usually occurs about 20 to 25 days after hatching. The chicks must learn to fly and become proficient swimmers during this time. Once they fledge, they face various challenges as they embark on their first migration to their wintering grounds in West Africa.

Throughout this lifecycle, Little Terns face threats from human disturbance, predation, coastal development, and changing environmental conditions. Conservation efforts, including habitat protection, predator control, and public awareness campaigns, play a crucial role in supporting the survival and successful breeding of this vulnerable seabird population in the North Eastern UK.

Otley, A day never to forget


Introduction:
Birds have captivated humans throughout history with their vibrant colors, melodious songs, and graceful flight. Among the countless species that inhabit our planet, the Redstart stands out as a true gem in the avian kingdom. Inspired by one of my favorite books, "Birds in a Cage" by Derek Miemenn, I felt compelled to explore the fascinating world of Redstarts and shed light on their unique characteristics and captivating behavior.

The Enchanting Redstart:
The Redstart, scientifically known as Phoenicurus phoenicurus, is a small passerine bird found predominantly in Europe and Asia. Its name is derived from the Old English word "reestart" which means "tail that trembles." This intriguing name perfectly captures the Redstart's distinctive behaviour of constantly flicking its tail, adding an extra touch of charm to its appearance.


One of the most striking features of the Redstart is its vibrant plumage, particularly the male's breeding plumage. With its deep slate-blue head and upper parts contrasting against its fiery orange-red tail and underparts, the male Redstart is an absolute spectacle to behold. Its eye-catching colours make it stand out against the lush greenery of its habitat, turning any sighting into a memorable experience.

Redstarts are known for their incredible migratory journeys, spanning thousands of miles. They spend their summers in Europe and Asia, nesting in woodlands and forests, before embarking on their epic journey to spend the winter months in sub-Saharan Africa. Witnessing these tiny birds traverse vast distances and overcome numerous challenges along the way is a testament to their remarkable endurance and navigational skills.
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While the Redstart's appearance is undeniably captivating, its melodious song adds an extra layer of enchantment to its presence. The male Redstart's song is a delightful combination of sweet, warbling notes and whistling trills, filling the air with a symphony of natural beauty. Their songs are not only used to attract mates but also to defend territories and communicate with other birds.

Redstarts prefer mature deciduous woodlands, often nesting in tree cavities or crevices in rocks. However, they are highly adaptable and can also be found in parks, gardens, and even urban areas. Unfortunately, like many other bird species, Redstarts face numerous threats, including habitat loss, pollution, and climate change. It is crucial that we prioritise their conservation by preserving their natural habitats and promoting sustainable practices
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Derek Niemenn's "Birds in a Cage" showcases the beauty and wonder of birds, including the Redstart. This captivating species, with its vibrant colours, melodious songs, and incredible migratory journeys, continues to fascinate birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts worldwide. As we appreciate the Redstart's allure, let us also recognise the importance of conserving its habitat and protecting the diverse avian species that enrich our world.

So, next time you find yourself exploring the great outdoors, keep an eye out for the Redstart—a true feathered jewel that embodies the splendour of our natural world.
References:
• Niemenn, D. (Year). "Birds in a Cage." Publisher.
• BirdLife International. (2021). Phoenicurus phoenicurus. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species 2021: e.T22709251A182360610. Retrieved from https://dx.doi.org/10.2305/IUCN.UK.2021-3.RLTS.T22709251
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Common Tern: Staveley Reserve

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Once upon a time, in the enchanting forests of Europe, a little bird with dashing black and white feathers embarked on the rollercoaster of life - the Pied Flycatcher! As spring arrived, these charming aviators returned from their winter holidays with stylish tan lines from soaking up the sun down south.

In the singles' hotspot of the forest, the males went all out to impress the ladies, flaunting their best moves and belting out love songs like pop stars. After some flirty fly-catching, the lucky ones found their match and became a monogamous couple.

Together, they worked tirelessly to find the perfect nest location, seeking a fixer-upper with good curb appeal. With a dash of twigs, a splash of moss, and a sprinkle of feathers, their nest was ready for the grand opening. Inside, they laid a small clutch of eggs, and their home became a nursery filled with joyous chirping.

The parents took turns incubating the eggs, while the other sneaked off for some "me time" at the local bug buffet. Once the chicks hatched, it was chaos! These tiny fluff balls demanded constant attention and food deliveries.

As the chicks grew, the parents morphed into overworked food delivery services, flying back and forth, trying to keep up with the bottomless pit of chirping mouths. But time flew by, and soon the chicks were all grown up, ready to leave the nest and face the world.

And so, with bittersweet emotions, the Pied Flycatcher parents bid their chicks farewell, hoping they'd soar high and find their own funny stories in this forest of life. And the cycle continued, each spring bringing new laughs, adventures, and unforgettable moments for these little comedians of the woods.

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Made by Steve Farley