Trip reports

Birdwalk at Rutland Water

Male wigeon swimming

Monday, 12 January 2009

On a cold, wet and windy morning 13 hardy members turned up and there were some good birds to be seen. For many, one of the best treats was a green woodpecker feeding just outside the centre.

Thanks to Peter, Joan, Keith and Anne for their contribution to the species list below:

Great Crested Grebe, Cormorant, Grey Heron, Mute Swan, Shelduck, Wigeon, Gadwall, Teal, Mallard, Pintail, Pochard, Tufted Duck, Goldeneye, Goosander, Ruddy Duck, Sparrowhawk, Kestrel, Pheasant, Moorhen, Lapwing, Redshank, Black Headed Gull, Green Woodpecker, Wren, Robin, Blackbird. Song Thrush, Blue Tit, Great Tit, Jackdaw, Carrion Crow, Chaffinch, Greenfinch, Goldfinch Bullfinch, Coal Tit, Tree Sparrow, Pied Wagtail, Dunnock, Long Tailed Tit,

A coffee morning had been arranged by MacMillan Cancer and the press photographer showed up to catch a shot of the visitors. Unfortunately nobody else apart from the organisers had shown up due to the weather so we were roped in to fill the frame. At least after our walk we were able to enjoy a decent cup of coffee and a piece of cake. Oh, and one person who shall be nameless won the star prize in the tombola - a delicious strawberry cream cake!

RM