Few Of Smew

Gwent Great White

Finally managed to nail it in Gwent after many hours of searching.

Brief Encounter

A brief encounter with a Hawfinch at Minnets Wood, heard Lesser Spotted Woodpecker at Llandegfedd, a Golden Plover 2 Ruff and the female Smew were at Goldcliff Pools.It was nice to visit a few places that i don't go to very often.Very spring like with birds singing all over the place.

Hybrid City

All sorts of Aythya action over the weekend at Wentwood Reservoir.Pochard x Ferruginous duck is my bet on this one.Maybe even a bit of Canvasback with a bill like that.Also a tufted with grey flanks possibly with a bit of Ring Necked Duck thrown in.

Dear Me.

Surprises this weekend came in the shape of Deer that shot across the road in front of the van at Wentwood.First one Ive seen up there.The Little Gull still at llandegfedd with a couple of Pintail and a Little Egret that were new in.The Smew still at Goldcliff Pools.8 Cettis Warblers have survived the cold snap at Uskmouth.A couple of Goosander and the Scaup on the river Usk at Llanhowell.

A Nice Bit Of Colour

A bit of colour was added to the weekend today in the form of this stunner.It has been seen in the area since last October.Thanks to the Sheila for inviting us into her home and letting us spend the morning waiting for it to come in to feed.A quick check of the flooded field produced a single Ruff which was a nice little patch tick.

Wentwood Feeding Station.

A short walk around Wentwood still held good numbers of Crossbill,1 Willow Tit,and a nice Brambling.Stumbled across(well i did no it was in the general area) a well stocked little feeding station.Sat quiet for an hour or so produced 1 Willow Tit with at least 2 Calling,1 Brambling and all the usual feeding station birds.Did feel a bit guilty as it must cost a fair bit to keep it all stocked up.If i visit it again i will take up some peanuts and seed.