pm visit 1430hrs WSW>4 Torrential rain.
Just got dried out from this mornings outing so thought Id go do it all again.
Headed for Soil Hill hoping for some flyovers with the weather being ideal for migrants but as I got to the summit in the now black clouds I could see the broad front of a belt of rain heading towards me. Undetered I scanned the area and what Id thought was a curlew by the NK pond was in fact a Bar Tailed Godwit when I got the scope on it. The bird was very pale still in winter plumage, pale grey apart from its neck which was just starting to darken. By now the rain was lashing down and the Godwit, having more sense than me decided to move on. As it flew I got the white V up its back and no wingbars taking any doubt away from Black Tailed, I hate Godwit i.d.
It flew low towards Thornton Moor reservoir but was lost in the rain before I could see if it went down or not.
After putting it out on the grapevine I rang DCB who told me he had a very pale wader this a.m. near Curlew size flying towards Soil Hill but didnt get chance to make a definate i.d.
Needless to say, again whilst Im typing this, the sun is shining through the window from bright skies but I think it was well worth the dousing.
If you come through Queensbury and see a large black rain cloud, wave because I,ll be under it.
PS.. For Wheatear photos like you,ve never seen before click on Dave Barkers visible migration link.
BS
WEST YORKSHIRE BIRDING. BRIAN SUMNER. I am based at Queensbury and bird a patch within a 10 mile range of home incorporating 16 stretches of water, several plantations, a belt of woodland, stretches of river and canal and good areas of moorland. I specialize in upland birds, reservoir and sky watching. My local patch is Fly Flatts reservoir. Any reports can be sent by text or call to 07771 705024 or see profile for e mail address. All images on this blog are copyright.(2024).