With weather conditions still superb for reservoir watching I arrived at Leeshaw Reservoir with a strong W>6 and heavy showers. 1 hour spent checking gulls coming in with several more than usual in the conditions but nothing in with them and no waders although the water is well down with tons of shoreline, probably thanks to Yorkshire Water, not the weather.
The farmers fields are filling up with Red Grouse, Red Legged Partridge and Pheasants obviously driven off the moor away from the Rambo supporters.
Next move was over the hill to Fly Flatts to check the water for Scoters but just turned up 3 Wheatear.
On then to Mixenden Reservoir to find a pair of Tufted and a female Goosander.
With time running out I diverted to go past Raggalds Flood which was alive with gulls and geese.
This is when I cocked up.
A quick check from the car in drizzly conditions looking for waders and/or ducks and a look at the gulls, all Black Headed. A few scenic snaps to show conditions and home for tea, late as usual.
When I came to download my photos to the computer , as always I zoomed in on the birds just to be sure. Thats when my hair stood on end !
Poor photos as I was,nt focusing on the bird but imagine the shock when I saw it.
I dived out of the chair, grabbed the camera and steamed back to the Flood to find 28 Canadas and no gulls.
My number one rule :-
IF YOU SEE A FLOCK OF BIRDS CHECK THROUGH THEM FOR AN INTRUDER.
Hopefully the bird will stick with the gulls to roost and return there tomorrow, who am I trying to kid ?
On a sad note : I was so sorry to hear about the passing on of DJS,s Mum. All our thoughts are with you Dave, Jen and family.
BS