A bright frosty start to the day then drizzle and thick fog from 0930 hrs onward throughout the day.
A drop down to Mixenden reservoir late afternoon in the hopes of some clearer weather but the mist was still thick with visibility part way across the water. Luckily as I walked along the west side of the water through the trees the heavens opened and the heavy rain cleared the mist enough to see across the water. Within 30 minutes the rain stopped and thick fog rolled in finishing the watch.
During the half clear period 3 ducks were out on the water looking like 3 Goldeneye but with wet and steamed up bins it was hard to tell. A couple of murky shots found 1 to be a Tufted along with 2 Goldeneye although one of the Goldeneye did,nt seem just right with its neck always outstretched and paler flanks with no spectrum showing although a small spectrum can be seen as the 3 flew to the other side of the reservoir. I could do with another look at this bird if this dreaded fog ever clears.
A few small gulls were present and 4 Herring gulls headed >N to roost along with a male Goosander which may have come off the water but not sure.
Just spoke to DJS who first found the 2 Goldeneye and he also noted the lack of white speculum but it was earlier in the week and clear weather and he was happy with them both being Goldeneye so that will do for me.
Heres hoping for a fog free day tomorrow but don,t hold your breath.
BS