A quick check on Mixenden , which is now 80% frozen over found the usual pair of Goldeneye and 1 female Goosander which I was hoping had moved on as they are now in danger of getting trapped under the ice whilst diving. This happened to a Velvet Scoter many years ago when a pair visited Ogden and the female died after getting trapped under the ice.
Ogden was , as always, busy and very noisy so as expected quiet on the birds. A full walk around the perimeter of the water failed to find the Goldfinch/Redpoll/ Siskin flock though there was plenty evidence of seeds on the ground below the trees proving that they are still around.
Blue, Great and Long Tailed Tits were plentiful along with a pair of Bullfinch and 4 Goldcrest plus the usual Robins and Wrens but no continental Robins showing now.
A bit more water exposed after yesterdays sun but only 2 water holes holding Mallards and small gulls. Nothing moving in the sky other than a few LBB gulls.
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.(2025).