Atrocious conditions this morning with near gale force SW>7 and torrential rain throughout but despite that it was interesting to see so many moving Herring gulls grounded which is unusual in this area.
First stop was Ogden for a very wet and wind blown dog walk with sheets of rain blasting across the promenade which didnt deter several hardy dog walkers.
Mixenden was slightly sheltered but very wet and with no easy dog access it was a scan over the gate in the SW corner.
From then on it was Mr Softy birding driving round and looking from the car with no let up in the conditions.
Fly Flatts was wild and wet with poor visibility in the driving rain and large rolling waves and white horses on the water.
Only a quick stop off at the Raggalds Flood as it is a dangerous place to stop with wagons steaming past, especially in a high cross wind and several drivers sending text messages as they drive.
Interestingly all the sites visited had grounded Herring gulls as well as LBBs apart from Fly Flatts which just had 3 Herring gulls heading west below the Nab.
Otherwise Ogden held the usual pair of Goosander whilst Mixenden
had a pair of Goosander and a pair of Goldeneye.
Raggalds Flood had a single Redshank, which has been present a few days now, along with a single Snipe in the left hand reed bed as well as the Herrings and LBBs.
Rain and strong winds forecast for throughout the day though skies are brightening slightly. See what late afternoon brings.
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).