This afternoon Chris Bird saw 36 Med. Gulls incl 9 juvs on the meadow by the beach car park and 25 incl 7 juvs on a field by the garage on the main road.
Also, a Kingfisher in the harbour at Aberystwyth.
Friday, 31 July 2009
YNYSLAS
Thank you very much Mike for your contribution to the debate.
Firstly, you probably know that most, if not all of us appreciate the difficult task you and your staff at Ynyslas have regarding the "people management" aspect of the job there.
Secondly, you and your staff must be just as concerned and distressed as birdwatchers about the disturbance to the birds there at nesting time and, perhaps even more importantly given the sheer number of birds involved, at migration time when a very significant numbers of wading birds are seeking sanctuary and rest at this vital staging post on their migrations.
Thirdly, the site is open to members of the public and birdwatchers, local and visitors, are also members of the public and their enjoyment of their pursuit can be totally destroyed by others, whom it would seem may be contravening the law.
So, it is heartening to read your proposals and, speaking for myself, I am sure that if you need assistance from the local birdwatching community, it will be very readily forthcoming.
Firstly, you probably know that most, if not all of us appreciate the difficult task you and your staff at Ynyslas have regarding the "people management" aspect of the job there.
Secondly, you and your staff must be just as concerned and distressed as birdwatchers about the disturbance to the birds there at nesting time and, perhaps even more importantly given the sheer number of birds involved, at migration time when a very significant numbers of wading birds are seeking sanctuary and rest at this vital staging post on their migrations.
Thirdly, the site is open to members of the public and birdwatchers, local and visitors, are also members of the public and their enjoyment of their pursuit can be totally destroyed by others, whom it would seem may be contravening the law.
So, it is heartening to read your proposals and, speaking for myself, I am sure that if you need assistance from the local birdwatching community, it will be very readily forthcoming.
CCW comment on dog disturbance to birds at Ynyslas
Following up on birders’ concerns about bird disturbance by dogs at Ynyslas point, CCW are proposing the following measures to try to reduce the conflict:
1. Stepping up of wardening presence in the sensitive area at key times
2. Add more information on the disturbance issue in a newly drafted leaflet aimed at influencing the behaviour of dog owners
and,
3. Look at signage and other possible measures to reduce the conflict.
Birders can help by keeping a note of disturbances witnessed and liaising with the wardening staff at Ynyslas visitor centre. I will be happy to meet with birdwatchers in due course to discuss the issue in greater detail.
Mike Bailey, Senior Reserves Manager, Dyfi NNR.
Ynyslas Visitors Centre contact: 01970 872900
Yellowhammers and Whinchats on Foel Fawr
The first delight on my walk over Foel Fawr this afternoon was a Yellowhammer which flew over whilst I sat on one of my regular benches looking over the Dyfi. I then saw a Kestrel quartering the ground higher up the Foel. On one of the paths heading north I watched a Whinchat. It had food in it's beak and I could hear at least two other birds calling. I wonder if it is still feeding fledglings? On the home straight I saw another Yellowhammer close to Melin Dwr farm.
Dogs, people and birds
Firstly with regard to dog disturbance I have wintnessed the dog disturbance at Newport (Pembs) plenty of times & get so frustrated by it that I rarely go there. I may miss some stuff but at least can stay slightly calmer than if I witness some dog owners recklessness!
Secondly, my son used to warden a site on Anglesey. There the wardens have a 24 hour watch & intersept people heading for the tern colony. Some people can be devious to try to get out to the site, but the wardens always challenge politely, & as far as I understand they never had a major problem. Maybe a warden will get away with being polite but firm, whereas the word of a birdwatcher has less authority.
But an open note to wardens; there are plenty of us, dog owners included, who want you to stop the irresponsible owners from being totally pigheaded & acting like idiots. we supoport you wholeheartedly!
m wilson
Thursday, 30 July 2009
Whimbrels at Aberarth
This afternoon, there were at least 19 whimbrels at Aberarth on the spit looking back to Llanon and Llanrhystud. Earlier we had seen 4 ringed plover with Persil white breasts at Llanrhystyd and 5 more at Llanon. It was fairly windy and I think everything else of note was hiding, from us at least!
Last Friday we visited Gronant on the North Wales coast where 110 pairs of Little Terns have bred successfully. Sandwich terns and Dunlin as well, and lots of linnets. Saturday we went to the terns at Cemlyn Bay and did a boat trip around Puffin Island where we saw a pair of Black Guillemots and the last of the puffins. And bumped into a colleague in the excellent ice cream parlour at Beaumaris.
Last Friday we visited Gronant on the North Wales coast where 110 pairs of Little Terns have bred successfully. Sandwich terns and Dunlin as well, and lots of linnets. Saturday we went to the terns at Cemlyn Bay and did a boat trip around Puffin Island where we saw a pair of Black Guillemots and the last of the puffins. And bumped into a colleague in the excellent ice cream parlour at Beaumaris.
Cors Caron
Firstly, I'd like to wish all of you who birdwatch regularly at Ynys Las some success with your attempts to prevent the appalling disturbance that often occurs there.
On a lighter note, I took my son Tomos(4) to Cors Caron this afternoon to help him practice riding his new bike. The visit had mixed results. Tomos got on great with his riding and I had some prolonged and stunningly close views of two Hobbies zooming about over the car park. But we didn't spot any crocodiles......or dinosaurs, as Tomos was hoping.
On a lighter note, I took my son Tomos(4) to Cors Caron this afternoon to help him practice riding his new bike. The visit had mixed results. Tomos got on great with his riding and I had some prolonged and stunningly close views of two Hobbies zooming about over the car park. But we didn't spot any crocodiles......or dinosaurs, as Tomos was hoping.
Ynas Las
Completely agree with all previous posts. We don't even go down there in the summer as its too distressing. The staff in the visitor building are despairing and too nice to want to confront the public and it is a skilled job to negotiate with the hard core 'I've always done this' type.
The ball is in CCW's hands:it requires the presence of the full time paid staff to step up and support their summer staff on the sand and draw in interested people to help guard and talk to the public at the plover nesting area. In the US we were controlled on reserves by uniformed volunteers who were helpful but firm on the rules and the reasons for the rules were well publicised;doesn't cost as much as some dubious artworks sprouting on our reserves but was effective.
Why don't we compose a letter to CCW and offer to help next breeding season?
These blogs should be forwarded to the staff concerned so that are aware that there are people on their side.
Meanwhile on Cors Caron the lack of any supervision at week-ends and holidays means that dog-walkers are making their own rules i.e put the dog on the lead when you meet someone on the boardwalk-admirably considerate-but then let it run amok in the ponds because they look 'empty'.
Last laugh to the hobby who sat in a tree not 25m from the boardwalk and watched over it all!
The ball is in CCW's hands:it requires the presence of the full time paid staff to step up and support their summer staff on the sand and draw in interested people to help guard and talk to the public at the plover nesting area. In the US we were controlled on reserves by uniformed volunteers who were helpful but firm on the rules and the reasons for the rules were well publicised;doesn't cost as much as some dubious artworks sprouting on our reserves but was effective.
Why don't we compose a letter to CCW and offer to help next breeding season?
These blogs should be forwarded to the staff concerned so that are aware that there are people on their side.
Meanwhile on Cors Caron the lack of any supervision at week-ends and holidays means that dog-walkers are making their own rules i.e put the dog on the lead when you meet someone on the boardwalk-admirably considerate-but then let it run amok in the ponds because they look 'empty'.
Last laugh to the hobby who sat in a tree not 25m from the boardwalk and watched over it all!
SSSIs/Disturbance by dogs.
Although now in the process of moving to Ceredigion I have experience of this same problem in relation to Lisvane Reservoir in
Roger Watkins
Dogs and jet ski's at Ynyslas
Having perhaps precipitated the discussion on dogs creating a disturbance on the estuary at Ynyslas by my recent blog - 'Waders at Ynyslas' - and some earlier discussion with fellow watchers- I feel I must add my support. The situation has been admirably presented by Elfyn as to what the correct procedure should be to effect/educate the dog walkers. - The long arm of the law is required! - Perhaps the answer is a prosecution and for that of course the evidence is necessary. I feel the CCW should post notices to the effect that Ynyslas is a NNR and should be treated with the full respect it deserves. In this context it would be good if they also enforced the ' No Launching' rule of boats and jet ski's. Similarly if boats etc are launched on to the Leri a speed limit should be enforced.
Disturbance caused by uncontrolled dogs and........
I would like to add my two-penneth worth to the current discussions regarding uncontrolled dogs being allowed to disturb flocks of birds at Ynyslas. I am extremely annoyed by dog walkers who let their dogs run amok. I speak as a dog owner when I say it is completely unacceptable. But the jet-skis, quad-bikes and boy racers churning up the sand at this so called nature reserve also give me cause for annoyance and despair. Visit at any time during the holiday season and it is likely that you will see uncontrolled people damaging and disturbing the environment.
I have even seen shooters right on the water's edge at Aberleri.
Well done Elfyn and Derek for encouraging us to help gather evidence so that the police can prosecute, but is it a nature reserve or isn't it?
If it is, it's about time those in charge took the lead and started doing something to discourage such behaviour.
I have even seen shooters right on the water's edge at Aberleri.
Well done Elfyn and Derek for encouraging us to help gather evidence so that the police can prosecute, but is it a nature reserve or isn't it?
If it is, it's about time those in charge took the lead and started doing something to discourage such behaviour.
Dog Walkers
Elfyn has it exactly right - collect the evidence and make it easier for an investigating officer. Nearly all of us own a camera of some description and can easily take pictures. That alone might deter some people from letting their dogs run riot. Follow them back to their vehicles and get their numbers. I would strongly advise caution in confronting dog owners. They seem to lose all sense of reason and remember often regard the animals as their children and therefore beyond criticism. I know of members of staff of conservation bodies who have been physically assaulted when trying to reason with dog walkers. As usual it is not the dogs but their irresponsible owners.
Signs alone will not make a difference as people will blatantly walk past them and then swear blind they never saw them. Wardens of National Nature Reserves need to be encouraged to educate behaviour on protected areas.
CCW are charged with upholding the protection of our wildlife and the CROW Act made it easier to prosecute third parties for damage to Sites of Special Scientific Interest. I may be wrong but I cannot remember one instance of them taking a prosecution. To my knowledge there are a number of places where they should regarding ongoing damage.
If we as birders stand up to be counted and give them and the Police the evidence maybe things will change.
Derek Moore - a concerned neighbour
Wednesday, 29 July 2009
Disturbance of birds by dogs
Well done John Davis for bringing the issue of disturbance of birds at Ynyslas by dog walkers to the fore. I am sure all of us who have been at the wader roost at high tide at Ynyslas have experienced anger when we have been watching a resting group of waders being flushed by an errant dog. This happened to me last year when it must have been obvious to this guy that I was watching these birds the dog just kept chasing the birds wherever they decided to alight. I was so incensed by his inaction to stop his animal that I approached him and told him that if it happened again I would book him (forgot for a moment that I wasn't in the job any more!). Not long after this event I was watching a group of resting whimbrel further along Ynyslas beach and another dog ran amok through this flock. Again the owner took no action to stop the animal. Come on Countryside Council for Wales this is not on. What use is it setting up a National Nature reserve if these birds are not afforded adequate protection on their long journeys. This would surely not be tolerated on an RSPB reserve. The wardens should be more pro-active in policing these kind of incidents and the least that can be done is to put up a few signs to inform, educate advise dog walkers that their actions cause stress to these resting birds and that such actions could indeed be deemed 'unlawful'. I went to Ynyslas this spring where I watched a small scattering of roosting waders. A women walked past me with her dog and I swear that she deliberately threw a stick in amongst the waders whereupon her dog did what you would expect it to do. I was absolutely fuming but kept my cool. OK how do we deal with this kind of situation. Well this is what I am going to do folks. I have just acquired a nice new cam-corder so the next time I witness such action then I will obtain the necessary evidence, establish the identity of the person 'in charge' of the offending dog, complain to the staff on duty at the centre, and report the matter to the police preferably the local wildlife officer (based in Aberystwyth) and offer to make a witness statement. Lets stand together on this fellow birders we have to raise the profile a bit more on this issue in the interest of these birds which we enjoy watching and which we surely have a collective responsibility to protect. If a couple of people were prosecuted for committing this kind of offence then the message would soon get around the local regular dog walkers. All it will take is a little bit more responsibility and care during the relevant periods ie- high tide roosts at those crucial locations. More comments please.
LLanrhystud
Chris Bird paid a visit this evening and found the 12 Black-tailed Godwits plus 9 adult Med Gulls, 15 2nd summer, 5 1st summer and 5 juvs.
The flooded field south of the beach car park will be well worth checking out over the next few days.
The flooded field south of the beach car park will be well worth checking out over the next few days.
LLANON - LLANRHYSTUD
Wader migration is well under way.
Harry Pepper did well on Saturday at Llansantfraed with 11 Ringed Plovers, 10 Dunlin, 3 Sanderling, 42 Curlew, 12 Whimbrel, 4 Redshank, 18 Turnstones and 7 Med Gulls plus 44 on the meadows at Llanon.
That encouraged me to visit the coast there this afternoon, starting at Llanon: 3 Common Sandpipers and 4 Med Gulls.
At nearby Llansantfraed: 5 Ringed Plovers, 5 Dunlin, 2 Whimbrel, 12 Turnstones, 4 Common Sandpipers and 7 Med Gulls.
A little further north at Llanrhystud on the flooded field just south of the beach car park: 12 Med Gulls and 12 Black-tailed Godwits, one with colour rings.
Harry Pepper did well on Saturday at Llansantfraed with 11 Ringed Plovers, 10 Dunlin, 3 Sanderling, 42 Curlew, 12 Whimbrel, 4 Redshank, 18 Turnstones and 7 Med Gulls plus 44 on the meadows at Llanon.
That encouraged me to visit the coast there this afternoon, starting at Llanon: 3 Common Sandpipers and 4 Med Gulls.
At nearby Llansantfraed: 5 Ringed Plovers, 5 Dunlin, 2 Whimbrel, 12 Turnstones, 4 Common Sandpipers and 7 Med Gulls.
A little further north at Llanrhystud on the flooded field just south of the beach car park: 12 Med Gulls and 12 Black-tailed Godwits, one with colour rings.
Spotted Flycatchers
These mornings are still and damp and the last two have been particularly enyoyable as a family of 3 young spotted flycatchers have displayed really well .They seem to like the fence rail and fly out erratically as they try to catch their breakfast only to return empty beaked.I almost mistook them for robins but realised on seeing the adults that they were not.
Unfortunately we have not seen any pied flies this year.
Lis Collison
Tuesday, 28 July 2009
Disturbance by Dogs
This may elicit some discussion by blog readers as to whether the powers that be at sites such as Ynyslas should or indeed could take action:
A successful prosecution was brought by Natural England in March 2009 against an individual for recklessly causing disturbance to birds by releasing their dogs on a nature reserve designated as an SSSI. The dog owner was fined £250 and ordered to pay £250 costs for disturbing birds.
The Site Manager of the RSPB's Hayle Estuary Nature Reserve said: "We are pleased with this result and it sends a clear message to others, that harassing wild birds on a nature reserve will not be tolerated."
Natural England's Director responsible for SSSIs said: "As highlighted by this case, bird disturbance is a significant problem in this area enjoyed by so many. We will continue to work with the RSPB and others to promote the importance of this estuary for wildlife".
A successful prosecution was brought by Natural England in March 2009 against an individual for recklessly causing disturbance to birds by releasing their dogs on a nature reserve designated as an SSSI. The dog owner was fined £250 and ordered to pay £250 costs for disturbing birds.
The Site Manager of the RSPB's Hayle Estuary Nature Reserve said: "We are pleased with this result and it sends a clear message to others, that harassing wild birds on a nature reserve will not be tolerated."
Natural England's Director responsible for SSSIs said: "As highlighted by this case, bird disturbance is a significant problem in this area enjoyed by so many. We will continue to work with the RSPB and others to promote the importance of this estuary for wildlife".
Beautiful gull
A short stop in driving drizzle at the industrial site that is Aberaeron North beach carpark yielded a few black-headed gulls (perched on that so attractive fencing)but on the rugby pitch was a truly beautiful juvenile looking like an exotic in soft brown and peachy tones......Calm down dear! This is only an advert for the gull walk on 9th Aug..see FIELD TRIPS.
Sanderling Ynyslas
This ringed sanderling was seen yesterday at Ynyslas Point, I have sent details of the sighting to the leader of the Sanderling project in the Netherlands at http://www.waderstudygroup.org/res/project/sanderling.php. I will report back when I get a reply, they are currently in Greenland.Waders at Ynyslas
About 100 + Sanderling and 50 or so Dunlin and Ringed Plover at Ynyslas yesterday at high tide - in spite of being chased off by dogs!
Monday, 27 July 2009
More on Hobbys and Med. Gulls
Chris Bird was delighted to watch a Hobby from his home near Trefenter this evening, although it was chasing Swallows.
Earlier he noticed 3 Med. Gulls on College rocks, Aberystwyth, 2 adult and 1 2nd summer birds, all unringed.
Earlier he noticed 3 Med. Gulls on College rocks, Aberystwyth, 2 adult and 1 2nd summer birds, all unringed.
HOBBYS and MED. GULLS
2 adult Med. Gulls on College Rocks at Aberystwyth this morning, one of them bearing a Belgium ring.
This afternoon at Cors Caron, 4 Hobbys were very active above the south-east section.
This afternoon at Cors Caron, 4 Hobbys were very active above the south-east section.
Sunday, 26 July 2009
Ospreys
I've just been speaking to John Davis who, together with his guests had just seen 2 Ospreys from the hide at the Dyfi Osprey Project.
WOS/BTO Conference......
Hello everyone.
I have been asked to let everyone know about this.
Date
Moira Convery
Teifi Pools -yesterday
Around Llyn Egnant and Llyn Gorlan, three Common Sandpipers, a Heron, Red Kite, Raven and a few Wheatears and Meadow Pippits - both adults and young. Not the numbers of the latter two species normally seen at this time of year.
Saturday, 25 July 2009
Sightings from Chris Bird
| Saturday, 25 July Aberystwyth 17:00 Med Gulls, 4 adult and 1 second summer. One adult with a Red Ring on the left leg with 5P5 on it. Llanon 19:30 Only 6 Med Gulls. From Chris Bird |
Willow Warblers and Sweet Peas.......
As I have grown my favorite summer flower in abundance again this year and currently at their best,you can imagine my joy at the sight of not one but two willow warblers thoroughly enjoying them too.Perhaps it was the green aphids that attracted them but I like to think that it was the heavenly scent and the delicate colours that caused them to linger.It seems to have been a really good year for the warblers too.
Lis Collison
Friday, 24 July 2009
Ynyslas
At Ynyslas at high tide today there were 146 sanderling, 4 turnstone, 13 dunlin and 28 ringed plover. Also 7 sandwich terns and a reeling grasshopper warbler.
Russell Jones
Kingfisher at Aberystwyth
Kingfisher flying around Aberystwyth Pier at 08.30 this morning.
John Woodruf
John Woodruf
Thursday, 23 July 2009
MORE ON MED. GULLS
Chris Bird reports that yesterday evening there were 10 Med. Gulls at Llanon, 1 juv, 5 1st summer, 3 2nd summer and 1 adult. Also 28 Curlew and 1 Whimbrel along the shore.
On College Rocks at Aberystwyth there was an adult Med. Gull and a 2nd summer colour-ringed bird from Hungary.
On College Rocks at Aberystwyth there was an adult Med. Gull and a 2nd summer colour-ringed bird from Hungary.
Sanderling at Ynyslas
At about 4.30 this afternoon approx. 40 Sanderling were moving back and forth, north - south along the shoreline at Ynyslas.
Flycatchers
Family of Spotted Fycatchers now joined by one Pied Flycatcher probably this year’s or female in best insecting glade near my house.
This is the 3rd or 4th year I’ve recorded a single juv Pied Flycatcher here in late July.
Philip Ellis
Wednesday, 22 July 2009
Aber - Shearwaters
Between 30 and 40 Shearwaters off Aberystwyth Harbour late this afternoon - mainly heading South.
Teifi - Barnacle Geese
Barnacle Geese, the first one of the autumn has appeared on the Teifi, I guess from the population on Cardigan Island? But I believe there are feral or introduced birds at Ty Gwyn Pools, does anyone keep a note of the geese species & nos. there?
For other Teifi news (little) please see Pembsbirds.
For other Teifi news (little) please see Pembsbirds.
Tuesday, 21 July 2009
International Bog Day..........
The following guided walks may be of interest to readers of the Ceredigion bird blog:
“Sunday 26th July - International Bog Day.
Anyone interested in seeing Cors Fochno (Borth Bog) is invited to join one of two guided tours planned for 10.00am and 2.00 pm. on ‘International Bog Day’, Sunday 26th July. The walks, lasting about an hour and a half will start from the roadside, 200m east of Greenacres garden centre on the B4353 near Ynyslas. Parking will be available in the roadside field. Booking essential - please contact Ynyslas Visitor Centre (tel. 01970872900)”
Aline Denton
Assistant Warden – Ynyslas
a.denton@ccw.gov.uk
Job Vacancy
The RSPB in Cardiff are looking for a Conservation Scientist, details can be found on the News & Events page.
Monday, 20 July 2009
Report from Chris Bird
| Sunday 19 July, 2 Hobbys and a Green Sandpiper at the South end of Cors Caron. From Chris Bird |
Ynys-hir
I had a stroll around part of Ynys-hir this afternoon. I'm sure the weather forecast for today was all misery and gloom but I got warm sunshine........
Anyway, I didn't see many birds but whilst I was in Marian Mawr hide a pair of Swallows were visiting and feeding chicks every half minute. I wonder if it's their second or maybe even third brood?? On my way back from the hide - where the only birds I saw of interest were 2 Goosander and 1 Little Grebe - I wandered into a little hot-spot where I saw 2 Chaffinch, 2 Gold Finch, 2 Tree Creepers, Chiff Chaff, 2 or 3 Willow Warbler, 2 or 3 Great Tits, 4 or 5 Blue Tits, 3 Long-tailed Tits and a single male Redstart all within a couple of minutes.
Anyway, I didn't see many birds but whilst I was in Marian Mawr hide a pair of Swallows were visiting and feeding chicks every half minute. I wonder if it's their second or maybe even third brood?? On my way back from the hide - where the only birds I saw of interest were 2 Goosander and 1 Little Grebe - I wandered into a little hot-spot where I saw 2 Chaffinch, 2 Gold Finch, 2 Tree Creepers, Chiff Chaff, 2 or 3 Willow Warbler, 2 or 3 Great Tits, 4 or 5 Blue Tits, 3 Long-tailed Tits and a single male Redstart all within a couple of minutes.
Sunday, 19 July 2009
A fairly quiet week this one and not much osprey activity during the last few days, mainly due to the bad weather and the constant mobbing by a pair of carrion crows. The images are of our male osprey last Monday when he brought back this large flounder to the nest - he seems to favour flatfish whereas our female prefers mullet and bass it seems!Just a quick plug. Next Saturday (July 25th) we have two moth experts, Peter Williams and Colin Plant, coming to Cors Dyfi reserve to host a public moth evening event. You are all welcome of course - we hope to identify at least 100 species and will be targeting the Rosy Marsh Moth that feeds on the Bog Myrtle that we have on the reserve. We start off at 9.30pm and should finish around midnight.
Finally, a quick thank you to all of you that have supported the project so far including volunteers, today we welcomed our 20,000th visitor to the project! Diolch yn fawr.
A Bird in the Hand - Ringing at Teifi Marshes
A few photos of the Ceredigion Bird Group visit to the Teifi Marshes Wildlife Centre for a demonstration of ' bird ringing' by Arfon Williams and colleague . An great opportunity to see some of the finer points of bird biology generally impossible to see in the field.
Well worth the early start! Many thanks to all concerned.
Scallop Fishing Wales - Dredging
As many of you are aware there has for some time been much concern voiced by many over the fishing technique of Dredging to harvest Scallops. Within Cardiganshire a number of Groups have been very actively involved with discussions at the highest level.
The Fisheries Unit of The Welsh Assembly Government have issued a consultative document which enables you all to have a say if you wish to do so. The document and relative details can be found on the link below.
http://wales.gov.uk/consultations/environmentandcountryside/3256249/?lang=en
The Fisheries Unit of The Welsh Assembly Government have issued a consultative document which enables you all to have a say if you wish to do so. The document and relative details can be found on the link below.
http://wales.gov.uk/consultations/environmentandcountryside/3256249/?lang=en
Saturday, 18 July 2009
Mwnt and Ynyslas
9 chough over Mwnt headland this afternoon and 1 whimbrel heard but not seen at Ynyslas this evening.
LLANON
This evening Chris Bird noted 25 Mediterranean Gulls on the coastal pasture and 3 Whimbrels on the shore.
Cors Caron
4 Hobbies feeding on dragonflies this afternoon...wonderful flying display.
Over 50 swifts glided slowly down from high up and only resumed high speed hunting flight when low over the flooded bog.
Over 50 swifts glided slowly down from high up and only resumed high speed hunting flight when low over the flooded bog.
Friday, 17 July 2009
Crossbills
I have admit I have been very lax in posting on here, but in reply to the previous crossbill posts I have seen and heard plenty of them up at Bwlch Nant-yr-arian and also the Llyn Pendam-Blaenmelindwr areas with up to 16 seen at a time. I have also heard males singing briefly within the last monht in the same locations, though it seems awfully late for any breeding attempts.
I have also had a flock of 5 fly over my house just outside of Comins Coch last week.
I have also had a flock of 5 fly over my house just outside of Comins Coch last week.
Postings - Word Verification
Re my previous posting to do with "Word Verification" - the problem seems to no longer exist, if it ever did in the first place!
Thursday, 16 July 2009
CROSSBILL
Until late spring 2008, Crossbills could be reliably seen in suitable areas in the county, often in good numbers. Since then, records have been exceedingly sparce, presumably reflecting a shortage of their food. I heard one near Ponterwyd the other week and this morning saw one at Nant yr Arian. It was calling loudly in the trees above the RSPB's info. hut and, I have to admit, was my very first of the year!
BORTH'S MED. GULL
There seem to be two types of Med. Gull. Those which congregate in post-breeding flocks, often seen along the coast between Llanrhystud and Llanon and individual birds, generally adults, found at scattered locations along the coast. Some individuals are remarkably faithfull to certain sites and one Med. Gull has been coming to Borth for at least 8 years. It was back there this morning on its favoured patch of beach by the toilet block infront of the Tourist Info. Office.
I first noticed it in October 2002. As well as the usual little silver ring it had a large green leg ring, marked 31Y.
It had been ringed as a three-year old near Antwerp in April 2001 and every year appears at Borth in July and remains with us until the following January. (It has been seen venturing south to Clarach and Llanrhystud).
On its return to us in July 2006 I noticed that its green ring was splitting. The bird which has returned to the same spot of sand in July over the following years has a silver ring but no green one but I am sure that it is 31Y, making it, if my maths in correct, 12 years old!
I first noticed it in October 2002. As well as the usual little silver ring it had a large green leg ring, marked 31Y.
It had been ringed as a three-year old near Antwerp in April 2001 and every year appears at Borth in July and remains with us until the following January. (It has been seen venturing south to Clarach and Llanrhystud).
On its return to us in July 2006 I noticed that its green ring was splitting. The bird which has returned to the same spot of sand in July over the following years has a silver ring but no green one but I am sure that it is 31Y, making it, if my maths in correct, 12 years old!
A Chance to Help Save The Rainforests
Our campaign is gaining momentum "Nature, the biggest bank of all, could go bust." This stark warning came from The Prince of Wales, who was asked to give the annual Richard Dimbleby Lecture on BBC One. He also spoke about the work of The Prince's Rainforests Project. You can read his full speech here. Leaders of the G8 major industrial countries, meeting in Italy, reaffirmed that stopping rainforest destruction will be a critical part of the fight against climate change. This renewed commitment at the highest levels is encouraging and gives confidence that interim funding could be put in place next year. Fashion designer, Vivienne Westwood called for people to sign up to www.rainforestSOS.org during the Friday Night Show with Jonathan Ross. You can watch it here if you missed it. The iconic signs in London's Piccadilly Circus burst into life on July 2nd with the appearance of our animated rainforest frog, as Coca-Cola and McDonald's simultaneously launched new graphics to support The Prince's Rainforests Project. You can help us keep this momentum going. We have been working hard to keep our social networks fresh and interactive, and you can help us by joining our groups and spreading the word through your social network channels.
Supporter of the Week Our Supporter of the Week is Wangari Maathai, Nobel Peace Prize winner and the founder of The Green Belt Movement, which has planted more than 40 million trees in Kenya. She has successfully mobilized communities there, and in other parts of the world, to inspire collective action in seeking improvements to the environment. She is now calling for urgent action to protect the world's rainforests. "Maybe it will take 100 to 150 years to return the forests to what they were. We have not valued the forest. When the forest disappears, the crops fail and the rivers dry up. The hunger comes. Politicians are putting immediate needs ahead of the long term. We must touch them in the heart and not just the head." Watch Wangari Maathai's video message with our frog. Last week we asked you to send in your questions about rainforests and climate change and we've had a great response so far. Your questions and the answers, from experts, including Wangari Maathai, will appear on our website starting next month. Send us your question today. Did you know?
Briony Mathieson Head of Communications The Prince's Rainforests Project P.S. Help us increase the number of people signing up to our campaign. In the run-up to the climate change talks in December, we can show the world how many people support urgent action to protect our rainforests. You have already signed up, but you can help us get others on board by telling your friends, making your own video with the frog, and spreading the word through your social network channels. | ||||||||
| The Prince's Rainforests Project and the Prince's Charities are sending you occasional emails so that you are kept informed of our activities. You can unsubscribe at any time by visiting http://www.rainforestsos.org/unsubscribe |
Med Gulls at Llanon
We managed to count 66 Med Gulls in various states of moult at Llanon yesterday at around 6pm. It was difficult to age them as they were all tucked down out of the wind. There were one or two adults though wandering about still in full breeding plumage.
Matt and Charly Potter
Word Verification
Some of you who are able to post directly onto the blog may notice that a "word verification" hoop now needs to be jumped through. Please be patient, I hope this requirement won't last long.
MEDITERRANEAN GULLS
A visit to Llanon by Chris Bird late yesterday produced a sighting of 68 Med. Gulls, including 4 juvs.
Wednesday, 15 July 2009
Observations/comments on Grey Squirrels.........
A grey squirrel took a juvenile House Sparrow by the bird feeder. I have long suspected the squirrels to be responsible for raiding the Mistle and Song Thrush nests just as they fledge in my garden and I’m now more convinced.
The director of
A pair of Bullfinch with 3 juveniles have been checking out what fruit to raid in the garden meanwhile.
Philip Ellis
Sandwich Terns off Borth/Ynyslas
Pair of sandwich terns fishing just off Borth early this morning and plenty of manx shearwater feeding opposite the youth hostel.
2 weeks ago I was out in the water early morning and a mother and calf bottlenose dolphin came within 6ft of me. Quite an experience as I could hear them calling to each other!
Andy, Ynyslas Warden
Tuesday, 14 July 2009
Llanon
This afternoon, in the field behind Llanon beach car park, there were 54 Med Gulls including 30 moulting adults and 6 juveniles.
With them were 2 Sandwich Terns, 1 adult and 1 juvenile.
At Ty Gwyn pools there was a Green sandpiper and 1 Black-tailed Godwit in breeding plumage.
With them were 2 Sandwich Terns, 1 adult and 1 juvenile.
At Ty Gwyn pools there was a Green sandpiper and 1 Black-tailed Godwit in breeding plumage.
Monday, 13 July 2009
Even later Swallows & more Med Gulls........
The swallows nesting in our garden shed have finally got their act together!
A quick "feel" in the nest yesterday revealed a clutch of eggs. Will they start incubating and will they have enough time to rear their youngsters?
At least 36 adult and second summer med Gulls yesterday evening (12/7) in the field at Llanon yesterday evening. (OS 507.666) There were also some on the rocky beach nearby and close inshore. Sorry I can't offer a more accurate count, but my friend who works for Birdlife International was very impressed!
It was noticeable that many of them are beginning to lose the pure black heads they had on my first visit about ten days ago. Also, many are losing their flight feathers.
Jeremy Moore
Sunday, 12 July 2009
Late swallows
The lone pair of swallows nesting in our barn this year fledged their first brood today - four youngsters. In past seasons have usually had three nests which often pull off two broods.
Saturday, 11 July 2009
More Med Gulls........
Chris Bird reports even more Med Gulls at Morfa Llanon - 4 Juveniles, 24 1st Summer, 18 2nd Summer and 37 adults making a grand total of 83. Also present were 4 Common Gulls.
Who will top the 100 Meds?????
Who will top the 100 Meds?????
Shearwaters and Gannets
At high tide time this morning - approximately 1100 - several thousand Shearwaters in Borth Bay and moving up the coast . Probably the same lot reported yesterday by Chris, NW of Aber. Also a good sprinkling of Gannets - including a few juveniles as per final photo, were fishing offshore along towards Ynyslas.
Friday, 10 July 2009
Sightings from Chris Bird
Friday 10 July
Aberystwyth 15:00
Thousands of Manx Shearwaters in large rafts North West of Aberystwyth.
Also 2 adult and first summer Mediterranean Gulls, and 1 adult with a green ring on the left leg M08.
At
Morfa Llanon 18:30
Only 18 Mediterranean Gulls, 7 first summer, 5 second and 6 adult.
From Chris Bird
Buzz @ Ysbyty Cynfyn (near)
For JOHN-you asked and I answered-well thank Sue who insisted we drive the back way to DO your "Gyr falcon".
Thursday, 9 July 2009
Barn Owls
After two most rewarding days ringing Barn Owls with Tony Cross of the Welsh Kite Trust, it is worth reporting that to date some 38 Owlets have been rung in Ceredigion. The majority of broods are of three but some of five have been located. Compared with previous seasons the birds appear to be about a week ahead of usual in their development and very well grown. Stocks of food in some of the boxes testify to it being a good season for small mammals. Of particular note was the occurrence of water voles as a common food source at sites around Cors Caron!
If any one is aware of Barn Owl sites with young, and accessible for ringing, please let either Tony or myself know.
Rheidol Otters
I have just returned from two hot weeks in the Maine region of Normandy where it is always a joy to spot the local birds that share our rural idyll. There were so many house sparrows that they became intrusive.The black redstart was nervous but showed very well most days and sung harmoniously.The swallows were extremly active and there seemed to be far more swifts gathering .The early morning brought a honey buzzard to the lane and a few feet from our car,its chocolate brown colour a real treat.Before leaving to come home we finally caught a glimse of the resident Goshawk soaring high above us effortlessly.It was the very same day that I had seen 2 fully grown hares in the nearby field of rough pasture.
Coming home is always a bit flat but we were soon to be uplifted by a sighting of the Rheidol otter family.We haven't seen them for two years but they are back.They disturbed the 4 mallards who are now fully grown and began feeding on the eel As you can see I managed to get up really close with my Sony cyber shot.Its good to be back in Ceredigion after all!
Lis Collison
Wednesday, 8 July 2009
Road Casualties!
OK 'Death' is never a pleasant subject to talk about but I thought I would just mention about the demise of a Tawny Owl seen dead on the roadside on the A.487 just after Bow Street near the road leading to Dole. I've seen a couple of dead 'tawnies' on local roads recently. I guess they are young birds. The death of wild animals on our roads is always a grotesque spectacle and more often than not what we see are badgers or foxes and goodness knows how many pheasants. If you are a regular traveller on the A.458 road between Mallwyd and Welshpool, which I call the 'Pheasant Run', then I am sure you will have 'bagged' your tally of birds, death not by gunshot but by 'rubber'. This stretch of road is a positive obstacle course each time you drive on it.
Anyway whilst on this rather morbid subject some of you might be interested in conducting a survey on 'mammal' road deaths for the organisation 'People's Trust For Endangered Species'. Details are on the following link www.ptes.org/surveys
On a lighter note driving through Talybont today I saw several kites (and a couple of buzzards) 'quartering' a freshly cut hay field. Many birds took occasional plunges to the ground to devour earthworms or other forms of invertebrate life which had been churned up by the hay cutting machinery. Tagged kite Black/Black '14' was one of them (born in 2008).
Anyway whilst on this rather morbid subject some of you might be interested in conducting a survey on 'mammal' road deaths for the organisation 'People's Trust For Endangered Species'. Details are on the following link www.ptes.org/surveys
On a lighter note driving through Talybont today I saw several kites (and a couple of buzzards) 'quartering' a freshly cut hay field. Many birds took occasional plunges to the ground to devour earthworms or other forms of invertebrate life which had been churned up by the hay cutting machinery. Tagged kite Black/Black '14' was one of them (born in 2008).
LLANON MEDITERRANEAN GULLS
Chris Bird paid the site a visit this afternoon and noticed 8 adults, 10 1st summer and 5 2nd summer birds and 5 juvs. Those juvs, fledged only a little earlier this summer, have already probably flown a considerable distance to get here. The saga continues.
Foel Fawr
On our walk this afternoon Buster and I went over Foel Fawr. We heard Wood Warbler in the wooded area at the foot of the hill. On the hill we encountered 2 Willow Warblers that weren't at all pleased to see us. Some distance apart, they both had beaks full of food which I assume they were about to feed to nestlings - 2 new broods!
Other birds seen include 2 Stonechat, 2 Whinchat, 2 Jay and 2 Ravens.
Other birds seen include 2 Stonechat, 2 Whinchat, 2 Jay and 2 Ravens.
Tuesday, 7 July 2009
Llanon .....Med. Gulls
A 16:30 visit to the field on the low cliff found only 11 Med. Gulls of varying age but no juveniles.
3 Common Gulls (ad & 2 1st sum.)
3 Common Gulls (ad & 2 1st sum.)
SIGHTINGS
Most locations refered to on the blog have their grid refs. listed in the County Bird Report (yet another reason to purchase one!).
Even with grid refs., precise access details may be needed and whenever asked about how to find some of the birds mentioned on the blog I am always pleased to be of assistance. (See Sightings section for my details.)
Even with grid refs., precise access details may be needed and whenever asked about how to find some of the birds mentioned on the blog I am always pleased to be of assistance. (See Sightings section for my details.)
Sightings..........
We would be grateful if you could suggest to the contributors to the blog if they could possibly identify sightings/locations with a National Grid Reference - this would be very helpful. Having lived in Mid Wales for a short time we are finding it difficult to locate spots where birds have been seen ?
Best wishes
Trevor & Eve Storeton-West
Like Trevor & Eve I am a comparative newcomer to Ceredigion and I also struggle with some of the locations mentioned by contributors.
Is there anyone out there who has the knowledge and would be willing to compile a gazetteer for the blog?
Best wishes
Trevor & Eve Storeton-West
Like Trevor & Eve I am a comparative newcomer to Ceredigion and I also struggle with some of the locations mentioned by contributors.
Is there anyone out there who has the knowledge and would be willing to compile a gazetteer for the blog?
Save The Rainforests
I know we all get plenty of opportunities to sign petitions but please would you look at the following - www.rainforestSOS.org - and sign up if you would like to add your voice.
Thanks.
Bob
Thanks.
Bob
Med Gulls at Llanon
| Morfa Llanon 21:15-22:00
After seeing Jeremy Moores report of 34 adult Mediterranean Gulls late on 03.07.09 with only binoculars I thought I would take a look with my scope tonight. I could not believe the numbers I saw with at least 48 adult, 17 second summer, 6 first summer and 1 Juvenile. They were still flying in at From Chris Bird |
Monday, 6 July 2009
MEDITERRANEAN GULLS
Bob and I went down to Llanon this afternoon and it was immediately apparent that the gull flock on the cliff-top field immediately south of the hotel was made up largely of Med. Gulls: 39 adults, 18 second summer and 21 first summer birds and 3 juveniles, making 81 in total!
This is the largest gathering that either of us have ever seen and numbers are likely to rise still further. There appears to be a very considerable post-breeding movement of Med. Gulls in western Europe and it is still the start of July. In Ceredigion the numbers have always built up during July and last year was the first that the 100 barrier was broken. So, still time get that ton of Med.Gulls!
Llanantfraed - Llanon seems to be the favoured area and any newly ploughed fields are worth investigating if thay have attracted gulls. In fact, it is worth checking out any gull flocks, especially those with Black-headed Gulls, for sightings of Med. Gulls including those still in their most attractive breeding plumage.
This is the largest gathering that either of us have ever seen and numbers are likely to rise still further. There appears to be a very considerable post-breeding movement of Med. Gulls in western Europe and it is still the start of July. In Ceredigion the numbers have always built up during July and last year was the first that the 100 barrier was broken. So, still time get that ton of Med.Gulls!
Llanantfraed - Llanon seems to be the favoured area and any newly ploughed fields are worth investigating if thay have attracted gulls. In fact, it is worth checking out any gull flocks, especially those with Black-headed Gulls, for sightings of Med. Gulls including those still in their most attractive breeding plumage.
Saturday, 4 July 2009
Med Gulls
A visit to Llanon yesterday evening (3/7) to look for Med. Gulls.
Now I call myself the worst twitcher in the world as a result of failures on trips like this. But last night was something else. On one count I had something like 35 adults, with immatures as well!
To be honest I would be relieved if someone with some decent optics could do an repeat count. Otherwise I might think I'm losing my marbles!
Jeremy Moore
Thursday, 2 July 2009
Wheatear
Young wheatear down tanybwlch, 3 birds being fed by the male. Ringed plover alert near borth. Elephant hawk, peppered moth, and the regular jay in my mums garden, penparcau.
More from Chris Bird..........
At home near Trefenter, we had 2 Poplar Hawk-moths on June 30th and last night on July 1st we had 1 Poplar Hawk-moth and 1 Elephant Hawk-moth and a Small Emerald moth. Forgot to mention at Llanon yesterday 3 second year Common Gulls with the Med Gulls.
From Chris Bird
Aberystwyth & Morfa Lannon
| Aberystwyth 2 Sandwich Terns, one with silver ring on left leg. 18 Black Headed Gulls. Morfa, Llanon 9 adult Med Gulls and four second year. 1 Common Sandpiper and 1 From Chris Bird |
Wednesday, 1 July 2009
July Field Trip
Would those intending to come on the July Field Trip please note there has been a change of time.......
Arfon has advised that ringing begins at dawn and by 10.00 very few birds are caught, so the revised meeting time is 8.00 Saturday 18th July at Teifi Marshes Visitor Centre car park.
Look forward to seeing you there.
Arfon has advised that ringing begins at dawn and by 10.00 very few birds are caught, so the revised meeting time is 8.00 Saturday 18th July at Teifi Marshes Visitor Centre car park.
Look forward to seeing you there.
PALE BUZZARDS
Another poor photo of mine and here is a challenge to proper bird photographers. Can someone get a really good shot of one of the pale Buzzards which haunt the upper Rheidol valley? I have seen this one before, perched on the same post between Ponterwyd and Ysbyty Cynfryn. I have not been able to digi-scope it for fear of disturbing the bird as the scope has been in the car boot on both occasions.
It looks pure white when perched and seen front on. In flight the upper wings are grey and paler on the underside.
There are a number of these pale-phase Buzzards in the valley and I have seen them around Cwmrheidol and up at Ystumtuen.
Hywel used to receive reports from visitors of Ospreys and Gyr Falcons and presumably it was the pale Buzzards which had been seen. I knew someone in the valley who was certain there were Ospreys there, even in winter.
MEDITERRANEAN GULL
I know its not a good photo but I offer it as it shows the contrasting head colour and pattern of Med. and Black-headed Gulls in breeding plumage, the differing bill colour and lack of black wings tips on the adult Med Gull.
This was taken with Bob, yesterday at Llansantffraed.
Many thanks to Phil D. for putting us right regarding the lovely butterfly at Penderi.
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