Fiery

Continuing the theme of recent weeks myself and JM headed to the St.Mary’s area yesterday afternoon to see if the rain had landed any migrants. Rocky Island was first but only a lone Stonechat was on show although a raft of 60+ Common Scoter were offshore.

Whitley Bay cemetery was also disappointing and we didn’t hold out much hope as we moved onto St.Mary’s. The Gut held a few Redwing and 60 Mallard and three female Pintail were on the wetland. The tracks along the wetland were quiet with only a few Robins ticking away. It was the return part of our journey that got interesting.

A Yellow-Browed Warbler called form the overgrown edges of the wetland and a Redstart and female Blackcap showed occasionally. As we passed the second viewing screen at the wetland I heard a strange high-pitched call not dissimilar to a Goldcrest. As we looked up and scanned the row off willows next to the screen a stunning Firecrest popped into view.

They are amazing little birds and never disappoint even though the views were limited. It worked it way along the willows and lower bushes between the first and second viewing screen before we decided to leave. Also a Goldcrest was calling from the willows.