Working North Side - 17/11/2017

The only year tick I've had in recent weeks was brambling, when I saw several amongst a flock of chaffinch up at Manmoel on my second visit, having gone back with Nick after scoping it out the day before.. Brambling was actually a lifer, and a particular bird I wanted to see this year, so it was great to catch them easily on the second visit. However, I didn't get as lucky at Lake Vyrnwy yesterday, as there were no marsh tit about. There were lots of birds about though, including some stunning siskins which I always enjoy seeing. 





This morning I thought I'd try for Black Gilly for the 3rd time this year.. After scanning the marina I decided to try one last go at scrying online for info in the car, and I managed to find a forum post from 2009 which suggested checking the harbour mouth from the fish quay.. I arrived there shortly after, and the only things on show were a GCG and cormorant. However, as I was turning to leave, I clocked one! It was swimming near to the mooring posts, not very far away at all. A lifer before work started! 219, and still 2 bankers left... Is 225 doable???