A bit of pre-Xmas birding and a day off that actually coincided with decent enough weather saw James and I head off in the morning towards Whiteford. Along the way, we had to give the Pacific Diver a go. The diver was really near the side of the reservoir, and I regret not having taking pictures at that point. We were soon distracted by the nearby grey phalarope though so had to get some shots of that, as it fed right alongside the edge. We’ll never be able to one up that one I don’t think! There was also a Slavonian grebe reported on there, but 2/3 wasn’t bad, and time wasn’t on our side.
With those in the bag we headed to Whiteford where we lunched on the move, picking up the usual kestrel near the cliff face. Didn’t manage to get snow buntings, though they were then reported a week later over on Cefn Sidan, not far as the crow (snow bunting!) flies.
There were loads of waders, too many oystercatcher to count, and then other specials like eider duck and brent. It was low tide so didn’t get divers or Slavonian grebes. We did get a really old crisp packet though! Something like '94??? How is it such good nick still?
After a bit of a mission to get back through
the dunes, we got to Llanrhidian for the evening roost and soon picked up a
quartering ringtail harrier, two kestrels, loads of egrets and some great white’s,
but not the male hen harrier we wanted, or an SEO. Still, great day and a good
laugh. Was sad to see The Greyhound closed!
