WAXWING

26-12-2016 - Crosspool, Sheffield

News of a few Waxwings on Manchester Road at Crosspool on Christmas Eve and Day was the first opportunity for me to see these delightful visitors. Incredibly on the 26th I pulled up opposite a Rowan tree, laden with yellow berries, and as I got out the the car and picked up my camera I heard the unmistakable call behind me. It was very windy but around 25 birds landed briefly in the Rowan tree with just enough time for me to fire a few shots off.

EASTERN BLACK REDSTART

15-12-2016 - Skinningrove, Cleveland

I waited a long time to get this opportunity, but on a very dark grey day decided to call in and the long-staying bird did not disappoint. It was still on the rocks to the North of the pier and took some mealworms from me although the Turnstones were tame and also got a free meal.

DUSKY THRUSH

Beeley, Chatsworth, Derbyshire - 05-12-2016

A very brief visit to Beeley for this amazing bird and captured the best shots in the Orchard at the top of the village. Many fellow birders to compete with; a very popular twitch.

LONG-TAILED DUCK

11-11-2016 - Rother Valley Country Park

A lovely bird stayed for a few days. I managed to get down before dawn and before work one day to find it feeding on the River Rother near Meadowgate Lake. A nice experience being alone with this confiding bird. A couple of passing Kingfishers also entertained.

SNOW BUNTING

29-10-2016 - Broomhead Moor, track to shooting lodge

An afternoon visit to the long-staying bird which was feeding along the main track.