Wintering bird survey

Sunday 27th February

Since early November we have had the privilege of carrying out wintering bird surveys on a private estate near Hartfield. Sadly today was the final survey of the winter. A good tally of 46 species today included: Canada Goose (15), Mute Swan (3), Egyptian Goose (2), Shoveler (pair), Wigeon (6), Mallard (15), Tufted Duck (13), Moorhen (2), Coot (3), Black-headed Gull (75), Mediterranean Gull (1 adult), Common Gull (4), Cormorant (3), Sparrowhawk (1), Red Kite (3), Buzzard (10), Jay (1), Raven (2), Skylark (7), Goldcrest (2), Nuthatch (3), Treecreeper (2), Starling (11), Fieldfare (21), Song Thrush (6), Mistle Thrush (2), Dunnock (1), Grey Wagtail (2), Chaffinch (90), Brambling (1) and Linnet (11). Neither Shoveler nor Mediterranean Gull had been recorded in previous visits. 

Both the 2020/21 and 2021/22 surveys recorded 71 species with a cumulative total of 78 species - an impressive total for an inland location in winter. Absentees from the 2021/22 species list included Snipe and Woodcock reflecting the absence of cold weather while additions this winter included Tawny Owl, Kingfisher and Stonechat. Another feature of the 2021/22 winter was the increased frequency of Red Kite with sightings in 7 out of 8 surveys (1 out of 8 in 2020/21) including three together today.















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