Microbirdology

Pictures from January 2025, that interest me and are not covered by a separate post Cirl Bunting at RSPB Labrador Bay Snow Bunting at Hamworthy Ross's Goose , blue-phase Snow Goose , feral Black Swan and Little Stin t at Slimbridge Hawfinch near Andover Semi-reliable W ater Rail at the Seaton Wetlands

Bearded reedlings ( Panurus biarmicus ), also known as bearded tits, are small, unique passerine birds found in reed beds across the UK. Recognizable by their long tails and distinctive appearance, males have striking grey heads with black 'moustaches,' while females are warm brown with no facial markings. They are non-migratory and mainly reside in southeastern England, particularly in wetlands like the Norfolk Broads and RSPB reserves such as Minsmere. Their diet shifts seasonally from insects in summer to reed seeds in winter. Conservation efforts have helped stabilize their populations, although they remain vulnerable to harsh winters and habitat loss. In my experience, finding and photographing Bearded reedlings is a real challenge. Fortunately, I was very lucky on my first visit to RSPB Ouse Fen.   RSPB Ouse Fen is a flat nature reserve located in Cambridgeshire, UK, created from former sand and gravel quarries. It is gradually transforming into the largest reed bed in B...

Booted Eagles ( Hieraaetus pennatus ) are sometimes seen in the UK as rare vagrants, primarily due to their migratory behavior. These medium-sized birds of prey typically breed in southern Europe, North Africa, and parts of Asia, migrating to sub-Saharan Africa for the winter. Occasionally, individuals stray northward due to navigation errors, strong winds, or dispersal of young birds exploring new territories. Climate change and shifting migration patterns may also contribute to their occasional presence in the UK. Sightings remain rare but are increasing, particularly along the southern coast. This individual has been in the South West for several weeks. We headed off with limited expectations of spotting the bird but were lucky enough to catch sight of it twice. The light was very poor and the bird was reasonably distant but the pictures were clear enough to identify the bird.  The other birders pointing it out, was added confirmation that we had the right bird! Red-billed chou...

Fair to say that the weather was not kind on this trip.  I failed, yet again, to find the Stiffkey Glossy Ibis and the Cranes at Willow Fen. I did see Shorelarks at Holkham but I couldn't get close enough for any sort of photograph.   Highlights were restricted to Fieldfare and Stonechats at Willow Fen. Plus the usual collection of birds on the superb feeders at Sculthorpe Moor.  This time, including a ringed Jay.