-
Localised weather systems; Cheviot Valleys group birdwatching 11/07/17
Watching the weather forecast on the breakfast news, I was confident that any rain we encountered on our day in the Cheviot Valleys would be quickly passing showers… As I collected Mike and the other 12 members of his group from Belford there was a steady drizzle, and I was questioning the forecast already š…
-
“I’m really scared of birds”; Farne Islands Safari 30/06/16
In late June, a big part of the Farne Islands experience is the aerial bombardment you’re subjected to as Arctic Terns defend their eggs and chicks… I collected John from Bedlington, Colin and Martin from Morpeth and then Sue from Old Swarland (for her 4th trip with NEWT).Ā A breezy but warm morning brought Curlew,…
-
Small things; Druridge Bay 24/05/16
Waders are often spectacular, seabirds are enigmatic and raptors are, well, raptors, but sometimes the smaller birds deserve a lot more attention… I collected Stephen from North Shields for his 7th day trip with NEWT and we headed north to Druridge Bay.Ā Days out with Stephen are always enjoyableStarting in bright sunshine under blue skies,…
-
Sport Relief
I spent yesterday in an unfamiliar role; as support to The Swan Striders (Sarah and Kirsty) as they took part in the Sport Relief mile at Druridge Bay Country Park.Ā This is the first step in a grand plan that should eventually see them completing a marathon.Ā As they only began their training regime a…
-
The (h)edge of reason
We’re well into warm(er) weather now, although there was a fresh covering of snow this morningĀ and asĀ Martin sat through a 2hr meeting at Matfen Hall yesterday morning there was steady snowfall throughout. As well as the flocks of birds that are visiting gardens so that they can find enough food to survive we’ve been finding…