Slow Burn

Spring is obviously in full swing, but so far it's been a slightly strange one in terms of what species are on the move.

Passerine movement has been most obvious to me the past couple of weeks, especially around the garden, where species such as Goldfinch and Siskin appeared on the feeders for the first time this year.

A pair of Robin have taken up residence, and a pair of Dunnock have appeared, as did Song Thrush, Pied Wagtail and a flock of over 100 Redwing.

Out further in the countryside, Mistle Thrush too, were obviously moving.

A quick stop at Jorvas on Sunday produced a reasonably late Great Grey Shrike, and a day flying Woodcock went over.




Great Grey Shrike - will likely be 6 months before I see another.



Great Spotted Woodpecker - Morsfjarden

Raptors have been few and far between for me. In all my time here I've never gone so late without seeing an Osprey or Marsh Harrier.

Cranes were still in obvious staging groups though, displaying and calling that amazing call.



Common Cranes. 



That amazing call again and even a bit of dancing.

Our lake has begun to thaw, and straight away we have had GoldenEye and Goosander frequenting the open edges and eyeing up nestboxes.


Male Goldeneye - The past week has seen him throwing shapes just off our pier.

Hopefully some raptor and wader migration starts up soon. Bring it on.

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