Wednesday 11 May 2011

30 APRIL - Sparrowhawk repeatedly taking College Lapwing chicks

A beautiful sunny day with a stiff chilly NE wind.

I just saw the 2 BAR-TAILED GODWITS flying off as I got to the top of the steps at Wilstone at about 6.30am. Also had excellent views of the Blue-headed (type) Wagtail perched on the closest post singing away. A Common Sandpiper there as well and 2 Black Terns. Met up with Francis Buckle and Chris King at College Lake and had 3 Greenshank showing well before they were spooked by a Sparrowhawk which swooped in and took a Lapwing chick despite being attacked by all the furious Lapwings. We had earlier seen the Sparrowhawk make an aborted attempt at a chick but that time it was chased off. Apparently this bird has made several attempts in previous days and will no doubt take several more chicks, as they have nowhere to hide until the grass grows up a bit more - 2 Little-ringed Plover there and 3 Common Buzzard.

We found 2 Small Blues and a Small Heath and wandered up to look at the White Helleborines that are just coming into flower.We went back to look at the Wagtail at midday and it was still showing well. Also a Swift and a Hobby there. 2 Ringed Plover flew over Wilstone heading towards College.

Finished the day watching the Tree Pipit for an hour with Ian Williams and Mike and Rose in the evening sunshine. The bird was showing really well, singing and song flighting (Charlie Jackson)

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