Sunday 2 March 2014

The coast, Workington area


Cormorants chilling out on Workington harbour
Had a ride over to Workington, starting off at the lighthouse where I was hoping to find some Purple Sandpiper, as there is sometimes a flock of about 30 or so. Unfortunately there was no sign of them anywhere.

Further along the dock, more Cormorants and a mixed bag of gulls.
 There was lots of gulls, but after giving them a good scan didn't find the Med Gull that frequents this area. The tide was going out, which gave enough space to be able to drop down onto the the shingle area, on the lookout for waders, but all I found was this Oystercatcher, with part of its up mandible missing.

Its not too obvious in this pic, so we'll move on to the next.


Look at that, its a wonder it can still feed

I wondered as I watched it, if it could be caught, and the bottom half trimmed off would it help.
Next I made my way over to the other side of the harbour, its the first time I have been on this side, as I wasn't sure if there was public access. fortunately there is, and maybe when the timing is right, meaning the tide. it could have potential. Today however it was pretty quiet, with just a few Oystercatchers, Redshanks at a distance, and this lonely little fellow. -----

Ring plover, way out on the sand, all on its own.
Next I moved on to Siddick ponds, but there wasn't a great deal on offer there, Good numbers of Goosander, a few Goldeneye, and Tufted Duck, two mute Swans, and the two resident whooper Swans.

Goosanders, and a Whooper in the background.

And a few of these flitting along the path, Reed Bunting.
No big rewards, but a very pleasant day out, the sun shone all day, giving us the warmest day so far this year.
Thank you for looking in. Gordon.   Linking to the bird D'pot.  http://id-rather-b-birdin.blogspot.co.uk/

16 comments:

  1. No rewards you say? Oh my gosh....I'd be thrilled to see them all! That oystercather that has the damaged beak...nature can hold its own I image, it seems to be doing well...lets just hope it continues to thrive.

    Wonderful post. And look forward to your next venture to the other side of the harbor when the timing is better and you'll be able to 'spot' some more great photo opportunities!!

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  2. Poor oystercatcher / what caught my eye the most is his bright red eyes...what a striking bird he is

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  3. Wonderful walk - You saw lots of cool birdies! Thank you for sharing.

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  4. Beautiful birds. I hope the oystercatcher will make it.

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  5. glad the oystercatcher can still catch and eat! that reed bunting is spectacular!

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  6. Lovely walk out to see something, like Oystercatcher, Ringed Plover and Reed Bunting, that is a pleasure.

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  7. Hi Gordon,
    Well you might be "jealous" of my Hawfinches, but I am certainly envious of your Flycatchers and this gorgeous Reed Bunting! LOL!
    Well done!!
    Funny, I just noticed thar you live in Penrith! My grand children also live in Penrith... but in Australia! Haha!
    Keep well,

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  8. never seen anything like that before. The Oystercatcher would have a lot of trouble I think. Thanks for sharing.

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  9. Pleasure to walk and observe this birds, coast Workington is a nice place, greeting from Belgium

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  10. It looks nice and relaxing and I'm sure it feels good to be in the sun after winter. Loved the Reed Bunting, beautiful markings.

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  11. poor little Oystercatcher. God is truly wonderful how he lets his creatures adapt. Love the hedgehog from last post too.

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  12. I had to smile when I read you were looking for prple sandpipers. They are rather rare here and I'm always missing them! Better luck next time!

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  13. Oh, I needed to check the word "mandible" p;) I loved the elegant picture of Reed Bunting; BIG reward for you I think♡♡♡

    Sending you Lots of Love and Hugs from Japan, xoxo Miyako*

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  14. It looks like a warm and wonderful stroll. I will be strolling the shore soon. I can't wait to catch my own catchers and gulls.

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  15. Lovely photos.
    I did enjoy your friend's woodcarvings; such talent!

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A big thank you to everyone for looking in and leaving their comments, much appreciated, Gordon.