Winter is on its way!

The Farm has ticked over nicely recently so I decided to spend my last weekend before I venture back to Paraguay staking the place out. With weather deteriorating in Europe and a steady run of NE winds with early morning cloud raised the bar in hope of a rarity. 

There has also been a small passage of Fiedfare, Redwing, Siskin and Redpoll with Wigeon numbers increasing on the Farm.

There are two Cetti’s Warblers on site which probably explains the amount of calling from the birds in and around the South end of the North lake. This species has become more common in the Surrey Vice County over the last few years.

Goldcrest numbers have been high in the country with several birds hitting the mist nests on ringing days.

Tank and Glenn had a Bearded Reedling beyond the Northern end of the North lake. This bird was very obliging to the birders in the hide as it performed a fly past before continuing its tour of the Farm.

Short Eared Owls have made a regular appearance of the last few days. It is not certain if it is the same bird as all have been observed as flyovers. Today the bird appeared with a couple of gulls that were using the thermals to gain height. The bird slowly made its way South as it sailed away.

This time next week I will be enjoying a 40c heatwave and no doubt be hoping for rain to bring in late migrants. If I see a gull this will certainly be a MEGA and duck numbers at Laguna Blanca are limited to the passing visitor. All in complete contrast to the Farm!!