Wednesday 27 March 2013

Birding Maple Lodge recce for ST Albans RSPB

Met  Yvvone Raxworthy and Colin Rose in the car park prior to the reserve it was still cold,
we made our way to the Rotunda hide first observing the Phragmites reed bed from above.
Nothing much doing the odd Teal  and Tufted on the partially frozen lake,we made our
way to the aptly named Teal hide were a few more obliged.

Moving on to the junction of the Paddock and Long Hedge the regular Common Buzzard
put in an all to brief appearance as it headed off to Lynsters gravel pit as did we.
From the hide overlooking Lynsters farm and gravel pit we saw 3 species of
Geese including 2 Egyptians.
We now retraced our steps and walked up Long Hedge there were a few Goldfinch
calling in the Alders and feeding on the few thistles available.
Good numbers of Fieldfares,Redwings and small flocks of Stock doves graced Lynsters
farm field adjacent the reserve,we viewed two more hides noting Tufted and a single Great
Crested Grebe etc.
We returned to the Club house where we left for Woodoaks Farm,this was more
rewarding a Red Kite over the orchard gave impressive views.
On the arable farmland a small flock of 60c Golden Plover and a party of 30c
Meadow Pipit.
Finally one of four reported Wheatears  posed as we returned through the farm.
If you are members of St Albans RSPB do'nt miss this trip on Sunday April 14th.

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