The Shrike was always always distant. 150m (ish) the best it will normally do and more distant the norm but it never seems to leave the hedgerow it favours. Looking back over the week, I don't think anyone who has been on site has not had decent scope views and from what I'm told, everyone has gone away happy!
I'll be back helping out with organisation tomorrow!
If anyone is thinking of travelling......
The Steppe Grey Shrike was still present until late afternoon today but Access arrangements for the Weekend remain unchanged. Local birders will be on site from early am. Please note the directions - there is no other access other than the field car park! Approx 3 miles West of Newport on the B5062, turn left (if heading from Newport) down a narrow lane, signposted 'The Wall'. After approx 1/2 mile there is a farm on the left and after another 200m or so, turn right into the field designated for parking at SJ679179. Do not park on any of the verges of the narrow road or the farmyard. The landowner has made the field available for parking and opened up access to an area which is normally out of bounds. Go past the hide and almost immediately turn left over a small bridge. Turn left and follow the field perimeter to the far side. The fence line gives decent views. He has asked for a donation of £3.50 per CAR. All proceeds will be going to the Poppy appeal.
The rain hammered down late afternoon and still is locally but tomorrow should be fine! The the car parking field is OK at present, the entrance from the road is getting a bit churned up however so be careful when exiting (near a tight bend) or driving down the narrow lane nearby.......
