Sunday 7 September 2008

Shustoke - Grey Phalarope and Terns!!!

Chasewater was a dead loss so it was resort to plan C for the Phalarope at Shustoke reservoir near Coleshill. This wasn't a bad move either as it turned out to be less than 30mins drive away.....

One or two other photographers had the same idea!






Definitely a great move, considering that on arrival we had a Grey Phalarope less than 40m out from the car park!! It came closer too, within 20m and whilst I know this species is particularly confiding - it does look good on the water. The tones of the water and bird seem to blend giving an oil painting type effect - just love these!!

Also great to finally meet Steve Seal doing a great job of keeping everyone posted with the info on this great patch (once we realised 'we' were talking to each other!!)














I suppose there's only so many shots you can utilise in this situation and after a while, I couldn't resist checking out the other nice birds present....

How about this gorgeous juv Arctic Tern!






Or even better, a juv Black Tern landing on the next buoy - the closest I've got to one yet!!












A juv Little Gull was keeping more distant from the bank but just within range for a record shot....