Harthope – 1st May 2013

Today, a run up to Harthope,calling at Branton on the way. Here a Cuckoo was hopping on the ground looking for food and several Sand Martins and Swallows hawked above. Perhaps eight Willow Warblers were in song and several Yellowhammers did likewise. In the Ingram Valley a Common Sandpiper was seen and more hirundines. Also 5 Wheatears fed in a field   On to Harthope, looking very much like a March day, with barely a bud on the trees . Birds noted included Dipper, 24 singing Willow Warblers, 15 Mistle Thrushes,and 2 Buzzards. A Great spotted Woodpecker,calling and a few Red Grouse. Then a nice male Whinchat, followed by 3 more . Also, 5 or 6 Wheatears and a female Ring Ousel. On down to Paperhaugh, and 5 Crossbills drank at the river and Nuthatch seen. At the coast, 7 Avocets were at one site.  On to Druridge Bay, and Sedge  and Grasshopper Warbler and Stonechat noted as well as at Cresswell, 8 Yellow Wagtails, one of which was a blue-headed bird. The Long tailed Duck duo were still present. A.S.Jack