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The 304 miles from Leigh to Oban is approx a 5hour drive
The sailing from Oban to Lochboisdale is another 5 hours 15 minutes
On arrival at Oban you will without doubt see a variety of common gull species, but the bird to look for in the harbour is Black Guillemot if you have a wait for the ferry it will be worthwhile setting up you scope to scan the harbour and sea, you will be unlucky if you don’t see a least Shag and Gannet as well.
After boarding the ferry take with you all you will need to endure the 5 hour + journey to Lochboisdale, South Uist, because returning to your car is not permitted. So wet weather / warm clothing is essential, so are your camera, various lenses and binocs.
First of for me is up on deck to decide where to perch for most of the way but of course this position will no doubt change with the direction of the wind as the ferry moves up through the sound of Mull and out into the open sea.
Birds usually encountered would be Black & common Guillemots, Shags, Cormorants, Eider ducks and drakes. Gannet, Fulmar and again gulls are definite and Razorbills, Puffins and Shearwaters are about especially Manx but I have seen Sooty shearwater.
For those that like to travel in comfort or need to rest then get a move on in fact send some of your party ahead to bag your seats, communicate by mobile phone and find them later. Having said that there is plenty of comfortable seating but some people don’t half like to spread out. The food on board is quite good and also reasonably priced; we have found the staff to be very friendly as well.
There are lots to see as you sail, the sound of Mull is only a couple of miles wide so good views of birds and scenes are all around, a camera is a must but do make a note of the shots you take on the way out because you will probably want to take the same ones again coming back. Grab the shots while you can if the weathers good, because it sure wont be the same coming back.
The sailing from Oban to Lochboisdale is another 5 hours 15 minutes
On arrival at Oban you will without doubt see a variety of common gull species, but the bird to look for in the harbour is Black Guillemot if you have a wait for the ferry it will be worthwhile setting up you scope to scan the harbour and sea, you will be unlucky if you don’t see a least Shag and Gannet as well.
After boarding the ferry take with you all you will need to endure the 5 hour + journey to Lochboisdale, South Uist, because returning to your car is not permitted. So wet weather / warm clothing is essential, so are your camera, various lenses and binocs.
First of for me is up on deck to decide where to perch for most of the way but of course this position will no doubt change with the direction of the wind as the ferry moves up through the sound of Mull and out into the open sea.
Birds usually encountered would be Black & common Guillemots, Shags, Cormorants, Eider ducks and drakes. Gannet, Fulmar and again gulls are definite and Razorbills, Puffins and Shearwaters are about especially Manx but I have seen Sooty shearwater.
For those that like to travel in comfort or need to rest then get a move on in fact send some of your party ahead to bag your seats, communicate by mobile phone and find them later. Having said that there is plenty of comfortable seating but some people don’t half like to spread out. The food on board is quite good and also reasonably priced; we have found the staff to be very friendly as well.
There are lots to see as you sail, the sound of Mull is only a couple of miles wide so good views of birds and scenes are all around, a camera is a must but do make a note of the shots you take on the way out because you will probably want to take the same ones again coming back. Grab the shots while you can if the weathers good, because it sure wont be the same coming back.
Another foray into the fields of Norfolk
Posted 28-02-2010 at 07:49 AM by Davy Crockett
Leigh Ornithological Society’s winter trip to Norfolk, 18th – 21st February 2010
Thursday 18th February:
The locations of the Society’s winter trips are never difficult to decide, the problem being to arrange suitable accommodation at a reasonable cost to all. This year our trip took us to Norfolk where we have been many times in the past 30 years, usually staying near Wells-next-the-sea; this time we ventured further along the coast to Cromer. This enabled us to include in our itinery bird sites further south, including Hickling and Burton Broads.
After a reasonable journey, although misty for much of the way, our first meeting point was Hunstanton to view the coastal birds. Fulmars are present here all year as they nest on the cliffs below the viewing points, gulls, auks and divers are often present either at sea or passing by.
Some of the group had called in at The Wolferton Triangle before-hand and saw Golden Pheasant; this is England’s premier site for seeing these birds.
Next stop was Tichwell RSPB reserve, not to be missed by any discerning birder who makes the journey to Norfolk; from the car park to the sea is a revelation on every visit whatever the season. Although a major reconstruction of the sea defences for the reserve are in operation at this time, we still noted over 50 species of ducks, waders, raptors, and passerines while we were there. Marsh Harrier, Barn Owl, Avocet, and Spotted Redshank are virtually guaranteed. On the sea and shore at the end of the reserve we had good views of Oystercatcher, Grey and Ringed Plovers, Turnstone, and Sanderling, then the added bonus of what at first glance appeared to be an oil slick out at sea - it was in fact a flock of at least 5000 Common Scoter.
Arriving at the Hotel by 5pm, settling in, a drink at the bar, the daily call-over of birds seen, followed by a most enjoyable evening meal made a great beginning to what developed into a wonderful long weekend away. Species for the day 87.
Friday 19th February:
First of all the full English / Norfolk to set us up for the day, then a briefing from Phil on the suggested places to visit. All agreed, having seen a report of Snow Buntings at Salthouse, that site was to be the priority. Delight on arrival - over a hundred were feeding around the car park. Turnstones mixed in with the feeding frenzy and didn’t seem to notice about 20 excited birders, photographing and watching at very close quarters. Onward to Cley nature reserve which, on arrival, looked disappointing from the species board so we went on to Stiffkey to look for sea birds. The sea itself was very rough so we didn’t stay long there either, but long enough to watch a Purple Sandpiper picking up a worm from the path.
The wind was lazy and it cut through us so having seen the forecast for brighter weather after 11am we went inland to Holkham Park and its sheltered woodland. This is a deer park, with woods covering about twenty acres. It supports the usual common birds and all three woodpecker species, but only Green and Great Spotted were encountered, along with Nuthatch, Tree Creeper, Jay, and most of the titmice. Flocks of Fieldfare & Redwing were about, and down on the lake we saw Great Crested Grebe, Dabchick, Egyptian, and Greylag geese, Pochard and Tufted Ducks. A Tawny Owl was heard calling but not seen.
As predicted the day became brighter with a lighter wind for our visit to Holkam Gap. Lady Anne’s Walk is usually an excellent area to see large flocks of geese but, strangely, not today. The pine wood at the end of the walk is right on the edge of the beach which attracts birds for shelter. Goldcrest and Coal Tit were seen in passing but the quarry here was Shorelark; daily sightings had been reported over the last few weeks so the chance of spotting them was good. After some time and effort not one showed, but a lesson was learned - regardless of the weather get out there and look before the locals with their dogs have chance to flush every thing. However rewards from here were flocks of Redshank, some Meadow Pipits and Skylarks, and a distant Marsh Harrier. Returning through the pine wood two Woodcock were flushed and on the edge a Barn Owl quartered the fields.
Species for the day 85 combined total 105.
Saturday 20th February:
Today was our trip to the Broads and the reason for staying as far east as Cromer. The broads are large bodies of open water surrounded by deep fringes of dense reeds.
First stop was Burton Broad, the associated car park with facilities, then a half mile walk to the well-constructed boardwalk that takes you through the reed bed and willow scrub and out in the open to a viewing platform.
Greylags were close by, rafts of Tufted and Pochard were here, male and female Golden Eye were already pairing up, a Cetti’s warbler attracted everyone’s attention with its typical but surprising shout, then a distant Bittern flew low over the water only to disappear into the reed cover. Marsh Harrier again was noted and Marsh Tits were calling as we returned to our cars for the next venue, Hickling Broad and Stubb Mill.
Again, a car park and facilities but a little further to walk this time (about a mile), but it is a rewarding walk with lots to take in as you travel the country lane to the specially set up viewing point for the Harrier and Crane roost. Patience is the virtue here but there is always interest around; Sparrowhawk, Kestrel, Merlin, and Barn Owl put in an appearance before the star guests arrived.
As dusk approaches Marsh Harriers come in every few minutes and Cranes, usually parties of four to six, fly in to lesser degrees. Before you know it darkness falls and fifty or so satisfied birders trudge homeward.
Species for the day 77 combined total (Norfolk) 117.
Sunday 21st February:
After another super breakfast, it was planned to visit the N.W.T reserve at Holme and RSPB Snettisham but unfortunately snow began to fall, and most people decided that it would be best to head home in case it got worse. A wise decision as it did, and progress was slow from Cromer to King’s Lynn as the snow came thick and fast. The remainder of the journey was clear and fortunately all arrived home safely.
Still birding on the way home, four of the group saw c100 Golden Plover fly over, two intrepid members ventured to Rutland Water and added Smew and Tree Sparrow to the list, while another pair saw Red Kite. We felt a grand total of 120 species wasn’t bad for a long weekend away, admittedly 3 species were out of the county of Norfolk, but well worth a mention don’t you think?
High on our list of enjoyment was the excellent menu, the quality and presentation of food, and cheerful service we received from the hotel staff; the group can highly recommend The Virginia Court Hotel, Cliff Avenue, Cromer.
Thursday 18th February:
The locations of the Society’s winter trips are never difficult to decide, the problem being to arrange suitable accommodation at a reasonable cost to all. This year our trip took us to Norfolk where we have been many times in the past 30 years, usually staying near Wells-next-the-sea; this time we ventured further along the coast to Cromer. This enabled us to include in our itinery bird sites further south, including Hickling and Burton Broads.
After a reasonable journey, although misty for much of the way, our first meeting point was Hunstanton to view the coastal birds. Fulmars are present here all year as they nest on the cliffs below the viewing points, gulls, auks and divers are often present either at sea or passing by.
Some of the group had called in at The Wolferton Triangle before-hand and saw Golden Pheasant; this is England’s premier site for seeing these birds.
Next stop was Tichwell RSPB reserve, not to be missed by any discerning birder who makes the journey to Norfolk; from the car park to the sea is a revelation on every visit whatever the season. Although a major reconstruction of the sea defences for the reserve are in operation at this time, we still noted over 50 species of ducks, waders, raptors, and passerines while we were there. Marsh Harrier, Barn Owl, Avocet, and Spotted Redshank are virtually guaranteed. On the sea and shore at the end of the reserve we had good views of Oystercatcher, Grey and Ringed Plovers, Turnstone, and Sanderling, then the added bonus of what at first glance appeared to be an oil slick out at sea - it was in fact a flock of at least 5000 Common Scoter.
Arriving at the Hotel by 5pm, settling in, a drink at the bar, the daily call-over of birds seen, followed by a most enjoyable evening meal made a great beginning to what developed into a wonderful long weekend away. Species for the day 87.
Friday 19th February:
First of all the full English / Norfolk to set us up for the day, then a briefing from Phil on the suggested places to visit. All agreed, having seen a report of Snow Buntings at Salthouse, that site was to be the priority. Delight on arrival - over a hundred were feeding around the car park. Turnstones mixed in with the feeding frenzy and didn’t seem to notice about 20 excited birders, photographing and watching at very close quarters. Onward to Cley nature reserve which, on arrival, looked disappointing from the species board so we went on to Stiffkey to look for sea birds. The sea itself was very rough so we didn’t stay long there either, but long enough to watch a Purple Sandpiper picking up a worm from the path.
The wind was lazy and it cut through us so having seen the forecast for brighter weather after 11am we went inland to Holkham Park and its sheltered woodland. This is a deer park, with woods covering about twenty acres. It supports the usual common birds and all three woodpecker species, but only Green and Great Spotted were encountered, along with Nuthatch, Tree Creeper, Jay, and most of the titmice. Flocks of Fieldfare & Redwing were about, and down on the lake we saw Great Crested Grebe, Dabchick, Egyptian, and Greylag geese, Pochard and Tufted Ducks. A Tawny Owl was heard calling but not seen.
As predicted the day became brighter with a lighter wind for our visit to Holkam Gap. Lady Anne’s Walk is usually an excellent area to see large flocks of geese but, strangely, not today. The pine wood at the end of the walk is right on the edge of the beach which attracts birds for shelter. Goldcrest and Coal Tit were seen in passing but the quarry here was Shorelark; daily sightings had been reported over the last few weeks so the chance of spotting them was good. After some time and effort not one showed, but a lesson was learned - regardless of the weather get out there and look before the locals with their dogs have chance to flush every thing. However rewards from here were flocks of Redshank, some Meadow Pipits and Skylarks, and a distant Marsh Harrier. Returning through the pine wood two Woodcock were flushed and on the edge a Barn Owl quartered the fields.
Species for the day 85 combined total 105.
Saturday 20th February:
Today was our trip to the Broads and the reason for staying as far east as Cromer. The broads are large bodies of open water surrounded by deep fringes of dense reeds.
First stop was Burton Broad, the associated car park with facilities, then a half mile walk to the well-constructed boardwalk that takes you through the reed bed and willow scrub and out in the open to a viewing platform.
Greylags were close by, rafts of Tufted and Pochard were here, male and female Golden Eye were already pairing up, a Cetti’s warbler attracted everyone’s attention with its typical but surprising shout, then a distant Bittern flew low over the water only to disappear into the reed cover. Marsh Harrier again was noted and Marsh Tits were calling as we returned to our cars for the next venue, Hickling Broad and Stubb Mill.
Again, a car park and facilities but a little further to walk this time (about a mile), but it is a rewarding walk with lots to take in as you travel the country lane to the specially set up viewing point for the Harrier and Crane roost. Patience is the virtue here but there is always interest around; Sparrowhawk, Kestrel, Merlin, and Barn Owl put in an appearance before the star guests arrived.
As dusk approaches Marsh Harriers come in every few minutes and Cranes, usually parties of four to six, fly in to lesser degrees. Before you know it darkness falls and fifty or so satisfied birders trudge homeward.
Species for the day 77 combined total (Norfolk) 117.
Sunday 21st February:
After another super breakfast, it was planned to visit the N.W.T reserve at Holme and RSPB Snettisham but unfortunately snow began to fall, and most people decided that it would be best to head home in case it got worse. A wise decision as it did, and progress was slow from Cromer to King’s Lynn as the snow came thick and fast. The remainder of the journey was clear and fortunately all arrived home safely.
Still birding on the way home, four of the group saw c100 Golden Plover fly over, two intrepid members ventured to Rutland Water and added Smew and Tree Sparrow to the list, while another pair saw Red Kite. We felt a grand total of 120 species wasn’t bad for a long weekend away, admittedly 3 species were out of the county of Norfolk, but well worth a mention don’t you think?
High on our list of enjoyment was the excellent menu, the quality and presentation of food, and cheerful service we received from the hotel staff; the group can highly recommend The Virginia Court Hotel, Cliff Avenue, Cromer.
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Recent Blog Entries by Davy Crockett
- Another foray into the fields of Norfolk (28-02-2010)
- Scotland’s Solway coats (26-02-2009)
- Just an abbreviation? (24-02-2009)
- Ruddy Ducks (21-08-2008)
- Bird List (10-08-2008)
