Sunday 3 October 2010

LESSER SCAUP in Warwickshire


Draycote Water looking north-east from Hensborough Hill
Photo by Adam Archer

Today was one of those frustrating autumn days for birding.  No doubt there was a load of top notch stuff lurking around on the north east coast but the torrential rain meant that viewing them would not be easy.  We therefore abandoned a proposed trip to Flamborough Head for a RUSTIC BUNTING and instead decided to stay dry at home.

The trouble is I find it difficult to be cooped up indoors even in the most evil of weather so I decided to don my water-proofs and head to Draycote Water for a cheap year tick.  Luckily upon arrival at the Hensborough Bank area of the reservoir the downpour had subsided slightly.  After a quick scan of the Tufted Ducks and Common Coot I soon managed to pick out the target bird, a drake LESSER SCAUP (280).  The American rarity showed well during the duration of my visit but spent 99.8% of the time fast asleep, as did the other Aythya ducks.  The only other highlights were a group of 7 Ringed Plover and a Rock Pipit amongst the Pied Wagtail flock.

For further birding news regarding Draycote Water please see the link to John Judge's website in my 'bloggers links list'.  John has also crafted an excellent map that pin-points all of the main birding areas of this reservoir.  Check out the red marker for the current favoured area of the LESSER SCAUP.  Please see HERE for further details.    


LESSER SCAUP (male) - Draycote Water, Warwickshire - October 2010
Photo by Adam Archer

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