After a very unusual week at home, it was really good to know that I have a lot of friends around me to tell my troubles too. So, when Bob K asked me to go out on Sunday, I could not miss the opportunity. A nice Steve K type start time of 9am with Bob at the controls, we headed for Broomhill Flash not far from Old Moor N.R. A Barn Owl was seen then a lovely Kingfisher flashed past. A small group of Black tailed Godwit`s in brilliant plummage were also seen.
Next stop Hatfield Moor N.R. with the hoped for Hobby and various dragonflies. It was nice and sunny by now as we passed through Doncaster. We parked up and began to explore this large nature reserve. Another perched up Kingfisher was found, but not long enough for Bob to get a picture! At the veiwing platform across from where a 2nd World War plane had crash landed, we had a rest and enjoyed the sunshine. Not many birds or much really happening. In the hide a smart Yellowhammer was seen.
Next stop Blacktoft Sands RSPB reserve, we made our way around starting at the Alkborough end. Quite a few Marsh Harriers where in the air at once, always nice to watch. A couple of Bearded Tits were seen dashing about feeding their young family. The real highlight came when a lady said that there was a Peregrine Falcon in the distance coming towards us with prey in its talons. As the bird came fairly close towards us we soon realised that the bird was a Hobby! At the Goole end I expected to see lots of Avocet`s and guess what, not a one was present on the reserve. The presence of 10 Spotted Redshank, some in cracking plummage, was another highlight. Blacktoft is still one of my best northern nature reserves to visit, certainly over the warmer months. We got home at 6pm and really enjoyed the day after a very bad week at home. Thanks Bob K.
