Sunday 10th March 2013

A very cold day today but numbers of birds up from previous day. Once again the only Sanderling seen was at Pole Sands.

Whilst watching it a Great Crested Grebe flew past on its way out to sea, possibly leaving for its breeding quarters, although six more were seen during the trip.

Two separate male Goldeneye were spotted among buoys in Starcross area. This species return early to their breeding areas which might explain the reduction in their numbers on the river.

 

The Spotted Redshank today did have the company of two Greenshanks at Powderham with also a small flock of Turnstones feeding at the base of the wall.

We did see three Bar-tailed Godwits today. Other Waders were plentiful especially Dunlin. 

 

These last two trips I have noticed that many Shelduck are being seen closer to the boat. A good opportunity to note the size difference between male and female.

On the return journey 1000 plus Brent Geese were at Turf. How long before they leave for their Arctic breeding grounds? Let’s hope they return next winter with many young.

A fitting sight for my last trip of the winter.

Ian Waite

photos by Helene Buse

Saturday 9th March 2013

A cold misty trip with rain at times but still many birds on the river, although numbers down on some species.

Usual mix of Gulls, Crows and Oystercatchers on Pole Sands with one Sanderling feeding on the tideline, the only one seen on the trip.

Four Lesser Black-backed Gulls on the sands were unexpected.

A Seal was seen making its way from the mouth of the river towards Dawlish with a second one pulled up on Bull Hill.

Only a handful of Red-breasted Mergansers were seen en route to Topsham, but on return many more sighted.

 

Spotted Redshank was one of the few Waders at Powderham. The two Greenshanks seen today were further up river.

Brent Geese were in small groups at various locations seeking out the remnants of Eel Grass. 

No large flocks of Avocet or Black-tailed Godwits but many smaller groups seen. No Bar-tailed Godwits noted today and no sign of Long-tailed Duck.

Ian Waite 
Photos by Helene Buse