Bolton Abbey - 21 March 2012

Bolton Abbey in Wharfedale is another favourite walk of mine and I try to get there three times a year. From the Abbey I headed NW away from the river, through Westy Bank Wood and up over Middle Hare Head. I stopped here for a while to take in the courtship flight of a pair of Lapwing, majestic anywhere but in this remote environment I convinced myself that they were putting on a show just for me!

I continued across the moorland with only the occasional Willow Grouse for company. On reaching the NW point of Lower Barden Reservoir, I found a pair of Mallards sitting elegantly above the run-off from the small pool above the reservoir. Returning along the North side of the reservoir, a large flock of Curlew passed overhead heading West and a couple of flighty Oystercatchers were piping around the dam wall. Arriving at the gate at the end of the moorland path, I joined three birders watching a Short-eared Owl soaring over the southern moorland, too far away for my 8x42's but I got a good view of it through one of their scopes. Thanks guys.

Moving on to the River Wharfe, I first came across a number of Grey Wagtails flying from bank to bank via the many rocks in the river. Then a Pied Wagtail imitating their behaviour. Further downstream was my highlight for the day, half a dozen well spread out Goosander, which I hoped would be there having seen them last year.

Had lunch at my usual spot downstream of the Strid, watching Wrens dart about on both sides of the river. After which, and further downstream, I sat watching a Grey Heron bathing in the river and shaking itself dry, dog-like!

No Dippers or Kingfishers this time but another great day at the Abbey.

 Truly wild Mallards

 Goosander on the Wharfe

My usual lunch spot

Shep the Heron shaking itself dry on the Wharfe