On arrival we were greeted by the amazing site of a Jackdaw in a trance-like state, sea-watching. We guessed, based on recent weather, it was not so much enjoying the view but wondering what the big orange thing in the sky was!
It was approaching high tide and the increasingly calming sea mirrored the clear blue sky above, thus allowing clear views of Puffin Island, off the eastern tip of Anglesey. Just as well really, as the Red Breasted Merganser - our target bird today - where way out at sea, sharing the serenity with a number of Great Crested Grebe. That is until a lone male in full summer plumage, appeared within 50 meters and dutifully posed for photographs in the pale blue sea.
Mission accomplished, and after watching 100+ Oystercatchers desert the shrinking shoreline to head for their high water roost, we moved on to Conwy.
Lunch at the RSPB reserve was followed by a perimeter walk during which; Teal, Shelduck, Wigeon, Heron, Lapwing, Pochard, Canada Geese, Goosander, Blackbird, Curlew, Snipe, Tufted Duck, Little Egret, Coot, Redshank, Robin, Blue Tit, Great Tit, Long-tailed Tit, Crow, Dunnock, Chaffinch and Goldfinch were all added to the day-list.
Conwy RSPB reserve is very well run by its team of dedicated, friendly staff. In my opinion, it is streets ahead of the better known (Springwatch) sister site at Ynys-Hir.
Da iawn Cymru.
Hypnotised by the sea (a state I know so well)
Red Breasted Merganser enjoying its usual 'bad hair day'
Snipe bathing in the lagoon at Conwy RSPB
Curlew taking a breather near the lagoon
A perfect end to the day - Watching a Grey Heron searching for supper at sunset
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