Society field trip Sunday 11th Jan - summary

The joint CBWPS and RSPB field trip to the Gerrans Bay area was viewed by the 20 present as successful today. Despite the gale force wind, regsitered at 32mph, several notable species were logged. The highlight was a Long-tailed Duck at Pendower beach with a supporting cast of five Black-throated Diver and one Red-throated Diver. A short drive to Portscatho in a ten car convoy at least gave some respite from the strong wind. In pleasant, sheltered conditions, we logged at least seven Slavonian Grebe, two more Black-throated Divers, three Med Gulls and a juv. Black Redstart. The final leg of the trip was once again birding in high wind at Turnaware Bar, Carrick Roads. In a location normally noted for high numbers of wintering duck, we managed just three Red-breasted Mergansers and a close-ish Great Northern. Sadly the weather stopped play at 12.30 but didn't dampen our spirits in what was a very enjoyable morning in very pleasant company.