Today was our last day in Devon and we headed off the moor to Labrador Bay, the RSPB reserve managed specifically for Cirl Bunting. On previous visits we have heard these birds singing from the car park and quickly been able to locate them in the field margins. However, today was very windy, meaning the birds were lying low and any snatches of song were carried off by the wind. We scoured the areas we have found them before but had no luck. A couple of RSPB wardens told us there was a feeding station in a nearby field, but we didn’t immediately spot this on the ground, erroneously looking for a feeding tray. On a scrubby slope, Andy caught sight of a skulking bird, but it was an obscured view. Another bird was singing half heartedly from deep in the scrub, but remained completely hidden. I wandered round to the lee of the hedgerow, which offered more shelter, and eventually spotted a bird calling from the bushes across the field. I called the others over and set the scope up so we all had a decent look before the bird flew to the ground. At this point we realised the feeding station was actually an area of scattered seed on the ground, where we could now see fourteen birds busily feeding, providing a perfect photo opportunity.
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Cirl Bunting
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This visit had taken a lot longer than expected, but we were very happy with the views we had, and we will know where to look next time!
Our next birding stop was the valley below the Warren House Inn, where we found a relatively sheltered scenic spot for a rather late lunch. As we stood up after eating, we heard a Cuckoo behind us, and just caught sight of it disappearing behind the trees. Following an animal track, we were surprised to discover a sheltered valley hidden from view and here the Cuckoo was perched on a low tree. Andy was just setting up the camera for a decent shot, when a lady picnicking just below the bird stood up with her own large lens and immediately spooked the bird which promptly flew off into the distance. Very frustrating!
We continued along the valley path and Andy somehow managed to pick out a pair of Whinchat on some fairly distant heather. They gradually came closer and through the scope we had excellent views, plus Andy managed a decent camera shot.
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| Whinchat |
As I waited for the photographers (story of my life!) I spotted a raptor coming into view. Putting the bins up, the distinctive flight and wing shape revealed its identity - our first Hobby of the year! Another bird soon appeared and we spent several minutes watching their wonderful aerobatics before they disappeared from view. We had not expected that and it was a fabulous bird to leave the valley with.
Our final stop was at Challacombe Farm, where Tim managed to spot a single Redstart, a lovely male in breeding plumage, which didn’t stay for long, but provided a fitting end to the day’s tally.
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