Early morning visit to RSPB Conwy
With a stiff northerly breeze the Great Orme was given a miss and Alan headed for RSPB Conwy and the hope of more sheltered birding. The wind was still a pain but no where near as bad as the exposed headland of the Orme.
The tide was rising nicely pushing birds close to the estuary track. Great views of Teal and Wigeon feeding on the fast vanishing saltmarsh. The Benarth hide provided great looks at a lovely Grey Plover roosting with more Teal. Two Black tailed Godwits and two Common Snipe added to the wader count. Little Grebes dashed about the water diving frequently only pop up looking surprised.
Further along the estuary track a flock of gulls were loafing on the small patch of mudflats that remained. Most were Herring Gulls and Black headed Gulls but six Common Gulls were amongst them and a handsome adult Mediterranean Gull. The pure white primaries, dropping scarlet bill and dark mask giving away this scarce gull. Four Shoveler were amongst large numbers of Teal, Wigeon and a few Shelduck at the edge of the marsh.
Flocks of Redshank were roosting on the lagoons where a fine drake Goldeneye swam in the weak autumn sun. Two Chiffchaffs were in the bushes with calling Long tailed Tits. Two Siskins flew over and a Buzzard soared high above.
A nice selection of birds for a quick visit.