Oundle

I made another Monday visit to Barnwell CP before taking a stroll along the river for the first time in what seems like ages. The weather followed the recent trend in that it was mainly dull with just a few brief brighter spells and sadly for me the wildlife more or less took its cue from the weather!

Floodwater along the Nene.

Barnwell CP was quiet, a brief view of a Kingfisher was the main highlight though a growing number of Redwings are now beginning to appear. Otters have returned to the park over the last few days which means that Kingfisher Hide has become popular with photographers, I joined them for a short spell but didn't see any. Photos on the Northants FB page suggests that a few people did strike lucky with up to three otters being seen today, perhaps I should be more patient.

Grey Heron and Cormorants.

Another Kingfisher was seen near the marina while a group of five Fieldfares near Lower Barnwell Lock were my first of the Autumn. Recent rainfall has lead to rather a lot of floodwater along the Nene and the largest area between the lock and the A605 is beginning to attract birds. A flock of about fifty Lapwings were quite flighty while a similar number of Black-headed Gulls seemed more relaxed. About thirty Wigeon and ten or so Shoveller were feeding with Mallards and a single Teal, hopefully more species might show up as the winter progresses.

Mute Swans and Red Kite.

Little else of note today, a search of the spire of Oundle church failed to produce any views of Peregrine though the work currently taking place may be responsible for that. It was left to my old friends at Stagecoach to put the seal on my day when the bus arrived half an hour later than scheduled, I really am glad that I don't have to use this unpunctual service for work.

Robin.