Brambling at the Lee Valley Farms, December 2nd, 2021

It was a beautiful sunny day with blue skies so I decided to head down to the Lee Valley to try and get some better shots of both Brambling and Goosander. It was a frosty start and I captured this Muntjac walking to the WDC.

From the viewing platform overlooking 70 Acres Lakes 3 Rose-ringed Parakeets called and flew over with one landing close by.

Next stop was Ashley Pit for the Goosanders, and six birds were present, four of which were males. They can be very skittish, so it was a case of waiting quietly until they came in closer. Shooting from the Southern and Eastern side of the pit ensured the best light.

One of the females.

And the males.

A good start to the morning, so a walk back via the Wildlife Discovery Centre. No sign of the Bittern from the tower, however one of the Water Rails walked out in front of the new Kingfisher nest bank.

Heading up towards the farms, a Red Kite gave a close fly past.

Further up the cycle track I located a large finch flock feeding in some set aside and then diving into the hedge. They were mainly Chaffinch, while a handful of Redwing skulked in the hedgerow.

Male Chaffinch

However there were some Brambling mixed in with the flock and almost impossible to say how many, but certainly at least 3 or 4, but probably more. A bit of waiting and careful positioning got me some shots in the hedgerow.

All of the above are males, but here is one of a female.

I always seem to forget, but remembered this time and took a short video clip.

Making my way back, the flock had moved with me and by chance one Brambling perched briefly out in the open and lower down.

A very successful trip!