09/08/2014 Relaxing at Bassenthwaite Lake

Saturday 9th August 2014
Bassenthwaite Lake

Spent most of the day relaxing with Brian and Kenny at Bassenthwaite Lake in glorious sunshine.

Immediately, our attention was taken by several Spotted- flycatchers which flitted around in the trees between the lay by and the lakeside.  They continued to show all day to the extent that we decided there must be  at least one family group of 5 or 6.

The main reason for the visit was, of course, the Ospreys and they did not disappoint.  We saw 2, probably the male parent and the one chick that remained.  They were seen clearly in the trees by the nest and flying high over the fells near Skiddaw etc.  The only view missing was of them fishing - maybe next year for me?  The female had almost certainly departed after the chicks fledged.  One of the chicks had died and another had had an accident and was being looked after in Scotland.

Red-breasted Mergansers numbering over 30 provided a superb supporting act as did the 100+ feral Barnacle Geese

Barnacle Geese
Library picture

and Canada Geese.

The day before Sue, Brian and I saw 2 Dippers on the River Derwent at Workington to pump start our birding.  As this species has never been seen in Sussex, this was a particularly good experience.


Addition to 2014 UK Bird List:
Barnacle Goose  (252)

A lovely day and one that was much needed!