Warblers and 'crests........

21 Jan - An interesting few days of birding in CWP with a couple of sessions put in.... I've had several views of the Yellow-browed Warbler found recently at Lower Mill/Pit 44, the bird is very active when it appears and must have a feeding circuit - best views today, low down in the willows by the stream, the double wing bar and supercilium seen well alongside the overall small size and very active behaviour. Also Goldcrests and Long-tailed Tits present, with a surprise view of a Firecrest in the ivy by the stream, only my second ever in CWP. Frustrating on terms of photography, I got a decent shot of the Firecrest

but haven't had any joy so far with the YBW. I also paid a dusk visit to Shorncote, where, as well as the expected Water Rails and Cetti's Warblers calling, the Barn Owl appeared on cue, albeit not until it was almost dark..... Short-eared Owl also seen locally. Colder weather at the moment, so some secretive species may become more obvious if they get hungrier than usual.