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Sunday, 9 October 2011

Goshawk puts on great display over Wytham

Turned up at Farmoor 11.10 with a force 6 westerly blowing. Went to causeway, scanned Wytham, then Farmoor 1. Then scanned Wytham again and everthing was up at 11:25. At least one Goshawk, a couple of Buzzard, with Male sparrowhawk and Carrion crows showing far more bravery today, the tiny Sparrowhawk at least continually mobbing bird for some 15 minutes. Plenty of interplay between the birds with Gos turning on Sproghawk and Crow now and then. A few steep dives observed and one lucky Wood Pigeon flew away leaving an explosive puff of feathers in its wake. No further sightings up to 14.00.

Dunlin and unringed Barnacle Goose on Causeway (F1), Green Sandpiper on F2 (report from Dai). One Mipit and just a handful of Pied's by Sewage treatment works. Couple of Yellow-legged Gulls (1st and 2nd winters) on F1. Very few birders around and they apparently had not been scanning Wytham, so missed out on a great acrobatic display and left after very short stay. Congats to G. for putting in the time this afternoon and commiserations for not being rewarded this time around. I am sure it will be seen again soon by those who do this, although I suggest a westerly and very strong wind (suitable for slope soaring) is the best time to visit AND continual scanning of horizon across the woodland. Luckily(?), there appears to be little else of great interest to see at farmoor at the moment !

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