My first spot of birding in 2014 and it was at I suppose my local patch, Arcot Pond in Cramlington. Always been compelled by this site since my childhood.
First impressions once I reached the waterside was the fact that the pond was more of an ice rink albeit a one I wouldn't recommend ice skating on. About 60% of the waters surface was covered in a layer of thin ice.
The ice was covered in Black Headed Gulls constantly being bossed around by a few cheeky Carrion Crows. A large flock of Teal was acting very spooked towards the back of the pond, taking flight every few minutes. I couldn't work out what had them shaken, was kinda hoping a bird of prey would make a nice flyby appearance or dare I say do some hunting.
A melted open pool of water in the middle held feeding Coot, Wigeon, Mallard and Mute Swan.
I took a walk towards the dead trees at the left (creepy) side of the pond. Always loved that part of the pond, used to spook me as a boy. A few fresh waters mussels littered the mossy shoreline, unfortunately it was quiet and nothing but a male and female Mallard was seen. Over in the woods I could the raucous call of a Grey Heron.
After being drawn to a Wren in the scrub I heard a loud rustling and before I could grab the camera three large Roe Deer sprung out undergrowth. I was loving this! They were so close, I tried to follow them but they had run off through the bulrushes and I stood no chance. I did spot two brilliant male Bull Finches though! What a beautiful pair of birds!
All in all a great way to spend 90 minutes.
Let's see what the rest of 2014 has in store for Arcot Pond.
