With water levels frighteningly high in parts of Derbyshire, it was fortunate that the first walk for 2024 was to Markeaton Park. Yes it was wet underfoot but the four birders on the walk had a non-muddy morning.
We met at the library to distribute the timetable and plans for the forthcoming year and after a welcoming hot drink, set off for a couple of hours in the park. Not a mind blowing number of species but better than the last visit to the site (19), and 23 ticks included one or two goodies and, for our troubles, we added a lifer to our all-time list.
Loitering in the woods behind the Mundy centre added a pair of Goldcrests and a single Tree Creeper, but it was on the return journey that the Mistle Thrush was identified by Mike, taking our life list to 85.
David put some mixed seed on the empty feeder table near the dog cemetery, with almost instant results. Coal Tits arrived quickly and in due course a goodly number of delicate Stock Doves joined in with 4 clamouring together on the table.
But the hi-lite was not Avian....... it was the Grey Squirrels that had heard the news about the seed availability ! Despite our best efforts to shoo off the first Squirrel to arrive, when it got to 7 relatives we gave up and just stood and watched the feasting.
The only other notable birds were a Little Egret on the main lake, and Nuthatches on the bridge by the duck pond.
Next walk is on Friday 2nd February, at Attenborough Notts Gravel Pits. Up to three people are welcome to share my car, leaving at 9.30, or meet at Attenborough car park at 10.00am. The walk will last from 10.00am to 12.30, but birders can stay as long as they wish.
Happy Birding. David
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