Toby Carter's Monthly Nature Blog

January/February 2024

Where I left the last blog is where I’m going to start this one… with Waxwings. This winter has been an extraordinary season to see these punk-rock looking birds. Due to a mixture of failed berry crop & the current cold weather in Scandinavia this has meant that large numbers of Waxwings have come over to the UK, we see small numbers each winter, but they usually tend to be in Scotland or Northern England. But this year has been what is called an irruption year & hopefully you’ve managed to connect with seeing these birds. Follow the link which shows how the numbers have moved across the UK this winter.

I've been incredibly fortunate to witness a diverse array of bird flocks throughout this winter season, each encounter leaving me awestruck by nature's wonders. It all began in November with a breathtaking spectacle right in the heart of Glasgow. Picture this: a massive flock comprising over 350 birds, a sight to behold against the urban backdrop. Yet, that was just the beginning. As I traversed the city, I stumbled upon several other flocks, each adding to the grand total, easily surpassing 1000 birds altogether. And the beauty of it all? I had these magnificent creatures all to myself, a rare and precious moment of solitude amidst the hustle and bustle of city life.

But what truly captivated me was the sheer voracity with which these birds indulged in nature's bounty. It was as if they had found a hidden treasure trove, their beaks diving into every available rowan berry with unbridled enthusiasm. The air was alive with their chirps and flutters, a symphony of nature's own making.

As I stood there, enveloped in this avian spectacle, I couldn't help but marvel at the resilience and adaptability of these creatures. Amidst the concrete jungle, they found sustenance and sanctuary, a testament to their remarkable survival instincts.

Indeed, each encounter with these flocks has been a reminder of the intricate dance of life that plays out all around us, often unnoticed amidst the chaos of everyday existence. Yet, in these fleeting moments of connection with nature, we find solace, wonder, and a renewed appreciation for the world we inhabit.

Throughout the winter months, I've been fortunate enough to have encountered the enchanting Waxwings on five separate occasions, each encounter leaving an indelible mark on my memory. However, it's the most recent sighting that stands out vividly in my mind. Just the other day, as I sat at my desk crafting this very blog, I happened to glance out over my garden and caught sight of a flurry of movement near a small rosehip bush nestled there. In a matter of moments, a flock of around 20 Waxwings descended upon the bush, their vibrant plumage a dazzling contrast against the winter backdrop, as they diligently picked the remaining berries clean.

The sight was a breathtaking spectacle, a testament to the captivating beauty of nature's inhabitants. In just under three minutes, the Waxwings had meticulously stripped the bush of its bounty before taking flight once more, leaving me awestruck by the fleeting nature of their visit.

What made this sighting all the more remarkable was the fact that I've called my current abode in rural Leicestershire home for over two decades, yet this was the very first time I had the pleasure of witnessing Waxwings gracing my garden with their presence. It marked not only a rare and special moment but also a significant milestone, as the 85th species I've had the privilege of recording within the confines of my garden.

Among these recordings are notable flyovers, including majestic sightings of Osprey, the delicate beauty of Golden Plover, and the melodious tones of the Tree Pipit, each adding its own unique charm to the tapestry of avian life that frequents my surroundings.

As I reflect on this latest encounter with the Waxwings and the myriad of other species that have graced my garden over the years, I'm filled with a profound sense of gratitude for the abundance of natural wonders that surround us, serving as a constant source of joy and inspiration in my everyday life.

The arrival of a new year heralds a fresh beginning for avid birdwatchers—a chance to reset the tally and embark on the exciting journey of compiling a year list for 2024. And what better way to kick-start this endeavor than by venturing to the renowned birding hotspot of Norfolk on the very first day of January?

With enthusiasm and anticipation coursing through us, my father and I braved the early morning chill, setting our alarms for a pre-dawn start along the Norfolk coast. Despite the biting winds that persisted throughout the day, our efforts were richly rewarded as we found ourselves amidst a flurry of avian activity, encountering a staggering 78 species during our excursion.

Among the highlights of our day were sightings of some truly remarkable species, including the striking Red-breasted Goose, the elegant Cattle Egret, the iridescent Glossy Ibis, and the elusive Hen Harrier. Each sighting served to heighten our sense of wonder and appreciation for the diverse array of birdlife that graces this region.

However, amidst our successes, there lingered a tinge of disappointment as we narrowly missed out on one of our primary targets—the Pallid Harrier—by a mere two minutes. Despite our best efforts and meticulous planning, nature's unpredictable rhythms occasionally conspire to keep even the most dedicated birders on their toes.

Nevertheless, as we reflected on the day's adventures on the windswept Norfolk coast, we were reminded of the inherent unpredictability and beauty of birdwatching—a pursuit that continually challenges and delights in equal measure. And with the promise of many more birding escapades on the horizon, we eagerly look forward to the countless opportunities that the new year holds in store.

One of the major highlights of this winter birding season was the exhilarating experience of connecting with a wintering adult male Black-throated Thrush in the picturesque landscapes of East Yorkshire. This particular thrush, hailing from East Asia, boasts a size similar to that of a Song Thrush, making it a captivating and somewhat unexpected addition to the local avian community.

The opportunity to observe this rare visitor unfolded as I embarked on a determined quest to locate and admire this elusive bird. Armed with my trusty thermal equipment, particularly the DTI 4/50, I set out on the birding expedition. The thermal imaging technology proved instrumental in navigating the dense foliage, allowing me to pinpoint the Black-throated Thrush nestled deep within a hawthorn bush.

Patience became a virtue as I waited with bated breath, and, to my delight, the elusive visitor eventually emerged from its leafy sanctuary, revealing its distinctive features in all their glory. This thrilling encounter not only provided a rare glimpse into the life of this East Asian thrush but also showcased the invaluable role that advanced birding technology plays in such wildlife observations.

In a stroke of serendipity, I seized the moment to capture the essence of this encounter, utilizing my phone in tandem with the Harpia 85 scope. The resulting photograph, which I proudly share below, encapsulates the grace and beauty of the Black-throated Thrush, frozen in a frame as a testament to the magic of birdwatching and the melding of technology with the natural world.

This winter adventure underscored the joys and challenges inherent in pursuing avian wonders, reminding me once again of the intricate dance between nature and technology that enhances our ability to appreciate the beauty that surrounds us. As the seasons unfold, I eagerly anticipate further birding escapades, armed with the knowledge that each expedition holds the potential for new discoveries and moments of awe-inspiring connection with the avian realm.

As we move towards the end of the winter, those migratory species will be getting ready to head north back to their breeding grounds which means this will be your last chance to connect with those species until November/December. Key birds to look out for throughout February are Smew, Bewick’s Swan, Shorelark, Snow Bunting & of course Waxwing. As we move into March the first Chiffchaffs will start singing, Swallows will start arriving & Ospreys will be back on their nests.

Toby will also be keeping a monthly vlog that will also be available on here and our YouTube channel - @ZEISSNature