July 2013 Avocets Feisty Waders

I was watching some of the Avocets that have successfully raised young at Slimbridge this year. I remarked to one of my friends John (Who is always there) that Avocets don't seem to like Shell ducks as they are always squabbling.   He replied Avocets don't like anything even other Avocets! I could soon see what he meant!!

Always squabbling

Avocet action

July 2013 A good time of year for Sandpipers in Gloucestershire

This is a great time of the year for migrant Sandpipers.  Here are some shots of the ones most likely to be seen.  There are some rarer species found occasionally in Gloucestershire but getting to know these is a great start with identification.

Common Sandpiper

Green Sandpiper

Wood Sandpiper

July 2013 Hot and Sunny - Dragonflies

Sometimes in mid-summer the birding can go a bit quiet.  When it's hot and sunny in July it's great to get out by some water and see what dragonflies are around.

Broad Bodied Chaser in flight

Broad Bodied Chaser

Emperor Dragonfly in flight

Emperor Dragonfly Ovipositing

Four Spotted Chaser