Hothfield Common & Swalecliffe 05/01/23

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The mild weather continues and today was also fairly calm with odd spells of sunshine.

Starting at Hothfield the wintering Great Grey Shrike was unfortunately not seen and the site was generally quiet for any birds. By midday we decided to head to Swalecliffe.

I had already been to Swalecliffe on Monday, following news that a Pallas's Warbler had been found early that morning. My views of the bird on that occasion were fairly brief after two hours searching along the brook, and so was keen to try again. This afternoon the warbler was seen within ten minutes of arrival and it continued to show well for about a quarter of an hour. The bird hovered several times displaying the pale yellow rump, and overall views were best ever for this fabulous little warbler.

The odd Chiffchaff was also present plus several Goldcrest.

A Red Admiral that appeared was perhaps no great surprise considering the mild conditions.



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