On 21st March 2012 three mandarin duck,( two males), have been active at dusk in and around the small ponds of the wildlife sanctuary next to Awbridge Village Hall, where at this time of the year they appear to feed on tadpoles and frog spawn. Two barn owl also present at dusk chasing one another, possibly courting.
Single raven also seen feeding on carrion along with three buzzard soaring overhead. Green woodpecker, greater spotted woodpecker, jay and nuthatch also active courting in pairs although the male kestrel appears to be without a mate. Also present was a male stonechat.
RSPB National News
On 21st March 2012 three mandarin duck,( two males), have been active at dusk in and around the small ponds of the wildlife sanctuary next to Awbridge Village Hall, where at this time of the year they appear to feed on tadpoles and frog spawn. Two barn owl also present at dusk chasing one another, possibly courting.
Single raven also seen feeding on carrion along with three buzzard soaring overhead. Green woodpecker, greater spotted woodpecker, jay and nuthatch also active courting in pairs although the male kestrel appears to be without a mate. Also present was a male stonechat.
Thanks Bryan – two of the Mandarin flew over me this morning. Good to hear Willow Warblers in a couple of places around Awbridge too.
http://awbridgebirds.wordpress.com/2012/04/09/easter-2012/