Mote Park - A Wildlife Patchwork

2011-12-18T16:26:00.002Z

Hopefully I still have a few followers after such a long absence of posting!! Today I managed to visit the park!

Highlights included a few flocks of Siskin observed flying around the park, 1 Green Woodpecker was heard, and it was interesting to hear a Great Spotted Woodpecker drumming along the River Len (3 were seen in total). 5 Goldcrests were heard singing, 1 Treecreeper was noted, and several Redwing were seen flying through.

Robin

Of note on the Lake were a selection of Pochards and Tufties, 1 Little Grebe, 5 Mute Swans, 2 Great Crested Grebes, and a Teal could be heard but wasn't seen. I could not locate the Whooper Swan, which had been reported to me during the week. Common Gulls and Black-headed Gulls were also gathered on the Lake.

2011-10-10T14:55:00.004Z

Unfortunately this post may be my last for quite a while! From tomorrow, I will be starting a 6 month residential volunteer warden post with the RSPB at Northward Hill and Cliffe, so any visits I do make to Mote Park will probably be few and far between.

Cloudy with a little bit of sunshine today during my visit around the park. The temperature was warm anough to encourage a Red Admiral out, which was seen by the Georgian Steps.

9 Jays were noted throughout the visit, 1 Green Woodpecker was heard, 2 Nuthatches were calling, 7 Goldcrests were found, 5 Siskin were noted, and a Meadow Pipit was heard and then seen flying east over the Len valley - a first for the year, making it 2 firsts for the year in 2 consecutive days!!!

Grey Heron

Of particular note on the Lake were 11 Mute Swans, 4 Tufties, 3 Great Crested Grebes, and a Grey Heron was stood on the golf course side of the Lake. The Shoveler which was found yesterday was not present today.

2011-10-09T19:46:00.003Z

After a long holiday away in the Mediterranean it was lovely to get back to the park. The park is feeling very autumnal now!!

Around a dozen Redwings were noted passing through the park, 6 Siskin were noted along the Len valley, 2 Green Woodpeckers called, at least 12 Goldcrest were counted, 1 Nuthatch was heard, 5 Pied Wagtails were seen flying west overhead towards the playing fields, a Grey Wagtail called as it flew along the River Len, and a Coal Tit was heard along Laurel Walk.

It was brilliant to find a drake Shoveler - new for the year - and a female Tufted Duck on the eastern section of the Lake (viewed from the Weir bridge), a Grey Heron fished from the golf course side of the Lake, 11 Mute Swans were gathered around the duck feeding area, and 4 Great Crested Grebes were noted. There is also a notable increase in the Black-headed Gull numbers.

A Fox was also seen during the visit.

2011-09-20T13:30:00.004Z

A grey overcast sky hid the sunshine this morning during my walk, but at least the temperature was still rather warm.

2 Green Woodpeckers called during the visit, 8 Jays were noted, 4 Nuthatch were heard, and it was nice to see a handsome male Sparrowhawk fly lazily over Jenner's Bank. 7 Goldcrests were heard during the walk, 2 Treecreepers were noted, 2 Swallows flew purposefuly eastwards over the park, and 4 Chiffchaffs were noted.

Juvenile Coot

13 Mute Swans remain around the duck feeding area, a single Cormorant flew onto the Lake, and a lone Lesser Black-backed Gull was stood on a buoy on the Lake.

Unfortunate Pigeon

As I walked through the parkland west of Mote House, I came across a Wood Pigeon carcass, presmed to be the result of a Sparrowhawk. The flesh from the head and neck had been eaten, and with the breast plucked, there was a puncture wound straight through to the heart, which was missing and so had presumably been eaten.

Also noted during the visit were several Speckled Wood butterflies.

2011-09-19T14:06:00.007Z

I managed to visit the park on Saturday but didn't have the time to post. Highlights from that visit included a young male Reed Bunting in the old cattle area (largest area of rough grassland), the first male and female Tufted Ducks of the autumn, and 40+ House Martins, and 3 Swallows, hunting insects over the Lake and perimeter trees.

Today's visit under sunny skies turned up similar birds. Although puffs of cloud were moving through the sky, the sun remained shining!

Robin

4 Nuthatch were noted, 2 Green Woodpeckers were heard calling, 5 Treecreepers were heard, and at least 6 Goldcrests were noted. 5 of the 8 Chiffchaffs found in the park today were singing, 3 Stock Doves were spotted in the old parkland trees, 11 Jays were noted, a Reed Bunting was heard calling in the old cattle area, and 3 House Martins were seen flying west.

Cormorant

4 Cormorants were seen around the Lake -including the individual pictured above, who appeared to be experimenting in various awkward head positions! A Grey Heron was seen on the Pitch & Putt side of the Lake, a female Tufted Duck was noted, and 13 Mute Swans were gathered around the 'duck feeding area'.

Moorhens

3 Southern Hawkers and 1 Migrant Hawker was noted, and 2 Speckled Woods, 1 Red Admiral, and a few Large Whites were also found.

2011-09-13T13:42:00.003Z

A beautiful sunny morning for my visit to Mote Park today! Every tree and hedgerow seems to hold birds at the moment!

Chaffinches continue to feed on the fallen beechmast along Laurel Walk, 4 Treecreepers were heard in the parkland oaks west of Mote House, a Great Spotted Woodpecker also called from an Oak near to Mote House, 5 Nuthatches were noted calling and flying in the treetops, 3 Goldcrests were heard calling, a Coal Tit called from the larches on the park's eastern boundary, and some Bullfinches were heard calling in the mixed scrub to south of the path which runs between the two bridges along the River Len.

A flock of 6+ House Martins, plus 1 Sand Martin - the first of the year in the park for me - were catching insects up and down the hedgerow that runs along the Lake's eastern edge. A Grey Wagtail was heard as it flew over the Lake northwards, and 2 Great Crested Grebes and 4 Mute Swans were spotted on the Lake.

Red Admiral

Also of note today were 3 Emperor and 4 Southern Hawker dragonflies, and 1 Red Admiral and 2 Speckled Woods butterflies.

2011-09-09T13:36:00.002Z

With my 20,000 word thesis carried out, written up and handed in, I now have the time for visiting Mote Park!! Today seemed very autumnal!

The fallen beechmast along Laurel Walk was attracting Chaffinches, Woodpigeons and squirrels this morning. As I walked along Jenner's Bank, it was evident that the Jays are out in force now, busy collecting acorns. A total of 9 of these birds were noted during the visit. 5 Nuthatches were noted during the visit, 3 Chiffchaffs were heard calling, 6 Goldcrest were noted, 5 Mistle Thrushes were busy feeding out in the parkland west of Mote House, and a few House Martins could be seen flying over the Lake. As I walked along the River Len just down the bank from Mote House, a large flock of circa 40 winter thrushes flew south over the valley, the first Redwings and Fieldfares of the autumn, and very early too, whole 3 and a half weeks earlier than my previous earliest record! Along the stretch of the Len between the Lower Bridge and Madginford Bridge (the old carriage bridge) a group of 6 Bullfinch were feeding in the brambles, and a Grey Heron was seen flying north.

Also of note were 2 Migrant Hawker dragonflies.

2011-07-07T14:37:00.004Z

My Mote Park visiting and blog updating time is very limited at the moment, due to the fact that this summer I have 20,000 word thesis to carry out and write up. I have been visiting the park every now and then though, so below is a summary of what I have seen since my last post.

Baby Magpie bathing

Spotted Flycatchers can be found by those who can recognise the call, a male Kestrel can be seen regularly in the rough grassland north of the River Len, a pair of Mute Swans laid a clutch of eggs with 3 cygnets hatching but only 1 currently survives. 12 flowering spikes of Southern Marsh Orchid were located, which is up from just the 3 in previous years. Banded Demoiselles can be found along the River Len. Slowworms can be found in good numbers, plus there have been 2 reliable sightings of Adder from visitors to the park, which is exciting! Large, Essex and Small Skippers are now on the wing, and so too are Gatekeepers and Meadow Browns. The first Ringlet was found 30th June.

2011-05-28T12:10:00.006Z

A late morning walk today proved very quiet both for wildlife and people. The cherry trees on Jenner's Bank are already beginning to fruit!

Cherries

3 Pheasants were noted, 4 Goldcrests were singing, 2 Great Spotted Woodpeckers were seen, a Green Woodpecker was heard calling, 2 Treecreepers sang, 5 Blackcaps and 5 Whitethroats were singing, a Coal Tit was seen in a pine on Jenner's Bank, a Reed Bunting was singing along the Causeway, and 3 Reed Warblers were singing.

Grey Heron

Of particular note on the Lake were 4 Mute Swans, 2 Cormorants and 5 Great Crested Grebes, a Grey Heron was fishing on the Pitch & Putt side of the Lake, and there were at least 23 Black-headed Gulls in the gull flock. Its wonderful to see and hear all the young birds around the park at the moment.

Mallards

5 Speckled Woods butterflies were also seen.

Oxeye Daisies

2011-05-27T15:12:00.007Z

Goatsbeard

Today was overcast with a few sunny spells. It was also very humid - perfect weather for bats, so lets hope it stays that way for tomorrow night's bat walk!

Small Copper

The first Small Copper and Meadow Brown butterflies of the year was seen today, as I wandered through the grassland north of the River Len. Several Common Blues were also noted, and 4 Speckled Woods were found in the more wooded areas. 5 Banded Demoiselles were seen along the River Len.

Male Banded Demoiselle on overhanging Willow

5 Goldcrests were singing along Laurel Walk and from the Old Gardens, 3 Great Spotted Woodpeckers were seen, 3 Jays were seen, 2 Treecreepers were heard, 4 Pheasants were found, a Bullfinch called from an Ash in the Old Gardens, 6 Blackcaps were singing, 4 Whitethroats were singing, 2 Chiffchaffs sang, 5 Reed Warblers sing from the reedbeds around the Lake, and 2 Grey Wagtails were hunting insects next to Madginford Bridge (the bridge closest to the Downswood entrance along Willington Street).

Male Pheasant

Of particular note on the Lake were 6 Great Crested Grebes, 6 Mute Swans, and 2 Lesser Black-backed Gulls and 1 Mediterranean Gull was with the 25 Black-headed Gulls.

Mistle Thrush

2011-05-17T10:48:00.005Z

Just a quick mid-morning walk today. Another walk will be made in the late afternoon as I am leading the the local Women's Institute around the park. Once again, I only visted the parkland to the north and east of the Lake and River Len.

Field Rose

8 Blackcap and 2 Chiffchaff were singing, 1 Willow Warbler was singing by the Lower Bridge, 5 Whitethroats were in the rough grassland area, 2 Green Woodpeckers were noted, baby Great Spotted Woodpeckers were heard calling from a nest hole in one of the parkland trees, 2 Treecreepers were heard singing from trees along the stretch of the River Len between the Weir Bridge and east to the Lower Bridge (now named the Len Wetland), 4 Goldcrests were singing from the Old Gardens, 2 Stock Doves were calling, and a Spotted Flycatcher was found singing and hunting insects from the old Lime trees in the parkland west of Mote House - fantastic, the first of the year to return!!! During my later visit 3 Swifts were noted flying over the park, and a WHITE WAGTAIL was found hunting insects in the parkland south of Mote House - even more FANTASTIC!!!! The park's second ever record of this continental 'Pied' Wagtail.

Spotted Flycatcher

8 Mute Swans, 7 Great Crested Grebes, 5 Tufted Duck and at least 33 Black-headed Gulls were on the Lake, a Cormorant fished in the Lake, and 6 Reed Warblers were singing from reedbeds along the Lake edge.

2011-05-16T13:53:00.003Z

A bright but overcast morning today, but still quite warm. Now that my thesis work-load is getting heavier, I am not able to spend as much time in the park as I'd like too. During today's walk I covered the park on the north and east side of the Lake and River Len.

Mistle Thrush

2 Green Woodpeckers were heard, a Treecreeper was seen in a Willow by the Lower Bridge, 3 Goldcrests were singing, 9 Blackcaps were singing, a Willow Warbler sang by the Lower Bridge, 6 Whitethroats were singing, a Kestrel hunted over the rough grassland north of the River Len, 3 Swifts were seen, a Stock Dove was heard, and a Bullfinch called from a hedge by the Audley Homes entrance along Willington Street.

Kestrel

5 Reed Warblers sang from the edges of the Lake, a Grey Heron stood on the Pitch & Putt side of the Lake, and of particular note on the Lake were 5 Great Crested Grebes, 7 Mute Swans, 3 Tufted Ducks, 2 Lesser Black-backed Gulls, and at least 32 Black-headed Gulls.

Orange-tip Butterfly

3 Orange-tips and 4 Small Whites were seen, and the first Banded Demoiselle of the year was found along the River Len.

Banded Demoiselle

2011-05-15T16:18:00.004Z

Yesterdays dawn chorus walk went really well, with 8 people joining in the early hours. Alhtough a chilly start, with the rising of the Sun came a beautiful morning.

Overall, a very good selection of birds were heard and seen. Stock and Collared Doves were heard, and a single Turtle Dove was also noted. Goldcrests were found, and there were 2 Willow Warblers, 6 Chiffchaffs, 12 Blackcaps, 8 Whitethroats, and 4 Reed Warblers singing. Both Mistle and Song Thrushes gave great views, a Great Spotted Woodpecker gave a lovely fly-past, 3 Green Woodpeckers were heard, and a Nuthatch was seen briefly on the bough of an Oak tree.

Highlight for me was the fascinating few minutes of watching a young dog Fox on the edge of the Old Burning Yard. Although 'raw-in-tooth-and-claw', it was amazing to witness him locate and dig out a Rabbit nest chamber, eventually pulling out the kittens inside. Frustratingly, I didn't have my camera with me!

Kites!!!

Today I couldn't get into the park until the early afternoon. The park was rather quiet bird-wise, but it was a very pleasant walk, with all the summering warbler species singing around the park. The playing fields were hosting to the park's first ever Kite Festival.

2011-05-12T11:40:00.000Z

It was quite windy during my late morning walk today, but the Sun was out making the temperature very warm.

The male Willow Warbler that has been singing in the scrubby area opposite the Inlet appears to have moved to a new territory, this time by the footbridge along the River Len. 10 Blackcaps continue to sing from almost every suitable piece of cover, only the 1 Chiffchaff was heard singing by the Lake edge, 3 Goldcrests were singing, 2 Treecreeper were singing, 2 Great Spotted Woodpeckers were noted, and 11 Whitethroats were singing.

Mute Swans

8 Reed Warblers were singing around the Lake, a Grey Heron was perched in a tree by the mouth of the River Len, a Cormorant was perched on the island next to the Weir, and of particular note on the Lake were 9 Mute Swans, 5 Tufted Ducks, 6 Great Crested Grebes, and 2 Lesser Black-backed Gulls were with the 34 Black-headed Gulls.

Lesser Black-backed Gull

8 Speckled Woods, 4 Small Whites, 1 Holly Blue, and 2 Orange-tips were seen.

2011-05-09T12:49:00.004Z

Very warm this morning fo my walk, and the park was very quiet people-wise.

Mute Swans

10 Blackcaps were singing, just 2 Chiffchaffs were heard singing, a Nuthatch was singing from one of the Oaks on Jenner's Bank, a Jay flew east along the Len Valley, 4 Goldcrests were singing along Laurel Walk and in the Old Gardens (yew wood), 2 Treecreepers were heard, a Stock Dove pecked at the short grass up the grass bank north of the footbridge, a Willow Warbler continues to sing from the scrubby area opposite the Inlet, and 11 Whitethroats were singing.

Grey Heron

A Grey Heron stood on the Boating Ramps, 2 Reed Buntings sang from hawthorns on the Lake edge, 6 Reed Warblers were singing around the Lake, 3 Cormorants were on the Lake - 2 on the island next to the Weir bridge, and the other fishing by the Boating Ramps - 6 Tufted Duck were present on the Lake, 8 Mute Swans and 7 Great Crested Grebes could be found, and is was nice to find 2 broods of Mallard ducklings. An adult Lesser Black-backed Gull stood on a buoy, and at least 30 Black-headed Gulls were present on the Lake.

Mallards

7 Orange-tips, 1 Green-veined White, 3 Small Whites, 5 Speckled Woods, 1 Red Admiral, 2 Holly Blues were seen, and it was great to locate the first Common Blue of the year in the rough grassland north of the River Len. By the footbridge along the River Len the first Large Red Damselflies of the year were found.

2011-05-08T13:56:00.007Z

I was leading a walk elsewhere in Kent this morning, so it wasn't until lunchtime today that I could visit Mote Park. It was predominantly bright and sunny, but dark clouds rolling in and the wind getting up hinted that rain may be on its way!

Jay

11 Blackcaps were singing, 12 Whitethroats were singing, 3 Chiffchaffs sang, a Great Spotted Woodpecker called, 6 Goldcrests were noted along Laurel Walk, 4 Jays were seen, 3 Sparrowhawks were seen, 2 Pheasants called, 2 Treecreepers were singing from trees along the River Len, a Kestrel flew high over the rough grassland north of the River Len, and 5 Swifts were spotted flying over the Old Bothy. Highlight of the visit was undoubtedly the sound and sight of a Turtle Dove at the top of the rough grassland north of the River Len, which 'purred' from within the dense tangle of scrub at the top of the bank. It did fly out from the cover of the leaves once, perching on the bare branches of the old large Ash tree nearby, allowing me to grab a quick record photo of this super long-distance summer migrant.

Turtle Dove

At least 7 Reed Warblers were singing around the Lake, 3 Lesser Black-backed Gulls and 2 Mediterranean Gulls flew above the water of the Lake, and 1 Lesser Black-backed Gull and around 60 Black-headed Gulls formed the gull flock on the Lake. Of particular note on the Lake were 6 Great Crested Grebes, 9 Mute Swans, and a pair of Tufted Duck.

Coot

A few Small Whites and 2 Orange-tips were the only butterflies seen.

2011-05-07T20:28:00.002Z

After spending an enjoyable 3 days in France, I came home to find 4 Swifts hunting insects above the trees in Mote Park, fantastic!!!

2011-05-04T16:24:00.005Z

Greylag Geese

A late morning wander today in wonderful sunshine saw a pair of Greylag Geese flying east over Mote Park - species number 80 for the year!!! (Note: there is a resident domestic/farmland Greylag Goose on the Lake in the park which I do not count.)

Song Thrush

11 Blackcaps and 3 Chiffchaffs were singing, 3 Goldcrests were singing, 2 Green Woodpeckers were noted, 1 Willow Warbler was singing, 12 Whitethroats were singing in the grassland areas, 2 Pheasants called, a Stock Dove was heard, and a Treecreeper was heard singing.

Grey Heron

8 Reed Warblers were noted singing around the Lake, 2 Grey Herons were fishing, 3 Cormorants wer seen, a Common Sanpiper was in the bay of the Lake by the Waterfall, a pair of Tufties were present on the Lake, and 12 Mute Swans were counted. At least 46 Black-headed Gulls were present on the Lake.

Mute Swan

9 Holly Blues, 3 Orange-tips, 2 Green-veined Whites, 6 Small Whites, 5 Speckled Woods and a Peacock - the first of the year - was seen.

2011-05-03T17:47:00.006Z

It was a bit warmer this morning now that the wind has died down abit, and the beautiful Sun was shining once again. On walking through the grassland north of the River Len, I happened to glance back along my path only to find a dog Fox making its way through the tall vegetation. Despite being aware of my presence he continued to hunt alongside the woodland edge.

Dog Fox

13 Blackcaps and 5 Chiffchaff were singing, a Willow Warbler sang from the scrub area opposite the Inlet, a Jay was seen on Jenner's Bank, 2 Green Woodpeckers were noted, 3 Nuthatches were heard, 2 Treecreepers were singing, a Coal Tit sang from a yew next to the Old Walled Garden, 5 Goldcrests were noted, 5 Pheasants were heard, 2 Stock Doves were heard, and 14 Whitethroats could be heard singing around the park.

Whitethroat

I was surprised to disturb a GREEN SANDPIPER which was hunting insects on the rocks at the foot of the Waterfall. It flew away, calling, off into the Old Pond area and stream that flows through North Wood - only my second record for Mote Park, and my second sighting of the year after the individual which was seen on January 1st. 2 Common Sandpipers were also seen - 1 circling above the waters surface on the eastern section of the Lake, and the second on the Boating Ramps.

Common Sandpiper - in centre of photo

7 Great Crested Grebes were present on the Lake, a pair of Tufties stood on the Boating Ramps, 5 Cormorants were noted, 6 Reed Warblers were singing around the Lake, there are now 15 Mute Swans on the Lake - the most I have ever recorded - and a Grey Heron was discovered walking along the Weir bridge. 3 Lesser Black-backed Gulls, 1 Herring Gull and 50 Black-headed Gulls were also on the Lake.

Grey Heron

3 Green-veined Whites, 1 Orange-tip, and 2 Speckled Woods were seen.

2011-05-02T13:04:00.004Z

Another beautiful sunny day today for my lunchtime visit to Mote Park. The wind from the north-east was very stong, making conditions for finding wildlife very difficult.

Greenfinches

11 Blackcaps were recorded, 5 Chiffchaffs were singing, a Great Spotted Woodpecker called, 2 Nuthatch were noted, a Treecreeper was heard, 4 Goldcrest were singing, a Coal Tit was singing from the Old Gardens (yew wood east of Mote House), a Swallow flew north over the grassland north of the River Len, 2 Pheasants called, 13 Whitethroats were singing in the rough grassland areas, 3 Herring Gull flew east, and 3 Stock Doves were seen.

Grey Heron

2 Grey Herons were seen - 1 fishing on the Lake's eatsern edge and the other flying into the Len Valley after flying in from the south of the park - 2 Cormormants were seen, 6 Reed Warblers were singing, and 12 Mute Swan and 7 Great Crested Grebes continue to be seen on the Lake. The gull flock consisted 2 Lesser Black-backed Gulls and 58 Black-headed Gulls.

Great Crested Grebes

2 Holly Blues, 8 Speckled Woods, 3 Orange-tips, 4 Green-veined Whites, and 3 Small Whites were also seen.

2011-05-01T11:27:00.010Z

A cool but bright and sunny morning visit today.

Cormorants in flight

13 Blackcaps, 6 Chiffchaff, 1 Willow Warbler, and 12 Whitethroats were singing, 5 Reed Warblers were heard singing around the Lake, 2 Nuthatches were heard, 3 Treecreepers were heard, 3 Goldcrests wers singing, a Pheasant called from the grassland north of the River Len, a Green Woodpecker called, a Stock Dove was heard, and a Linnet flew east.

Common Sandpiper

Highlight of the visit was the discovery of at least 10 Common Sandpipers on the Lake, mainly on the northern edge and in the bay close to the Waterfall - the first of the year, and my second Sandpiper of the year, fantastic! I have never recorded 10 at one time, usually around 2 individuals, possibly 3.

Common Sandpipers

Also on the Lake were 5 Tufties, 8 Great Crested Grebes, 12 Mute Swans, 6 Cormorants, and 2 Lesser Black-backed Gulls were with the 55 Black-headed Gulls.

Canada Goose family - just 3 goslings left!

2 Holly Blues, 2 Red Admirals, 6 Speckled Woods, 4 Orange-tips, and 11 Small Whites were seen.

2011-04-30T15:48:00.007Z

Horse Chestnut flower

I was leading a bird walk elsewhere in Kent this morning so couldn't visit Mote Park until lunchtime. It was still a beautiful sunny day, although a little blustery especially on the playing fields!

Hawthorn

10 Blackcaps were singing, 3 Chiffchaffs were singing, 2 Green Woodpeckers were heard, 1 Nuthatch was calling from one of the parkland oaks, 2 Treecreepers were heard singing, 2 Pheasants called from the areas of rough grassland, 2 Linnets were seen in the Old Cattle Area (largest area of rough grassland), 12 Whitethroats were singing, 3 Goldcrests were heard, a Coal Tit was singing along Laurel Walk, 1 Willow Warbler was singing, a Sparrowhawk was seen flying high over the park, and 2 Stock Doves were noted.

5 Tufted Ducks remain on the Lake, a Cormorant was perched on the sunken island, 5 Reed Warblers were heard singing in reedbeds around the Lake, 12 Mute Swans were present on the Lake and 5 Great Crested Grebes were noted. 2 Herring Gulls, 3 Lesser Black-backed Gulls and around 48 Black-headed Gulls were seen.

Holly Blue

3 Holly Blues were noted, 2 Red Admirals were seen, a few Small Whites were spotted, and at least 7 Orange-tips and 14 Speckled Woods were seen.

Speckled Wood - looking rather worse-for-wear

2011-04-28T11:34:00.009Z

Overcast but bright this morning, and there was a fairly strong northerly blowing. Many of the Ash trees are now coming into leaf ,which is very late this year - looks like we're in for a 'splash' this summer!

Ash leaves

Warblers noted today were as follows: 14 Blackcaps, 4 Chiffchaffs, 1 Willow Warbler, 12 Whitethroats, 2 Sedge Warblers - 1 on the Pitch & Putt side of the Lake, and 1 in the 'marsh' viewed from the Weir bridge - and 6 Reed Warblers.

Mistle Thrush

The local Starlings, Blackbirds, and Mistle Thrushes are clearly busy finding food to bring back to their nests. Whilst walking through the rough grassland north of the River Len, a Crow's 'raptor call' alerted me to a Sparrowhawk and a Grey Heron.

Grey Heron

2 Pheasants were noted, 1 Great Spotted Woodpecker called from an Oak along the Len Valley, 2 Green Woodpeckers were heard, 2 Nuthatches were heard, 3 Treecreepers were singing, 4 Goldcrests were noted, a Coal Tit sang from a yew tree along Laurel Walk, 2 Linnets were seen in the Old Cattle Area (largest area of rough grassland), and it was brilliant to find the first House Martins of the year, with 11 birds hunting insects above the Lake with 6 Swallows.

Male Pheasant

7 Tufted Ducks have arrived on the Lake - 2 pairs on the northern edge of the Lake, and 2 males and 1 female by the island next to the Weir bridge. As per normal there were 6 Great Crested Grebes and 12 Mute Swans, and today there were 3 Lesser Black-backed Gulls and 1 Herring Gull with the 47 Black-headed Gulls.

Tufted Ducks

I have never seen them using this feeding method before - they were swimming in circles just like Shovelers do!

2011-04-26T15:20:00.006Z

An early afternoon walk today under blue sky and sunshine, but with a cool north-easterly blowing.

Mistle Thrush

1 Great Spotted Woodpecker and 1 Green Woodpecker were seen, 3 Treecreeper were singing, 3 Goldcrest were noted, 1 Nuthatch was heard singing, a Coal Tit sang from a yew along Laurel Walk, 1 Pheasant called from the rough grassland north of the River Len, 2 Pied Wagtails were seen hunting insects in the parkland west of Mote House, a pair of Linnets were courting in the Old Cattle Area (largest area of rough grassland), and a Sparrowhawk was seen over Jenner's Bank. 4 Chiffchaff, 11 Blackcap, 1 Willow Warbler, 13 Whitethroats were singing.

Blackcap

6 Reed Warblers were singing around the Lake, a Grey Heron called from the 'marsh' where the Len enters the Lake, a Cormorant was perched on the island next to the Weir bridge, and of particular note on the Lake were 5 Great Crested Grebes, 12 Mute Swan, 1 Lesser Black-backed Gull, and at least 34 Black-headed Gulls. 2 Herring Gulls, 1 Lesser Black-backed Gull, and 6 Black-headed Gulls flew north. A pair of Canada Geese were seen with youngsters.

Canada Geese Goslings

There will be no visit tomorrow due to my new part-time job working hours.

2011-04-25T11:55:00.007Z

There was a cool breeze this morning making the temperature feel a little lower than what it has been, but it was once again a wonderfully sunny day.

Mallards

13 Blackcaps, 6 Chiffchaffs, and 15 Whitethroats were singing throughout the Park, a Willow Warbler was singing from the scrub area opposite the Lake's Inlet, and 7 Reed Warblers were singing around the Lake.

Lesser Black-backed Gull

2 Lesser Black-backed Gulls and 3 Herring Gulls flew north, 4 Great Spotted Woodpeckers were noted - with 1 individual drumming from an old Horse Chestnut - 3 Green Woodpeckers were heard, 3 Pheasants were noted, 2 Nuthatch were calling, 3 Treecreepers were singing, 2 Coal Tits was singing from around the Old Gardens (yew wood between Mote House and the Old Walled Garden), 2 Bullfinch were calling along Laurel Walk, 3 Goldcrests were singing, a male Linnet was displaying in the Old Cattle Area (largest area of rough grassland), and 2 Reed Buntings were singing by the Lake - 1 from the 'marsh' where the River Len enters the Lake, and the second was on the Pitch & Putt side of the Lake.

Great Crested Grebe

Of particular note on the Lake were 6 Great Crested Grebes, 12 Mute Swans, 3 Lesser Black-backed Gulls, and around 35 Black-headed Gulls. A Grey Heron called from the 'marsh', and a Cormorant was perched on the island next to the Weir bridge.

Cormorant

A lunchtime visit produced many butterflies with 5 Red Admirals - the first of the year - being the highlight. Also noted were 3 Green-veined Whites, 12 Speckled Woods, 6 Orange-tips, 2 Peacocks, and a few Small Whites.

It is also worth noting that a new water sports business has been set up on the old boating ramps, allowing the public to go out onto the water in rowing boats. Although fantastic and a fun experience for the public, I wonder how this will affect nesting birds this year, particularly the grebes?!

2011-04-23T15:46:00.006Z

I had to make my walk a little quicker this morning as I was off out volunteering. I did however make a second visit towards the end of the day. My later visit was under a 'baking' Sun, and the prospect of a thunder storm looked imminent.

12 Blackcaps, 7 Chiffchaffs, 1 Willow Warbler, 13 Whitethroats were singing around Mote Park today.

Willow Warbler

4 Goldcrests were found, 2 Treecreepers were singing along the River Len, 3 Nuthatch were singing, a Great Spotted Woodpecker drummed from a tree by the Old Walled Garden, 3 Green Woodpckers were noted, and a Coal Tit was singing from the Old Gardens (Yew wood) behind Mote House.

Grey Heron

1 Sedge Warbler and 5 Reed Warbler were singing around the Lake, 4 Cormorants were on the island next to the Weir bridge, 4 Grey Herons were seen, and 46 Black-headed Gulls were seen. A Lesser Black-backed Gull was seen during the later visit.

Lesser Black-backed Gull

My return visit in the afternoon saw a Common Buzzard fly north-west over the Len Valley - a first for the year, brilliant!!!

Common Buzzard

Also during my later visit, 3 Peacocks, 2 Small Tortoiseshells, a few Small Whites, 2 Speckled Woods, and 8 Orange-tips were seen.

2011-04-22T12:56:00.010Z

I couldn't get into the park until lunchtime today, and as you can imagine the park was 'heaving' with people - great to see lots of people exploring the park, but it makes the job of finding birds so much harder. The weather was absolutely stunning, with the heat of the Sun in places appearing to be Summer temperature, and there were small puffs of cloud scattered across the sky.

Cow Parsley

Butterflies were out in force with at least 20 Orange-tips being seen, 4 Holly Blues, 1 Peacock, 1 Comma, several Small Whites, 4 confirmed Green-veined Whites but probably more, and 18+ Speckled Woods.

Wood Anemone

1 Sedge Warbler remains on the Pitch & Putt side of the Lake - I wonder if the clearance of some of the vegetation on this side has made the habitat to the Sedge's liking for breeding? - 6 Reed Warblers could be heard singing - including one along the Len Valley - 14 Whitethroats were singing around the grassland and scrub areas, the scrubby area opposite the Inlet produced a singing Willow Warbler, and 8 Blackcaps and 4 Chiffchaffs were singing.

Visiting Canada Geese
(Wildfowl can often be seen flying east or west along the Len Valley, following the river to and from places such as the River Medway, Leeds Castle and nearby Mallards Way Open Space)

4 Nuthatches were noted, 3 Treecreepers were seen, 3 Green Woodpeckers were heard, and a male Great Spotted Woodpecker was seen in an Oak in the Jungle (the wood in the south of the park, by School Lane entrance).

Several Starlings were seen, a male Linnet continues to sing, a Mediterranean Gull was seen and heard flying south with a flock of Black-headed Gulls, and 3 House Sparrows - new for the year - were spotted in hawthorn bushes and on a wire fence by Keeper's Cottage within the park's southern boundary. House Sparrows and Tree Sparrows used to breed in Mote Park in the past. The Tree Sparrows were the first to stop breeding, but continued to use the park as a wintering site up until the early nineties. Right up until the mid-nineties large flocks of House Sparrows could be seen in the park, often taking advantage of the bread being given to the wildfowl, but numbers have slowly dwindled away.

Male House Sparrow

Of particular note on the Lake were 12 Mute Swans, 6 Great Crested Grebe, 1 Grey Heron, and around 50 Black-headed Gulls.

Resting Mute Swan

2011-04-21T10:51:00.009Z

Reedmace (Bulrush) at Dawn

Yet another beautiful bright and sunny warm day. With every inland local patch seemingly getting Wheatears, Nightingales, Ospreys, Redstarts, Yellow Wags, terns, even Ring Ouzels and Hoopoes have been making an appearance, I am beginning to wonder when it will be my turn! I'm still waiting...and waiting, not even a Cuckoo yet. Despite this though, Mote Park is still producing a great selection of birds with lots of Spring warblers singing throughout the park, and what wonderful weather we have at the moment?!

Large Bittercress
(One of the wildflowers the River Len is important for)

A Willow Warbler could be heard singing from the scrub/rough grassland area opposite the Inlet, 13 Whitethroats were singing, 12 Blackcaps were singing, and 6 Chiffchaffs were also singing. It is a treat to continue to find Sedge Warblers singing in the park, as these birds normally stay for just one day at a time if they do stop off at all! There were 3 birds this morning, with 1 bird continuing to sing from a Hawthorn on the Pitch & Putt side of the Lake, and there were 2 individuals singing along the Len Valley. Reed Warblers are also increasing, with the Lake now holding 5 singing birds.

Reed Warbler singing
- this one proved hard to photograph!

6 Great Spotted Woodpeckers were noted - with 3 birds drumming - 3 Green Woodpeckers were heard, 5 Nuthatch were singing, as were 3 Treecreeper, 4 Pheasants were noted, 4 Goldcrest were heard singing, a male Linnet was singing in the Old Cattle Area (largest area of rough grassland), and 2 Reed Buntings were singing around the Lake - 1 by the Weir bridge and another by the Waterfall.

Courting Mute Swans

Of particular note on the Lake were 2 Cormorants, 7 Great Crested Grebes, 12 Mute Swans, 1 Lesser Black-backed Gull, 1 Herring Gull and at least 56 Black-headed Gulls.

The first brood of ducklings of the year

Butterflies seen were 7 Speckled Woods, 15 Orange-tips, and 1 Green-veined White.

2011-04-20T13:58:00.007Z

Another beautiful morning, cold to begin with but becoming very humid, and not a breeze in the air. On my arrival into Mote Park a dog Fox was seen.

Oak leaf at first-light

11 Blackcaps were singing, 6 Chiffchaffs were singing, and in the grassland areas 10 Whitethroats were singing. 2 Great Spotted Woodpeckers were drumming, 3 Green Woodpeckers were noted, 4 Nuthatch were noted, 2 Treecreeper were singing from trees along the River Len, 5 Goldcrests were singing throughout the park, 4 Stock Dove were found, 5 Jays were seen, and a pair of Linnets were seen in the Old Cattle Area (largest area of rough grassland).

Drake Mallard in flight

A Reed Bunting was singing from the Weeping Willow along the Lake's northern edge, a Sedge Warbler continues to sing from within a hawthorn on the Pitch & Putt side of the Lake, and a Reed Warbler was singing from the large reedbed where the River Len expands into the Lake. Of particular note on the Lake were 12 Mute Swans, 6 Great Crested Grebes, 2 Cormorants, 1 Grey Heron, 3 Lesser Black-backed Gulls, around 65 Black-headed Gulls, and 5 Common Gulls.

Speckled Wood

2 Small Whites, 1 Green-veined White, 4 Speckled Woods, 3 Holly Blues, and 13 Orange-tip butterflies were seen.

2011-04-17T13:56:00.006Z

Just a quick post this morning....need to revise right away! Incidently, there will be no posts over the next few days as I will be up at Uni for my final exams.

Anyway, back to today, and I was invited along to the Kent Wildlife Trust walk that was being lead by the highly knowledgable Fred Booth in Mote Park this morning. Bird highlights included Blackcap and Chiffchaff in good song, and several Nuthatch and Green Woodpecker were heard. A couple of Whitethroats were heard singing in the scrub and rough grassland area opposite the Inlet, and it was great to locate the first Sedge Warblers of the year with 2 individuals found singing along the Pitch & Putt side of the Lake.

Mallards

7 Great Crested Grebes, 1 male Tufted Duck, 1 Grey Heron, 11 Mute Swans, 1 Cormorant, 1 Lesser Black-backed Gull, at least 70 Black-headed Gulls, and around 5 Common Gulls were of particular note on the Lake.

Honeybees

1 Small Tortoiseshell, 2 Holly Blues, 9 Speckled Woods, 2 Commas, and 22+ Orange-tips were seen, and it was fascintating to come across a swarm of Honeybees in the ancient Ash on the Pitch & Putt side of the Lake.

2011-04-16T11:18:00.013Z

Bright and very warm this morning, and the park was surprisingly quiet people-wise today. The Cherry Blossom along Laurel Walk and Jenner's Bank is really looking wonderful at the moment!

Cherry Blossom

Blackcap numbers continue to remain the same with 13 now singing around the park, there were 10 Chiffchaffs singing, and 6 Whitethroats were heard singing.

Magpie - busy searching for food

3 Green Woodpeckers were noted, 5 Nuthatch were heard calling, 3 Treecreepers were singing - 2 in trees along the Len and 1 in the yew wood behind Mote House - and 5 Goldcrests were singing along the Laurel Walk and yew wood area.

Song Thrush

3 Pheasants called, 2 Jays were seen in North Wood just behind the Old Pond, and a Bullfinch was heard calling ffrom the scrub area at the top of the rough grassland slope north of the River Len.

Mute Swans in flight

As I walked along the Lake's eastern hedge-lined edge, a Reed Warbler - the first of the year - could be heard singing on the Pitch & Putt side of the Lake. Also of particular note on the Lake were 11 Mute Swans and 6 Great Crested Grebes. The gull flock consisted of around 80 Black-headed Gulls and at least 6 Common Gulls.

The birds appear to have claimed the sailing boats their own...

It was great to see my first Holly Blue of the year too, which was fluttering through the yew wood (Old Gardens) west of Mote House. 1 Comma, 5 Green-veined Whites, 2 Small Whites, 16+ Orange-tips, and 2 Peacocks were also seen.

Peacock

There is a guided walk around Mote Park lead by Fred Booth tomorrow morning (16th), from 10am to 1pm. Fred has birdwatched the park for over 40 years and has a wealth of knowledge about the park and its wildlife. Meet in the main car park.

2011-04-15T12:41:00.010Z

Bluebells

Just a quick lunchtime visit could be managed today, mainly focusing on the Lake and River Len. Despite an overcast sky, it was quite warm and bright, but there looked to be a promise of rain by the end of the visit.

Robin

5 Goldcrests were singing from the Yews along Laurel Walk and the yew wood east of Mote House, 1 Green Woodpecker was heard, 2 Treecreeper were singing from a couple of the parkland trees, 2 Jays were noted, 10 Blackcaps were singing, and 11 Chiffchaff were heard singing.

Heron fly-past

2 Grey Herons were seen around the Lake, 11 Mute Swans were greeting the many Easter holiday bread-bringing visitors, 7 Great Crested Grebes were present on the water, and 70+ Black-headed Gulls and 6 Common Gulls formed the gull flock.

Canada Geese

2 Green-veined Whites and 4 Orange-tipped butterflies were seen.

Grey Squirrel

2011-04-14T10:54:00.015Z

There were a few rain drops falling when I left home this morning, and they continued to fall during the first quarter of my walk. The sky was overcast but brightened up as time went on, and the cold wind that we have had for the past 2 days had dropped. There appeared to be alot of Blackbirds collecting earthworms this morning - almost as if the park's population had decided to hatch young all at the same time!

Female Blackbird

Laurel Walk (the road that enters Mote Park from the Park & Ride, along Willington Street) was alive with birds today, with warblers and thrushes being the most vocal. As I stood on the bank next to the awesome Giant Redwoods, listening in the hope of a early Nightingale, a bird began drumming on one of the old parkland trees. I knew instantly, with its weak drawn out quality, that it was a Lesser Spotted Woodpecker, fantastic!! These birds have proved tricky to 'pin down' over the past 2 years, and I have never noted them in this area of the park before.

Blue Tit

A pair of Coal Tits were investigating the soft bark of one of the Redwoods along Laurel Walk, 5 Goldcrests were heard singing, 12 Blackcaps were counted, 10 Chiffchaffs were singing, and there are now 4 Whitethroats singing in the rough grassland areas. It was a joy to hear the first Willow Warbler of the year, which was found singing in the large Goat Willow in the scrub and rough grassland area opposite the Lake's Inlet (they have such a wonderful song don't they?!)

Whitethroat

4 Jays were seen throughout the park today, 2 Stock Doves were displaying above Laurel Walk and Jenners Bank, and 5 Bullfinch were seen - 3 in the Wild Cherries on the far north-eastern end of Jenners Bank, and a pair by the Downswood, Willington Street, entrance to Mote Park.

Male Bullfinch

4 Green Woodpeckers were noted, 2 Great Spotted Woodpeckers were seen, 5 Nuthatch were singing, 2 pairs of Linnets were found in the largest area of rough grassland (Old Cattle Area), and 2 Treecreepers were heard singing along the River Len.

Grey Heron

11 Mute Swans continue to grace the Lake, 7 Great Crested Grebes were present, a Lesser Black-backed Gull stood on one of the Lake's buoys, 1 Grey Heron was seen preening on one of the collapsed islands, and the gull flock consisted of at least 74 Black-headed Gulls and 8 Common Gulls.

Mute Swan

2011-04-12T10:56:00.012Z

There was a rather cold wind blowing during my walk this morning, so it was only in the more sheltered areas could you feel the warmth of the sunshine. The birds were somewhat quieter too, presumably because of the wind. It was also a pleasure to 'bump into' fellow blogger Redgannet, author of the excellent http://www.redgannet.blogspot.com/, who joined me for the second half of my walk around Mote Park.

Chiffchaff

Highlight of the visit was a Swallow which flew across the Pitch & Putt golf course towards the Lake - the first of the year. Blackcaps were plentiful once again, with 7 birds being heard singing, 6 Chiffchaffs were singing, and 2 Whitethroats were also singing - 1 in the scrub/rough grassland area south of the Inlet, and the second bird was in the rough grassland south of the River Len.

4 Nuthatches were noted, a Stock Dove flew up and displayed above the North Wood behind the Old Pond, a Jay was spotted in the Cherry trees along Laurel Walk, 5 Green Woodpeckers were heard, 2 Treecreepers were heard calling in trees along the River Len, 4 Goldcrests were noted in the Yew wood (old gardens) and on the top of Jenner's Bank, a pair of Bullfinch were seen feeding on the buds of a Wild Cherry in the Yew wood, and 3 Linnets were heard and seen flying east over the large area of rough grassland.

Great Crested Grebe

3 pairs of Great Crested Grebe are on the Lake now, with 2 pairs continuing to court and display to each other whilst 1 pair are sitting on a nest. 11 Mute Swans were also on the Lake, and the gull flock consisted of at least 6 Common Gulls and around 80 Black-headed Gulls, and a Lesser Black-backed Gull could be seen flying around the Lake over the waters surface. A single Cormorant was observed flying west and 2 Herring Gulls passed north abover the larches on the Park's eastern boundary.

Female Mallard

A Red-eared Slider Terrapin showed itself briefly, and 5 Orange-tips, 1 Peacock, and 2 Small Tortoiseshells were seen, with the latter warming themselves in the sunshine on the top edge of the large rough grassland area (Old Cattle Area).

Small Tortoiseshell

Monday 11th April

2011-04-11T13:18:00.014Z

For my first post of the 'freshened-up' blog, a bright sunny morning was enjoyed with lots of insects on the wing and birds singing, and plenty of wildflowers in bloom too.

Ornamental Norway Maple

5 Green Woodpeckers were 'yaffling', 2 Great Spotted Woodpeckers called, a total of 5 Goldcrests could be heard singing from Yew trees along Laurel Walk and the old gardens, 6 Nuthatch were noted throughout the park, 1 Treecreeper was heard from the edge of North Wood at the foot of Jenners Bank, and 3 Pheasants were noted - 2 in the scrub and rough grassland south of the Lake, and 1 along the hedgeline by the Old Bothy north of the River Len.

Pheasant trying to hide

6 Chiffchaff were singing, a Blackcap seemed to be singing from every suitable tree or hedge in the park today, with 8 birds recorded in total (I'm sure there seems to be alot more around this spring?).

Common Whitethroat

In the scrubby rough grassland area south of the Lake's Inlet, the scratchy song of the first Whitethroat of the year was heard - 7 days after the earliest ever record in the park, the 4th April back in 2009.

Common Whitethroat

Of particular note on the Lake were 9 Mute Swan, 5 Great Crested Grebe, at least 75 Black-headed Gulls, and 7 Common Gulls. 3 Lesser Black-backed Gulls, and 2 Herring Gulls flew west.

Speckled Wood

The first Speckled Wood of the year was found fluttering over a patch of nettles in the Yew wood (old gardens) east of Mote House, Orange-tips were everywhere with 12 being seen in total, 3 Green-veined Whites were seen - the first of the year - and a Peacock butterfly was spotted through the scrubby area south of the Lake's Inlet. Also, the first basking Red-eared Slider Terrapin was seen.

Red-eared Slider Terrapin

Update...

2011-04-10T14:47:00.003Z

I thought I would mention about the excellent blog Redgannet, http://redgannet.blogspot.com/,which some of you may already look at. The author has made a few visits to Mote Park this week whilst I was away, and has even managed to find 2 firsts for the year!!! For his posts on this, and to explore his interesting blog, please use the link above or the one in my links column on the right-hand side of my blog.

Below is a photo of an American Robin seen in Central Park, New York, during my holiday.

American Robin, Central Park

Sunday 3rd April

2011-04-03T15:23:00.004Z

Another beautiful sunny morning today. This will be my last post for a week as I off to New York for an Easter break - I will then be able to start regular postings again as I have completed all my lectures at Uni now.

Mute Swan

Today, 3 Great Spotted Woodpeckers were drumming, 4 Green Woodpeckers called, a Treecreeper was heard, 5 Nuthatch were heard, 2 Goldcrest were heard calling, 7 Blackcap and 5 Chiffchaff were singing, and 2 Stock Doves were seen.

Of particular note on the Lake were 8 Mute Swan, 5 Great Crested Grebe, 2 adult Lesser Black-backed Gulls, at least 255 Black-headed Gulls, and at least 16 Common Gulls. A Grey Heron was seen along the River Len.

Comma

2 Comma butterflies were seen and the first Orange-tip butterfly of the year was seen - a very handsome male.

Saturday 2nd April

2011-04-02T16:48:00.007Z

A beautiful warm sunny morning greeted me for my first walk of the month today.

Primrose

3 Green Woodpecker were noted, 2 Great Spotted Woodpeckers were drumming, 2 Treecreepers were heard, 3 Goldcrest were noted, 9 Chifchaffs were singing, 7 Blackcaps were also singing, 4 Nuthatch were noted, a Pheasant called, and a Linnet was singing in the large area of rough grassland.

Green Woodpecker

Of particular note on the Lake were 8 Mute Swan, 5 Great Crested Grebe, and the gull flock consisted of at least 190 Black-headed Gulls, and around 16 Common Gulls.

Cuckooflower

It was a joy to see 1 Peacock butterfly and 2 Small Tortoiseshell butterflies - hopefully the numbers of the latter butterfly seen so far this year are a sign of a comeback?!

Sunday 27th March

2011-03-27T13:50:00.011Z

It was a joy to have the weather bright and sunny for my walk around Mote Park today. 4 Small Tortoiseshell butterflies, bumblebees, and Bee Flies made the walk extra 'springy'.

Small Tortoiseshell

6 Green Woodpecker were 'yaffling', 3 Great Spotted Woodpeckers were heard, 4 Goldcrest were noted, 5 Chiffchaff and 3 Blackcap were singing, 2 Treecreeper were singing, 5 Nuthatch were noted, 3 Sparrowhawk were seen displaying high above the park, 5 Herring Gulls flew north, and it was pleasing to see a Great Black-backed Gull also flying north - a new one for the year, and not an annual bird for the Parks bird list!

Wood Anemone

Of particular note on the Lake were 5 Great Crested Grebes, and the Mute Swan numbers have increased to 12 birds. 2 Lesser Black-backed Gulls were with the 27+ Common Gulls and 120+ Black-headed Gulls - it appears that the Mediterranean Gulls have departed from the park. A possible Yellow-legged Gull was on the Lake, but having not seen too many of these birds I cannot be 100% certain and would really appreciate any thoughts on this. If it is indeed a Yellow-legged Gull then it will be a first, for me, in the park.

Possible Yellow-legged Gull

Wednesday 23rd March

2011-03-23T14:39:00.005Z

No lectures at Uni today, so I decided to spend a couple of hours of the morning in Mote Park. It was such a beautiful sunny morning, and the temperature was very warm - t-shirt weather for some!

Green Woodpecker

3 Goldcrest were noted, 5 Treecreeper were seen, 6 Nuthatch were noted, 2 Great Spotted Woodpeckers were drumming, 6 Green Woodpeckers were noted, several Goldfinch and Greenfinch were come across, 3 Chiffchaff were singing, a Grey Wagtail was seen flying west over the Lake, a few Siskin were heard flying over but too high to see, 2 Pheasant were noted, 2 Herring Gulls flew north, 1 Kestrel was spotted, and 2 Sparrowhawk were seen, a pair of Bullfinch - the first for the year - were seen, and a KINGFISHER was seen twice as it flew down and up the River Len - the first for almost 12 months!!! Hopefully this sighting of a Kingfisher means that they may be returning locally to their old haunts after being hit heard by the past hard winters - you used to be guaranteed to see at least 1 Kingfisher on every visit up until December 2009.

Another Green Woodpecker

A Grey Heron and a Great Crested Grebe were seen along the River Len, and of particular note on the Lake were 11 Mute Swan, 5 Great Crested Grebes, 2 Lesser Black-backed Gulls, around 165 Black-headed Gulls, and at least 18 Common Gulls.

Ancient Cherry

It was lovely to see 3 Peacock butterflies, 1 Comma and 1 Small Tortoiseshell as well.

Sunday 20th March

2011-03-20T16:13:00.003Z

A bright, relatively warm morning today. I had a report from a local birder that a male Lesser Spotted Woodpecker was seen in Oak trees opposite the little kiosk calling yesterday morning - brilliant news!!!!!

7 Goldcrest were noted, 3 Pheasant were seen, 6 Nuthatch were in territory, 4 Great Spotted Woodpeckers were heard, 3 Green Woodpeckers were noted, 3 Treecreeper were seen, 5 Chiffchaff were singing, a Little Egret flew up from the stream that runs through the 'North-east Wood' at the bottom of Jenners Bank, a Grey Heron flew north, 3 Jay were seen, and 2 Coal Tit were singing.

Mediterranean Gull
(2nd from the front)

Of particular note on the Lake were 3 Mediterranean Gull and 1 Herring Gull amongst the 220+ Black-headed Gulls and 26+ Common Gulls, 6 Mute Swan and 4 Great Crested Grebe.

Wednesday 16th March

2011-03-16T16:20:00.008Z

Today there were no lectures at Uni, and at 6.30am I woke to hear the distinctive calls of WAXWINGS from outside my bedroom window!!!! Upon peering out of the window I could see a flock of 27 in my garden!...WOW, how lucky is that?! I couldn't believe my fortune that I didn't have to travel to Uni! I kept an eye on the birds for most of the morning and I timed my visit to Mote Park when I watched them fly off together and into an ash tree on the Willington Street boundary of the park - (tick!!!) - a new bird for the park's bird list, both for me and the park records, FANTASTIC!!!! What a superb bird!

WAXWINGS

(I thought the occasion would never happen!)

It was a very foggy morning with limited visablity, and the temperature was lower than forecast too.

4 Goldcrest were seen, 3 Nuthatch were heard, 4 Treecreeper were heard singing, 3 Great Spotted Woodpeckers were noted, 2 Green Woodpeckers were heard, 14 Redwing were seen, a Grey Wagtail was heard flying over, 2 Sparrowhawks were seen, a Jay was seen, a few Siskin could be heard along the Len, a Stock Dove was seen, a Chiffchaff was heard singing - probably the first migrant of the year - 5 Herring Gull flew north, and it was interesting to note a large flock of Greenfinch in the parkland trees.

There were 3 Mediterranean Gulls on the Lake with at least 85 Black-headed Gulls and around 16 Common Gulls, 6 Mute Swan were down by the 'duck feeding area', and 1 Great Crested Grebe was seen.

White Sweet Violets

The first Coltsfoot, Butterbur, and Sweet Violet were in flower.

Tuesday 8th March

2011-03-08T13:30:00.007Z

No lectures today, which meant that I could make a quick visit to Mote Park. It was such a beautiful morning, I almost expected to see a Bumblebee go by!

Grey Heron

3 Great Spotted Woodpeckers were heard, 4 Green Woodpeckers were noted, 2 Nuthatch were heard, 3 Treecreeper were singing, 2 Coal Tits were singing, 5 Goldcrests were noted, 2 Chiffchaffs were heard calling in the hedge running along the eastern Lake edge - the first recorded of the year, and my first ever wintering record - a Grey Wagtail was hunting insects in the Old Pond whilst a Water Rail probed the mud on the far bank, 9 Redwing were seen, 2 Jays were seen on Jenner's Bank, and a few Siskin could be heard in the alders along the River Len.

Mute Swans

Of particular note on the Lake were 11 Mute Swans - the highest number I have recorded at one time - 4 Great Crested Grebes, 1 male Tufted Duck, and 3 Pochard. A Cormorant flew west and a Grey Heron could be seen from the Lower Footbridge (second bridge from the Downswood entrance). The gull numbers appear to be increasing with 3 Lesser Black-backed Gulls remaining on the Lake (1 first winter, and 2 adult summer plumaged birds), at least 15 Mediterranean Gulls (mostly in adult summer plumage), at least 30 Common Gulls, and around 300 Black-headed Gulls.

Lesser Black-backed Gulls

Saturday 5th March

2011-03-05T15:47:00.006Z

My visit to Mote Park was made at mid-morning today. Despite the sky being overcast the light was still relatively bright.

Goat Willow

7 Nuthatch were noted, 3 Great Spotted Woodpecker were heard, a Green Wooodpecker called, 4 Goldcrest were found, 1 Coal Tit was calling, 2 Treecreeper called, a few Siskin could be heard in the North-east woodland at the foot of Jenner's Bank, a Blackcap was heard in subsong from the hedge on the Lake's eastern edge - presumably a wintering bird, and a new for the year - a Kestrel was seen in the rough grassland north of the River Len, a Cormorant flew west, a Grey Wagtail flew from the Old Pond, and 2 Pied Wagtails were seen in the parkland west of Mote House - another new bird for the year.

Kestrel

Around 28 Common Gulls, at least 200 Black-headed Gulls, at least 6 adult Mediterranean Gulls, and 2 adult Lesser Black-backed Gulls were seen, and of particular note on the Lake were 10 Pochard, 6 Great Crested Grebe, and 5 Mute Swan.

Saturday 26th February

2011-02-26T17:07:00.003Z

Unfortunately Uni work has to come before visits to Mote Park, which has meant that today, my last visit of the month, is only my third visit of the month. I could only visit the park in the afternoon today, and this coincided with heavy rain showers.

2 Goldcrest were noted, 2 Green Woodpecker were heard, 2 Great Spotted Woodpecker called, a Treecreeper was heard, 3 Siskin were seen, a Coal Tit was singing, 4 Redwing were seen, a Grey Heron was perched in a tree viewed from the Weir bridge, and at least 5 Mediterranean Gulls were seen amongst a flock of around 170 Black-heade1d Gulls.

It was lovely to hear Blackbird joining the Song and Mistle Thrushes singing.

Saturday 12th February

2011-02-12T17:47:00.007Z

Japanese Cherry blossom

It was great to be in the park again - 2 weeks is too long!! I have got a lot of studying to do at the moment but I managed a quick walk this afternoon. It was lovely and sunny, and it was amazing to see the changes to the park since alot of the vegetation clearance work has been done.

Great Spotted Woodpecker

6 Great Spotted Woodpeckers were drumming around the park, 5 Goldcrest were noted, 2 Nuthatch and 1 Treecreeper were heard calling, several Long-tailed Tits were seen, and it was nice to hear 5 Song Thrush singing. It is also interesting to note that a possible Willow Warbler was heard in subsong along the Len Valley. My reason for not being 100% certain is that, of course, it is the 'wrong' time of year to hear them, but also because I only heard the second part of the song and it was uttered only the once.

Evening sunlight through brambles

On the Lake were 32 Pochard, 7 Tufted Duck, 5 Mute Swan, 2 Lesser Black-backed Gulls - new for the year - at least 158 Black-headed Gulls, and around 14 Common Gulls. It was amazing to witness a HUGE flock of gulls flying northwards made up of way over 200 birds, mainly Black-headed Gulls, way up high in the sky.

Wednesday 2nd February

2011-02-02T13:39:00.009Z

I had no lectures at Uni today, and this meant that I could spend some of my morning in Mote Park. The temperature was a lot milder today, and the sky was rather cloudy and overcast.

Green Woodpecker

8 Goldcrests were noted, 3 Nuthatch were calling, 3 Great Spotted Woodpeckers were drumming, a Green Woodpecker was seen in the long grassland by the Lower Bridge, in the Alders by the Lower Bridge was a flock of 40+ Siskin, and it was nice to hear 4 Mistle Thrush and 2 Song Thrush were singing.

A few of the Tufties in the forground, with Pochard at the back.

A Little Egret was feeding in the Old Pond and stream opposite the Waterfall - a first of the year for me - 4 Herring Gulls were noted flying north, and of particular note on the Lake were 4 Mute Swan, 18 Tufted Duck, and 43 Pochard - equal to the highest ever number recorded back in 2009!! The gull flock consisted of at least 90 Black-headed Gulls, 12+ Common Gulls, and 1 Mediterranean Gull.

Also noted were the first Snowdrops, growing by a log pile in the small wood between Mote House and the Old Walled Garden.

Sunday 30th January

2011-01-30T20:05:00.004Z

Today was brighter than yesterday and ever-so-slightly warmer, and it was wonderful to see the Sun for the latter part of my visit.

5 Goldcrests were noted, 2 Great Spotted Woodpeckers were heard - 1 of which was drumming in an Oak on Jenner's Bank - a Treecreeper was heard, 4 Green Woodpeckers were seen, 3 Nuthatch were heard, a few Redwing were seen, a Jay was heard, a Coal Tit was heard singing, Goldfinch were noted, and at least 14 Siskin were seen along the Len.

Of particular note on the Lake was a single male Teal, 3 Great Crested Grebes, 33 Pochard, 9 Tufted Duck, around 140 Black-headed Gulls, at least 18 Common Gulls, 5 Herring Gulls, 1 Grey Heron, and a Cormorant was perched on the island next to the Weir bridge. It is interesting to see the local Coots and Moorhens getting very territorial.

Saturday 29th January

2011-01-29T17:23:00.004Z

I was doing the monthly count at Sevenoaks Wildlife Trust Reserve this morning and couldn't get into Mote Park until 3 o'clock this afternoon. The weather hadn't brightened up since first thing and was still cloudy and cold.

Robin

3 Cormorants flew west, 2 Herring Gulls flew north, 5 Goldcrest were noted, a Firecrest was found in the ivy-clad trees by the Waterfall - a first for the year - a few Siskin were heard, 2 Treecreeper were heard, a Nuthatch was calling in Alders by the Lower Bridge, and a Great Spotted Woodpecker was also seen in trees along the River Len. 2 Great Crested Grebes and a pair of Pochard were the highlights on the Lake.

Monday 24th January

2011-01-24T13:55:00.003Z

Made a quick lunchtime visit today - it was a rather overcast again, but with still plenty of birdsong.

It was interesting to see the tree surgeons preparing to start work on the clearance and felling of some of the park's scrub and trees. The 'Mote Park Regeneration Plan', which has taken over 3 years to prepare for, starts today, and over the next year there will be some exciting changes to the park. I, along with the Kent Wildlife Trust, have been liasing with the Park's Team of Maidstone Borough Council during the past couple of years forming a management plan and highlighting areas which must not be touched. For those reading this and who are interested in what scrub is being cleared, it is not as bad as it sounds. None of the large or veteran parkland trees are being removed, or any of the arboretum style planting on Jenner's Bank, the Len Valley will be managed sensitively with good management, and only a relatively small amount of scrub will be cleared from around the Lake - opening up the parkland vistas - new benches will be installed and new footpaths laid down. I am very excited about it all, and after seeing the plans, if all guidlines are abided to, I am quite confident that the park's team will do a great job.

Anyway, back to today! 5 Goldcrests were noted, 2 Great Spotted Woodpeckers called, 4 Nuthatch were heard, a Treecreeper called along Jenner's Bank, several Siskin were noted, and a Coal Tit was heard singing.

On the Lake the Pochard numbers have reached 36 birds - the highest so far this winter - and the Tufted Ducks have gone down to 6 birds. There were at least 18 Common Gulls and around 150 Black-headed Gulls making up the gull flock, and 2 Great Crested Grebes were also on the Lake. 2 Herring Gulls flew north.

Saturday 22nd January

2011-01-22T14:40:00.011Z

After watching Waxwings in the sunshine outside my lecture room at Uni yesterday, I was hoping the nice weather may stay around for the weekend. On waking up this morning it clearly hadn't, and instead I was greeted with a rather dreary and overcast sky, a cold breeze, and a light drizzle of rain - the sun did peep out slightly, but still masked by a veil of cloud. Despite this though, it's still a joy to be outside on my local patch.

Hazel at the top of Jenner's Bank

3 Goldcrest were noted, 2 Treecreeper were heard, 5 Nuthatch were found, 2 Great Spotted Woodpecker and 1 Lesser Spotted Woodpecker was drumming along the River Len Valley - first of the year - 30+ Siskin were feeding in Alders either side of Madginford Bridge (the bridge closest to Willington Street), a few Redpoll were also seen, a Pheasant called, and several Redwing were seen.

Coot

The first Great Crested Grebe to return to the Lake after the snow was seen, a Cormorant was perched on the island next to the Weir bridge, there were 31 Pochard and 6 Tufted Duck on the Lake, a Grey Wagtail was heard flying over, and a Grey Heron was seen along the River Len.

Purple Hairstreak egg nestled just beneath an Oak bud...

...and a slightly closer view.

Also of note were several Purpe Hairstreak eggs located on an Oak tree I have never seen any adults on before, the catkins on most of the Hazels have swollen, and 2 foxes were heard calling.

Sunday 16th January

2011-01-16T13:32:00.004Z

It was a beautiful sunny morning for my walk today, urging the local Great Tits, Mistle Thrush, and Goldcrest to sing. A strong but mild westerly was blowing.

6 Goldcrest were noted, a Coal Tit was heard, 4 Treecreeper were heard, 1 Great Spotted Woodpecker was seen in one of the Alders next to Madginford Bridge (the bridge along the River Len closest to Willington Street), several flocks of Long-tailed Tits were seen, 2 Collared Doves were seen along the Causeway - quite a heard bird to see in the park - a flock of around 14 Goldfinch and 8 Chaffinch were in the hawthorn hedge at the southern end of the Causway, Siskin were heard along the River Len, a Kestrel was seen flying south over the Len Valley towards the large areas of rough grassland - a first for the year - a Grey Wagtail was heard calling as it flew over the Lake, and 6 Redwing were noted.

Grey Heron

A Grey Heron was perched in it's favourite overhanging tree east of the Weir bridge, and of particular note on the Lake were 13 Pochard, 6 Tufted Duck, 6 Mute Swans, a few Canada Geese, and the gull flock consisted of at least 32 Common Gull, at least 200 Black-headed Gulls, 1 winter-plumaged adult Mediterranean Gull - the first of the year - and a flock of 8 Herring Gulls flew around the Lake before heading off north.

Med Gull with other gulls

(second from the front - the one with the bright red bill, large black smudge behind the eye, and no black wing-tips)

Friday 14th January

2011-01-14T16:39:00.005Z

No lectures again this afternoon which meant I could attempt to beat the Friday evening motorway traffic back to Kent. I reached Maidstone and got into the park at quarter past 3 and spent an hour and a half in the park until it was too dark.

Mallards

Of particular note on the Lake were 6 Mute Swan, 10 Tufted Duck, 13 Pochard, and 2 Grey Heron. Water levels along the River Len and stream by the 'Old Pond' were very high after the recent rainfall, but thankfully the Weir bridge wasn't flooded.

40+ Redwing were seen, 3 Goldcrest were noted, a Treecreeper was heard, 5 Stock Dove were perched in an Oak on the north-eastern corner of Jenner's Bank, 2 Great Spotted Woodpecker were heard, a Green Woodpecker was seen in the parkland west of Mote House, a Coal Tit was heard singing, a Cormorant flew west, a Pheasant was heard calling by the Walled Garden, a flock of Long-tailed Tits were seen moving through the hedge on the eastern edge of the Lake, plenty of Chaffinch were roosting, and without doubt the highlight of the walk was a flock of at least 100 Linnets roosting - a first of the year, and the first time I have recorded this species roosting in the park. (I have been told by another birder that 152 were seen roosting at the weekend). Also seen were 54 Black-headed Gulls and 2 Herrings Gulls flying north over the park

Monday 10th January

2011-01-10T16:22:00.005Z

Today I only had lectures in the morning at Uni meaning, along with congestion free motorways, I could be home in time for a quick hour session in the park before it gets too dark.

Canada Geese on their way to the Lake

I got into a surprisingly quiet (human-wise) park at just turn 3pm, starting and finishing the walk on Jenner's Bank. A Mistle Thrush was singing from the top of an Oak as I made my way to the 'Old Pond'. The water levels have dropped back to normal now and the 'Old Pond' looks perfect for some wader visitors again. Today a Snipe had joined one of the Moorhen pair feeding out on the exposed mud.

Next stop was the Lake, where birds of particular note included at least 17 Common Gull, 80+ Black-headed Gull, 6 Mute Swan, 3 Cormorant, several Canada Geese, and 4 female Teal - the first for the new year list, and not an easy species to find in the park - which were located by the largest island (the island where the Great Crested Grebes normally nest each year). As I made my way along the hedge-lined eastern edge of the Lake 2 flocks of Long-tailed Tits were noted, with 4 Goldcrests found amongst them. A small flock of Siskin were seen in Alders along the River Len.

With the light fading fast I returned to Jenner's Bank too see what small birds return to roost. As I stood at the top of the bank a flock of 12 Black-headed Gulls and 3 Herring Gulls flew north, 2 Jay were seen flying into the wood below, and a male Sparrowhawk circled above the Leylandii in the hope of flushing something out. 3 seperate flocks of winter thrushes flew south to roost, containg a total of 11 Redwing and 27 Fieldfare - another new bird for the year list...fantastic!!! Several Coal Tits were seen foraging with a few more Goldcrests, and 8 Greenfinch came to roost, and at least 35 Chaffinches were seen flying in also to roost.

Saturday 8th January

2011-01-08T16:12:00.008Z

It was another overcast morning during my quick visit today.

Grey Heron

3 Golcrest were noted, 2 Treecreeper were heard, 1 Nuthatch called, 2 Great Spotted Woodpeckers were heard, a Sparrowhawk was seen being mobbed by a crow, a Grey Heron flew just above the canopy of the wood at the bottom of Jenner's Bank, 2 Coal Tit were heard singing, and a Mistle Thrush was singing on Jenner's Bank.

The flooded Stream where it flows into the 'Old Pond'

The 'old pond' and stream remain flooded, but today a Grey Wagtail had joined the resident pair of Moorhen.

Grey Wagtail

Friday 7th January

2011-01-07T17:32:00.003Z

I had a 3 hour exam at Uni this morning, and by the time I had travelled back to Kent and home it was 3 O' clock this afternoon. But despite the rain, and darkening skies, what better way to relax and wind down than to walk around my local patch!

Not too much was seen during my visit, not only due to the time of day, but also because the rain we had earlier meant the water levels were extremely high. This had resulted in the 'old pond' being evacuated apart from the resident pair of Moorhen - do they ever move from that pond?!!! Whilst standing by the 'old pond' and cock Pheasant called and was seen flying to roost in an ivy covered Oak deep in the wood behind.

On Jenner's Bank a female Sparrowhawk caused the small birds to alarm call, a Green Woodpecker was heard, and a flock of 12 Chaffinch were observed gathering in the tops of the Oaks before flying off into the wood on the otherside of the stream. Just in case anybody visits the park at dusk at this time of year, make sure you keep an eye on the tops of the trees on Jenner's Bank for Hawfinch. Up until 5 years ago a small group could be seen gathering to roost in the park in this area - and this year looks a good winter for this spectacular species of finch.

Other birds of note was a Jay, a Goldcrest and a Nuthatch were heard calling, and the local Robins and a Mistle Thrush were heard singing.

It was too dark to see over the Lake, and the rain was getting heavier, so I began my wander home. (I begin Uni on Monday, so my visits to the park will once again be limited to any free weekends I get.)

Wednesday 5th January

2011-01-05T15:31:00.009Z

I made a visit to the park first thing this morning, and how lovely it was to see the sunshine again!!! An absolutely gorgeous morning!

4 Goldcrests were noted, 2 Treecreepers were seen, 2 Nuthatch were heard, a Great Spotted Woodpecker called, a Green Woodpecker was seen at the top of Jenner's Bank, lots of Siskin were seen and heard, and 5 Redwing were seen.

Common Snipe (centre of photo)

At the Old Pond was a Common Snipe (new for the year) and a Water Rail. (I have been told that at lunch-time the GREEN SANDPIPER and the JACK SNIPE were also showing!). Along the River Len a Grey Wagtail was seen between the two bridges, 1 Little Grebe was seen, 2 Grey Herons were noted, and a Cormorant flew east.

Grey Heron

The gull flock on the Lake had increased in number to 270+ Black-headed Gulls, 33+ Common Gulls and a single Herring Gull. Wildfowl on the Lake included 2 Gadwall, 4 Wigeon, and Tufted Duck and Pochard.

Black-headed Gulls

Sunday 2nd January

2011-01-02T15:25:00.003Z

Today I spent an enjoyable morning with the Medway RSPB Group. Robin Smith, their outdoor leader for the day, had invited me along.

We began the walk down by the duck feeding area of the Lake, where our first bird was a Grey Wagtail picking up insects along the Lake edge, whilst on the water we could find Tufted Duck, Pochard, and a family of Mute Swan amongst the many Mallard and Coot.

Our next stop was the 'old pond' where we hoped for the Jack Snipe and Green Sandpiper, and maybe a Water Rail, but unfortunately none of these species showed. (Soon before reaching the pond I heard a Skylark calling from above us, and 2 Stock Dove were seen.) On Jenner's Bank we listened to a Sparrowhawk calling from within the wood and located 3 Goldfinch at the top of an Alder, before we made our way to the Yew wood (old pleasure gardens) behind Mote House. Here we shared brilliant views of Great Spotted Woodpecker, Goldcrest and Treecreeper, a Nuthatch was heard calling from the top of an Oak, and a few Coal Tit were singing. Next stop was the River Len...

At the footbridge we watched a flock of Siskin feeding at the tops of the Alders close by, several Grey Herons were seen, a Jay was noted, and flock of Redwing flew north. We then headed for the 'Little Owl Oak tree', but no luck, and then to the Weir bridge and Causeway. From there we saw another small flock of Siskin, 5 Cormorants were perched on the island close by, and 2 Grey Herons could be seen. We headed back to the car park following the western/Golf course side of the Lake. Via this route we could see the Common Gulls with the Black-headed Gulls, and 10 Pochard, and 14 Tufted Duck could also be seen. After reaching the car park, thus finishing the walk, I walked back to the 'old pond' with a few others. Unfortunately we still failed to see the 2 wader species we had hoped for, despite being told en-route that the Green Sandpiper was showing well.

As I walked across Jenner's Bank some Redpoll could be heard calling from within the wood.

Saturday 1st January 2011

2011-01-01T21:30:00.003Z

Well, the start of a new year, and I wonder what this one will bring?!!

For the past few years I have been invited out by friends on New Years Day to travel around the county trying to see as many different species of bird as possible. Today we started in Hollingbourne, then on to Oare, down to Walland Marsh, and then to the Dungeness peninsula. With 91 species on our list we needed another 9 to reach the respectable number 100. After a short discussion I mentioned the potential of what Mote Park could provide...so off we drove!

We reached Mote Park at about 2pm and we headed straight for the 'Old Pond'. Despite lots of dog-walkers and several families passing by, we quickly spotted the GREEN SANDPIPER feeding in the exposed mud. I decided to look at the spot where the JACK SNIPE was hiding yesterday, and thankfully he was sitting in exactly the same spot. I then had the rather difficult job of trying to point out this small bird, apparently made out of reeds, amongst the same coloured reed stems.

After each of us had seen 'Jack' we then headed towards the Lake as we still, despite visiting Oare and Dunge, needed Canada Goose for the days list. After locating a pair of this species we soon recorded Long-tailed Tit and Nuthatch in the Oaks in front of Mote House. We then walked the River Len where we found a small flock of Siskin, a Jay, and a Grey Wagtail. Up towards Mote House we hoped to find some of the conifer favouring species. We couldn't locate a crest but, we did find a singing Coal Tit - number 100 for the day, woohooooo!! How lovely to finish the day in my local patch as well!

Friday 31st December

2010-12-31T16:45:00.009Z

My final visit of 2010. I couldn't get into the park until lunchtime but some good birds were still found. An SMS from a local birder first thing explained that the Firecrest was by the Old Pond again, but unfortunately by the time I was able to get into the park I could not relocate it.

7 Goldcrests were noted, 2 Treecreeper were heard, 4 Nuthatch were found, 2 Great Spotted Woodpecker were heard, 3 Redwing were seen, a Pheasant called from the marshy area east of the Lake, a flock of at least 14 Siskin were feeding in Alders along the bottom of Jener's Bank, a Grey Heron stood in the large Oak on the edge of the rough grassland south of the River Len, 3 Coal Tit were heard, and it was also nice to hear Song Thrush and Great Tit singing.

At the 'Old Pond' (opposite the Waterfall) it was a pleasure to meet fellow blogger Greenie (author of the brilliant 'Greenie In The Wild' blog). He quickly pointed out a Water Rail and a Grey Wagtail and, soon after explaining about the Green Sandpiper flying off, the distinctive call of the mentioned bird was heard and it soon flew into view and began feeding in the mud. After standing there for quite a while, hoping we might manage to see the JACK SNIPE, I suddenly spotted a small and stripey head amongst the tangled dead reed stems around 4 metres in front of us. After spending a while looking at 'Jack', Greenie and I bid each other farewell and I headed for the Lake.

JACK SNIPE circled in red

JACK SNIPE from the side

Of particular note on the Lake today were 4 Pochard, 3 Tufted Duck, 1 drake Gadwall, 10 Wigeon (the most ever recorded on the Lake in the Park I think) 1 Cormorant, and around 25 Common Gulls and 170 Black-headed Gulls.

* * *

This year I finish with 92 bird species seen in Mote Park. Highlights are undoubtedly the Jack Snipe (February and December), the Wood Warbler (April), and the Marsh Harrier (September). I still haven't reached over 100 in a single year, despite the park having a list of 140+ birds seen in the past 40 years.

It has been a fantastic year for butterflies in the park, with 2 new species being recorded: the confirmed presence of Purple Hairstreaks, and a fluttering visit by a Silver Washed Fritillary on the 31st July.

I would just like to wish all who visit this blog a very happy 2011, and thank you all so much for taking the time and having a read of my blog, despite the rather irregular posts this year!

Wednesday 29th December

2010-12-29T14:05:00.009Z

It was another foggy and rather grey morning today.

6 Goldcrest were noted, 3 Coal Tits were found, several Siskin were seen, lots of Long-tailed Tits were active, 2 Treecreeper were heard, 6 Nuthatch were recorded, and a Great Spotted Woodpecker was heard.

The cryptic Jack Snipe

A Grey Wagtail, 2 Moorhen, 1 Common Snipe, and 1 JACK SNIPE were in the Old Pond (opposite the Waterfall), the Green Sandpiper wasn't present during my visit, however it was seen a little earlier in the morning. Plus, on the Lake were at least 170 Black-headed Gulls, around 27 Common Gulls, 3 Herring Gulls, 3 Tufted Duck, 3 Wigeon (1 duck and 2 drakes), 2 Cormorants, and a Water Rail was seen further up the River Len.

One of the drake Wigeons in the forground

Tuesday 28th December

2010-12-28T19:37:00.004Z

Boy have I missed the park whilst being at Uni!!! It's lovely to be able make some regular visits around my exam revision amongst other things! Today there was a light fog in the air and this made the temperature rather chilly.

4 Goldcrests were noted, 1 Treecreeper was heard, 1 Great Spotted Woodpecker was heard, 7 Nuthatch were recorded, a few Siskin were heard down along the River Len, 2 Grey Wagtails were heard, and at least 5 Redwing were seen.

Green Sandpiper

The Green Sandpiper remained at the Old Pond (opposite the Waterfall), along with 2 Moorhen and a Common Snipe. (A Jack Snipe was seen later today by another birder!). On the Lake were 3 Tufted Duck, 2 Cormorants and around 150 Black-headed Gulls and 30 Common Gulls. In the area of water to the east of the Lake, where the River Len flows into the Lake, a drake Teal could be seen feeding along the edges of the ice, and a Grey Heron was perched in an overhanging tree.

Monday 27th December

2010-12-27T14:36:00.004Z

The park remains very icy and snowy at the moment, with the park's paths and roads being extremely dangerous to walk on! There was no frost today however, so the air temperature was a little warmer than what it has been recently.

At least 5 Goldcrest were noted, 2 Treecreeper were heard, a Great Spotted Woodpecker called, 4 Redwing flew east over, lots of Long-tailed Tit flocks were active around the park, 17 Siskin were seen, 2 Grey Wagtails were seen, 3 Nuthatch were seen, and a Firecrest - a new one for this year - was found in the ivy covered Hawthorn which is on the roadside of the Old Pond. In the Old Pond itself were 2 Moorhen, a Water Rail, and a Green Sandpiper - the first for this year, and a bird that is rarely recorded in the park.

Green Sandpiper

On the Lake were 4 Tufted Duck, 1 female Pochard, and at least 31 Common Gulls and 189 Black-headed Gulls.

Monday 20th December

2010-12-20T20:33:00.005Z

My walk this morning around a snowy Mote Park was in lovely sunshine. I love how the snow 'sticks' to the trunks and branches, however this makes life difficult for the birds and today they were very quiet.

4 Goldcrest were heard, a few Long-tailed Tits were noted, 3 Great Spotted Woodpeckers were seen, a Green Woodpecker was seen being chased by a female Sparrowhawk, a Redpoll was heard, at least 12 Siskin were noted, 2 Jay were seen, 7 Cormorant flew east, 2 female Pheasants were flushed, 3 Snipe flew over the Old Burning Yard as I passed, a Grey Wagtail was seen on the edge of the Inlet, and a few Redwing were noted.

View of Lake from the Inlet

(Mote House can be seen at the back of the photo)

The Old Pond held 1 Snipe and 3 Moorhen. Waterfowl of particular note on the Lake were 12 Tufted Duck, 7 Pochard, 2 Little Grebe, and 6 Mute Swan.

Saturday 11th December

2010-12-11T16:23:00.003Z

I got into the park about mid-morning today, and headed pretty much straight for the old pond to confirm if the Jack Snipes are present. Unfortunately they were not, meaning the 12+ birders that visited the park during my visit alone went away disappointed. The water levels were up about an inch or 2 higher than yesterday, and this I expect is the reason for the lack of Jack Snipe today.

Birds of particular note during the visit included: 2 Common Snipe, 4 Jay, 8+ Siskin, 2 Grey Wagtails, 2 Green Woodpeckers, 1 Great Spotted Woodpecker, a female Sparrowhawk, 3 Coal Tit, 5 Goldcrest, a Treecreeper, and 3 Nuthatch.

Friday 10th December

2010-12-10T15:15:00.004Z

Today I managed an unexpected visit in the late morning. It was a grey morning but at least it was dry, and the temperature was a lot milder than what it has been.

I headed straight towards the Old Pond, which is opposite the Waterfall, and has had a Jack Snipe recorded there on and off throughout the week. As 3 others and I stood scanning around the Pond, I suddenly noticed a bouncing JACK SNIPE behind some reeds at the back of the pond. The bird was not showing well and frequently went behind cover and then reappeared, went behind cover and then only teasing us with a head or a bouncing rear end, but at least we could confirm the bird's presence! Then, to our astonishment, a second bird appeared and began feeding close by! FANTASTIC!!!!! I wonder if one of these individuals visited us during the snow back in February?!

Jack Snipe

Also present in the pond were 3 Common Snipe, 1 Grey Wagtail, 1 Water Rail, and 2 Moorhen, and a few Siskin could be heard from the wood behind the pond. As I walked along the stream which flows into the pond, a Little Egret was spotted perching in an Oak on the waters-edge. Other birds noted during the visit included: 3 Nuthatch, 1 Green Woodpecker, 2 Treecreeper, 2 Goldcrest, 1 Jay, and a Brambling (the first for 2 years now) was noted flying over Mote House.

Saturday 4th December

2010-12-04T22:28:00.004Z

Finally, I am able to visit Mote Park!!! It was sooo nice to walk the familiar tracks and paths again after what seems like ages! Plus it was lovely to see the park carpeted in snow too, and with hard weather like this, there is always the chance of finding something unusual!

Jenner's Bank

Highlight of the morning came at the Old Duck Pond which is opposite the Waterfall, and was where the Jack Snipe stayed back in February. Today, there were 2 Water Rails, an amazing 5 Snipe, and a Woodcock - all viewable from the road. Unfortunately the Woodcock did not stay for long, and whilst I shared sightings with a local birder, the bird 'dissappeared' from the pond. A second Woodcock was flushed as I walked through the wood at the foot of Jenner's Bank.

Common Snipe

Other birds noted include 5 Goldcrest, 4 Nuthatch, 1 Treecreeper, a Coal Tit, 2 Siskin, a male Sparrowhawk, and several Redwing. From the Weir Bridge third Water Rail was seen running across the ice at the mouth of the Len, and 11 Tufted Duck and 14 Pochard were on the Lake. 23 Common Gulls were with the many Black-headed Gulls.

Saturday 30th October

2010-10-30T10:38:00.004Z

I was free to visit the Park this morning. A shower meant I got wet half-way through the walk, but despite this it was a gorgeous autumn morning to be out!

Goldcrest numbers continue to be high with 8 birds being recorded, 17 Redwing were seen, 1 Great Spotted Woodpecker was heard, 2 Coal Tits were calling, a Nuthatch and 1 Treecreeper was heard, and birds flying over included 1 Meadow Pipit, 1 Reed Bunting, 2 Pied Wagtails, and both Redpoll and Siskin.

The gull flock on the Lake held 2 Mediterranean Gulls amongst the 6 Common and 67+ Black-headed Gulls. 2 Great Crested Grebes and 3 Mute Swans were also noted, but no winter ducks yet.

Wednesday 20th October

2010-10-20T12:11:00.003Z

Today is my Uni's graduation day at the Royal Albert Hall - this equals no lectures, and this meant I could get out into Mote Park!!! It was a beautiful autumnal morning to be out!

Sugar Maple - beginning to turn its stunning autumnal colours

6 Goldcrest were calling, 3 Treecreeper were noted, 2 Nuthatch were feeding in the large Oak west of Mote House, a Great Spotted Woodpecker called, 6 Jay were seen, a Siskin called whilst I stood on the Weir bridge, c23 Redwing were noted, 3 seperate flocks of Fieldfare passed west along the Len Valley totalling 56 individuals were seen, and it was interesting to see a couple of flocks of Starlings passing west over the Len Valley as well.

The Lake was pretty quiet really, with the best bird being a winter-plumaged adult Med Gull which was with the Black-headed Gulls on the eastern stretch of the Lake viewable from the Weir bridge. A Cormorant flew east over the park.

Saturday 9th October

2010-10-09T18:25:00.002Z

Now that I have started 5 days a week at Uni I am finding it increasingly difficult to visit the park. I couldn't visit the park until early afternoon today, but there was still lots of bird activity.

7 Goldcrests were noted, 2 Treecreeper called, a Nuthatch was heard, a Great Spotted Woodpecker called, a Chiff Chaff called in bushes by the Weir bridge, and it was great to see and hear the first Siskins of the autumn in the park. I had heard some moving through over Imperial College London during the week and I wondered whether they had reached the park yet as well!!

Of note on the Lake were 2 Cormorants, a Great Crested Grebe, and 2 Mute Swans.

Wednesday 29th September

2010-09-30T22:05:00.002Z

15 people turned up for the last bat walk of 2010. Unfortunately a light drizzle at the start of the walk steadily turned into heavy rain as the walk went on. We did see a few bats despite the rain, with Common Pipistrelles being detected under a few of the parkland trees, a Soprano Pipistrelle was found under the Little Owl Oak tree, a Noctule was detected briefly west of Mote House, and a few Daubenton's braved the rain to feed over the open water of the Lake.

A Tawny Owl called from the Len Valley, and a Little Owl called from the direction of the overflow car park/fairground area at the beginning of the walk.

Monday 27th and Tuesday 28th September

2010-09-28T18:24:00.002Z

A quick walk on Monday morning found lots of bird activity in the Park. Several mixed tit flocks were seen, and many of the hedgerows and bramble patches contained small birds busily feeding. Birds of particular note during the walk were lots of Chiff Chaff, a few Blackcaps were found, an incredible 14 Goldcrest were recorded, 3 Treecreeper were heard, and 3 Nuthatch were calling. The most interesting record though were the first Redwings of the autumn, found sitting at the top of the Giant Redwood standing on the north side of Mote House.

This (Tuesday) evening it was fantastic to listen to 2 male and 1 female Tawny Owls in the area behind Mote House and the Old Gardens, with a male glimpsed as it flew between canopies. Let us hope they are behaving well tomorrow night for my guided walk!! A Little Owl was also faintly heard calling from the far side of the Park. A Common Pipistrelle bat was seen catching insects as well.

Saturday 25th September

2010-09-25T11:38:00.002Z

It was cool but very very sunny for my walk this morning. Lots of birds were calling!!

An amazing 11 Goldcrests were recorded, 3 Coal Tits were heard - with one individual singing - a Treecreeper was heard calling along the River Len, 2 Nuthatch called, 5 Chiff Chaff were noted, 1 Willow Warbler called from the hawthorn hedge running along the eastern edge of the Lake, 1 Green Woodpecker was heard, 2 Great Spotted Woodpeckers were noted, a Meadow Pipit flew south, 4 Jay were seen, and the local Mistle Thrushes seemed particularly noisy and active throughout the park today. Of note on the Lake were 5 Mute Swans, 2 Cormorants and 2 Great Crested Grebes.

Comma on Blackberries

Also of note were Small White butterflies, 1 Speckled Wood, and 1 Comma.

Saturday 18th September

2010-09-18T10:33:00.004Z

It was a beautiful sunny morning for my walk today.

8 Goldcrest were noted, 4 Coal Tit were heard, 3 Nuthatch were heard, 1 Treecreeper was heard, 2 Great Spotted Woodpecker called, a Stock Dove sang from the Len Valley, 5 Chiff Chaff called, and a Meadow Pipit flew south. Bird of the day was a MARSH HARRIER, seen whilst standing at the top of the old Georgian Steps (the same place I saw the Honey Buzzard last year), and it was high up in a thermal moving north-east towards Bearsted.

Distant Marsh Harrier

There are very few birds on the Lake at the moment, however it was a nice surpirse to see a female Shoveler on the eastern stretch. This species of duck has become a regular autumn visitor for the past 3 years now. Also on the Lake were 2 Herring Gulls, 6 Mute Swan, and a Grey Heron was stood on the Golf Course side of the Lake.

2 Speckled Wood and 3 Small White butterflies were also seen.

Friday 11th September

2010-09-11T08:48:00.002Z

I have been away on holiday in Norway so have been unable to visit the park lately. I did manage to visit the park this afternoon.

The most obvious bird seen were House Martins, with an estimated 60+ flying around the Lake and surrounding vegetation, together with a few Swallows. Unsurprisingly for the time of the day, very few birds were being vocal; several Chiff Chaffs could be heard from the hedgerows, 2 Nuthatch were heard calling, a Treecreeper called, a Great Spoted Woodpecker was calling along the Len Valley, and 4 Goldcrest were heard. It was fantastic to also hear a Kingfisher calling along the River Len, as I personally have not seen one since the beginning of the year.

A Grey Heron flew east, 2 Cormorants were on the island next to the Weir bridge, and there is an evident increase in Canada Geese numbers.

Several Migrant Hawker dragonflies were seen, and a few Gatekeepers were noted too.

Thursday 26th August

2010-08-26T19:56:00.002Z

The temperature was very cool during my walk in the park today.

Only a Speckled Wood was the only butterfly seen, but lots of Migrant Hawkers and a couple of Southern Hawkers were noted flying around the parkland trees.

The best bird seen was a Hobby, which was hunting House Martins and Swifts above the old Oak west of Mote House. Other birds noted were 6 Goldcrests, 1 Treecreeper, 2 Stock Dove, 2 Jay, 1 Great Spotted Woodpecker, 2 Cormorant flew west, a Blackcap was heard singing, and 1 Chiff Chaff and 1 Coal Tit were heard.

Thursday 19th August

2010-08-19T18:01:00.003Z

This afternoon I joined an informal meeting with Maidstone Borough Council to discuss some of their plans for the park. Whilst on the top playing field, standing alongside 1 of the large Oaks on the southern edge, a PURPLE HAIRSTREAK decided to flutter down alongside us whilst we were in the middle of conversation. I couldn't help myself but butt-in and point him out as he fluttered unbelievably close and then settled on a leaf a few feet above our heads. I just couldn't believe it!!! I then gave those present a short talk all about this delightful little butterfly, which is a first for me in the park and for the park records as well!!!! As we stood there a further 5 butterflies were seen together.

Wednesday 18th August

2010-08-18T22:08:00.003Z

This is officially my 300th post, and this evening I was leading a bat walk for the RSPB. I am the outdoor leader for the Maidstone RSPB Group and I had organised this walk as part of the program of outdoor meetings. Despite only 4 RSPB members turning up, there was a good turn-out with 23 people joining me - with most people seeing adverts of the walk elsewhere, including my blog.

It was a very pleasant evening with only a few spots of rain towards the end of the walk, and there were lots of midges to bite us and for the bats to feed on.

The first bats detected were Noctule and Common Pipistrelle with both species feeding around the old Lime trees west of Mote House. The Noctule proved rather difficult to find despite detectors picking up its echolocation. We then moved down to the Weir bridge where we had good but brief views of Noctules and loads of Soprano Pipistrelles were hunting the many midges above and between us.

We then walked north to the Old Ashford Road (by the Waterfall), and then west along the road to the Old Boathouse and duck feeding area. Here we watched both pipistrelle species hunting insects whilst also detecting a Serotine, and several Daubenton's bats were observed hunting low over the Lake.

Friday 6th August

2010-08-06T15:00:00.004Z

Mainly overcast this morning for my walk in the park.

3 Goldcrest were heard, 2 Treecreepers were heard, a Nuthatch called, a Green Woodpecker was seen, 2 young Sparrowhawks could be heard, a Bullfinch was heard, and a Blackcap sang from bushes close to the Waterfall.

Ollie

The butterflies were slightly less active today due to the increased cloud cover, but despite this: Gatekeeper, Meadow Brown, Common Blue, Large White, Small White, Peacock, and Speckled Wood were all seen. The old boating ramps are completely covered in nectar-rich flowers at the moment and is a fantastic place to look for invertebrates; and being close to the water means that lots of Dragonflies can be seen with Common Blue and Azure Damselflies, Black-tailed Skimmer, and Southern Hawker all making an appearance.

Part of Old Boating Ramp

Thursday 5th August

2010-08-05T10:22:00.004Z

It was nice and sunny for my walk this morning, though by the end of the walk the Sun was almost completely masked by cloud.

Ripening Blackberries

3 Goldcrest were noted, 3 Treecreeper were heard along the River Len, a Nuthatch called from the Len Valley, 2 Great Spotted Woodpeckers called, a Green Woodpecker was heard, and 2 young Sparrowhawks were heard calling.

Gatekeeper on Ragwort

Butterflies seen today were Gatekeepers, Meadow Browns, Large Whites, 1 Comma, 1 Red Admiral, 1 Peacock, 4 Common Blues, 1 Small Copper, and 2 Speckled Woods.

Wednesday 4th August

2010-08-05T10:19:00.002Z

A walk this evening produced the first Hobby of the year, as it flew north over Laurel Walk and Jenner's Bank. I wonder if bats are on the menu - they were last year!

Monday 2nd August

2010-08-02T11:56:00.003Z

It was warm and sunny during my walk this morning, but there was plenty of cloud in the sky.

Old Cattle Area (large area of rough grassland)

Bird-wise the park remains fairly quiet, as-is typical at this time of year. The most notable species were 3 Goldcrest, 1 Nuthatch, 1 Treecreeper, 2 Great Spotted Woodpeckers, a Linnet flew west over the large area of rough grassland (the Old Cattle Area), a Chiff Chaff called, and a Blackcap could be heard singing in bushes at the top of Jenner's Bank.

Gatekeeper

A Brown Hawker, a Southern Hawker, and a Common Darter were seen, and butterflies seen included lots of Gatekeeper, 3 Small Skipper, several Small and Large Whites were seen, 5 Meadow Brown, 2 Peacock, and 7 Common Blues were seen.

Saturday 31st July

2010-07-31T16:39:00.002Z

During a late afternoon walk with Ollie today, it was a lovely surprise to see a SILVER WASHED FRITILLARY flutter past whilst walking along Laurel Walk - a first for the park! Other wildlife seen included: 1 Brown Hawker, 2 Treecreeper, 1 Blackcap, 2 Chiff Chaff, 1 Goldcrest, 4 Red Admiral, 3 Meadow Browns, and lots of Gatekeeper and Small and Essex Skippers.

Tuesday 27th July

2010-07-27T12:04:00.004Z

It was very warm and humid for my walk this morning. My walk was limited distance-wise due to the presence of a new best friend - a 13 week old puppy!

2 Great Spotted Woodpeckers were seen, 3 Nuthatch called, 4 Goldcrest were heard, a Blackcap was singing, 2 Coal Tits were noted, and 3 Jay were heard.

Speckled Wood

Butterflies seen included Gatekeepers, Meadow Browns, Large and Small Whites, 1 Red Admiral, and 1 Speckled Wood. A male Banded Demoiselle and a male Black-tailed Skimmer were seen along the River Len.

Saturday 24th July

2010-07-27T12:01:00.002Z

A quick walk around the park this morning produced very little. Most notable species were 4 Med Gull on the Lake, 1 Great Spotted Woodpecker, 3 Goldcrest and 2 Jay. Gatekeeper, Meadow Brown, and Large White butterflies were also noted.

Tuesday 22nd June

2010-06-22T14:42:00.003Z

Firstly, apologies for the lack of posting. Final exams and Uni deadlines had to take first priority at the beginning of the month and slightly more recently I have also been doing many things in order to celebrate my 21st birthday.

It was very warm and humid for my walk this morning and the local wildlife was pretty quiet. 4 Goldcrests were noted, a Great Spotted Woodpecker was heard, 1 Nuthatch was heard, 3 Treecreepers were noted, 5 Chiff Chaff and 4 Blackcap were singing, a Spotted Flycatcher was singing and seen hunting in the parkland west of Mote House, and 3 Reed Warblers were singing.

Of note on the Lake were at least 45 Canada Geese, 3 Great Crested Grebes, 1 Grey Heron and 1 Cormorant.

The only butterfly noted was a Common Blue.

2010-06-02T10:22:00.004Z

A beautiful morning today with a lovely blue sky and warm sunshine.

4 Goldcrests were heard, 3 Treecreepers were noted, 2 Great Spotted Woodpeckers were seen, a Green Woodpecker was heard, 6 Chiff Chaff were noted, 5 Blackcap were singing, 4 Whitethroats were singing, 2 Reed Warblers and 1 Reed Bunting were singing in the marsh area by the Weir bridge, and a Spotted Flycatcher was seen and heard singing in its traditional territory in the parkland west of Mote House - the first of the year, fantastic!!!

Spotted Flycatcher

Of note on the Lake were at least 4 pairs of Great Crested Grebe, 3 Mute Swans, 2 Grey Herons, and 1 Lesser Black-backed Gull.

Grey Heron

Also of note were several Orange-tip and Green Veined White butterflies.

Monday 31st May

2010-05-31T15:11:00.005Z

The last day in the month of May and the hawthorn bushes are still cloaked in blossom. This bank holiday weekend Mote Park was hosting the Maidstone Town and Country Fayre, and I couldn't wait to visit!!

Hawthorn Blossom

"Mote" is Anglo Saxon for "a meeting place", hinting that the park may have been used for something like this in the past. In fact, regular markets used to be held in the Mote Park during the 18th and 19th centuries, and Mote Park was also the original site for the Kent County Show until it was moved up onto Detling Hill. Nevertheless, it was wonderful to see heavy horses, sheep, and working dogs among other country interests and skills back in Mote Park. Overall it appeared that the event was a successful one with lots of people attending, and the Sheep Shearing and Suffolk Punch Display Team were really well done attracting large crowds.

Suffolk Punches pulling the plough

Whilst watching the Heavy Horses out in the main arena it was great to see an adult summer plumaged Mediterranean Gull fly over west towards the top playing field. Other birds noted were 2 singing Reed Buntings, 5 Chiff Chaffs, 1 Green Woodpecker, 3 Great Spotted Woodpecker, 2 Treecreeper, 1 Nuthatch, 4 Blackcaps, 4 Reed Warblers, 3 Whitethroats, a family of Coots and 2 famillies of Mallards were seen, and 2 Swallows and a Swift were seen catching insects over the Lake. It was also interesting to note lots of tadploes swimming in the marshy area of the eastern section of the Lake, presumably young Toad.

Saturday 23rd May

2010-05-23T15:41:00.003Z

This evening's bat walk couldn't have gone much better! 22 people of all ages attended and 5 bat species were detected and seen. It's always exciting and thrilling to be out at this time of day looking for wildlife, and everyone was really keen to learn about such an overlooked species of mammal.

In order of the first to be seen, the 5 species detected were: Noctule, Soprano Pipistrelle, Common Pipistrelle, Serotine, and Daubenton's. Unfortunately no owls were seen or heard, which is unusual for my bat walks, but overall the evening was a huge success and I couldn't be happier!

Friday 14th May

2010-05-14T07:54:00.008Z

Up bright and early today. It was a beautiful morning and the temperature was very warm once the sun had risen.

Highlights were without doubt Cuckoo and Turtle Dove. Both were found on the eastern side of the park in the rough grassland north of the River Len. Other birds included 3 Green Woodpecker, 1 Great Spotted Woodpecker, 1 Nuthatch, 4 Treecreeper, 7 Blackcap, 5 Chiff Chaff, 9 Whitethroat, 5 Reed Warbler, 4 Goldcrest, and 2 singing Reed Buntings.

Of note on the Lake were at least 6 pairs of Great Crested Grebe, 1 pair of Tufted Duck, 3 Cormorants, 4 Lesser Black-backed Gulls, and 4 Mute Swans.

It was also lovely to see goslings, ducklings, and young Long-tailed Tits and Mistle Thrush, and a Fox was glimpsed in the low light first thing.

Friday 7th May

2010-05-07T11:05:00.009Z

It was a bright but overcast morning today during my walk around the park, and the temperature was a lot cooler.

Jay

5 Goldcrests were noted, 2 Nuthatch were heard, 2 Great Spotted Woodpeckers and 2 Green Woodpeckers were heard, 4 Jay were seen, a Pheasant called from the rough grassland north of the River Len, 6 Chiff Chaff were singing, 7 Blackcap were heard, 7 Whitethroat could be found, and 5 Reed Warblers were noted.

Reed Warbler

On the Lake were at least 12 Great Crested Grebes, 2 Mute Swans, 1 Herring Gull was with a handful of Black-headed Gulls, and 1 pair of Canada Geese were parents to a brood of 6 little goslings which was lovely to see. 2 Cormorants were perched on the island next to the Weir bridge, Swallows, House Martins and a few Sand Martins were observed catching insects over the Lake, and a Common Sandpiper – the first of the year – was seen several times making flights between vacant fisherman swims and muddy edges around the Lake.

Mute Swan

It is great to see most of the spring flowers in bloom now with Wild Garlic, Bluebell, 3 Violet species, Jack-by-the-Hedge, and Red Campion being the most easiest to see species.

Red Campion

Sunday 25th April

2010-04-25T12:26:00.003Z

I was leading a walk in the park this morning. 7 people turned up and we all got wet during a long April shower!

Some good birds were seen and it was great to catch up with summer migrants such as Swift, Swallow, House Martin, Common Whitethroat and Reed Warbler. 2 Willow Warbler were heard singing, and quite a few Chiff Chaff and Blackcap were singing too. 2 Great Spotted Woodpeckers were drumming, a Green Woodpecker was heard, at least 5 Nuthatch were noted, 4 Treecreeper were seen, 3 Jay were seen, 4 Goldcrest were heard, a Pied Wagtail was seen on the northern edge of the lake, and a male Reed Bunting was found perched in the White Poplar on the Golf Course.

Of note on the Lake were at least 7 Great Crested Grebes, 4 Mute Swan, 3 Tuftie, and 1 Lesser Black-backed Gull. 5 Grey Herons were seen around the park and 3 Cormorants were seen around the Lake.

Wednesday 21st April

2010-04-21T17:30:00.002Z

Apologies for lack of posting lately, I am incredibly busy at the moment with assignment and dissertation deadlines.

A did manage a quick visit with the highlight being a singing WOOD WARBLER in the Oaks in the main car park. Amazing, my first ever in the park and I believe the first for the park records too.

Friday 9th April

2010-04-09T11:04:00.006Z

Sorry for being a bit quiet lately - I've been a busy boy for the past 2 weeks.

My walk today was a short one, mainly because I've got lots of Uni work to be getting on with at the moment. The weather was gorgeous, plenty of sunshine and very very warm temperature-wise.

Goldcrest

At least 7 Goldcrests were noted today - which is the highest number counted since the snow we had before Christmas. 5 Blackcaps and 3 Chiff Chaffs were singing, 1 Great Spotted Woodpecker was drumming, 5 Green Woodpeckers were calling, 5 Pheasants were noted, 3 Stock Doves were noted, 2 Treecreepers were seen, the Little Owl was perched in the usual Oak west of Mote House, and 3 Jay were seen - with one individual doing a perect impression of a female Tawny Owl.

Treecreeper

Of note on the were 4 Mute Swans, 2 Greylag Geese, 7 Great Crested Grebe, and 7 Tufted Ducks. Gulls were few and far between today.

A Comma butterfly was seen in Ivy by the old pond, and a Bank Vole was seen briefly scampering past as I photographed Wood Anemones.

Wood Anemone

There is a Kent Wildlife Trust walk tomorrow morning starting at 9am so I may well tag along to that!

Saturday 27th March

2010-03-29T11:52:00.009Z

I was leading a walk this morning starting at 9.30am from the main car park. I took the opportunity of the earlier sunrise to do my usual walk before-hand.

Grey Squirrel

Over the whole morning the following were recorded: 5 Nuthatch, 3 Treecreeper, 4 Goldcrest, 1 Coal Tit, 5 Great Spotted Woodpeckers, 6 Green Woodpeckers, the Little Owl was in its usual Oak, a pair of Stock Dove were noted, at least 7 Chiff Chaff were singing, and 6 Med Gulls were with the gull flock on the top playing field - 2 individuals had colour rings on, but without a scope no letters or numbers could be seen. Bird of the day, however, was a calling Lesser Spotted Woodpecker (74) along the River Len close to the large London Plane tree and No Fishing sign. Lesser Spotted Woodpeckers are hard to find these days in the park, having not been confirmed breeding since 2007, so it was fantastic to find one today.

Gulls

(The front 2 birds are adult Mediterranean Gulls - note the more extensive jet black hoods and the lack of black on the wing tips, they also appear ever-so-slightly larger than their more common relative the Black-headed Gull in the background, but this can be hard to see sometimes.)

Of particular note on the Lake were at least 6 Tufted Duck, 5 Great Crested Grebes, 5 Mute Swans, and 2 Lesser Black-backed Gulls.

Butterbur

Before the walk I managed to locate 25+ flower spikes of Butterbur along the River Len, Sweet Violet and Lesser Celendine are now in flower, and several Bumblebee species were seen.

(Please also note that the events column has been updated.)

Friday 26th March

2010-03-26T10:25:00.009Z

It was a bright sunny morning with scattered cloud for my walk today. There was a slight westerly wind blowing and the clouds that were in the sky looked to threaten with rain!!

More and more birds are joining the dawn chorus now, and this morning it was fantastic to find 3 warbler species. The most numerous were the Chiff Chaffs, with 9 birds in total being recorded around the park. As I approached the boundary of Mote Cottage, the rich fruity notes of a male Blackcap (72) began to rise from a ivy-clad Ash tree – the first of 2 individuals noted today, the other being heard in the trees behind the old pond. The third warbler to be found was a Willow Warbler (73). I absolutely love the song of the Willow Warbler so it was a joy to find a male singing from the willows next to the Inlet on the eastern section of the Lake.

Nuthatch (male)

Other notable species were 5 Treecreepers singing, 4 Goldcrests, 4 Nuthatch were heard, 9 Redwing was spotted passing through heading east, 3 Jays were seen, 5 Great Spotted Woodpeckers were drumming first thing, 3 Green Woodpeckers were noted, and the Little Owl was in its usual Oak tree. At least 21 Mediterranean Gulls were roosting on the Old Showground (top playing field) with at least 130 Black-headed Gulls and 18 Common Gulls, and more Meds could be heard amongst gulls flying over and above the playing fields too!!

Old Showground - the top playing field

(was the site of the Kent County Show before it moved onto Detling Hill and was also the site of the Royal Show for a few years during the early 1900s. The white dots on the grass are gulls, and the blue and grey building at the back is the Maidstone Leisure Centre - known to park regulars as 'The Starship Enterprise'.)

A Grey Heron was seen flying east over the valley of the River Len, 2 Cormorants were spotted flying north, and on the Lake were at least 5 Great Crested Grebes, 5 Mute Swans, 2 Lesser Black-backed Gulls were with the handful of Black-headed and Common Gulls, and a Greylag Goose – possibly one of the birds from Tuesday – was following the domestic Greylag/farmyard Goose around. (For the past 3 years there has been a resident pair of domestic farmyard/Greylag Geese on the Lake – which I do not record on my patch year list.

Horse Chestnut bud

Also of note were Mistle Thrush and Treecreeper carrying nesting material, Starlings were watched investigating possible nest sites, frogspawn could be found in the old pond, and the buds of the Horse Chestnuts have begun to open.

Tuesday 24th March

2010-03-24T18:24:00.004Z

A quick visit to the park before Uni produced the first 2 Greylag Geese (71) of the year on the Lake (eastern section), and on certain areas around the Lake were Coltsfoot flowers almost open.

Coltsfoot

Also noted were 5 Goldcrest, 2 Nuthatch, 3 Treecreeper, 3 Great Spotted Woodpecker, 2 Green Woodpecker, 1 Little Owl, and 2 Chiff Chaff were singing.

Friday 19th March

2010-03-19T13:46:00.005Z

Today was the day of the Sport Relief Charity Walk.

I have been rather nervous about this walk for the reason that it was for charity, has been widely publicised, and a large number of people were expected to turn up - meaning lots of eyes and ears on me, the walk leader! For the past week I have been fixed to the weather forecasts keeping everything crossed for it to stay dry and thankfully it was, bar from a little bit of drizzle near the end but nothing at all to worry about. 35 people turned up - the highest number I have ever had to lead - and it was brilliant to see people of all ages and abilities attending too. From what a few people told me, apparently I did a good job of hiding my beginning nerves despite inside my heart pumping wildly and butterflies getting up to all-sorts in my tummy!!

The route we walked took us to the Volunteers Monument and the site of the old Mote House, and then along the old Ashford Road, which runs along the Lake's northern edge, to the current Mote House and Old Walled Garden.

With so many people to talk to and lead through the park I couldn't pay too much attention on the wildlife and birds around me. Despite this I managed to spot a male Wheatear - the first this year and only the third ever record in the park - several Med Gulls were on the top playing field, and 2 Chiff Chaffs were heard singing - the first of the spring. Wheatears are rare visitors to Mote Park despite its large areas of short grassland so I was elated to find one, and it's presence along with the singing of the Chiff Chaff signals that spring is well and truly under-way!!!! I didn't have my camera with me today but I have included a photo of 1 of a pair of male Wheatears that visited the park last April.

Male Wheatear
(taken April 2009)

Thursday 11th March

2010-03-11T16:53:00.003Z

Today I was leading a bird walk for the U3A. Despite a cold north wind blowing and the sky being rather grey and cloudy for most of the visit, some good birds were seen. I didn't have my camera with me today but have included with this post another shot of the Nuthatch that I took during my visit on the 5th March.

Nuthatch

Birds of particular note that were seen or heard during the walk included; 4 Nuthatch, 2 Treecreeper, 3 Great Spotted Woodpecker, 1 Green Woodpecker, 2 Stock Dove, a male Kestrel, 5 Jay, lots of Goldfinch, 1 Grey Heron, 1 Water Rail, 3 Great Crested Grebes, 1 male Pochard, 1 male Tufted Duck, 2 Mute Swan, at least 3 Mediterranean Gulls and several Common Gulls were with the many Black-headed Gulls.

Overall it was a super morning, and it was a pleasure to meet and guide such a lovely bunch of people around the park.

Monday 8th March

2010-03-08T13:47:00.010Z

As I have plenty of studying to do at the moment I could only manage a quick mid-morning visit to the Park, mainly focusing on the River Len and east section of the Lake. Another reason for only being able to manage a quick visit today is because I didn’t get as much work done over the weekend as I would have liked! My reason being that I was invited to Salisbury Plain and managed to spot 5 Great Bustards – which was absolutely fantastic – I never ever dreamt I would see such large impressive birds in the wild here in Britain. Below is a photo:

Male Great Bustard known as 'Purple 5'

Back to today though, and it was a beautiful sunny morning – I was quite surprised not to see a bee or early butterfly!

Male Green Woodpecker

4 Treecreepers were singing, 3 Goldcrests were noted, 3 Nuthatch were heard along the River Len, 1 Redwing was spotted flying north, 2 Jay were seen in the wood at the back of the old pond, a few Siskin could be heard in the Alders along the Len Valley and 2 Redpoll were picked out, 3 Great Spotted Woodpeckers were heard, and 2 Green Woodpeckers were seen in the rough grassland north of the River Len.

Mistle Thrush

A Grey Heron was seen along the River Len, and of particular note on the Lake were at least 4 Great Crested Grebes – both pairs displaying – 1 Little Grebe, 2 Mute Swan, and 2 Lesser Black-backed Gulls were with the handful of Black-headed and Common Gulls on the Lake. A large gull flock could be seen roosting on the old showground (top playing field) and several Mediterranean Gulls were heard calling.