Three Towns Forum

Members' Lounge => Hobbies and Interests => Topic started by: Bellringer on September 06, 2010, 06:15:00 pm

Title: Local Wildlife
Post by: Bellringer on September 06, 2010, 06:15:00 pm
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Found this little chap wandering across the lawn on Saturday. By the time I had popped inside to get the camera he had nearly disappeared in a border.

Hope he "fattens up" a bit to survive the winter! Dog food is recommended.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DaveR on September 06, 2010, 06:17:07 pm
You might see a few of those about, Stan. The lady that runs Conwy Hedgehog Rescue lives not too far from you and they get released back into the local woods when they are rehabilitated.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on September 06, 2010, 07:23:12 pm
My next door neighbour used to have families of hedgehogs in her garden years ago but I haven't seen any since the Badgers started to make a regular appearance. 
That lady in the Junction is doing a great job looking after the hedgehogs and has been in the local papers about her work with them.   :)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on September 06, 2010, 07:46:06 pm
It was a warm evening the other night so I had the window open but the Badgers were outside foraging for food and kept me awake with their high pitched noises. I shut the window but then couldn't get back to sleep again. >:(
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on September 23, 2010, 11:48:01 pm
I had some new decking and a staircase installed in my garden (to reach the higher parts of my garden on the rockface of the Gt Orme)

Dave R said its probably visisible from space!

But the birds seem to like it, because today I had a what I can only describe as a SWARM of blue-tits all over the handrails ...and 2 pairs of red-crested woodpeckers were tapping at the newel posts !

Squirrels are also enjoying running up and down the staircase ...
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on September 24, 2010, 11:06:40 am
 :o   Blue tits pecking all the paint off our outside buildings. My OH redid the paint last week---- more patches off all ready. Same with the back gate-- no stain left on the top part again.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on September 24, 2010, 04:18:54 pm
Just before I let our puppy out late last night I put the security lights on just to make sure that the Badgers were not about.
When the puppy was let out he shot up the garden like a rocket because there was a small dark coloured Fox behind our middle border which I hadn't noticed. Luckily the Fox made his escape through a gap in the hedge.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on October 15, 2010, 12:43:42 pm
I've just come home after taking my dog out for his walk and on the walk four adult pheasants popped out of my neighbours front garden and when they saw us they flew off in the direction of the woods.
We have had a pheasant in our back garden before but that was some time ago as was a Corncrake that paid us a visit
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Ian on October 15, 2010, 01:04:03 pm
There's probably a pheasant rearing coop near you. They'll be getting the birds fed up for the shooting season. 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on October 15, 2010, 04:36:22 pm
We live miles many away from the nearest shoot so that's why it was so unusual to see four together. It looked like they were four hen pheasants too although I only had a brief sight of them before they flew off.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Bellringer on October 15, 2010, 05:26:46 pm
We are again under attack from herons - well our garden pond is. We are having to reinforce the defences even more having found one heron just walking on the netting covering the pond - the whole thing is becoming a fortress!

Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Yorkie on October 15, 2010, 07:11:15 pm
Ring your bell that should get rid of them!   L0L   _))*
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: TheMedz on October 15, 2010, 09:36:01 pm
In our last house a plastic heron seemed to scare herons off our neighbours pond. Our cats ignored them and would often be seen pawing at the water trying to get at the Koi but it kept the herons away.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Bellringer on October 15, 2010, 09:43:02 pm
The one on the left in my pic is a plastic one but the real ones take not the slightest notice of him.

Nice idea Yorkie but I don't think the neighbours would be too happy!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: TheMedz on October 15, 2010, 10:18:31 pm
We Inherited a Black Elder tree and couple of other really colourful shrubs in the garden when we moved in last year.Absolutely fabulous specimen and fortunately ithey seems to attract all the smaller species of bird without harbouring the usual jackdwaw and pigeons. There is however one four legged issue.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on October 26, 2010, 10:59:58 pm
we went to the Conwy Water gardens last Sunday and saw this heron on a treetop

(http://i49.photobucket.com/albums/f295/AustinRover/October%202010/DSCF0765.jpg)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DaveR on October 27, 2010, 08:24:00 am
Nice pic, almost looks like it is posed in a studio!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Trojan on October 27, 2010, 06:57:33 pm
Great photo. Makes a change from those damn seagulls all the time.  ;D
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Pendragon on October 27, 2010, 07:03:54 pm
Bloody Hell. Is that the lesser known "massive Heron" it appears huge on that tree top. I keep threatening to go to the nature reserve but still haven't had chance yet. Fantastic picture, fair play.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on October 27, 2010, 08:40:27 pm
thanks for the comments, it was pure luck really the heron just landed on a treetop and I zoomed in on it with the telephoto  D)

Here's a couple of pictures of a carrion crow

(http://i49.photobucket.com/albums/f295/AustinRover/P6030021.jpg)

(http://i49.photobucket.com/albums/f295/AustinRover/P6030025.jpg)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Ian on October 27, 2010, 08:41:22 pm
That last is a good shot.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Pendragon on October 27, 2010, 08:43:31 pm
Wish I could take photos like that. excellent
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on October 27, 2010, 08:58:37 pm
I thought you'd like the crow! he was easy to take pictures of as earlier in the year we found him calling out and he did'nt fly away when we got near him! He let us pick him up and was very friendly so we took him in and (following advice from a friend that runs the Glaslyn Osprey project) we fed and watered him, it was touch and go but with the aid of a healing spell 'Merlin' made a full recovery  D) D) and flew off after one and a half weeks. He was a great charecter and very gentle with us and we greatly missed him but he was back where he belonged! D)

(http://i49.photobucket.com/albums/f295/AustinRover/P6020015-2.jpg)

I'm now best of friends with the local pigeons, I love pigeons D)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: TheMedz on October 27, 2010, 09:53:29 pm
I've got about thirty pigeons sitting on my roof  and s***ing on my patio furniture every day that you can happily take away. You can also have the Seagull Riverdance Troupe from my dormer roof that wake me up each morning at about 6 am (or 5am next week).
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Quiggs on October 27, 2010, 10:09:37 pm
How do you like your pigeons? Roasted or Boiled?   :D
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on October 27, 2010, 10:20:56 pm
I've got about thirty pigeons sitting on my roof  and s***ing on my patio furniture every day that you can happily take away. You can also have the Seagull Riverdance Troupe from my dormer roof that wake me up each morning at about 6 am (or 5am next week).

you need to take your pigeons to classes to train them better D)

and the seagulls, get them a booking at Venue Cymru 

(http://i717.photobucket.com/albums/ww173/prestonjjrtr/Funny/BlahBlah.gif)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on October 27, 2010, 10:28:52 pm
How do you like your pigeons? Roasted or Boiled?   :D

 :o L0L  neither, I like them like this, this is Arnie D)

(http://i49.photobucket.com/albums/f295/AustinRover/October%202010/PA030005-1.jpg)

the local pigeons have trained me well L0L
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Ian on October 28, 2010, 07:56:36 am
Quote
the local pigeons have trained me well

Delightful :-))
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on October 29, 2010, 10:29:49 pm
I've got about thirty pigeons sitting on my roof  and s***ing on my patio furniture every day that you can happily take away. You can also have the Seagull Riverdance Troupe from my dormer roof that wake me up each morning at about 6 am (or 5am next week).

you need to take your pigeons to classes to train them better D)

and the seagulls, get them a booking at Venue Cymru 

(http://i717.photobucket.com/albums/ww173/prestonjjrtr/Funny/BlahBlah.gif)

I didn't realise how to tell the sex of a Seagull until I saw Merddin's posting.   Guess which one is the female
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on November 02, 2010, 12:20:48 am
Mrs Fester and I were woken up by the noise of panicking seagulls yesterday... quite a startling noise.
As we opened the curtains to see the seagulls fleeing from 'something', we also saw about 10 jackdaws trying in vain to threaten 'something'.
Then we say very clearly 'The Something' as it glided magestically accross our garden and settled in the nearest tree for about half an hour.

At first I thought it was a Sparrowhawk, seen a few of those in our garden (and woodpeckers) ... Mrs F said it was a Peregrine Falcon because of its size ... but we had a long time to observe it, photograph it and fetch our British Birds Book ... and we were 100% certain ,  its a Buzzard.    Never seen one of those before!


 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Ian on November 02, 2010, 07:41:43 am
They tend to frequent the hilltops along the Conwy Valley, Fester. They're certainly large and extremely impressive as they glide over.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Trojan on November 03, 2010, 02:56:33 am
A Lurcher taking a scenic ride in Llandudno's famous Cabinlift
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on November 03, 2010, 05:19:11 pm
I hope Charlie enjoyed the scenic views .... did he pay his £7 return fare?  I hope not!


Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Trojan on November 03, 2010, 07:50:44 pm
I hope Charlie enjoyed the scenic views .... did he pay his £7 return fare?  I hope not!


He did enjoy looking down on his donkey friends in the fields below.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on November 26, 2010, 11:27:57 pm
a couple of pics of Arnie who is a wild pigeon but very friendly  D)

(http://i49.photobucket.com/albums/f295/AustinRover/DSCF1020.jpg)

(http://i49.photobucket.com/albums/f295/AustinRover/DSCF1016.jpg)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Yorkie on November 27, 2010, 07:50:48 am
Cor, mate, we got fasends of them in Trafalgar Square.  Mi ol' mucker Nelson, wot lorst an eye, an' an arm takes care of the little blighters.    :laugh:
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on November 27, 2010, 06:17:51 pm
Cor, mate, we got fasends of them in Trafalgar Square.  Mi ol' mucker Nelson, wot lorst an eye, an' an arm takes care of the little blighters.    :laugh:

shame about the nasty ken livingstone  :rage:

http://www.savethepigeons.org/index.html (http://www.savethepigeons.org/index.html)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on November 30, 2010, 02:44:28 pm
We had quite a bit of snow today but it must have happened after 4.00 am as there hadn't been any overnight when I looked out at that time.     The only foot prints in the snow were those of the birds and squirrels until I let out my dog and his big paw prints are everywhere!
The weather conditions have deteriorated so I bought another fat ball feeder to help the birds out and it's nice to watch them feeding even if it's from the warmth of my house.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Paddy on November 30, 2010, 05:06:44 pm
I've had a Robin in my garden for the last three mornings. It's a very pretty little thing, I wonder if it's the same one each time.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Quiggs on November 30, 2010, 05:15:18 pm
More than likely, they're very territorial, I once made a cardboard cutout of a robin and put it outside, the resident Robin went berserk and pecked until it was unrecognisable
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Paddy on November 30, 2010, 06:27:08 pm
More than likely, they're very territorial, I once made a cardboard cutout of a robin and put it outside, the resident Robin went berserk and pecked until it was unrecognisable

Quiggs, you've shattered my illusions of the little fella. I wonder if that's why my "lady that does" hasn't turned up for a few days!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Quiggs on November 30, 2010, 06:39:14 pm
I'm not familiar with 'Lady that does'? but yes the Robin will chase others from his territory, I have one outside my flat, he's forever chasing others away, but there are so many Sparrows, Blue Tits, Chaffinch, Coal Tits and Starlings that he has to give up in the end.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on December 02, 2010, 10:41:16 am
We had no snow last night but the frozen snow is still on the ground and the wind chill is really bad.  I made sure that all the bird foot was topped up because they are struggling to find food and warmth at this moment.   A Great Spotted Woodpecker visited yesterday and was eating the peanuts for about 10 minutes which was nice to watch.
I noticed last night that the Badgers had been near the house as their footprints were quite clear and you could make out the length of their nails in the snow.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on December 10, 2010, 03:32:35 pm
I looked out onto my back garden today and saw  that the smaller bird table was missing.  The table has a fat ball holder tied to the top of it and I found the bird table at the top of the garden minus the fat ball feeder.
The Badgers must have dragged the table up the garden and then somehow detached the fat ball feeder and took  it away somewhere.
So it's a trip to the Market on Saturday for another Fat Ball feeder!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Paddy on December 10, 2010, 07:09:34 pm
I'm not familiar with 'Lady that does'?

Quiggs, it's a term for smene who does bits of dusting, hoovering etc.

I hadn't seen my Robin for a few days which was a bit disappointing but while the cold snap was on I thought I'd make an effort to provide some food for the birds.  I don't have bird food in the house and all I could think of was to pour a little pile of Alpen on to the patio table. I came home for a cuppa at lunch time and was chuffed to see Robin tucking in to a nice Swiss breakfast.

I'll try to get some pics if he returns.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on December 11, 2010, 09:54:35 am
One of our local pigeons has started roosting on the Sky dish (makes no difference to the signal!) he's usually there from around 3pm till 8am when he goes round the back for his breakfast. We've named him 'Sky'  D)

(http://i49.photobucket.com/albums/f295/AustinRover/nov%202010/DSCF1077.jpg)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on December 11, 2010, 04:29:11 pm
Merddin,
Have you heard about the Sky dish that got married to a TV ariel?
The wedding itself was rubbish..... but the reception was fantastic.   L0L

Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on December 11, 2010, 05:18:16 pm
Merddin,
Have you heard about the Sky dish that got married to a TV ariel?
The wedding itself was rubbish..... but the reception was fantastic.   L0L



 L0L I've heard it but it's still funny, after putting this picture of the pigeon up here, he's stopped roosting there now :(  earlier he was round the back adjusting the security lamp to a more comfortable angle, now he's not on that either!  L0L
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Yorkie on December 11, 2010, 05:36:25 pm
Perhaps he's getting a warmer reception somewhere else!             _))*
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on December 13, 2010, 11:06:23 am
A friend who I go walking with sent me some photos of Waxwings and a Redstart that he saw in Sainsburys in Rhyl when he went to the store.  He had previously seen Waxwings on the Industrial Estate at Ruthin.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on December 13, 2010, 06:24:17 pm
Here are three more photos of the birds.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on December 14, 2010, 11:04:42 am
I bought a new bird fat holder on Saturday and thought that I had the Badger problem sorted when I tied the feeder in 4 places to the bird table.  :)
This morning the bird table was down again and it had been dragged towards the house this time and the metal fat ball holder was nowhere to be seen.
When I went to the bird table I could see that only the top of the fat ball holder was there but I found the bottom part of it at the top of the garden minus any fat balls!
I'll have to think of something else to sort them out.     ?{}?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Yorkie on December 14, 2010, 11:33:58 am
The most humane and long-term solution to discourage badgers from your garden is to remove or prevent access to what attracts them to the area. For further advice on deterring badgers, the contact details for your Local Badger Group can be obtained from The Badger Trust on tel: 08458 287878 or www.badger.org.uk (http://www.badger.org.uk).

Remove access to any potential food supplies
• Only provide food for wild birds on bird tables or in feeders and clear away windfall fruit.
• Use expanding straps to securely seal dustbins.
• Use either electrified flexinet fencing (pegged down along its length to prevent badgers squeezing underneath) or two strands of electrified Polywire at 7.5-20cm above ground around vegetable patches etc.
Deter badgers from the garden or limit access
• Erect a strong chain link badger-proof fence around the garden (or vulnerable crops) that is more than 1.25m high. The base needs to be buried into the ground by at least 30cm and extended at right angles underground for50cm - facing outwards from the exclusion area. Badger gates can also be set into the fencing to allow badgers to use their established paths through areas of the garden.
• Use a proprietary animal repellent approved for use to deter badgers, available from garden centres or hardware stores. Take care to read the label and closely follow the instructions, as each product is prepared and  approved for use against certain animals in the specified way. It is illegal to use any substance to deter badgers that has not been approved for such use.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on December 14, 2010, 12:27:18 pm
Just put a sign up saying 'no badgers' (in Welsh as well), my 'no elephants' sign works very well!  ;D
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on December 14, 2010, 01:02:34 pm
Actually I like Badgers coming into the garden and get a great deal of pleasure sitting in my sun lounge watching them coming in to the garden and looking around for food.
Although I don't feed them like I previously did they still keep coming here.
I hung the fat ball holder on the bird table so that the small birds could feed on it but then found that the crafty crows would take the top off,tilt it up and empty the fat balls on the ground and then they would fly off with the whole fat ball.
I thought that I would get round that when I made a mesh of string around the top of the fat ball holder so as to prevent them from falling out but I reckoned without the old Badger.
Anyway, I've now decided to hang the fat ball holder on a tree high and away from the Badger's reach!   BUT  what about those three Squirrels that regularly come here?        ?{}?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Bellringer on December 14, 2010, 02:08:29 pm
Foiling the efforts of squirrels to get at bird feeders and fatballs is very frustrating and is usually unsuccessful. We thought we would beat them by hanging our's from the branches of our monkey puzzle tree. Now that's a tree that can be fairly lethal to the touch, but eventually and inevitably the squirrels found a way round it - they do however appear to tread rather warily though.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on December 14, 2010, 04:52:09 pm
My neighbour across the road solved his Squirrel problem quite easily.  He had a very tall bird table that was positioned away from where the Squirrels could leap from and he fixed a rather large plastic plant pot upside down on the pole of his bird table. Problem solved.       &well&

The only downside is that they have come across the road to me where they know they'll get something to eat!     :(
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Bellringer on December 17, 2010, 11:25:56 am
My attention was drawn earlier to a commotion going on at the top of our rear garden. There seemed to be a 'milling throng' of various birds around one particular tree and so I ventured out to investigate. Among the bird noises I could hear was one occasional "squawk" but I wasn't able immediately to spot what it was.
And then I did spot a tawny owl just sitting there on a branch looking straight at me. I decided to quietly retreat and get my camera but he/she was not waiting and flew off in the other direction. First time I have seen one in daylight (in the wild) for a long time.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Bellringer on December 20, 2010, 10:05:29 pm
My wife has just shouted from the kitchen which is on the front of our house, and pointed out a fox stood there on our driveway. It then wandered out of the drive, down Henryd Road and appeared to head for Gyffin village.
Wildlife must be finding it very difficult - at present our thermometer shows -7C.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Bellringer on January 31, 2011, 04:12:58 pm
Had a beautiful pair of bullfinches earlier in our greengage tree. The male, as is usual with birds, was very striking with his blaze of red while the female was quite plain.

However there is a downside to them being in the garden because they feed on the fruit trees' new shoots and so this can result in a poor crop of fruit later in the year. Still it was nice to see them and come to think about it, that could account for us not having many greengage last year.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on January 31, 2011, 05:43:59 pm
You're lucky Bellringer because you don't often see then nowadays, we saw one on our walk in Capel Garmon but it was the first I'd seen for years.
We also commented that we hadn't seen any Buzzards while on the walk which is unusual, but in the car driving home we saw 5 of them.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on January 31, 2011, 09:36:36 pm
Funny you should say that .... because the Buzzard which rested in the tree behind my house before Xmas, was back again today!



 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Bellringer on January 31, 2011, 09:46:04 pm
We regularly see buzzards in the Conwy area and indeed saw one on Saturday perched on a lampost near St Hilary's Church at Llanrhos.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on January 31, 2011, 09:48:58 pm
....Ahh, but to a former city dweller like myself...it is a fabulous sight to behold.   you are most fortunate Sir!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Bellringer on January 31, 2011, 10:05:49 pm
Fester, you are absolutely right, they are a terrific sight as they 'ride the thermals'. We are indeed fortunate to be able to witness such sights on a regular basis.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on January 31, 2011, 10:14:52 pm
Watching teletext tonight I saw that there was a confirmed sighting of a Golden Eagle in Pontrhydygroes near Aberystwyth.  It's the first time it has been spotted in Wales for some time.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on February 06, 2011, 03:37:52 pm
Saw the Bullfinch and the Peregrine Falcon on a walk to Capel Garmon
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Jack on February 06, 2011, 03:48:57 pm
Hi Hugo
Absolutely great photos, but I'm sure the bird of prey is a peregrine and not a kestrel.  Jack
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on February 06, 2011, 04:13:15 pm
My mistake Jack because you're spot on, it's a Peregrine Falcon.  I remember now that when we were walking through the woodland we couldn't get the photo of the Kestrel as it flew off but the Peregrine stayed in it's position just long enough to get a photo.   I'll amend my earlier posting now and thanks for pointing it out.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: TheMedz on February 10, 2011, 07:08:06 pm
Whilst out round Penmon Point ( no leather cowboy hatted jobsworths in sight!) on what was an absolutely stunning walking day  today I spotted a reddish bird of prey on the telegraph wire between the coastguard station and the cafe. I think it might have been a kestrel but I'd be grateful if anyone else can confirm having seen one there recently. I also saw what I think was a stoat in the on the drain pipe of the house between the cafe and the coast. are they known to inhabit that area?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Jack on February 10, 2011, 07:16:23 pm
Whilst out round Penmon Point ( no leather cowboy hatted jobsworths in sight!) on what was an absolutely stunning walking day  today I spotted a reddish bird of prey on the telegraph wire between the coastguard station and the cafe. I think it might have been a kestrel but I'd be grateful if anyone else can confirm having seen one there recently. I also saw what I think was a stoat in the on the drain pipe of the house between the cafe and the coast. are they known to inhabit that area?

You don't mention size, but the chances are it was a male kestrel that has a reddish brown/chestnut back.  The only other reddish bird of prey is a red kite but this is significantly bigger (nearer buzzard size) and has a distinctive forked tail, also they are still pretty rare in North Wales even though there are more and more records.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: TheMedz on February 10, 2011, 08:16:17 pm
Thanks Jack. It wasn't big enough for a Buzzard so unless anyone comes up with an alternative  I'm going to tick my Eye-Spy book of birds "Kestrel" box.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: TheMedz on February 10, 2011, 08:25:46 pm
Soft though it may seem .With the birds, sea-life, animals and particularly the scenery over the last few days I've just had it all re-affirmed why I moved here just over a year ago. i just can't think of anywhere I'd rather be.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on February 10, 2011, 09:41:24 pm
same with us, living near the Little Orme we can see the seals at Angel Bay, lots of sea birds and I love to see and hear the ravens around here. Also the garden birds are excellent too (especially for me, the visiting, very friendly pigeons  D) )
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on February 11, 2011, 12:31:29 am
Soft though it may seem .With the birds, sea-life, animals and particularly the scenery over the last few days I've just had it all re-affirmed why I moved here just over a year ago. i just can't think of anywhere I'd rather be.

Mr Medz... did you see the bird in question in flight?
Because Kestrels are unmistakeable when they hang there, completely stationary, still on the wind.... then they swoop!

Yorkshire is full of them ... ten a penny!

Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Trojan on February 11, 2011, 04:05:49 am
Yorkshire is full of them ... ten a penny!

Yes, I bet it is.  8)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: TheMedz on February 11, 2011, 07:08:37 am
Yes Fester is did hover and swoop and now the animal kingdom is one mouse less.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on February 21, 2011, 01:37:42 pm
The Wood Pigeons were getting quite frisky in the back garden today and I noticed that they were pinching bits off the Laburnum Tree for nesting material.  It's a sure sign that Spring is in the air!      :)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on February 23, 2011, 05:05:29 pm
I came past Llandrillo Tech yesterday on my way to Llandudno and in that flat wet field (opposite the Golf Course)  I saw dozens and dozens of Lapwings feeding on the ground.
The Lapwing population is in decline so it was nice to see so many at once.  It's usually a good place to see Lapwings but yesterday there seemed to be more than normal.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Yorkie on February 23, 2011, 05:20:16 pm
Bodafon Field was a good place for Lapwings but now with all the livestock there it doesn't seem such a popular roost.        >>>
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on February 24, 2011, 12:01:59 pm
we saw some 'wildlife' yesterday

(http://i49.photobucket.com/albums/f295/AustinRover/Feb%202011/DSCF1544.jpg)

(http://i49.photobucket.com/albums/f295/AustinRover/Feb%202011/DSCF1546.jpg)

seemed to be enjoying themselves  :laugh:
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on February 24, 2011, 01:07:18 pm
We have had a single goat around for a day or two especially last weekend when he stuck his head through a hedge in the dark and made us jump out of our skins.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on March 01, 2011, 04:00:36 pm
Thanks to TheMedz for posting the first photo of this season's goat kids (under What's Llandudno like right now), which prompted me to keep my eyes open.  I've now seen four kids, including this delightful pair above West Shore.  A neighbour who had also been watching them says that they were born on 27 February.  Sorry the photos aren't better - I could do with a bit more "zoom". 

It's nice to see another brown goat appearing in the herd.  According to the Country Park Wardens one was relocated and the last one died a couple of years ago, though I think that there might still be one with brown patches - has anyone seen him lately? 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on March 01, 2011, 05:06:23 pm
Last photo of the nanny and kids before they disappeared from sight. 

For anyone who's interested in the goats, Eve Parry has written an excellent booklet "Aliens on the Great Orme", which I hope is still available.  I've had my copy for several years and I can't remember where I bought it. 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DaveR on March 01, 2011, 06:25:35 pm
Great photos, Blodyn, thanks for posting.  :)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Yorkie on March 01, 2011, 06:26:43 pm
Last photo of the nanny and kids before they disappeared from sight. 

For anyone who's interested in the goats, Eve Parry has written an excellent booklet "Aliens on the Great Orme", which I hope is still available.  I've had my copy for several years and I can't remember where I bought it. 


Large excerpt available here: http://www.llandudno.com/goats.html (http://www.llandudno.com/goats.html)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on March 01, 2011, 07:15:23 pm
They are really lovely photos of the Goats Blodyn. Were they taken above the Invalid's Walk area?
I've been wondering about the brown Goat as I haven't seen him around so it's nice to know what happened.  At least he's left his mark on the herd.
I noticed last week that the Goats are tagged in the ear and the Nanny seems to have one in hers too.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on March 01, 2011, 08:33:18 pm
Many thanks for your very kind comments about the goat photos, DaveR and Hugo, and for the link to the excerpt from Eve's booklet, Yorkie.

The goats were a bit to the SW of Pen-y-Ffridd Farm, which is off the far end of St. Beuno's Road.  There was another nanny with a young kid near them but she quietly slipped away while I was creeping (presumably not so quietly) down the other side of a wall to try to get a bit closer.  I'll obviously have to sharpen up my stalking skills! 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: TheMedz on March 01, 2011, 08:49:54 pm
Love the pictures.There were a couple of kids and their mother coming down Wyddfyd Road on Sunday evening but by the time we got up there with the camera they were off into the fields behind the houses on Prospect Terrace. Even at such a tender age they show no fear of going right up to the edges of the ledges on Pen y Dinas .
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on March 02, 2011, 09:19:32 pm
Thanks to TheMedz for your comments on the goat pictures, the kids are amazingly agile, aren't they. 

Here's another attempt at photographing some wildlife - some of the ponies at Maes y Facrell nature reserve on the Great Orme.  I think that they just about count as being wild.  The Countryside Commission for Wales (CCW), which owns the nature reserve and the ponies, says that they're wild, though the one in last photo wasn't exhibiting much wildness and kept "huffing" on my lens and steaming it up. 

A group of Welsh Mountain ponies spends a couple of months at Maes y Facrell each winter, eating coarse grasses which would otherwise swamp many of the flowers.  The ponies then move on to other CCW sites but these should be here till about the end of March. 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Trojan on March 03, 2011, 12:53:55 am
 $cool$
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: brumbob on March 03, 2011, 07:18:06 am
 8) the last one needs a haircut
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on March 03, 2011, 06:32:47 pm
Our resident hedgehog was scuttling up the path last night-- I shot out with the camera, but the flash wouldn't go off ! Will try better next time ! :D
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Paddy on March 03, 2011, 06:37:33 pm
There were six adult male goats on Madoc St at about midnight last night. Has anyone ever seen them that low down? I certainly haven't.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DaveR on March 04, 2011, 08:29:46 am
They were on a Pub crawl.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on March 04, 2011, 07:50:03 pm
Dave's right...See below,
The first lot insisted on renaming The Cross Keys last night,
..and another one I caught necking a bottle of lager behind The Launderette.
....and look what happened when one of them thought it was clever to drive home after a belly-full.



Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on March 06, 2011, 09:39:24 pm
While we're on funny goat pictures, I can't help thinking that someone more witty than me could come up with a caption for this one. 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on March 07, 2011, 08:23:58 am
I'm 'gravely' ill with this itch ! ;D
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on March 07, 2011, 08:28:02 am
 L0L


'wild goats have been seen in the dead centre of Llandudno'
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Yorkie on March 07, 2011, 11:37:19 am
"They went that-a-way"      L0L
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Pendragon on March 07, 2011, 01:15:34 pm
Goats in Llandudno........My ass  :o
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on March 07, 2011, 09:32:00 pm
I like the goat captions!

Now for a much smaller but still important member of our wildlife. 

On Saturday I saw my first bumblebee of the season - a queen buff tailed bumblebee.  This is a very bad photo of a buff tailed queen but not the one I saw on Saturday - she was too quick for me (to be honest, most of them are too quick for me!).  Bumblebees are the big, furry, colourful ones, while honeybees and solitary bees are generally slimmer and plain brown, and the buff tails are usually the first to emerge in spring.   

Only queen bumblebees survive over winter, so each queen represents a potential colony.  When a queen first emerges she will be looking for two things: food and somewhere to nest.  Early flowering plants will be important to provide the pollen and nectar which she needs, while a bee flying low and "quartering" the ground will be searching for a nest site. Some species, like the buff tail, nest below ground e.g. in abandoned mouse holes, while others net above ground in dry grass etc. 

Bumblebees having been having a hard time, mainly due to habitat loss and some of the UK species are endangered.  The website of the Bumblebee Conservation Trust gives more information on bumblebees, including good plants for bumblebees:

http://www.bumblebeeconservation.org.uk/ (http://www.bumblebeeconservation.org.uk/)

If you belong to a group which has invited speakers, I give a talk on "The Plight of the Bumblebee" on behalf of the Bumblebee Conservation Trust and I'd be delighted to answer questions such as:
     How is the bumblebee sniffer dog helping bee conservation?
     Why are bumblebees' smelly feet useful?
     What do male bumblebees do in bad weather?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Quiggs on March 07, 2011, 09:49:52 pm
I also saw one, at the rear of the Cricket club in Llandudno, last Saturday.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on March 08, 2011, 08:57:17 am
Woodpecker hammering madly in Haulfre woods for 2 mornings now.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Trojan on March 09, 2011, 02:52:17 am
Woodpecker hammering madly in Haulfre woods for 2 mornings now.

Woodpecker's good for getting hammered too.  _))++
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Bellringer on March 11, 2011, 01:06:51 pm
34 goats in St George's Churchyard on Church Walks earlier this morning - they were doing a nice job of 'pruning' some of the shrubs, but no doubt some would be unhappy about them eating floral tributes in the Memorial Garden area.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on March 11, 2011, 03:06:06 pm
Oh dear, my elderly neighbour (93) keeps that tidy-- she will be spitting !

My poor hedgehog was killed the other day on the road, don't know how ever it managed to get out of the garden, but it obviously did.  :'(
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on March 11, 2011, 05:31:25 pm
Sorry to hear about your hedgehog, Nemesis, that's really sad.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on March 11, 2011, 06:19:30 pm
Thanks Blodyn.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on March 11, 2011, 06:40:53 pm
 :(very sorry to hear that Nemisis, I know how we can get attatched to these little friends, like I have with pigeons
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on March 19, 2011, 12:37:13 pm
I was sitting in the sunlounge looking over the back garden when I noticed two crows that were looking for nesting material.   There was a lot of hair left after grooming the dog so I put a load in the garden and it soon went so now I have to keep topping it up as other birds have started to use the cuttings too.
It's a nice feeling to know that the bird's will has a nice cosy nest again.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Paddy on March 19, 2011, 02:43:29 pm
I was sitting in the sunlounge looking over the back garden when I noticed two crows that were looking for nesting material.   There was a lot of hair left after grooming the dog so I put a load in the garden and it soon went so now I have to keep topping it up as other birds have started to use the cuttings too.
It's a nice feeling to know that the bird's will has a nice cosy nest again.

Hugo, they'll get fleas!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on March 20, 2011, 10:39:55 am
At least you can't say that the Crow's nest won't be up to scratch Paddy and as a bonus they won't have to wait for the " 7 year itch"          ;D
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on March 20, 2011, 05:22:12 pm
Plenty of birdlife at Rhos this morning--Turnstones, Ring necked Plovers and Dunlin on the rocks.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on March 21, 2011, 09:17:50 am
These photos were taken yesterday at Penrhyn Bay.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on March 21, 2011, 08:57:10 pm
Superb pictures... they look very happy and carefree!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on March 22, 2011, 08:50:56 am
What lovely pictures, Hugo.  I never seem to be in the right place at the right time to see seals, so thank you for posting these. 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on March 23, 2011, 11:09:36 am
Hugo mentioned under the Gardening thread that he'd seen some peacock butterflies in his garden.  I've just seen one on the Great Orme. 

The Butterfly Conservation website has a handy tool for identifying butterflies:

http://www.butterfly-conservation.org/butterfly_identifier/17/identify_a_butterfly.html (http://www.butterfly-conservation.org/butterfly_identifier/17/identify_a_butterfly.html)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on March 24, 2011, 04:34:06 pm
Just before I cut my lawn for the first time this year, I found this little fellow sunbathing on the lawn!    I moved him to next door where they have a pond so he was out of harms way.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Yorkie on March 24, 2011, 05:09:05 pm
Looks a bit too small for a decent meal, but no doubt he'll grow!     L0L
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Trojan on March 25, 2011, 12:26:49 am
I moved him to next door where they have a pond so he was out of harms way.

He probably came from there in the first place.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on March 26, 2011, 03:27:03 pm
What lovely pictures, Hugo.  I never seem to be in the right place at the right time to see seals, so thank you for posting these. 


Blodyn, you should have been at Angel Bay in Penrhyn Bay today.  There were about 18 seals on the beach, another 4 were on a small rock in the water and others were swimming about in the water. I've posted this photo for now but will post others later.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on March 28, 2011, 09:55:27 pm
Thanks for the latest photo and news of the seals, Hugo, I'm still not in the right place at the right time - must try harder!!!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on March 29, 2011, 04:44:54 pm
I've got a few good photos of the seals that my friend sent by e-mail but I'm having difficulty resizing them.  I'll post them another time if I can manage to increase their size.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on April 03, 2011, 03:55:13 pm
I've just had a go at resizing the photos but haven't posted them because I'm not happy with the quality of the resized photos. Sorry Blodyn.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on April 06, 2011, 12:28:12 pm
Sorry you weren't able to post the seal photos, Hugo, but many thanks for trying. 

Here's a photo of a jackdaw on the Great Orme.  It wasn't doing anything interesting but it did keep still long enough for me to take its picture. 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on April 06, 2011, 10:44:43 pm
I've just been watching the football on TV and the security light came when a small Badger approached the house.  It was just taking it's time looking for food but quickly departed to next door as soon as he heard our dog barking.
When it was safe to do so, I let our dog out and he was running around looking for the Badger so it's no wonder the garden looks more like a race track than a lawn at the moment.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Bellringer on April 09, 2011, 10:05:12 pm
Our border collie called Ted, is good at drawing our attention to wildlife in the garden and just a few minutes ago was doing a merry prancing around on the lawn. The object of this apparently strange behaviour was a hedgehog which was curled up into a ball. So at least one has survived the harsh winter weather in our locality.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Paddy on April 10, 2011, 04:38:17 am
Our border collie called Ted, is good at drawing our attention to wildlife in the garden and just a few minutes ago was doing a merry prancing around on the lawn. The object of this apparently strange behaviour was a hedgehog which was curled up into a ball. So at least one has survived the harsh winter weather in our locality.

There was a squashed one on the road at Craigside tonight. He must have survived the harsh winter too!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on April 10, 2011, 10:29:31 am
Saw these tadples in a puddle along a track in Cwm Orthin.   Not much of a start for them in life but at least the puddles shouldn't dry out in the Blaenau area!
I've seen tadpoles in puddles on the Roman Road by Aber but unfortunately the puddles can dry out there sometimes.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DaveR on April 10, 2011, 05:13:47 pm
Saw a pair of these birds high in the sky above Llanfairfechan today - they were frightening all the other birds, so definitely birds of prey and had a wingspan probably several feet across. Great to watch them glide across the sky. Anyone hazard a guess as to what they were?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DaveR on April 10, 2011, 05:17:25 pm
Swan was building its nest by the side of the boating lake at Llanfairfechan:

Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on April 10, 2011, 05:42:58 pm
Great Photos Dave and nice to see the Swans back in Llanfairfechan again. Last year she laid about 8 eggs and they all hatched out.
The other bird may be a Buzzard because there are quite a few around the Llanfair and Aber area and they make an unusual high pitched noise when they are soaring high above.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on April 10, 2011, 05:43:17 pm
Saw a pair of these birds high in the sky above Llanfairfechan today - they were frightening all the other birds, so definitely birds of prey and had a wingspan probably several feet across. Great to watch them glide across the sky. Anyone hazard a guess as to what they were?

I saw the same type of birds on Friday from the windows of Ty Gobaith in the Conwy Valley, they too were frightening the other birds. I almost lost track of the meeting by looking at the birds !
Buzzards by any chance?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DaveR on April 10, 2011, 05:52:51 pm
They were fascinating to watch. Buzzards seems like a good possibility:
http://www.rspb.org.uk/wildlife/birdguide/name/b/buzzard/index.aspx (http://www.rspb.org.uk/wildlife/birdguide/name/b/buzzard/index.aspx)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on April 10, 2011, 05:54:33 pm
The square ended tail makes me think so. There used to be alot in the hills above Rowen.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: suepp on April 10, 2011, 05:58:43 pm
I saw lots of these birds yeasterday when travelling to and from Llandudno  on the scenic route. One of these days I will make the time for a walk between Betws Yn Rhos & Dolwen, the views are spectacular
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Jack on April 10, 2011, 08:43:15 pm
Great photo Dave, and definitely a buzzard.  There were 4 soaring on the thermals over Bryn Euryn this morning.  They are so effortless in flight and magnificent to watch.  Every now and again, jackdaws would go up and mob the buzzards but the buzzards are so agile for a big bird and easily evaded them.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on April 10, 2011, 10:03:30 pm
A few months ago on this thread I posted about a Buzzard that was in my back garden....... fabulous creature.
On that day too, a whole host of Jackdaws had a go at driving it away,  but it took no notice.

I stayed for about 20 minutes, and then soared away in its own good time.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Yorkie on April 15, 2011, 04:47:58 pm
Whilst out and about yesterday I happened upon this duck with her chick.  Couldn't resist a shot - with the camera that is!    ;D

The Otters were still waiting to be fed.   ;)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on April 20, 2011, 04:34:58 pm
 When a male can't stand it anymore!      $good$                        from an  e-mail I received today.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Ian on April 20, 2011, 06:54:07 pm
Excellent shots, folks :-)))
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Thunderbird on April 20, 2011, 08:29:59 pm
No pictures I'm afraid but I saw a Hooded Crow on the Orme last week and a red kite at Gwernengan on the Sychnant pass this afternoon. It was checking out some folk who were fishing.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DaveR on April 20, 2011, 09:10:04 pm
Welcome to the Forum, Thunderbird.  :)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Trojan on April 21, 2011, 03:40:49 pm
Yes, welcome.

Thunderbirds are go!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on April 22, 2011, 11:28:43 am
I had seen some Badgers in the garden about 9.30pm and an hour later I was going to let the dog out in the garden before we went to bed.   I put the security lights on before he was let out and went outside myself to make sure the Badgers weren't about.
I made a noise and a Badger popped his head out of the hedge and promptly shot off to the bottom of the garden, just when I thought that the coast was clear another large male Badger came out of the same place and he shot up to the bottom of the garden too.
After checking the bottom of the garden myself and seeing that they had gone, I was able to let the dog out. He knew that the Badgers had been in his garden and was running around in circles looking for them. It's no wonder that that part of the garden looks like a racetrack.     :(
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on April 30, 2011, 10:58:50 am
Saw this little fellow munching away, he seemed very tame but when I went nearer to get a better photo he hopped it,
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on April 30, 2011, 05:00:11 pm
Saw the Swan at Llanfairfechan today  and counted 9 eggs in the nest.  Hope that they all hatch out safely.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on May 01, 2011, 11:16:20 am
Garden visitor!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on May 01, 2011, 03:51:24 pm
That's a wonderful sight to see,you must have a grand estate to have visitors like that.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Yorkie on May 01, 2011, 04:46:22 pm
If it were me the shot would have been taken through the tele-sight of a decent rifle!    :D
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on May 01, 2011, 05:46:21 pm
Shame on you Yorkie!   
 Must make a note for my dog to leave his calling card next time we go past your house.    $good$
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on May 01, 2011, 06:20:57 pm
 _))* _))* _))*
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Yorkie on May 01, 2011, 06:57:13 pm
Shame on you Yorkie!   
 Must make a note for my dog to leave his calling card next time we go past your house.    $good$

That's fine - I just love dogs - and the doo-doo will be fine for the garden! $walesflag$
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Paddy on May 05, 2011, 01:59:41 pm
Spotted these two whilst out and about in Llandudno today.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on May 06, 2011, 10:02:41 am
Another garden visitor and one that woke me up at 7am this morning!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DaveR on May 06, 2011, 10:19:42 am
I always remember the ones you used to see at Gwydir Castle, Llanrwst, usually standing on one of the boundary walls or walking in the road hoping for titbits.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on May 06, 2011, 10:30:53 am
Yesterday morning, driving in to Llandudno just past the Little Orme a car coming the other way hit a female blackbird and didn't stop  $angry$  We turned round and picked her up still alive but not in a good way :( We took her to a vet in Craig y Don who put her to sleep, you can't save them all sadly. We seem to have more success with pigeons :)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on May 08, 2011, 04:14:16 pm
It's always upsetting when anything like that happens but at least you know that you did everything you could possibly do, well done for that.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on May 08, 2011, 04:17:10 pm
I had a walk on the Carneddau earlier today and saw a number of wild ponies on the mountains.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on May 08, 2011, 05:19:05 pm
Thanks for the lovely photos of the foal! How gorgeous. Lucky you and what a wonderful walk.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Trojan on May 08, 2011, 07:10:03 pm
I always remember the ones you used to see at Gwydir Castle, Llanrwst, usually standing on one of the boundary walls or walking in the road hoping for titbits.

Yes, I remember those. Are they still around?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on May 12, 2011, 12:45:15 pm
They're not exactly wild but weren't too happy when I hadn't got any food for them at Snugbury's Farm in Nantwich!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DaveR on May 12, 2011, 12:50:01 pm
The pig with the nose rings is great.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on May 19, 2011, 12:34:32 pm
Talking yesterday to Sally Pidcock, Country Park Warden, I had some sad news about the black goat kid which was born on the Great Orme this year.  When the goat and its white twin were first born, the Wardens were sent a number of photos of the goats in which the mother could be identified by her ear tag.  The same nanny was later seen without any kids, so neither of them survived. 

The nanny has an ear tag as she is one of the control group which received a "dummy" treatment as part of the test of the contraceptive treatment which has been given to a proportion of the nannies as part of the herd management. 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Bellringer on May 20, 2011, 02:06:52 pm
The swans nesting behind the old Billington's garage in Conwy have produced 7/8 cygnets - they were all having swimming lessons in the shallows there this morning.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on May 21, 2011, 04:26:21 pm
A male and female Greater Spotted Woodpecker were feeding together on the birdfeeder earlier this week and since then I have seen the female one here early in the morning.  Too far away though to get any photo.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on May 23, 2011, 11:28:14 am
Ducks on the Llangollen canal yesterday
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: TheMedz on May 25, 2011, 05:35:55 pm
Swans and Cygnets in Llanfairfechan today
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: TheMedz on May 25, 2011, 05:37:22 pm
and another
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on May 25, 2011, 11:20:54 pm
What lovely photos of the swans and cygnets.

These goats were looking pretty relaxed this morning.  They could hardly be bothered to move when I walked past. 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on May 28, 2011, 05:51:46 pm
A couple of Badgers were feeding underneath the bird table last night so I rushed upstairs and got my camera. By the time I came down, there was only one Badger there but I was able to open the door and go onto the decking without disturbing him and then I zoomed in to take a close up.
Just then the batteries failed!    *****     :rage:
Must remember to buy some more tomorrow.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DaveR on May 28, 2011, 08:21:29 pm
How annoying!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Trojan on May 28, 2011, 08:50:10 pm
Just then the batteries failed!    *****     :rage:
Must remember to buy some more tomorrow.

You don't have a rechargeable battery in your camera?  ???
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on May 29, 2011, 10:36:14 am
Just then the batteries failed!    *****     :rage:
Must remember to buy some more tomorrow.

You don't have a rechargeable battery in your camera?  ???
No, I don't use the rechargeable ones at present.  I've been on walks before when the battery has gone flat and I've just warmed them up using my hands and they have worked for the remainder of the walk.  You can't do that with rechargeable ones so you would have to carry spares with you.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on May 30, 2011, 10:28:02 pm
I had a visitor today...one who somewhat outstayed his welcome.

I think he might have been sent by Merddin Emrys ?  ...see below.
I chuched him out after about half an hour... but he kept strolling back in, until finally nestling down on the top shelf of my shop for a while.

Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on May 30, 2011, 11:10:03 pm
Oh he's a beauty  8) , he must like the scents in there! not sent by me though, as you know the resident pigeons here have trained me L0L
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Pendragon on May 31, 2011, 10:00:56 am
Nice to see you can still attract the odd bird Fester  :twoface:
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Ian on May 31, 2011, 10:14:00 am
The rings on the legs will have his ID, Fester.  The trained pigeons can be very persistent, but he was probably simply extremely tired.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on May 31, 2011, 10:42:16 am
until finally nestling down on the top shelf of my shop for a while.



always interesting to see whats on the top shelf in a shop  :laugh:
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Yorkie on May 31, 2011, 11:26:33 am
- Semper in Excretum, Sole Profundum Variat -

He may have though you needed some fresh supplies!      D)

Sometimes you may also find markings stamped under one of the wings. 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on June 06, 2011, 12:59:25 pm
The goats are always good for a photograph.  I think that these must have missed the last tram down!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: TheMedz on June 09, 2011, 07:49:50 pm
If you are travelling up the Great Orme tonight look out for the idiot (me) trying to save the life of a flightless baby seagull by walking up the middle of the road just above Black Gate trying to get the traffic to avoid running it over. For the second time tonight I  eventually managed to get it into a box and put it half way up the grassy slope. Just to show their appreciation of my efforts, to save it's life, the mother and father and all the other seagulls thought I was a predator and swooped down and attacked me. Needless to say I also now have a box full of Seagull excrement. 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Pendragon on June 09, 2011, 07:59:59 pm
I'm giggling..........but what a nice man you obviously are  $good$
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: TheMedz on June 09, 2011, 08:07:38 pm
Mother and baby seagull now re-united on the grassy slope. Bad news is they are now surrounded by a herd of the goats who are sniffing around it not quite sure what it is.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: TheMedz on June 09, 2011, 08:33:53 pm
Goats have gone and now a local cat decided to take a look. Latest score Seagulls 1 Cat (running away after being swooped on) 0. How sad is it, that this appears to be my entertainment for the evening!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Pendragon on June 09, 2011, 09:47:31 pm
and mine Matey...............no worries  ;D
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on June 09, 2011, 10:00:50 pm
Whats the latest Medz?
It must have fallen out of the nest a little too early.

Do you think it will get through the night?

Will it make it to 'Ice Cream Stealing School'?

Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Yorkie on June 09, 2011, 10:23:41 pm
The Orme Vixen will probably snatch it during the hours of darkness.   She's a stealthy little creature!     L0L
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on June 09, 2011, 10:31:46 pm
Goats have gone and now a local cat decided to take a look. Latest score Seagulls 1 Cat (running away after being swooped on) 0. How sad is it, that this appears to be my entertainment for the evening!

Good luck with it :)  with me its pigeons to look after and nurse back to health 8)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: TheMedz on June 10, 2011, 06:41:59 am
A lot of shreaking (not sure if that's the right word) from outside at about 4am this morning. I fear, as Yorkie says, the foxes might have got it.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Yorkie on June 10, 2011, 08:35:45 am
The little Vixen was licking her lips when she got home this morning and doesn't seem to want her usual breakfast!   Ah well!   The Law of the Jungle prevails.  
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on June 10, 2011, 11:01:16 am
Woke up this morning to find a young rabbit in the dining room.  One of the cats had brought it, apparently unharmed, through two cat flaps and wanted to play with it but the rabbit wasn't showing much enthusiasm.  Shut the cats in and carried the rabbit down the road and put it down near a gorse bush in the field.  After a moment it hopped away under the bush, so I hope it will survive a bit longer. 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: TheMedz on June 10, 2011, 02:30:08 pm
CSI agent Medz has just been to the scene of the potential crime to see if there is any evidence of fowl (sorry!) play. Nothing to be seen on the slopes.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Yorkie on June 10, 2011, 06:12:59 pm
The Vixen is a tidy eater and always cleans up after she has indulged herself! ZXZ
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Trojan on June 11, 2011, 03:21:57 pm
The Vixen is a tidy eater and always cleans up after she has indulged herself! ZXZ

 ???
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DaveR on June 15, 2011, 06:10:46 pm
Lots of these small blue butterflies on the Orme by the SkiSlope this morning:
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on June 16, 2011, 10:23:21 am
That's a nice picture, Dave.  I think that it's one of the Great Orme specialities, the western silver studded blue (Plebeius argus ssp caernensis).  They tend to live in colonies and emerge around this time.  I couldn't find any mention of the subspecies on the Butterfly Conservation website but there are several pictures on a wildflower website (http://www.ukwildflowers.com/Web_pages_butterflies/English/western_silver_studded_blue_plebeius_argus_ssp_caernensis.htm).   
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on June 25, 2011, 09:42:35 am
We have a lot of regular visiting pigeons here (and some that need nursing back to health!)  but yesterday afternoon this black and white pigeon called in and he was incredibly tame  :)


(http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i331/penrhynpigeons/P6240065.jpg)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DaveR on June 25, 2011, 09:55:21 am
Looks a bit like a chicken!  :o  :laugh:
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on June 25, 2011, 10:37:53 am
Looks a bit like a chicken!  :o  :laugh:

yes  ;D  and they quite often make similar sounds!

(http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i331/penrhynpigeons/P6240051-1.jpg)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Yorkie on June 25, 2011, 10:58:42 am
And taste quite similar too!     :D
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on June 25, 2011, 11:21:28 am
And taste quite similar too!     :D

 :o :o I would not know I'm a vegetarian  ;D, it would be like eating one of my friends!  L0L
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Yorkie on June 25, 2011, 11:35:00 am
Two cannibals are eating a clown. One says to the other, "Does this taste funny to you?"    ;D
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on June 25, 2011, 11:39:07 am
 L0L
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Trojan on June 25, 2011, 07:02:50 pm
If anyone spots any UFO's over Penrhyn Bay, don't be alarmed, it's only Merddyn and friends:

Stop the Pigeon Theme Song (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dexQhvczVeM#)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on June 25, 2011, 07:38:05 pm
 L0L  Very good, I remember that programme well!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on June 26, 2011, 05:51:15 pm
Plenty of Butterfies on the Great Orme today.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on June 26, 2011, 05:59:11 pm
I was sitting on the bench by HSBC yesterday when a man wearing spectacles walked past. He was obviously enjoying the bap he was munching away on when  a Seagull suddenly attacked him knocking his glasses off and knocking the bap on to the ground.
He looked bewildered at first but he put his glasses back on and wiped the bap and carried on his way munching away at the bap.
I could see his watching out for other Seagulls though.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on June 26, 2011, 11:17:49 pm
I was sitting with Mrs Fester outside FatCat tonight, and as the adjacent table was vacated, the seagulls descended en-masse.

One grabbed the only piece of pizza which had been left on the table, and the others fought him for it.

Cutlery and glasses were strewn everywhere... and loads of glasses were smashed.

The barmaid came out to tidy up, and she said that this was the fifth time today she was required to sweep up loads of broken glass due to the seagulls.

It is by no means a rare occurence, but it is pretty scary stuff when it happens...and its happening too often!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on June 28, 2011, 05:42:12 pm
Nice picture of the butterflies, Hugo.

My garden has been visited by hummingbird hawk moths during the last few days, sometimes two moths at once.  They zoom in, hover about the red valerian sucking up the nectar and then zoom off again.  They're big, powerful moths and very fast flying - their wings make a low humming sound and you can feel the air move if they fly close by.  

By following them about the garden I've finally managed to get a couple of reasonable shots.  Has anyone else seen them?  
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Yorkie on June 28, 2011, 06:49:51 pm
Fantastic pictures.  You even have the wings in mid beat and in focus!  Must be a good camera and a good technician!   &well&    {}{}
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Trojan on June 28, 2011, 09:20:00 pm
Yes, great photo's!

An Olympus Camedia C-8080 Wide Zoom maybe?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on June 29, 2011, 09:34:16 am
Thanks for the nice comments, Yorkie and Trojan. 

Trojan, you've obviously been reading the wildflowers thread, too!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on June 29, 2011, 02:12:40 pm
Nice picture of the butterflies, Hugo.

My garden has been visited by hummingbird hawk moths during the last few days, sometimes two moths at once.  They zoom in, hover about the red valerian sucking up the nectar and then zoom off again.  They're big, powerful moths and very fast flying - their wings make a low humming sound and you can feel the air move if they fly close by.  

By following them about the garden I've finally managed to get a couple of reasonable shots.  Has anyone else seen them?  
Not this year as yet, but we have had them in the garden in previous years. Lovely pics Blodyn.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Trojan on June 29, 2011, 02:43:29 pm
Trojan, you've obviously been reading the wildflowers thread, too!

 :D
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Yorkie on June 29, 2011, 03:49:24 pm
And using his EXIF software by the look of it!   ;)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on July 01, 2011, 02:55:23 pm
Thanks Nemesis, I hope the hummingbird hawk moths come and visit you again.  I've seen more of them this year than last year. 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DaveR on July 03, 2011, 08:01:48 pm
I noticed that there were many thousands of these fish swimming in large shoals in the shallow water near the Jetty in Llandudno. Anyone know what they are likely to be?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Barbiroli on July 03, 2011, 09:31:09 pm
My OH says they are " whitebait", quite common this time of the year, usually pushed in by the mackerel.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on July 04, 2011, 01:03:25 am
My OH says they are " whitebait", quite common this time of the year, usually pushed in by the mackerel.

Known by the Spaniards as Bocquerones, yes Whitebait ... and sold in the Fat Cat Bar... as a crispy starter or main course. Mmmm

Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on July 04, 2011, 09:18:22 am
Yeuk--they look at you whilst you eat them-- not that I do , eat them that is.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on July 04, 2011, 12:36:48 pm
I remember them coming into Rhos in their thousands followed by the Mackrel and closely followed by the Dolphins.  I think that they even had boat trips from Rhos to see the Dolphins and that is unusual in this area.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on July 04, 2011, 01:08:35 pm
The RSPB at Conwy is holding two "Bioblitz" days on Saturday 9 July (http://www.rspb.org.uk/events/details.aspx?id=tcm:9-281340) and Sunday 10 July (http://www.rspb.org.uk/events/details.aspx?id=tcm:9-278330).  There seem to be plenty of things to interest anyone who's keen on wildlife. 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on July 05, 2011, 03:37:57 pm
The shower of rain this morning brought out the snails in force.  Standing quietly in the garden I could hear them happily munching away.  I though that these banded snails were rather nicely colour-coordinated with the Senecio greyii flowers which they were busy devouring. 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Music_Hut_Radio_1 on July 07, 2011, 02:55:01 pm
Lovely photos. :D

Has anyone ever been to Puffin Island?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Jack on July 07, 2011, 03:16:03 pm
Been around it a couple of times on organised boat tours.  I think the RSPB organise Summer boat trips, not sure if they land or not, out of Beaumaris.  Fantastic place for seabirds and seals and there are a few pairs of puffins there now since the Countryside Council for Wales eradicated all the rats that overran the island for many years.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Music_Hut_Radio_1 on July 07, 2011, 03:24:25 pm
Is it only in Beaumaris that they do boat trips?

I might look into the RSPB website though, thanks.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Jack on July 07, 2011, 07:01:59 pm
Is it only in Beaumaris that they do boat trips?

I might look into the RSPB website though, thanks.

One of the boat trips I went on actually left from Llandudno Pier and went the whole way round Anglesey and around Puffin Island also, but the lack of boats from Llandudno Pier is another story well documented on the forum!

Looks like the RSPB run trips three times a day until August 18th.

http://www.rspb.org.uk/events/details.aspx?id=tcm:9-269544 (http://www.rspb.org.uk/events/details.aspx?id=tcm:9-269544)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on July 09, 2011, 02:38:35 pm
Lovely photos. :D

Has anyone ever been to Puffin Island?


Voel Coaches have a trip going tomorrow priced at £20.50  "Cruise around Puffin Island - join RSPB Cymru helpers on the catarmaran Cerismar Two for a 1.5hour cruise of Puffin Island, also visiting Beaumaris"
Two friends of mine though were going on a trip that actually landed on Puffin Island and had a few hours there to explore the Island and see the wildlife. The trip was postponed due to the bad weather at the time and is due to be rescheduled. I don't have the details at present but if I get them then I'll post them here.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on July 09, 2011, 06:13:25 pm
I've just had an e-mail from my friend who was going on the trip and apparently it was the Conwy Camera club who had permission to land on Puffin Island.  According to my friend it will be rearranged for next year.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DaveR on July 09, 2011, 10:18:16 pm
One of the boat trips I went on actually left from Llandudno Pier and went the whole way round Anglesey and around Puffin Island also

That would be a great trip, how long did it take to go round?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on July 09, 2011, 10:52:15 pm
I had the privilege of landing on Puffin Island a couple of years ago as part of a specially arranged trip.  The island is in private ownership and we had permission to land at a time which would not disturb the breeding seabirds.  Much of the island is very overgrown with elder and brambles and, while being on the island was an interesting experience, we saw far more from the boat trip around the island.

We travelled with Starida (http://www.starida.co.uk/puffin-island.htm), one of the companies providing regular trips around Puffin Island from Beaumaris, and I would thoroughly recommend them. 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on July 11, 2011, 09:50:07 am
Sort of local wildlife..
We went for a quick walk last night and found  a racing pigeon, not injured but did not fly off and as he was near a main road we picked him up. He was exhausted and wanted food and rest. He has a phone number on his ring, so I phoned up and was speaking to the owner in Glasgow! the bird had flown from Rheims in France, quite incredible! I'm looking after him for a few days to see how he gets on!
The pigeon's owner asked if I knew anyone heading to Glasgow that could give him a lift home? I don't , does anyone else?  I keep thinking of him flying over the English channel, what amazing athletes these birds are! $good$
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: stephenprudence on July 11, 2011, 05:35:23 pm
Might be the same one that was hanging around in our yard in work a few weeks ago, it had a ring around it's foot but was continually returning to our yard but flew off a few weeks ago and hasn't been seen since.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on July 11, 2011, 06:01:46 pm
My OH saw a small brown lizard this morning, near the 1/2 way station on the Orme.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: stephenprudence on July 11, 2011, 06:40:45 pm
Seriously, how bizarre I actually went to the heathland here before to try and photograph a common lizard or a snake, but it sounds like your OH found a viviparous lizard!! they're fairly rare, if you're interested,

Ask your OH did it look like this?

(http://www.eastwickham.org.uk/grafx/common-lizard.jpg)?

Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Jack on July 11, 2011, 07:01:55 pm
Sort of local wildlife..
We went for a quick walk last night and found  a racing pigeon, not injured but did not fly off and as he was near a main road we picked him up. He was exhausted and wanted food and rest. He has a phone number on his ring, so I phoned up and was speaking to the owner in Glasgow! the bird had flown from Rheims in France, quite incredible! I'm looking after him for a few days to see how he gets on!
The pigeon's owner asked if I knew anyone heading to Glasgow that could give him a lift home? I don't , does anyone else?  I keep thinking of him flying over the English channel, what amazing athletes these birds are! $good$


I'm going to work in Dumfries on the 28th July if thats any help, I appreciate that it is still an hour shy of Glasgow but if it is any use let me know.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: tooly on July 11, 2011, 07:52:40 pm
saw green parrot destroying apples from our tree on saturday, first time i've seen a wild parrot
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on July 11, 2011, 10:52:00 pm
Seriously, how bizarre I actually went to the heathland here before to try and photograph a common lizard or a snake, but it sounds like your OH found a viviparous lizard!! they're fairly rare, if you're interested,

Ask your OH did it look like this?

(http://www.eastwickham.org.uk/grafx/common-lizard.jpg)?



Where was this Green Parrot Tooly?  In the 3 towns area?

Also... that lizard, I see similar ones, about 2 inches long, on the concrete steps in my garden a couple of times a year...



Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on July 12, 2011, 04:04:26 pm
My OH said the lizard was darkish brown with no markings.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: stephenprudence on July 12, 2011, 04:42:30 pm
Sounds like the female of the above. The female apparently has no patterning.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on July 12, 2011, 05:07:04 pm
Stephen, how do you tell the difference between that rare lizard and the common one?  Like Fester I sometimes see little brownish lizards in the garden.  One of my cats used to bring in lizards, too, but now that she's getting older she's given up hunting and I don't see so many of them. 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: stephenprudence on July 12, 2011, 05:12:55 pm
Do you mean the rare one being the sand lizard?

The sand lizard is very green in colour, whereas the viviparous (common) lizard is brown.

The common lizard is ironically only slightly less rare than the sand lizard. I've never seen one  :(

(http://www.merseysidebiodiversity.org.uk/v2APImages%5C%5CSand%20Lizard.jpg) (sand lizard)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: suepp on July 12, 2011, 05:28:32 pm
this reminds me of  an incident years ago when my friend and I were playing in the dunes behind Fairways (before the completion of the far end of the estate) we were peering into a little hole in the side of a dune as "something" appeared to be standing there watching us. Suddenly a little creature hopped out on two back legs  and we ran home screaming,Never found out what it was, just assumed it was a toad :o
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on July 13, 2011, 12:17:42 pm
Thanks Stephen, it must be the viviparous lizard which I see. 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: tooly on July 13, 2011, 07:57:15 pm
fraid not Fester, i currently live in Towyn, polly been seen a few more times since first posting
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: tooly on July 13, 2011, 08:02:34 pm
hey guys how do i load a photo??
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DaveR on July 13, 2011, 08:56:48 pm
hey guys how do i load a photo??

How to upload photos to a post.

1) After writing your post, underneath the message box, click on Additional Options.
2) Next to Attach, click on the 'Choose File' button.
3) Select the photo file you want to use from my computer's hard drive (it must be less than 300k in size).
4) If you want to add another photo, click on (more attachments) and repeat the procedure.
5) Click on Post and the message & photo should be displayed.

The photos you have added are are displayed at the end of your post, you dont choose where they go in the post. You can add a maximum of 4 photos per post at present.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: poppy on July 13, 2011, 10:55:37 pm
But not from iPad

Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on July 14, 2011, 12:54:52 pm
Not really wildlife, but a local baby !
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on July 14, 2011, 01:57:50 pm
What a lovely picture, Nemesis.  That foal is so sweet. 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on July 14, 2011, 02:36:16 pm
Thanks-- I walked all the way up the hill last year after being told about a foal and it was hiding in its hut. This year I happened to see it by chance and I also had remembered to pick up the camera on the way out. Result ! ;D
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on July 14, 2011, 04:02:48 pm
Thanks for putting the photo of the foal on here. How gorgeous!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on July 14, 2011, 04:40:30 pm
That's a nice photo of the Foel Nemesis.  Did you take it in Wyddfyd Road?      I walked past there about 2 weeks ago and there was a 5 week old lighter coloured one in the paddock but when I drove up with my wife to show her the Foel unfortunately it wasn't there.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on July 14, 2011, 05:13:40 pm
Yes-- that's where I saw it-- didn't see another small one though , but there were 12 donkeys there including the foal
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: tooly on July 14, 2011, 08:20:07 pm
thanks DaveR
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on July 14, 2011, 10:53:57 pm
Oooh!   Mr Polly Parrot, He's great.... he's welcome in my garden anytime!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on July 15, 2011, 08:37:56 am
And mine------
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Music_Hut_Radio_1 on July 15, 2011, 08:57:49 am
Love the parrot, where was that. Saw those down in Kent a couple of years ago.

Also thanks to all who gave info on Puffin Island. Hopeing to book a trip when down in August. :D
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: tooly on July 15, 2011, 04:02:08 pm
polly visits us here in Towyn getting quite regular, notice only got a small appetite, has a nibble off one apple, throws it away then picks another one and does the same lol.
guess we wont be worthy of a visit when the apples are all gone!!!!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: stephenprudence on July 16, 2011, 03:48:12 pm
I didn't know the Rose Necked Parakeet was visiting the North Wales coast. Most of the population are down south, near where they escaped.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Yorkie on July 16, 2011, 04:09:15 pm
You don't see many of these up here either!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on July 16, 2011, 08:12:10 pm
Where did you see those, Yorkie?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Yorkie on July 16, 2011, 08:17:19 pm
Let's consider it a Quiz question!   Not in the UK.     Z**
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on July 16, 2011, 08:30:49 pm
Alsace?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Yorkie on July 16, 2011, 08:45:31 pm
No - In the Park opposite to the Council for Europe Offices!  They breed there and there are loads of them!
 ;)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on July 16, 2011, 08:56:54 pm
Strasbourg is the capital city of the Alsace region.
The storks can be found all over the area on the rooftops.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Yorkie on July 16, 2011, 09:01:54 pm
Never was any good at geography. 
But then the question Fester asked was, "Where did you see those, Yorkie?"

Congratulations!   Alsace is the correct answer! <:<:<:<

 &well&
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on July 23, 2011, 12:10:16 pm
Ducks on the village pond at Gwaenysgor
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Yorkie on July 23, 2011, 05:02:43 pm
Damn well camouflaged ain't they?    Z**
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DaveR on July 24, 2011, 09:08:21 pm
Not wildlife, but I was looking down at the beach from the flight of steps near the pier and this dog down on the beach was fascinated by me. Or maybe he just liked posing for the camera....
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on July 30, 2011, 03:37:17 pm
The deer that thinks it is a sheep!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on August 01, 2011, 06:55:42 pm
Saw lots of Cinnabar Moth Caterpillars on the Ragwort in St Tudno's graveyard this morning, sorry didn't have the camera with me, they were quite spectacular.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on August 01, 2011, 10:16:27 pm
I took some photos of them yesterday evening, Nemesis, but the light wasn't very good.  I'll try to get some better photos for posting.  They're impressive little beasts, aren't they? 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on August 01, 2011, 11:23:37 pm
Today, according to 2 customers of mine, there was a group of at least 10 dolphins frolicking in the sea off The Great Orme.

They had walked as far as the lighthouse, and a local resident told them that they had only ever seen them once before.
On that occasion there were only two!

I have seen the odd cheeky looking seal in the bay, but never dolphins.
Have any other members seen Dolphins in the area?

Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DaveR on August 02, 2011, 08:15:59 am
I actually might have seen them when I was on the pier yesterday. There was a lot of strange disturbances in the water around the pierhead. Either that or they were still trying to fix that faulty pump in the toilet block...
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on August 02, 2011, 09:03:05 am
I once saw a group of about 12 Dolphins swimming and jumping out of the water just by the lighthouse.  The year was 1976 and they were swimming in the direction of Llandudno.  I've see them since but never in so many numbers.
My friend's husband who was a boatman operating from Beaumaris saw some in the Menai Straits and estimated that there were about 80 in the group!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on August 02, 2011, 09:48:37 am
I took some photos of them yesterday evening, Nemesis, but the light wasn't very good.  I'll try to get some better photos for posting.  They're impressive little beasts, aren't they?
Brilliant  :)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: TheMedz on August 02, 2011, 10:38:38 am
Where exactly did you see them Blodyn?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on August 02, 2011, 11:12:17 am
Nemesis and I were talking about the cinnabar moth caterpillars on the ragwort in St. Tudno's Churchyard - not the dolphins, I'm afraid!  I think that the harbour porpoise can also be seen off the North Wales coast and I'm not sure that I could tell the difference between porpoises and dolphins. 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on August 03, 2011, 11:04:40 am
Here are a couple of pictures of cinnabar moth caterpillars munching away on ragwort.  The third picture shows the adult moth (not a local specimen but the only one I've managed to photograph). 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DaveR on August 03, 2011, 11:07:09 am
 $cool$
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on August 03, 2011, 11:28:41 am
Thanks, Dave.  I like slow-moving wildlife!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on August 03, 2011, 11:42:02 am
You beat me to it Blodyn ! There weren't many when I passed this morning and I had great difficulty with the pup bouncing about in my other hand on the end of a lead ! Anyway here you are.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on August 03, 2011, 01:31:01 pm
They look pretty busy on that plant, Nemesis.  When the churchyard grass is next cut (any time now), the ragwort plants will be left for the caterpillars and other insects to feed on. 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on August 03, 2011, 04:04:58 pm
 $good$
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on August 04, 2011, 11:06:00 am
My neighbours and I were watching a young Buzzard perched on the top of a bungalow across the road.  It just stayed there for about 15 minutes while it's parents were flying in a circle higher up and then it just flew away when the parents went out of sight.
We are seeing more and more of them nowadays and they are a big bird of prey.  It's a shame that the seagulls chase the Buzzards and it's not the other way round.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: TheMedz on August 04, 2011, 11:53:31 am
I'm told that the threat posed to agriculture by the rising rabbit population in the 50s and 6o's was met with the introduction of myxamitosis. This disease had a devastating effect on rabbits  and so dependent are buzzards on rabbits for food that there was an almost immediate drop in buzzard numbers by up to 50%. Now the rabbit population  is less impacted by myxamitosis then the numbers of rabbits in the area has grown and hence the increased number of Buzzards.

We went for a walk round Bryn Pydew and through the fields and trees round the back Bodysgallen Hall, at the weekend, and came across two buzzards in the fields feasting on a dead rabbit. They were most reluctant to move as we approached and we managed to get within 10 or 15 feet of them before they flew into the tall trees.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: stephenprudence on August 04, 2011, 10:04:34 pm
On the note of moths, has anyone seen the resident Hummingbird Hawkmoth at Haulfre Gardens.. it's rare that Hummingbird Hawkmoths are seen at all, but it seems this particular one has decided to settled down and make the garden it's home.

photo below.

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v709/stephenprudence/252134_2146105365029_1018125355_32464939_2430317_n.jpg)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on August 05, 2011, 12:39:08 pm
It's interesting to hear that a hummingbird hawk moth has settled down in Haulfre Gardens.  During late June - early July my garden was visited by a couple of these moths (see page 9 of this thread) but I haven't seen them for a while now. 

According to the Butterfly Conservation website (http://www.butterfly-conservation.org/sightings/1096/humming_bird_hawk_moth.html) there have been quite a number of these moths recorded throughout the UK this year.  Let's hope we see more of them in the future - they're fantastic, aren't they. 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on August 05, 2011, 11:49:12 pm
It's interesting to hear that a hummingbird hawk moth has settled down in Haulfre Gardens.  During late June - early July my garden was visited by a couple of these moths (see page 9 of this thread) but I haven't seen them for a while now. 

According to the Butterfly Conservation website (http://www.butterfly-conservation.org/sightings/1096/humming_bird_hawk_moth.html) there have been quite a number of these moths recorded throughout the UK this year.  Let's hope we see more of them in the future - they're fantastic, aren't they.

No Blodyn, unfortunately they are not.
In fact I fear and despise moths.  A phobia you might say, one which I have had since childhood, when I remember them invading the bathroom when I was in the bath, bashing around the light and scaring the life out of me.
I would urge any such moths to steer well clear of my house, or I will swat them!

Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on August 06, 2011, 11:01:46 am
You might have trouble swatting one of these, Fester, they're enormous!   WWW
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on August 06, 2011, 01:03:23 pm
That made me chuckle as my OH is the same-- and with daddy-long-legs. ! We had a couple of the moths in question in the garden a year or two back,-- there was I studying them and he was behind the newspaper !
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on August 06, 2011, 09:57:35 pm
You might have trouble swatting one of these, Fester, they're enormous!   WWW

Then I shall invest in a bigger, sturdier swatter..... or move out of town!

Telling me they are huge is not helping me with my fear of them is it?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on August 06, 2011, 10:03:54 pm
do not swat them, there will be one hell of a mess to clean up!  ;D
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on August 06, 2011, 11:59:19 pm
Telling me they are huge is not helping me with my fear of them is it?

Well, Fester, what more can I say about them? 

They have large, hairy bodies, their wings beat incredibly quickly, you can feel the air move as they zoom past - and they fly in daylight!  Perhaps you'd better stay indoors!   aaa.gif
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on August 07, 2011, 12:14:54 pm
 _))* _))* _))*
Try Cockchafers or May Bugs-- they are huge as well and tend to blunder around!
On a more serious note, saw a lone Buzzard last evening on the Orme
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on August 07, 2011, 01:52:40 pm
I saw a group of nine choughs flying past the Great Orme yesterday.  Let's hope it's a sign that their numbers are increasing. 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on August 07, 2011, 11:09:51 pm
Here's one especially for Fester - a six spot burnet moth resting on knapweed.  This is another day flying moth.  Perhaps you could try to think of day flying moths as butterflies with attitude?   ;D

Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on August 07, 2011, 11:50:19 pm
I'm OK with butterflies, although they are not my favourite creatures, no insects are...

But, I took my daughter to a butterfly garden in Leeds, when she was aged about 8.
I never realised that she had inherited my phobia of all thinks moth-like.
As they attempted to land on her, she panicked and tried to batter them all.

Needless to say, I ushered her out very quickly, never to return!
 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on August 14, 2011, 02:41:34 pm
I saw dozens of baby Frogs on the forestry tracks in Newborough and also a number of small toads in the sand by Malltraeth estuary.   By the sand dunes I was surprised to see one baby Frog below the high tide mark and it was lucky that the tide was on the ebb.
On Llanddwyn Island I saw a large female lizard sunbathing on a rock but she moved quickly before I could take a photo.
Walking back through the forest we could hear plenty of Crossbills calling but couldn't see where they were. The forest is also home to many Red Squirrels but although I've been here many times I've never seen one.     :(
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DaveR on August 16, 2011, 12:33:55 pm
Blog about the wild birds of the Great Orme:
http://greatormebirds.blogspot.com/ (http://greatormebirds.blogspot.com/)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on August 17, 2011, 12:03:24 am
I'm not sure this is exactly Wildlife,  because these guys are certainly no longer 'Wild' but here goes...

I visited Merddin Emrys and his wife this evening, as they have been looking after my pet bird for a long while now.
In recent months they have been visited by, or found, or been handed, several injured or lost pigeons.
For some unknown reason, pigeons seem to gravitate to the Merddin Emrys house.
I have witnessed them move from being wild, to timid, to calm, and now to being downright tame.

Take a look at these pictures of these two resting in Merddin's hands, cradled like babies.
A few moments later, they toddled off to ''bed'', in the garage... all in all it is an amazing sight to behold.
They are entirely comfortable being cuddled, stroked etc... and do not even flinch.
Maybe Merddin should change his tagname on here to Dr Doolittle?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on August 17, 2011, 09:21:58 am
It's amazed me, just how tame pigeons can be, lots of different personalities too, one common interest though, a love of seed  :laugh:
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: TheMedz on August 26, 2011, 05:22:34 pm
Three baby Goldfinches spotted nesting in a tree in the back garden today.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: TheMedz on August 27, 2011, 04:39:02 pm
Getting a little too big for the nest.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on August 27, 2011, 05:02:59 pm
Lovely photos Medz and you're lucky to have such attractive birds in the garden as I haven't seen one here for years.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: TheMedz on August 27, 2011, 05:20:12 pm
Interesting that they don't get the trademark red face until they reach adulthood.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Trojan on September 01, 2011, 01:57:18 am
Take a look at these pictures of these two resting in Merddin's hands, cradled like babies.

Who's that with the pigeon chest Fester?  :P
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on September 01, 2011, 03:00:16 pm
The Great Orme billies seem to be starting the rut, with pushing, jostling and locked horns.  Listen out for the clash of horns, too. 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: TheMedz on September 01, 2011, 07:58:12 pm
5 of the goats went down Llwynon Road (on a red light!) and onto BlackGate yesterday morning.

 I also noticed a flock of sheep above BlackGate for the first time this year.

The viewing point on Anglesey Road has also acquired a sign asking people not to "worry the sheep" with their dogs so I can only assume that the sheep have only recently been re-introduced back onto the Orme.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on September 02, 2011, 11:51:25 am
Those goats just won't obey the Highway Code! 

Yes, the sheep are back on the Orme and all the popular footpath gates have warning notices on them.  According to the Country Park Wardens, sheep on the Orme are killed by dogs every year, either as a result of direct attacks or by being chased over cliffs. 

The colourful little fellow in this photo is a male red tailed bumblebee.  Once male bumblebees have left the nest they don't return and have to find what shelter they can at night or in bad weather.  On Wednesday morning there were several rather sluggish bees on a patch of knapweed - apparently recovering after rather a hard night!

Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: stephenprudence on September 05, 2011, 11:14:04 pm
Nice shot Blodyn, I've really come to like Bumble Bees, ever since I developed a knack for holding them without being stung! Red tailed ones are the ones that are most likely to buzz around your face if you walk near their nest, but they're totally placid otherwise.

One of the more colourful red-tailed ones I've seen this year.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: snowcap on September 07, 2011, 12:11:50 am
hi stephenprudence, the red back with the yellow stripes have no sting but the red back without the stripes, i believe do have stings. i used to catch them in a jar when i was a kid and you brought a few memories back. painfull ones regarding the ones without stripes.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on September 07, 2011, 10:31:37 am
Thanks for the comments, Stephen, you're lucky to find bumblebee nests.  You and snowcap are both right about bumblebees and stings! 

Others may be interested to know that male bumblebees do not have stings and so are perfectly safe to handle.  With the red tailed bumblebees (Bombus lapidarius) it's easy to tell the difference between the males and females - as snowcap says the females are black with red tails, while the males have additional yellow bands - but for some of the other species the differences are not so obvious.  Even though the females have stings, they're generally fairly placid unless badly disturbed.  What have you two been doing to them to get stung?!  :o

Anyone who would like to know more about  bumblebees may find the Bumblebee Conservation Trust website (http://www.bumblebeeconservation.org.uk/) interesting.

Fester, I know that insects are not your favourite creatures but are you OK with bumblebees? 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Trojan on September 07, 2011, 11:04:51 am
We have "Africanized Killer Bees" over here, due to an experiment that went wrong.  $angry$

http://youtu.be/d-7kKqgPEGs (http://youtu.be/d-7kKqgPEGs)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on September 07, 2011, 03:44:06 pm
Interesting video, Trojan.  It's a good (or maybe bad?) example of the dangers of introducing non-native organisms (plants as well as animals) from one country to another.  Without their natural predators, the introduced species can too easily take over. 

A less dramatic but still worrying effect of introductions is genetic change due to cross breeding between native and introduced species or strains.  To digress to plants, there is concern over hybridisation between our native British bluebell (Hyacinthoides non-scripta) and the introduced Spanish bluebell (H. hispanica).  The resulting hybrid (H x massartiana) has the potential to displace at least some of our native populations and there's some more information on it here (http://www.ukwildflowers.com/Web_pages/hyacinthoides_x_massartiana_hybrid_bluebell.htm) and here (http://www.plantlife.org.uk//wild_plants/plant_species/bluebell/).  I've certainly seen hybrid as well as native bluebells on the Great Orme. 

To return to bumblebees, as opposed to the "killer" honeybees, there are concerns about the escape of continental strains of buff tailed bumblebees (Bombus terrestris), which have been introduced to commercial glasshouses for pollination of tomatoes, as these bees could potentially breed with our native strains.  (Pollination of some plants, such as tomatoes, requires "buzz pollination" which only bumblebees can do.  In Australia workers in tomato glasshouses apparently use vibrators on the tomato flowers to simulate the effect of "buzz pollination"!)

You may have heard in the news about the appearance and spread of a "new" bumblebee species in the UK.  Bombus hypnorum, the tree bumblebee, arrived from the continent in about 2001, apparently under its own steam.  Starting in the south east, it's been spreading northwards and westwards and there have recently been a couple of reports of it in North Wales.  It tends to nest in trees but will happily move into bird boxes, while our endemic bumblebees generally nest below ground or at ground level.  It's quite a distinctive bee, with a brown thorax, black abdomen and white tail, and it's too early to determine if it's having any affect on our native species.  In this rather bad photo there are five male tree bumblebees buzzing about outside a nest in a yew tree in the East Midlands, waiting for the new queens to emerge.  If disturbed at the nest, the worker bees (which can sting) may be quite defensive.  Has anyone seen these in North Wales yet? 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: snowcap on September 07, 2011, 07:39:08 pm
these look like our bumbles with fur coats on, lol
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on September 07, 2011, 09:17:33 pm
I see what you mean, Snowcap!  Thanks for you nice comments about the picture of the red tailed bee.  The males tend to be a bit easier than the females to photograph, as they spend a lot of time sitting around drinking! 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: snowcap on September 07, 2011, 09:32:49 pm
how come you have not posted a photo of fester lol
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on September 07, 2011, 10:01:56 pm
Fester, have you anything to say in your defence? 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on September 07, 2011, 10:12:45 pm
What?  What have I done now?
I don't mind bumblebees, in fact they are very important so I'm told.... but Moths are not!
They scare me and must be squashed.

Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on September 07, 2011, 10:25:07 pm
Fester, Snowcap was implying that you have certain characteristics in common with male bumblebees (if you look back two or three posts you should pick it up) but as you rightly say bumblebees are very important, so they're not bad things to be compared to. 

As for moths, some of them are important pollinators, too.  You must resist the urge to squash them!!!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on September 07, 2011, 10:28:31 pm
Sorry can't help you, my urge to squash moths is purely instinctive, born out of fear and dread!

As for looking back 3 posts to find out why I am getting a mention here, I'm afraid my attention span doesn't stretch that far.

 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on September 07, 2011, 10:34:39 pm
Just to help you, I mentioned that male bumblebees spend a lot of time sitting around drinking ...
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: CurlyCap on September 07, 2011, 10:41:17 pm
I'm afraid that all this talk of bees and moths is reminding me that I have still got a dreaded wasp nest in my roof space.

To be honest they're not in the house or bothering us but Blodyn (or anyone else) have you any idea when they'll die off and will they return next year if I don't get rid of them soon ?  ???
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on September 07, 2011, 10:45:59 pm
Just to help you, I mentioned that male bumblebees spend a lot of time sitting around drinking ...

I fail to see what relevence that comment could have for me.  Z**  (Burp)
Perhaps you are thinking of Mike Ormegolf?  or Dave R?

Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on September 07, 2011, 11:29:18 pm
CurlyCap, I don't know much about wasps but this website (http://www.wasp-control.co.uk/wasp-lifecycle.html) seems quite useful. 

It looks as though the wasps should die off as the weather gets colder and that the nest will not be re-used.  However, there's a warning that as the wasps get short of food they are more likely to start making a nuisance of themselves as they look for sugary foods.  If you can stay out of their way for a bit longer you'll probably be OK - and wasps have their uses too, as they help to control other insects. 

Fester, it was Snowcap's comment, you surely don't imagine that I'd suggest a thing like that!   ;)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on September 07, 2011, 11:41:19 pm
Too late, I have referred it to my legal team, and I have hired Max Clifford to clear my name.

In the meantime, Mrs Fester has grown tired of my squashing moths, and has invested £2.99 in a humane spider / insect catching device from kleeneze.
It has kind of a sliding door which closes over the insect, then you simply let them go free outside.
I don't see the point really, why take the risk of them returning?

I find a rolled up magazine much more effective.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on September 08, 2011, 12:14:38 am
I like Mrs. Fester's idea.  The released moths then have a chance to return with their friends to avenge the squashed ones.   

I shall collect some moths to send as my reply to your legal team.  WWW
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: stephenprudence on September 08, 2011, 09:58:02 pm
Thanks for the info on the none stinging males (and the way of identifying) I would never had known that otherwise, amazing what you learn!

I'm interested in sub-native species, to put it more specifically species that straddle the border between being native and none native - like the Arbutus tree for example - it's really difficult to ethically classify this, because of course conservationists are constantly introducing native species into area where they might not exist previously.

Western Gorse, and Spanish Broome is one of those that is a 'sub-native' species, and is encouraged onto heathlands by rangers.

Yet Prunus lusitanica, Quercus ilex could be deemed as a sub-native species and has been deemed a weed.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on September 09, 2011, 11:00:46 am
That's an interesting question about sub-native species, Stephen.  Would the tree bumblebee be classified as one?  It's arrived apparently by itself and has made itself at home here.  What about red valerian (Centranthus ruber), to digress to plants again? That was introduced by the 16th century, is now very well established and is of considerable benefit to our native insects, as well as visitors like the hummingbird hawk moth. 

Here are another couple of male bumblebees recovering after a hard night.  Not a very good photo, I'm afraid - I keep seeing these bees when I've started my walk in bad weather taking only a compact camera with me (yes, I know, a bad workman always blames his tools!).   

The brown bee at the top is a common carder (Bombus pascuorum) and the stripy one at the bottom is a buff tail (B. terrestris).  These are not as easy to tell from their female counterparts as are the red tailed bees.  The queens of all bumblebee species are much larger than the workers (all females) and males; but the workers and males are similar in size.  The workers of the buff tail bees have whiter tails than the males but the carder bees all have similar colouring. 

If you can get close enough to a bumblebee (without upsetting it too much in case it turns out to be a female), the males have longer antennae, less pointed tails and hairier rear legs.  The females have pollen baskets on their rear legs but the males don't do any work and so lack the pollen baskets. 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: stephenprudence on September 09, 2011, 12:30:41 pm
It must be so difficult for a conservationist to work out what is what. Common sense tells me that an insect that got here on it's own is a native, afterall we similarly colonised the world... however that particular insect might outcompete the true natives... difficult one to manage.

We always stroke the backs of bumble bees when they are pollinating, they seem oblivious to it. ( I assume that includes females).

I didn't realise the pollen sacks were carried by females.. does this apply to all species of Bombus? if so it's a sure fire way to tell if its male or female.

Great photo again Blodyn! $good$
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on September 09, 2011, 02:11:48 pm
Thanks, Stephen. 

All the females of the social bumblebees have pollen  baskets but they're not necessarily full.  So, if you can see balls of pollen on the rear legs it's definitely a female.  If you can't see them it could still be a female but not collecting pollen at the moment - and it's not always easy to see if a bee's got hairy legs or a pollen basket.  Incidentally, I've heard that if a bee you're handling starts waving one of its legs out sideways it's a sign that it's getting unhappy.  I've never put this to the test by provoking the bee after this point! 

The cuckoo bumblebees are currently classified as Bombus spp too but neither the males nor the females (which are only queens, no workers) have pollen baskets, as none of these do any work for themselves.  The cuckoo queen invades the nest of a social bumblebee (each species of cuckoo seems to attack a particular social species), kills the queen and lays eggs of new queens and males, which are then raised by the social workers (perhaps that would sound a bit better is I said the workers of the social bees!). 

Cuckoo bumblebees tend to look a bit more heavily-built than social bumblebees, with "armour plating" on their backs and smoky rather than clear wings.  Both the males and the females have hairy legs but the males' are hairier!  I'm still learning about bumblebee identification and I've not seen many cuckoo bees. 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Pendragon on September 09, 2011, 04:42:55 pm
Never in my life did I think I'd be interested in Bumble Bees but I now find them fascinating thanks to the forum  ;D
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: snowcap on September 09, 2011, 04:51:11 pm
playing off the thirteenth tee yesterday saw bees going into the ground at the back of the tee, hows that for coincidence, there were some big ones amongest them, thought they nested in trees?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: stephenprudence on September 09, 2011, 05:37:49 pm
They nest underground, if you go up the Orme, or any heathland around the coastline of N Wales, you might notice some bees buzzing around your face - only when you walk on do they leave you alone.. I put that down to fact I was near a nest site.

It can be quite intimidating, but I fully respect all types of bees and realise that they serve more purpose in the natural world than I do, so I respectfully move along.


Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Yorkie on September 09, 2011, 07:06:52 pm
I have 8 runner bean plants that are absolutely full of blossom and one little bee seems to be doing his best to keep up the pollinating workload.  I am picking beans on a daily basis so the fruits of his labour are definitely being rewarded.   He (or she) stays around even whilst I am picking and doesn't seem to be bothered one little bit.    $thanx$ 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on September 09, 2011, 10:20:23 pm
Pendragon, bumblebees are certainly fascinating and as they're relatively large, colourful, slow and friendly (like Yorkie's bee) they're entertaining to watch.  With your recent interest in plants, too, you could plant a lavender (in pot, windowbox or garden) and then between looking after the plant, watching the bees (which love lavender) and going on walks you won't have time to be bored again!  By the way, I'm looking forward to hearing what you discover on your walk, I do like the hills above Llanfairfechan. 

Snowcap, you're lucky to have found a bumblebee nest.  As Stephen says most do nest below ground, e.g. in abandoned mouse holes, though there are a few which may nest on the surface in old mammal nests or among grass and mosses.  Tree bumblebees will nest in holes in trees and they also like bird boxes. 

Steven, I was reading something recently about bumblebees buzzing around people who're standing still.  If you get just odd bees on their own doing it, there's a suggestion that they're investigating a possible new landmark on their flight route.  Apparently only some species do it but I can't remember the details without looking it up again. 

Yorkie, I'm sure that your little bee is very grateful for your runner beans.  Legumes provide pollen with a high protein content, which is very important for developing bee larvae.  As it's a very busy bee I suspect that it's a female!  If you can see balls of pollen on the rear legs then it's definitely a female and will be taking that pollen back to the nest.  Is it a golden brown bee or a stripy one? 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: stephenprudence on September 09, 2011, 10:27:48 pm
Blodyn, I witnessed about 4-5 bees doing it on a pathway I would estimate to be a quarter of a mile long. They were all red tailed bumblebees if it helps.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: CurlyCap on September 09, 2011, 10:56:12 pm
Never in my life did I think I'd be interested in Bumble Bees but I now find them fascinating thanks to the forum  ;D

I'm the same Pendragon.......I've hated things that buzz since being a child and thought that there were just Bees or Wasps, it's been fascinating learning about all the different types.

Thanks for the Wasp link Blodyn, I think I'll leave the nest alone and hope they die off throughout September (and hope that any that survive decide to move on next year and leave our loft alone - I'm quite fond of bees now after reading this thread but still hate wasps, who just seem to sting for the fun of it !!!) 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: stephenprudence on September 09, 2011, 11:47:36 pm
Male wasps also don't sting like bees, so you can hold male wasps.

They are the ones with the long attenae, the short attenae belong to the females.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on September 10, 2011, 08:34:07 am
Male wasps also don't sting like bees, so you can hold male wasps.

They are the ones with the long attenae, the short attenae belong to the females.

 :o :o  But why take the risk?  I'm reaching for that rolled up magazine....
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: stephenprudence on September 11, 2011, 07:24:45 pm
because being male I sympathise with them  WWW $lol$
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on September 12, 2011, 11:40:19 am
CurlyCap, good luck with your wasps' nest.  I'm glad you've found the bumblebee discussions interesting.  Honey bees are more aggressive than bumblebees.  The bumblebees are the big, furry, colourful ones. 

Stephen, I've checked that information on bumblebees flying around people and they're most likely to be red tailed or buff tailed bees.  As you had several red tailed bees buzzing around in quite a short distance, it does indeed sound as if they were on a route to or from their nest.  The book says:
"Try standing in a flowery meadow or flowering crop on a fine day in the summer; every few minutes you will be circled by a worker bee; typically the bee flies around at a height of ~2m in two or three small circles of perhaps 2 - 5 m radius before departing.  ....  Exactly what this tells us is debatable, but it seems probable that the bees are investigating and memorizing a novel landmark ..." (Goulson, D, 2010, Bumblebees: Behaviour, Ecology and Conservation, 2nd Edition, OUP.)

Fester, you be careful with that rolled up magazine!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: snowcap on September 12, 2011, 11:14:20 pm
if i was you stephen i would change my aftershave, lol
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: stephenprudence on September 13, 2011, 11:09:08 pm
Ahhh I see Blodyn, so the bee likely thinks I am a landmark (even though I'm not as I'm dynamic). I always though because they came up to you and kept on buzzing, they were warning me off the nest area, which would make sense. I usually walk on and they leave me alone, perhaps thats because they don't recognise me as a landmark anymore. Next time I'll stand still and see if they do anything else.

Snowcap, it's actually quite funny, I was in Southport this summer and me and my girlfriend were out enjoying the sun, but we put a lot of suncream on, and the hoverflies and ladybirds would not leave us alone! They must love the smell of the cream.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on September 20, 2011, 07:55:52 pm
Plenty of Ducks and Swans by the lake on the Prom at Llanfairfechan today.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on September 22, 2011, 06:23:38 pm
I was mowing the grass this afternoon and a pair of Red Admiral Butterflies were hovering around some bushes for ages. This one landed on a statue and stayed there just long enough for me to go indoors and get the camera and take a quick picture.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: snowcap on September 23, 2011, 12:21:27 am
isn't mother nature wonderfull, she even waited for you to get your camera
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DaveR on September 24, 2011, 04:56:45 pm
I saw this little chap on the beach at Colwyn Bay last week. It's not a great image as he flew off before I had time to get a decent shot but...can anyone tell me the name?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on September 24, 2011, 05:22:13 pm
Nearest I could guess would be a chaffinch, but the few blue feathers are throwing me off the scent a bit.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on September 24, 2011, 06:22:07 pm
possibly a female wheatear, but I'm no expert!

http://www.rspb.org.uk/wildlife/birdguide/name/w/wheatear/ (http://www.rspb.org.uk/wildlife/birdguide/name/w/wheatear/)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Jack on September 24, 2011, 08:34:41 pm
Yeah your right ME, a female wheatear!  A Summer visitor they will be feeding up and heading off on their migration soon and hopefully be back in March.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on September 25, 2011, 09:38:57 pm
possibly a female wheatear, but I'm no expert!

http://www.rspb.org.uk/wildlife/birdguide/name/w/wheatear/ (http://www.rspb.org.uk/wildlife/birdguide/name/w/wheatear/)

No one knows birds (and loves them) as much as YOU, Merddin.... but you are spot on, its a Wheatear.
At first I thought it was a Chaffinch, but that would have been slightly more orangy in its plumage.

Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on September 26, 2011, 12:01:59 pm
There was, apparently, a firecrest in St. Tudno's churchyard yesterday afternoon.  There was a group of birdwatchers taking a lot of interest in the trees when we arrived to get ready for a service.  After the service we were told that there was a firecrest in one of the pines so we all trooped out but didn't manage to see it. 

There's an account of the day's birdwatching on this  blog about birds on the Orme (http://greatormebirds.blogspot.com/).  I don't know much about birds, so it's interesting to know what the experts have spotted - though I have to get out a book to find out what some of them look like (the birds, that is, not the experts!). 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on September 26, 2011, 07:31:19 pm
I had a short walk today to Angel Bay hoping to see some seals but only managed to see one.   The Grey seals normally have their pups about a week or two after the September equinox but there was no sign of any today.
The last time I was there I was lucky enough to see 27 adult seals and 18 of them were actually on the beach. I've never seen them in such large numbers before, it was a remarkable sight.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on September 27, 2011, 03:05:57 pm
Do let us know if you see more seals, Hugo.  Even if I miss them again it's nice to know that they're there. 

Here's a picture of the Great Orme's answer to cattle egrets!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on October 02, 2011, 04:24:14 pm
I heard this morning from a taxi driver that there was a very large bird by the side of the road in Rhos on Sea, near the college.  He said that it didn't look fully fledged, was very tall, had a very long neck and that the police were keeping an eye on it!  Did anyone see it, identify it or get a picture of it? 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on October 02, 2011, 04:41:51 pm
Sounds like a heron
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on October 02, 2011, 09:43:30 pm
Sounds like a heron

Yes, a Heron, or a Gannet.
There was a very confused and injured one of them on the Pier last week.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Pendragon on October 29, 2011, 04:41:03 pm
The gulls are morphing.........imagine if that robbed your pasty............you were warned  :o
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: stephenprudence on October 30, 2011, 03:26:35 pm
 :o :o :o

I think a pastry would be the last thing on it's mind - I'm sure it would take it along with your arm though  WWW
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on October 31, 2011, 08:14:55 am
Looks as though it has just eaten something very gory !
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: stephenprudence on October 31, 2011, 05:42:49 pm
It nicked someones Chips and tomato ketchup!  _))*
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on November 02, 2011, 02:46:12 pm
Almost wildlife ...

The ponies are back at the Maes y Facrell nature reserve on the Great Orme.  They're usually here for 2-3 months over winter, busily chomping away at the coarse grasses, but there seem to be only four ponies this time (there have been up to seven in the past).  The management seems to be effective in increasing the number of broad leaved plants and the goats, who come and go as they please, do their bit to help control the scrub. 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Yorkie on November 29, 2011, 04:34:28 pm
WIth the wild weather of today most of the Great Orme goats were feeding and hanging around the North Shore Toll gate.  I snapped this one standing on the seaward wall.  The first shot with my new phone which I had not yet used.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on November 29, 2011, 04:45:45 pm
That's a really amusing photo yorkie with the pier behind.  &well&
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Yorkie on November 29, 2011, 06:31:07 pm
I did ask him to smile but this is the best he could manage.  They were all billies and were having a great time masticating the copious amounts of the gorse bushes.   Not too interested in the nannies in this weather and probably delighted that they weren't brass monkeys!   _))*
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on November 30, 2011, 10:34:26 am
I like the photo, Yorkie.

I spotted this billy goat last week, on his own with about 10 nannies.  Not a good photo but he seemed to have a smile on his face ... 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on November 30, 2011, 11:48:19 am
We could have a 'think of the caption' with that one !
" Now which  one shall I go for first??"
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: libbyjo on November 30, 2011, 04:00:54 pm
Some interesting information and nice photography in this thread. Thanks for sharing.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: snowcap on November 30, 2011, 05:38:05 pm
how about " go away iv,e got a headache"
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Pendragon on November 30, 2011, 10:27:10 pm
That's it c'mon.....first to the top
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: snowcap on November 30, 2011, 10:39:07 pm
c,mon who's got my legs?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Yorkie on December 01, 2011, 09:20:45 am
Nannie on right!

There you are lounging around again doing absolutely nothing, all you think about is food and sex!  And you want both of them served on a plate; too bloody lazy to get them yourself!  Etc.  Etc. . . . . . . . . Etc.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Pendragon on December 02, 2011, 11:02:04 am
Ok now were here it's time to find the pampas grass  :roll:
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on December 23, 2011, 06:50:12 pm
Our pigeon Wibble has taken to coming indoors for about an hour in the early evening, he always goes to the same chair (mine!) which has a towel on it, settles down and watches a bit of telly, we found him upside down at the side of a cupboard in the garage a few months ago. We did not think he would survive, but he's getting on well now!

(http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i331/penrhynpigeons/9deae30c.jpg)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Jack on December 23, 2011, 06:56:07 pm
This Ring Necked Parakeet has been seen feeding in gardens around the Deganwy and Llanrhos area.  More information available here:

http://www.northwalesbirding.co.uk/forum/viewtopic.php?f=5&t=6255 (http://www.northwalesbirding.co.uk/forum/viewtopic.php?f=5&t=6255)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on December 23, 2011, 11:09:14 pm
Hmmm!!!  The parakeet, A very attractive creature,
I know they don't belong in these climes, but they are fantastic,

M.E, I'm coming to see you (and Wibble) on Xmas Eve, and I think I know what his game is.

He comes in to watch Dickenson's real deal, but after half an hour, when he realises that you are not on it, he buggers off back to his favoured perch in the garage.
Birds have been around for 70 million years plus.... and us? maybe 1 million years if we are lucky.
They are not stupid!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Pendragon on December 27, 2011, 12:35:36 pm
Hmmm!!!  The parakeet, A very attractive creature,
I know they don't belong in these climes, but they are fantastic,
Apparently there are over 30,000 ring tailed Parakeets in the UK.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on December 27, 2011, 06:46:58 pm
I was driving on the Llanrwst Road just before Christmas and by Trofarth there was a large Brown Hare sitting on the grass by the road. I haven't seen one for a few years and the last one was on the Carneddau above Llanfairfechan.
Prior to that it was many years ago on the Great Orme but I haven't seen one there since.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Yorkie on December 27, 2011, 08:20:34 pm
The last time I saw a wild hare was in a little eatery in a small French village.  It was in the middle of the table neatly contained in a large earthenware jug!  The hosts refered to it as civet de lièvre.   It was lovely!   I could have eaten more. 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on December 28, 2011, 10:50:15 am
One of these little chaps running around my garden just now...  a Song Thrush I believe.

Nipping around at high speed, gathering lots of worms after the overnight heavy rains.

Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on December 28, 2011, 02:35:05 pm
The last time I saw a wild hare was in a little eatery in a small French village.  It was in the middle of the table neatly contained in a large earthenware jug!  The hosts refered to it as civet de lièvre.   It was lovely!   I could have eaten more.

No wonder there aren't many Hares about if you keep eating them Yorkie!    :o
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Llechwedd on December 29, 2011, 12:15:49 pm
Years ago I walked up the path behind the Gogarth Abbey above the cave and came upon a circle of six hares all sitting on their hind legs.  The wind was blowing away from them so they didn't hear me or get my scent.  Wished I had a camera.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on January 05, 2012, 06:42:48 pm
Earlier this afternoon we went to Llandudno, parked in Abbey Road, walked a couple of hundred yards and found a young collared dove! He must have been blown from a nest, his parents were in the tree, but what to do? He's at home with us now having had some refreshment, will he live? Fingers crossed!

(http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i331/penrhynpigeons/P1040016.jpg)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: martin on January 05, 2012, 07:30:25 pm
I hate to say it, but "they" always say leave it where it is, I, (just like you), find that impossible to do.  I suppose you have to weigh up the chances of it surviving in a box, if it does, what then?  Sorry, I have not helped a bit, I really HATE things like this, I feel far too much for animals, normally leave it up to the stronger sex, my wife, she just gets on with it.  Good luck, hope it goes well, poor little sausage! :-[
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on January 05, 2012, 07:37:05 pm
Normally I would leave them, but he was on the pavement at risk of cats etc, so we have him at home where we have got quite a bit of food and water down him and he's quite perky too. Hopefully we can get him flying and released where we found him (with luck! ) We already have 3 pigeons which for various reasons can't be released!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: martin on January 05, 2012, 07:48:45 pm
It's really good news he is eating, that looks very promising, he looks fairly well fledged so he may have just been knocked for six by a blast of wind.  It's nice to know there are people who care for creatures, so many do not, one of the biggest reasons we left Spain after just two years was the cruelty they inflict on animals, we just could not stand it, came back with two rescue cats, with three eyes between them.  Good luck with pigeon.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: martin on January 05, 2012, 08:45:42 pm
I hate to say it, but "they" always say leave it where it is, I, (just like you), find that impossible to do.  I suppose you have to weigh up the chances of it surviving in a box, if it does, what then?  Sorry, I have not helped a bit, I really HATE things like this, I feel far too much for animals, normally leave it up to the stronger sex, my wife, she just gets on with it.  Good luck, hope it goes well, poor little sausage! :-[
Merddin Emrys - Sorry about that post, I have looked back and have seen your history in helping pigeons, so my post was completely unnecessary and probably unwanted.  I seem to have a knack of saying the wrong thing on this forum, sorry once again. 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on January 05, 2012, 08:55:51 pm
It's really good news he is eating, that looks very promising, he looks fairly well fledged so he may have just been knocked for six by a blast of wind.  It's nice to know there are people who care for creatures, so many do not, one of the biggest reasons we left Spain after just two years was the cruelty they inflict on animals, we just could not stand it, came back with two rescue cats, with three eyes between them.  Good luck with pigeon.

Thanks, good luck with the cats, the dove is still ok  D)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on January 05, 2012, 09:00:04 pm
I hate to say it, but "they" always say leave it where it is, I, (just like you), find that impossible to do.  I suppose you have to weigh up the chances of it surviving in a box, if it does, what then?  Sorry, I have not helped a bit, I really HATE things like this, I feel far too much for animals, normally leave it up to the stronger sex, my wife, she just gets on with it.  Good luck, hope it goes well, poor little sausage! :-[
Merddin Emrys - Sorry about that post, I have looked back and have seen your history in helping pigeons, so my post was completely unnecessary and probably unwanted.  I seem to have a knack of saying the wrong thing on this forum, sorry once again.

No worries, somehow pigeons find their way to us, we managed to save several last year that are now flying free!  D)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: TheMedz on January 05, 2012, 10:40:47 pm
I've just been stood outside the house for a few minutes revelling in the, current rarity of,  less than gale force winds and there is one hell of a commotion (screaming and screeching ) coming from the rocks above Black Gate. It sounds very much like bird or young animal noise but I'm not sure what. Old Mr Fox up to his antics possibly.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on January 07, 2012, 03:53:07 pm
Merddin, How is the Collared Dove faring?
Is it still with you?  If so, you will have to name him!

Has he been introduced to Wibble, Mr Pink and the gang?  ;) ;)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on January 07, 2012, 05:11:49 pm
The dove is doing very well, very tame too, he or she has met Wibble and the canary, but not the other two pigeons yet :D
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on January 07, 2012, 06:18:19 pm
Ponies on Conwy Mountain
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: martin on January 07, 2012, 07:05:25 pm
The dove is doing very well, very tame too, he or she has met Wibble and the canary, but not the other two pigeons yet :D
That's good news, is she/he able to fly or is she/he too young yet?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on January 07, 2012, 07:58:02 pm
Just a bit of flight, more gliding gently down really!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on January 09, 2012, 06:40:09 pm
The dove is coming on well and is now eating seed, he / she is unbelievably tame!

(http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i331/penrhynpigeons/DSCN0111.jpg)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: martin on January 09, 2012, 06:47:18 pm
Nice to see her, (I think she looks like a she), coming on, she looks very small though, what size is she in comparison to a full grown dove?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on January 09, 2012, 07:14:31 pm
From the tip of the beak to the tip of the tail about nine inches long
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: TheMedz on January 09, 2012, 07:47:48 pm
No camera unfortunately but as we drove along the prom just after the rain this morning there were two seagulls on the grass verge merrily stamping away at the ground to get he obliging worms to stick their heads up and be eaten. I suppose the seagulls have got to  do something when there isn't a ready supply of chips!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on January 09, 2012, 10:25:27 pm
Merddin... that is the cutest bird in the whole world, and I would never be able to release it!!! 

Medz, I wonder how it came about that the first ever bird realised that if they imitated rain, (by pattering their feet) that worms would be fooled and come to the surface.   I first noticed blackbirds doing it about 5 years ago.
It amazes me every time I see it.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on January 09, 2012, 10:57:55 pm
I'm thinking that he's too tame for the wild, he was like that from the start and he has a slight limp in one leg, probably from when he fell out of the nest!

I've also been amazed by the seagull worm dance, very clever! $good$
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: snowcap on January 09, 2012, 11:05:41 pm
who do you think taught them the rain dance the Apache or the sue
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on January 10, 2012, 09:25:47 am
ME, your dove look gorgeous.  It's nice to see thae he / she is coming along so well.

Hugo, it's good to see so many Carneddau ponies.  Thanks for posting the pictures. 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on January 12, 2012, 03:25:49 pm
I was driving into Llandudno today and as I was passing Bodafon Fields there were hundreds of birds feeding there. At first I thought they were lapwings but then all the birds  took flight and I was able to identify them as the flew alongside the road.
They were Curlews, masses of them and I've never seen so many together and so close either, quite a remarkable sight.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: TheMedz on January 12, 2012, 04:21:31 pm
They also frequently congregate on the part of the John Bright playing field across the road from Aberconwy Cars.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on January 12, 2012, 05:02:19 pm
I didn't realise that that they were at John Brights or that they were around in such large numbers but it was fascinating to see them so close. Thanks for that info and I'll keep my open next time I pass there.
Lapwings used to be common in numbers in the Bodafon Fields but with the cattle and people moving about in the fields their numbers have declined.  They still congregate in the fields opposite the Llandrillo Tech in large numbers though.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on January 14, 2012, 03:12:25 pm
I had a short walk to Angel Bay in Penrhyn Bay and saw a couple of seals there. The young white pup is in the middle of the photo and was difficult to see until it started moving about. The white coat was getting dark in patches so it must have been there for a few weeks but it'll be leaving soon as it has started swimming already and did so while I was watching it.
The were many people there today enjoying watching the seals  and making the most of the Winter sunshine.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on January 14, 2012, 08:51:59 pm
Thanks for the picture of the seals Hugo.  Once again I probably won't get there before they disappear  :( so it's lovely to see the photo. 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: TheMedz on January 14, 2012, 09:45:59 pm
We went over to Angel Bay early this afternoon and unfortunately saw no seals either on the land or in the water. Nice to know they are still around. On a weather note it is one of the few times I've walked over to the bay without nearly being blown off my feet. Fabulous weather today. I think, with the forecasted frosts over the next few nights,   the Crocus and other spring flowers in the garden should possibly have kept their heads down for a little bit longer. Birdlife in the garden around the feeders really active today the resident robins have been joined by numerous blue tits, wrens  and a goldfinch.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on January 14, 2012, 10:02:14 pm
Sorry, not local wildlife but still in Wales. We saw many seals from the Pembrokeshire coast path. They were making quite a noise.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: TheMedz on January 14, 2012, 10:10:18 pm
Profanity scanning software somewhat over zealous but better that than too lax!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on January 14, 2012, 11:15:11 pm
Profanity scanning software somewhat over zealous but better that than too lax!

Actually Medz, you can use the singular of that word on here, but not the plural...  (i.e. blue tit is OK)
As I discovered the other night when I raised the breast implant issue!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: martin on January 15, 2012, 09:53:28 am
I am able to confirm that the singular passes muster, in fact I used it just the other day when referring to Jeremy Clarkson, (from which you will gather, I am not one of his fans).  He defiantly falls into the Marmite category, you either love him or hate him.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on January 15, 2012, 09:56:47 am
Fluff loves him  D)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: martin on January 15, 2012, 10:06:59 am
Until I hear Fluff cooing that I will not believe it.  I think that photograph of Fluff in front of the telly showing a picture of that nasty Mr Clarkson was doctored, all made up on Photoshop.  Either that or you were holding him, against his will, in front of the TV, it's funny we are unable to see Fluff's bottom end!  There's more to this than meets the eye.  &shake&
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on January 15, 2012, 10:33:17 am
 :laugh: He was looking at the ipad, he's not started cooing yet but he does seem to be at the stroppy teenager stage  :D
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on January 15, 2012, 05:50:20 pm
This must have happened a couple of hours after I was there yesterday and was in the Daily Post News. He was a lucky pup indeed

"A LUCKY pup yesterday survived a 100 foot plunge off a cliff into the sea.

Charlie the Cocker Spaniel fell off Llandudno's Little Orme headland. His owner alerted Holyhead Coastguard which sent Llandudno's RNLI inshore lifeboat at 3.25 pm. The rescuers reached the scene a few minutes later and plucked the puppy from the water. The RNLI said it had cuts and grazes after a “nasty” fall. It was reunited with his owner on the slipway"
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on January 22, 2012, 12:27:45 pm
We sat on a bench in the gardens of Portmeirion Hotel yesterday and this friendly Blackbird kept us company.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on January 22, 2012, 03:45:21 pm
Yesterday, we went into a bird hide by the cob in Porthmadog and saw many varieties of birds there including Canada Geese, Mallards, Teals but the funniest sight was that of Redshanks running through the shallow water looking so ungainly with their long thin legs.
Couldn't take any photos though as the birds were too far away.  We kept our eyes open for the Otters that are by the bridge in Portmadog but didn't see any this time.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on January 23, 2012, 11:23:16 am
An interesting phenomena here.
This is a blackbird, which has steadily turned completely white over the years.
It is not an albino, read the story here..
http://www.bbc.co.uk/nature/16646922 (http://www.bbc.co.uk/nature/16646922)

Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on January 23, 2012, 11:30:06 am
Amazing, I like a nice bird story  D)
I'd have to call him Micky after Michael Jackson :)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on January 23, 2012, 11:35:54 am
Amazing, I like a nice bird story  D)
I'd have to call him Micky after Michael Jackson :)

He's likely to turn up at yours at some stage.... they all do!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on January 23, 2012, 11:45:30 am
Highly likely  :laugh: 

Fluff the dove is getting on very well still  D)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: TheMedz on January 23, 2012, 10:24:03 pm
Just like to say that when it's my time I'm coming back as a cat.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Paddy on January 24, 2012, 10:45:54 pm
This is a Shamrock Spider. Native to Southern Calfornia so not strictly "local". BUT IT WAS IN MY KITCHEN!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Pendragon on January 24, 2012, 10:50:34 pm
If I'd seen that in my kitchen Paddy my photo would show a slightly more spread out version  :o
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Paddy on January 24, 2012, 11:06:39 pm
Hiya Pen. I was a bit freaked out when I saw it but I was a brave little soldier and just scooped it up and chucked it into the garden where I'm sure it's thriving in our Southern California climate!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Pendragon on January 24, 2012, 11:54:18 pm
Hehe this is what happened to the last spider I found......................it was left under the glass for Gez  in the morning.  :roll:
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Pendragon on January 24, 2012, 11:55:47 pm
The best was he didn't even see and so I ended up throwing it out myself...........................still gives me shivers now  :D
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Paddy on January 25, 2012, 12:22:07 am
Wimp!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Pendragon on January 25, 2012, 12:36:54 am
I know  :roll: I remember talking to some customers whilst painting the outside wall and as I turned back with my roller this huge spider had sneaked up and was sat right in front of me....screaming I jumped backwards nearly knocking over their drinks........now that was embarrassing  :-[
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on January 25, 2012, 08:23:32 am
Hope it doesn't leg it too far ! :o
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: martin on January 25, 2012, 06:31:14 pm
One of our cats, Blackie, as he often does, just came through the cat door with a live mouse in his mouth, which he promptly dropped in the conservatory, (he brings them in for the girl cat of the family, the one eyed Poppy).  As this is a fairly regular occurrence we have a cardboard tube in which we can normally get them to run into, then release them outside.  Only difference this time is the mouse ran up the inside of my right trouser leg, climbing up to my waistband.  So out I went into the garden where I removed my trousers, the mouse running off, just hope the neighbours did not see my standing there in my underpants.  Local wildlife indeed! :o
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on January 25, 2012, 06:38:20 pm
No pictures of this then?  _))*
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Yorkie on January 25, 2012, 06:38:40 pm
Good job it wasn't a ferret!    _))*
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: martin on January 25, 2012, 06:41:30 pm
No pictures of this then?  _))*
I was too busy keeping it away from my bits ;D
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: TheMedz on January 25, 2012, 07:12:53 pm
Sounds like someone building up the defence case for an impending flashing prosecution. $lol$

Had a similar experience when I saved a mouse from one of our cats only to be bitten by the little b****r and ending up in casualty for a tetanus jab.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Yorkie on January 25, 2012, 08:01:36 pm
Had a similar experience when I saved a mouse from one of our cats only to be bitten by the little b****r and ending up in casualty for a tetanus jab.

Hope the mouse didn't make a meal out of it!     L0L
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on January 25, 2012, 09:50:33 pm
I can find no reference to a Shamrock Spider anywhere on the net.

I wanted to know if it is poisonous, so I can quickly get my house up for sale! 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on January 25, 2012, 10:26:25 pm
Lots on Google!

http://www.spiderzrule.com/commonspidersusa.htm (http://www.spiderzrule.com/commonspidersusa.htm)

Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on January 25, 2012, 10:33:44 pm
Not poisonous then?  But still scary.

I shall always keep a rolled up newspaper with me whenever I leave the house.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on January 25, 2012, 10:44:17 pm
I shall always keep a rolled up newspaper with me whenever I leave the house.
Don't use it to whip your high horse!   >?>??  :laugh:
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Pendragon on January 26, 2012, 12:08:53 am
I shall always keep a rolled up newspaper with me whenever I leave the house.
Don't use it to whip your high horse!   >?>??  :laugh:
Very good ME.  Martin your explanation for taking your trousers off in public is dubious to say the least my man  :o
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: martin on January 26, 2012, 09:21:43 am
Yesterday was not a good day for encounters with "local wildlife", late last night we discovered another mouse, this time in our lounge, at the time of writing it is still at large :o
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on January 26, 2012, 09:39:53 am
Martin, I have to agree with TheMedz and Pendragon - I hope your neighbours are not too easily shocked!  :o

Fester, don't forget where Paddy originally found his spider - in his kitchen.  Perhaps you'd better keep your rolled up newspaper with you at all times, you never know what may be lurking!  WWW
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: TheMedz on January 28, 2012, 10:51:05 am
RSPB Garden Birdwatch this weekend.

http://www.rspb.org.uk/birdwatch/?gclid=CN727uvF8q0CFSgntAodNEkUuA (http://www.rspb.org.uk/birdwatch/?gclid=CN727uvF8q0CFSgntAodNEkUuA)

Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on January 29, 2012, 02:20:03 pm
Thanks very much for posting the info regarding the birdwatch.  I did mine in the back garden and seem to have more varieties of birds early on when they are feeding.
I was on the West Shore earlier today and it's lovely to see the Pied Wagtails by the pond. They are usually there everytime I go past but strangely enough I didn't see any today although there were 18 Swans there and dozens of various gulls
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on January 29, 2012, 02:32:36 pm
I can understand your affection for the Collared Doves ME as we have a pair that come to our garden every day and it's lovely to see them. They are always close to each other and we look out for them when we're in the back garden.
The other day though I was in the kitchen and there was a Collared Dove by itself feeding on the lawn and the other Dove was nowhere to be seen so for a very short time I feered the worst.   When his mate finally landed by his side I was quite relieved as I knew that they were both ok.
We also have Wood Pigeons coming to the garden every day but they come in 3's and judging by the antics they get up to it seems a bit kinky to me.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Jack on February 01, 2012, 06:46:54 pm
It must be cold, this little nuthatch has come down from the woods and was on our feeders this afternoon.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on February 01, 2012, 08:14:46 pm
How nice to see the nuthatch on your bird feeder, Jack.

I've only recently started feeding birds, as my cats are showing neither interest in, nor aptitude for, hunting (one of my previous cats was a VERY enthusiastic hunter).  Do any of you have any tips for feeding birds? 

I have hanging feeders for fat balls, nuts and seeds and I also put out seeds and fruit on the ground and there's water available.  I discovered that the hanging feeders need to be jackdaw proof, so I've sorted that out.  Apart from the jackdaws and magpies, my bird population seem to consist of: one female blackbird, one sparrow and one wren!  Is there anything else I should be doing? 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Jack on February 02, 2012, 08:21:39 am
How nice to see the nuthatch on your bird feeder, Jack.

I've only recently started feeding birds, as my cats are showing neither interest in, nor aptitude for, hunting (one of my previous cats was a VERY enthusiastic hunter).  Do any of you have any tips for feeding birds? 

I have hanging feeders for fat balls, nuts and seeds and I also put out seeds and fruit on the ground and there's water available.  I discovered that the hanging feeders need to be jackdaw proof, so I've sorted that out.  Apart from the jackdaws and magpies, my bird population seem to consist of: one female blackbird, one sparrow and one wren!  Is there anything else I should be doing?

We've been feeding them for the last couple of years.  During last years very cold spell in December my youngest persuaded us to buy a feeder and some peanuts.  That cheap feeder didn't last long with the squirrels and jackdaws but in the short time it was up we had feeding blue tits, great tits and long tailed tits.  So I went out and bought 4 of these all singing/dancing squirrel/jackdaw proof feeders.  Two are filled with peanuts and two with sunflower hearts (rather than wild bird seed which seems to make a horrendous mess of the garden as all sort of strange things grow!!).  Now we get greenfinch, chaffinch, great spotted woodpecker, robin, dunnock, sparrows, starlings etc as well as blue, great, long tailed and coal tits. 
I guess as we are close to woodland it helps and as we have a dog, cats are less of a problem as they won't come in the garden. 
Don't forget they need water too especially when other sources have frozen.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on February 02, 2012, 09:26:09 am
Thanks, Jack, I'll go out and check the water as it's been cold overnight.  What a wonderful collection of birds you have visiting.  There's not much in the way of woodland near me but I'll keep my eyes open and see if any of my three birds manages to find a friend!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on February 02, 2012, 12:52:11 pm
I'll send you a few of my jackdaws Blodyn. They are at their most amusing when the pear tree in the churchyard has gone overripe and they are positively drunk ! They lurch around and cannot co-ordinate their legs!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on February 02, 2012, 08:56:27 pm
Thanks for the offer, Nemesis, but I do have quite a few passing jackdaws - though mine are very sober ones!  Do yours manage to fly "under the influence"?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on February 03, 2012, 09:48:29 am
An update on Fluff our collared dove, we've had him (or her) for a month now, he's doing very well and mostly lives on top of the canary's cage, still very very tame!

(http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i331/penrhynpigeons/DSCN0674.jpg)


Where's he gone?
(http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i331/penrhynpigeons/P1300043_edited.jpg)

(http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i331/penrhynpigeons/DSCN0655.jpg)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: martin on February 03, 2012, 09:59:26 am
Sweet!  I like the one where he/she has alighted onto a slightly hairy football. ;D
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on February 03, 2012, 10:12:00 am
Sweet!  I like the one where he/she has alighted onto a slightly hairy football. ;D

 L0L I've just grown too tall for my hair!  :laugh:
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on February 04, 2012, 01:54:08 pm
Nice to see Fluff's progress.  He / she does look sweet.

There's good news on my bird feeding efforts.  My sparrow population has just doubled - my sparrow's found a friend!  I also spotted a blue tit yesterday - that's five birds now! 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on February 04, 2012, 03:00:33 pm
Ohh great, more bird life-- glad to hear it !
The Jackdaws have to take off carefully after their boozy session !
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on February 04, 2012, 03:28:15 pm
We had a male Great Spotted Woodpecker feeding on the peanuts yesterday. He was there for about10 minutes and it's his first visit here for months. Hope that he brings Mrs Woody with him next time.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: TheMedz on February 05, 2012, 02:04:48 pm
Just spotted the first baby goats(kids) of the year on the rocks above Black Gate. Earlier than last year I think.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on February 05, 2012, 05:47:43 pm
A friend sent me a pic earlier today-- twins!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: TheMedz on February 08, 2012, 10:03:38 pm
We went for a walk round Penrhos Coastal Park on Anglesey this afternoon and literally had these little fellows eating out of our hands.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: TheMedz on February 08, 2012, 10:11:43 pm
another
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: snowcap on February 08, 2012, 10:23:55 pm
i was digging over my daughters garden, across from you, last spring and the robins were feasting off the worms taking  them back for the young ones. They did,nt have any fear of me they were at my feet all day long. i was keeping the small worms on one side and throwing them to them, they had a field day. I must admit i enjoyed it to
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on February 08, 2012, 10:40:08 pm
Nice bird pics The Medz, cute birds until they fight each other!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on February 10, 2012, 02:46:22 pm
Lovely pictures of the robins, The Medz. 

I've got a fascinating book about robins which goes into a lot of detail about their life and behaviour:

"The Life of the Robin" by David Lack, 4th Edition, 1965, published by HF & G Witherby, London.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on February 11, 2012, 05:06:17 pm
Nine seals on the beach at Angel Bay, Penrhyn Bay today
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on February 11, 2012, 05:14:03 pm
Some of the many Birds Of Prey at Bodafon Farm today.  I only popped in for a coffee on a walk but stayed there for ages!   I'm going back next week to see the rest of the birds and animals.
A nice coffee, friendly staff and lots to see, well worth a visit.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on February 11, 2012, 05:16:12 pm
Bodafon Farm Birds of Prey
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on February 11, 2012, 05:17:32 pm
Bodafon Farm  Birds of Prey
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on February 12, 2012, 08:22:22 am
http://www.northwalesbirdtrust.co.uk/ (http://www.northwalesbirdtrust.co.uk/)

Pam and Bill do a wonderful job with the owls.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on February 12, 2012, 01:17:06 pm
Yes, my husband found a sick owl in the garden and took it there. They were so knowledgeable, knew exactly what was wrong with it and brought it back to life.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on February 12, 2012, 03:30:59 pm
http://www.northwalesbirdtrust.co.uk/ (http://www.northwalesbirdtrust.co.uk/)

Pam and Bill do a wonderful job with the owls.

I used to love seeing them when they took them to the Victoria Centre and Otis, the Little Owl was my favourite.  Yesterday he wasn't in his aviary but Mark said that he had been moved indoors so I'll look out for him when I go back again this week
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on February 13, 2012, 08:24:58 am
Have a picture of my middle grandson when he was about 9 with Otis on his arm. He was thrilled to bits to be allowed to hold him. He's now 22, but I bet if he was offered a chance he'd take the same opportunity !
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on February 13, 2012, 09:25:19 pm
Otis is the tiny Indian Scops owl isn't he?
I had no idea he was over 13 years old... he looks like a little chick.

He is my idea of a perfect pet.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: TheMedz on February 13, 2012, 09:33:49 pm
Peregrine Falcon in the trees above Rofft Place today. All the other birds (crows , jackdaws etc) were going absolutely ballistic and going in packs trying to shift it away.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on February 13, 2012, 10:24:44 pm
Otis is the tiny Indian Scops owl isn't he?
I had no idea he was over 13 years old... he looks like a little chick.

He is my idea of a perfect pet.

Doves are very nice ;D 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on February 14, 2012, 04:51:13 pm
I took this photo of the Pigeon loft on the Orme but didn't notice the cat on the ground below until after I took the 1st photo.  The loft was high enough though for the Pigeons to be out of harms way.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on February 14, 2012, 05:06:07 pm
MMM-- wonder if my visitor belongs there?. I have an unusual pigeon which visits daily to see what is on offer on the bird table. He/she is white with black spots. Muldoon !!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Jack on February 14, 2012, 10:39:54 pm
Saw these gorgeous little lambs while working near Llanrwst, I think they are Balwens.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on February 15, 2012, 10:17:43 am
Spotted those on Sunday-- aren't they lovely?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on February 17, 2012, 04:25:18 pm
Carneddau Ponies above Capelulo today
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: TheMedz on February 17, 2012, 07:35:26 pm
Some of the new lambs in their flurescent thermal jackets near Bryn Pydew
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on February 23, 2012, 08:11:02 pm
Ducks basking in the sunshine of the Greenfield Valley
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on February 25, 2012, 09:26:53 am
Unusually for around here-- a Robin was merrily singing last night near the Clarence at 10.30 pm.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: snowcap on February 25, 2012, 06:36:08 pm
hope you reported it, there are people trying to sleep that time of night
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on February 25, 2012, 09:40:15 pm
What? In the Clarence?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on February 28, 2012, 06:21:47 pm
Look what I have just found on my back doorstep !
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on February 28, 2012, 07:46:03 pm
Is it alive??   ... did Frizzy bring it home?

Did its radar guidance system let it down, and it crashed into your wall? 

Can I eat it?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on February 28, 2012, 08:08:37 pm
Yes--no

possibly, although the back door is white and even with it's limited vision I would have thought that it would have seen that !

no.-- not legally.  ;D

I opened the back door and it was on the step. It was still daylight, so I followed the instructions on the web page and transferred it to a box, with water and a crumpled cloth to hide in. As I moved it it clung to my gardening glove, squeaked madly and bared it's teeth at me. Quite a nasty expression on it's face really. I had to leave my glove in the box as it was fastened to it!
I daren't leave it on the step as we get alot of cats passing through, so if it is still ok in the morning a friend of a friend knows a bat man !!! Wonder if he'll come in a batmobile???
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on February 28, 2012, 08:13:36 pm
If I had tried to help it, and it had snarled at me like that.... I would have got the shovel out and bashed its beak in!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on February 28, 2012, 08:24:05 pm
Bats haven't got beaks!  :D

No robin in the garden to help out?  :laugh:
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on February 28, 2012, 08:33:03 pm
Not after I hit it with a shovel it wouldn't! 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Paddy on February 28, 2012, 09:21:04 pm
Nemesis, you're a chuffin hero. I'm not sure how I would have reacted if I'd found it at my back door. I'd like to think the same as you but I'm not sure!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on February 29, 2012, 08:23:15 am
Thanks Paddy--it is still with us this morning, so now I have to ring the bat Conservation people when the office opens at 9am to see what to do next ! They are a protected species, so I shall have to follow their guidelines.
 Fester-- you know me better than that, the only thing that I will willingly kill are slugs.
http://www.bio.bris.ac.uk/research/bats/britishbats/batpages/commonpipi.htm (http://www.bio.bris.ac.uk/research/bats/britishbats/batpages/commonpipi.htm)
 Here he/she is !!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on February 29, 2012, 08:48:26 am
What have slugs done wrong?   A sitting target those poor buggers!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on February 29, 2012, 09:49:27 am
Eat my plants-- I jump on them-- at least it is quick and not as cruel as pellets. Bit messy if wearing sandles though ! ;D
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on February 29, 2012, 10:48:57 am
" Bat Man " cometh sometime today. I'll keep an eye open for a big black car ! ;D
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Yorkie on February 29, 2012, 05:19:55 pm
What have slugs done wrong?   A sitting target those poor buggers!

Some people say they are quite nice fried in a crispy tempura batter!    (After they have been cleaned of course!)      ZXZ
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on February 29, 2012, 06:17:52 pm
Hope you mean internally as well as externally Yorkie, having seen clusters of slugs eating excrement!

On another subject the gentleman from the Bat Conservation thingie has taken Batty away in a little box ! He/she was still squeaking and baring it's teeth !
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Yorkie on February 29, 2012, 07:06:13 pm
I love snails cooked in the shell with garlic butter and they have a period of "cleaning out" before being fit for consumption so I suppose slugs would have the same treatment!

The Recipe for SLUGS: Deep-Fried Slugs and Green Tomatoes

Look at the slugs before you kill them. Say "poor slugs", and "I'm sorry, but I hope you taste yummy." Then pick off any large pieces of dirt.

Drop slugs into a bowl with ½ vinegar, ½ hot water. Soak for 10 minutes or so to kill them and remove slime.

Rinse, then boil for about 3 minutes; change water.

Rinse, and boil again, until they stop producing slime. Stir well to separate slime from slugs, then rinse thoroughly. Slit along ventral side of each slug, being careful not to slice the organs, inside, and pull out the digestive gland (in posterior of slug), and any other organs that come out easily.

Turn slug inside out, cut a small slice into the inside of the mantle and slip out the shell. (I am sure we could eat this, but in the interest of education we took them out to examine.)
Show your amazing gutted slug to Pappa:

 Rinse slugs again, cut into bite-sized pieces, and bread. We used eggs, and cornflour with a bit of salt, cumin, savoury, and garlic mixed in. We breaded halved green cherry tomatoes in the same way.

Deep-fry, until nice and brown!   Then Eat!

They are like a cross between chicken and calamari. A bit like escargot!   Certainly they are delicious, and the combination with green tomatoes is lovely!

 ZXZ   ZXZ
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on February 29, 2012, 07:27:36 pm
 :o  thank goodness I'm vegetarian  8)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on February 29, 2012, 07:29:24 pm
''having seen clusters of slugs eating excrement!''




That reminds me of being in Weatherspoons at breakfast time!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on February 29, 2012, 10:00:39 pm
I love snails cooked in the shell with garlic butter and they have a period of "cleaning out" before being fit for consumption so I suppose slugs would have the same treatment!

The Recipe for SLUGS: Deep-Fried Slugs and Green Tomatoes

Look at the slugs before you kill them. Say "poor slugs", and "I'm sorry, but I hope you taste yummy." Then pick off any large pieces of dirt.

Drop slugs into a bowl with ½ vinegar, ½ hot water. Soak for 10 minutes or so to kill them and remove slime.

Rinse, then boil for about 3 minutes; change water.

Rinse, and boil again, until they stop producing slime. Stir well to separate slime from slugs, then rinse thoroughly. Slit along ventral side of each slug, being careful not to slice the organs, inside, and pull out the digestive gland (in posterior of slug), and any other organs that come out easily.

Turn slug inside out, cut a small slice into the inside of the mantle and slip out the shell. (I am sure we could eat this, but in the interest of education we took them out to examine.)
Show your amazing gutted slug to Pappa:

 Rinse slugs again, cut into bite-sized pieces, and bread. We used eggs, and cornflour with a bit of salt, cumin, savoury, and garlic mixed in. We breaded halved green cherry tomatoes in the same way.

Deep-fry, until nice and brown!   Then Eat!

They are like a cross between chicken and calamari. A bit like escargot!   Certainly they are delicious, and the combination with green tomatoes is lovely!

 ZXZ   ZXZ

(http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-sick006.gif) (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on March 01, 2012, 10:11:19 am
OMG I think that I had better apply for a job within the WWF !
This morning I was driving down past the back of the old Rectory Tea gardens after walking the dog along the track past the Roman Well when I had to slam the brakes on to avoid a large toad.
Being me I stopped the car, hopped out and rescued the toad, putting him in the hedge in the direction that he was heading. Thank goodness I didn't squash him-- I would have been mortified.
Imagine he could have been heading in the direction of the old Rectory Tea Garden's pond.
Ah well-- good deed for today.
I only need a newt and I could be in the Scottish Play! _))*
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Yorkie on March 01, 2012, 06:09:32 pm
Being me I stopped the car, hopped out and rescued the toad, putting him in the hedge in the direction that he was heading. Thank goodness I didn't squash him-- I would have been mortified.


Now after all the hopping out, maybe you should have kissed him - it could have been your turn to get the Handsome Prince!     _))*
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on March 01, 2012, 08:07:20 pm
Whats the difference between squashing slugs and squashing toads, Nem?   Both slimy!   :puke2:
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on March 02, 2012, 08:22:03 am
My handsome toad wasn't slimy just cold and slightly damp.I have always been one for picking up  and rescuing things-- when I was a kid there was a mill pond fairly near where I lived and I used to torment my Auntie to death as she was petrified of frogs!
That slime from slugs is gross. Different thing altogether to frogs and toads and no before anyone says it I have never got warts from a toad !!! :o
Now hedgehogs are a different kettle of fish, they are usually hopping with fleas-- a friend had a white Maltese Terrier and it came in from the garden covered in hedgehog fleas. Guess who got the job of picking them off ?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on March 04, 2012, 06:10:59 pm
Look what I have just found on my back doorstep !

Some years ago I was in Taylor's Pub taking part in a pub quiz and when we had a half time break the landlady came up to me and said that my wife had phoned and to come home immediately as a Bat was flying around inside our house!
It had come in through the sun lounge,kitchen, and was flying around in the lounge. I managed to get it into the bedroom and closed the door and the poor little thing just flew around in circles until it was exhausted and settled on the curtains.
I caught it and released it unharmed through the window.   It wasn't a very pretty thing but its skin felt quite nice just like velvet. 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Yorkie on March 04, 2012, 06:48:18 pm
I had a company called Belfry Plant - you had to be bats to work there!   :laugh:
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on March 11, 2012, 05:05:01 pm
A friend just phoned to say that he had been  to Angel Bay today and counted 14 seals on the beach there.   I was going to go there today but didn't so I may go for a look tomorrow.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on March 12, 2012, 03:38:10 pm
It was high tide when I went to Angel Bay and there were a few seals on the beach again. According to a person I spoke to there are white pups on the beach too although I couldn't see them today. If that's correct then they will be there for a few weeks until the white coat changes colour.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on March 13, 2012, 10:43:25 pm
Hugo, thanks for photo and the seal update.  I'm hoping to get there in the next couple of days, so I hope they hang around. 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on March 14, 2012, 12:20:29 am
Here's a pair of new goat kids, probably just a couple of days old.  While they were sleeping they were safely tucked behind their mother, who was sitting just above a steep slope.  I spotted them the evening before and managed to get out early enough to get reasonably close before the kids work up but then had quite a wait before they started moving.  Aren't they sweet? 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on March 14, 2012, 08:04:20 pm
The goat kids have now progressed from sitting down and waiting while their mother feeds, to gambolling up and down the steep slopes, so they'll probably move off and rejoin one of the groups soon.  There seem to be a few kids with their mothers in the Black Gate area - you must have a lovely view of them, TheMedz. 

Hugo, very many thanks for the seal report.  A couple of friends and I went to see them today and were so pleased to see 15 adult seals on the beach, no pups, though.  I think that my photo of the seals looks pretty much like yours but I'm sure that someone with a good zoom lens could get some super pictures - the seals were just lazing around practically asking to be photographed. 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on March 14, 2012, 08:30:40 pm
I'm glad that you were able to see the Seals Blodwyn.  I was there mid afternoon today and they were all in the same spot as on your photo.
My camera only does four and a half zoom so it's not much good for taking photos from that distance but I had my binoculars with me so it was nice to see them close up.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: TheMedz on March 14, 2012, 09:53:32 pm
Blodyn - you are right the Kids are a constant pleasure at the moment and the getting such a close up view from the garden and side windows is amazing. We too went to angel Bay today (early afternoon) to view the seals and I couldn't believe what an audience they are getting currently. Not sure if these photos are any improvement on those shown so far but here goes.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: TheMedz on March 14, 2012, 09:55:01 pm
another. Looking at the position on that last one and yours we must have been there at around the same time.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on March 14, 2012, 10:34:45 pm
another. Looking at the position on that last one and yours we must have been there at around the same time.

Looking at your first photo Metz I can count 14 seals in it, the same as the number I saw today at about 3.00pm.  We all must have been there around the same time!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Ian on March 15, 2012, 07:23:56 am
We were there at about 1020, when there seemed to be about seven or eight that we could see. I got down about half-way to the beach, but I'd left my camera - which has a 35x optical zoom - at home, unfortunately...
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on March 15, 2012, 10:40:54 am
The seals were certainly popular yesterday! 

I can't have missed you by much, TheMedz, as you say our photos are very similar (except that yours are better than mine - thanks for posting them).  My friends and I particularly liked the seal which was using a rock as a pillow.  Like Hugo, we all had a good look at them through binoculars. 

Ian, what a shame you didn't have your camera.  I hope you remember it if you go back there, you'd get some fantastic shots with that lens. 

"My" goats have been joined by another nanny with a single young kid but it's definitely a binoculars job to watch them, I haven't got a ringside view like TheMedz.  I wonder whether goats return to the same area to give birth?  Last year two nannies had their kids just here, too.  Did any of you watch Country File this week?  They had an item from Buttercups Goat Sanctuary in Kent, testing a goat's memory - which seems to be pretty good.  (One of my cousins is a volunteer at Buttercups and we saw him briefly!)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on March 15, 2012, 06:13:27 pm
I was busy repairing the damage a Badger made to my back garden last night when I noticed that a Crow was looking for nesting material so I put a lot of our dog's combings on the ground and in no time it had gone. I did this three times and it all disappeared quickly and it was so comical to watch them flying over to the woods with masses of wool in their beaks. 
At least they'll have warm nests thanks to Marco!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Ian on March 16, 2012, 07:22:20 am
Saw the seals yesterday, and this time we had the camera...
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on March 16, 2012, 10:03:56 am
Ian, that certainly is a fantastic shot, thank you so much.  The seals look very contented! 

Hugo, how nice of you to give the crows fur linings for their nests.  Is the badger a regular visitor? 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on March 16, 2012, 10:51:35 am
Great photos Ian and nice to see so many Seals about in that area.  I wish I could take photos like yours and Blodyn's.

Blodyn, the Badgers come every night but we don't see them in the Winter time as we are in the front of the house then.  In the warmer weather we spent the time in the sunlounge at the back of the house and that's when we see them.  The most we have seen at once is 3 Badgers and one time a female Badger brought her two cubs with her and that was a lovely sight to see as they were in the garden for ages.
They make a funny noise and we could hear them the other night and think that there may be more cubs about.   I haven't taken any photos of the Crows this year but here's a couple from last year.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Ian on March 16, 2012, 11:28:12 am
Quote
I wish I could take photos like yours and Blodyn's.

Thanks, Hugo, but really it's all down to the camera. It's the SX30 IS, which has the 35x optical zoom and a pretty good image stabilizer, when shooting. You can pick them up for about £280.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DaveR on March 16, 2012, 11:31:55 am
Thanks, Hugo, but really it's all down to the camera. It's the SX30 IS, which has the 35x optical zoom and a pretty good image stabilizer, when shooting. You can pick them up for about £280.
Yes, it's not bad...for a Canon.  :twoface:
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on March 16, 2012, 12:12:40 pm
 :laugh: now I wonder what is DaveR's favourite brand of camera? ....
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Ian on March 16, 2012, 02:19:14 pm
Quote
Yes, it's not bad...for a Canon.  :twoface:


 $cofffee$

Not sure where the 'envy' smiley is....   _))* _))* _))*
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DaveR on March 16, 2012, 02:28:21 pm
I've used both Canon and Nikon extensively....and Nikon are far better, in my experience.  :P  8)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Ian on March 16, 2012, 02:31:58 pm
Quote
I've used both Canon and Nikon extensively....and Nikon are far better, in my experience.  :P  8)

That's strange;  so have I - except I reached a different conclusion...  _))* _))* _))*
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SDQ on March 16, 2012, 02:48:09 pm
There's only one way to decide this...
FIGHT!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DaveR on March 16, 2012, 03:28:14 pm
Quote
I've used both Canon and Nikon extensively....and Nikon are far better, in my experience.  :P  8)

That's strange;  so have I - except I reached a different conclusion...  _))* _))* _))*
Really? I don't recall seeing many photos from you on the Forum?  :-X WWW
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Ian on March 16, 2012, 05:13:00 pm
Quote
Really? I don't recall seeing many photos from you on the Forum?  :-X WWW

But who taught you all you know about photography?  :twoface: :twoface: :twoface:
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on March 16, 2012, 11:22:34 pm
I'll leave Ian and DaveR to argue over photography ...

Hugo, you are lucky to be able to watch badgers from the comfort of your sun lounge and I hope you see some cubs again this year.  I used to do a bit of badger watching when I was a student in Nottinghamshire.  My landlord had a couple of setts on his estate and I so I would set out before dusk, climb a tree above one of the setts and wait for the badgers to appear.  Badger baiting was a problem in some areas and one of our lecturers was a member of a badger protection group, who would sit up all night guarding badgers' setts. 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on March 19, 2012, 05:02:37 pm
Blodyn, a few years ago a party of 15 of us led by the Great Orme Warden did a Badger, Bat and Moth watch in the woods near where I live.  We went into the Woods just before dusk and sat quietly for about an hour waiting for the Badgers to come out of their setts.   They emerged from their setts and then disappeared into the night but it was a lovely experience seeing them there.
We then did a Bat and Moth watch which was also very good and then went home.  The whole time took us 3 hours and I wouldn't have missed it for anything.
When I got home however, I told my wife all about it and then she told me .... that from the comfort of her armchair she had seen the Badgers in the garden while the Bats flew overhead and the Moths flew  around the security light.
At least it wasn't raining when I was in the woods thank goodness!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on March 19, 2012, 06:50:14 pm
Hugo, what a lovely story!  :)

I've told several people about the seals at Angel Bay, so I hope that they've all seen some seals.  Some of my family saw four seals yesterday afternoon and seemed quite happy with that. 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Jack on March 19, 2012, 08:04:07 pm
There were 15 seals hauled up on the beach this afternoon and a little out in the sea, on a rock was a tiny little pup all on its own.  Lots of people watching from the top and everyone obeying what looks like quite a new sign asking for the seals not to be disturbed.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on March 19, 2012, 09:16:38 pm
There were people staring over the wall into the yard of the house opposite, and I was intrigued to know what they were looking at.
When I got there, I could see this Sparrowhawk (below), had taken down a Jackdaw and was preparing to eat it.

Merddin Emrys might want to switch to another channel!

The interesting thing was, that it was painstakingly stripping the Jackdaw of its feathers first.
It was making an incredible mess with the feathers blowing around.
The sparrowhawk completely ignored the humans only four feet or so away. It was going to have its reward no matter what.

Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Barbiroli on March 19, 2012, 09:21:35 pm
I think the `sparowhawk` is actually a peregrine falcon.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on March 19, 2012, 09:26:34 pm
Hi Barbs!
Long time no see..

I'm no expert but my bird book shows Peregrine's as having black eyes, and Sparrowhawks have the big yellow 'owl-type' eyes, like the greedy little fellow I captured.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Barbiroli on March 19, 2012, 09:33:45 pm
 :(   I did say `think,`   I know both look simmilar. Sorry.   
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: TheMedz on March 19, 2012, 09:44:18 pm
This chap is a regular visit to our back garden. It sits on the tree just beyond Rofft Place waiting and then pounces. As you said Fester Merddin Emrys might want to look away now because it has really nasty habit of "taking out" the pigeons from next doors roof and then, whether we are in the garden or not,  finishing them off on the ground in the garden.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DaveR on March 19, 2012, 09:59:01 pm
It's a female Sparrowhawk, I think.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on March 19, 2012, 10:12:24 pm
 :o yes, I'm no fan of sparrow hawks of peregrine falcons, in fact at the last house I twice saved pigeons from sparrow hawks. I had to make sure that Wibble (a retired racing pigeon) who is on the next chair to me didn't see the picture!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: TheMedz on March 19, 2012, 11:41:11 pm
Sorry Dave and Wibble. This chap/lady (delete as appropriate) is a regular visitor to our back garden. He/She sits on the tree just beyond Rofft Place waiting and then pounces. As you said Fester Merddin Emrys might want to look away now because he/she has really nasty habit of "taking out" the pigeons from next door's roof and then, whether we are in the garden or not,  finishing them off on the ground in the garden.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on March 23, 2012, 10:21:12 am
There have been bumblebee queens about for a couple of weeks, but this is the first one who's stayed still long enough for me to get a picture.  I'm pretty sure she's a buff tailed bumblebee, rather than a white tailed but she zoomed off again before I could get a better look. 

The queens are coming out of hibernation now and they are the only bumblebees to survive the winter, so each queen represents a potential new colony.  As well as finding food for herself, the queen will be looking for somewhere to start her nest.  If you see a bumblebee flying backwards and forwards over the ground and stopping to crawl about for a bit, she's investigating potential nest sites. 

Flowers which provide pollen and nectar at this time of year are important for the queens' survival - and even dandelions can be useful.  The red tailed bumblebees, in particular, will use dandelions when there aren't many other flowers about, so I always leave a few for them. 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on April 05, 2012, 02:41:19 pm
Oh no !--- but it had gone on my return!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on April 08, 2012, 07:58:21 pm
The Ospreys are back in Glaslyn according to a report on 22nd March 2012

The female Osprey returned to her nest near Pont Croesor, Porthmadog for the ninth year running on Tuesday, where she met her partner of 9 years who’d arrived two days earlier.

The ospreys spend every winter in West Africa and travel thousands of miles to return to Glaslyn every year to breed and raise their chicks. Last year they broke the record for the earliest date ever for Ospreys to lay and hatch a chick in the UK, and this year the female has arrived on exactly the same date! Who knows, they may go on to break those records again this year!
 
You can follow the Ospreys’ progress from the visitor viewing site. It’s free of charge and open from 10am-4pm this week and from 10am-6pm from next week until the end of August. Telescopes and a live video link to the nest are already in place, so click here for flap-by-flap footage of the osprey family online.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on April 11, 2012, 05:12:07 pm
Here I go again!
This little blighter was just starting his work in my garden shed.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on April 11, 2012, 07:13:47 pm
Lucky you found that in time! A couple of weeks ago we were getting two a day in the conservatory!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: martin on April 11, 2012, 08:05:05 pm
Could anybody tell me where Angel Bay is please?  We would love to see the seals.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on April 11, 2012, 08:13:46 pm
It's in Penrhyn Bay, at the foot of the Little Orme, at the far end of the Penrhyn Beach estate behind the Co op.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: martin on April 11, 2012, 08:15:43 pm
Thank you, I appreciate the information.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on April 11, 2012, 08:20:23 pm
Martin,  Angel Bay is in Penrhyn Bay and is on the eastern part of the Little Orme.    It is best approached from the housing estate of Penrhyn Beach (where the Co-op store is ) and make your way to the end of the Penrhyn Beach East road and go to the cul du sac at the far end of the street.
You'll find some concrete steps there so go up them and at the top turn right.  The path is clear, flat and Angel Bay is at the end of that path, it's an easy 10 minute walk to get there.   Hope there are many seals for you to see.

If you have a sat nav or want to check it on Google put in the Post Code LL30 3RW and you will see it.

Just realised that ME has given you the info.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: martin on April 11, 2012, 08:31:54 pm
Thanks to both of you, and thank you Hugo for the directions.  It's funny, that we were in that road today, had seen the posh houses overlooking the sea on Google Street View, and wanted to see them for real.  I imagine they will cost a few bob.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on April 11, 2012, 10:33:51 pm
I nearly purchased a plot of land on the cliff edge in that street but backed out at the last minute when I read the soil report. There were serious erosion issues but someone has built on that plot since so good luck to them.
The most seals I have seen there at one time have been 27 but one guy I spoke to reckons to have seen about 40!    There have also been rare sightings of Basking Sharks too so I hope that you see something when you go.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: martin on April 12, 2012, 04:13:16 pm
Hugo, is there any particular time they are more likely to be there, high or low tide for example? 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: martin on April 12, 2012, 05:36:14 pm
Went there this afternoon, what a lovely place the Little Orme is, no seals though, but what there was, were five or six shouting children, halfway down to the cove, so if there had been any seals, they had decided to leave. 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: martin on April 12, 2012, 08:16:54 pm
Something of note that we did see on the cliff immediately facing you as you walk along the path, was several pairs of nesting Fulmars high on the cliff face.  They draw attention to themselves by the chattering calls they make to each other, I expect it will be into May before they lay their eggs.  So, seeing these birds was something of a reward having missed out on the seals.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on April 12, 2012, 11:01:01 pm
Here I go again!
This little blighter was just starting his work in my garden shed.

Nemesis, I think "he" is a "she"!

Martin, sorry you didn't see the seals but I'm glad that you enjoyed your visit to the Little Orme anyway. 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on April 13, 2012, 11:12:36 am
Here I go again!
This little blighter was just starting his work in my garden shed.

Nemesis, I think "he" is a "she"!

Martin, sorry you didn't see the seals but I'm glad that you enjoyed your visit to the Little Orme anyway.

Oooops sorry Blodyn-- still don't want her in my shed-- too expensive to get rid of !!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on April 14, 2012, 06:00:48 pm
We have got herons nesting in the tops of the trees near us. They make a real racket if you walk past.
There are loads of bits of pale blue egg shells lying on the floor. We are hoping that they just throw the pieces out of the nest when the young ones are hatched.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Bellringer on April 21, 2012, 11:42:25 am
My wife was given a couple of weeks ago, a bird feeder and a bag of niger seed specially for finches. We hung it in our monkey puzzle tree along with the two ordinary feeders we have there and to her great delight, the finches have found it after about a week. Apart from chaffinches and green finches, it has attracted goldfinches which are especially delightful to see as the markings of the male are exquisite.

Can't get her away from the lounge window now!!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on April 23, 2012, 01:32:27 pm
I found a snail in my bedroom yesterday!!!  :o :o :o

I can only think that it hitched a lift on a bag which I took to the allotment!

Bellringer, the finches sound lovely.  I did see a single goldfinch in my garden the other day, so I wonder whether some niger seeds would tempt it back to join my two sparrows, two bluetits and one blackbird?  I also get some visits from a very smart pair of woodpigeons, which ME would like. 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on April 23, 2012, 04:17:30 pm
What do you grow on your allotment Blodyn?
Is it an allotment with a view?!!!!!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on April 26, 2012, 01:57:02 pm
Yes, Hollins, it is actually an allotment with a view!  I'll say a bit more about it under the gardening thread. 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on April 26, 2012, 03:41:24 pm
I found a snail in my bedroom yesterday!!!  :o :o :o

I can only think that it hitched a lift on a bag which I took to the allotment!

Bellringer, the finches sound lovely.  I did see a single goldfinch in my garden the other day, so I wonder whether some niger seeds would tempt it back to join my two sparrows, two bluetits and one blackbird?  I also get some visits from a very smart pair of woodpigeons, which ME would like.

Yes, I do love wood pigeons, we have a few here and rooks too! Plus all of the usual birds D)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Bellringer on May 01, 2012, 10:27:45 am
My wife's attention was drawn this morning to a tremendous racket going on outside the house. Dozens of jackdaws, crows and gulls all dive bombing and attacking something on the ground. The object of their aggression was this young tawny owl.

The owl is now in our garden shed awaiting advice as to what is best to do with it.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DaveR on May 01, 2012, 10:32:46 am
Have you given these people a ring, Stan? They deal with Owls on a daily basis.
http://www.northwalesbirdtrust.co.uk/ (http://www.northwalesbirdtrust.co.uk/)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Bellringer on May 01, 2012, 01:32:44 pm
Thank you Dave, I am waiting for a call back from them.

The youngster seems quite perky despite its ordeal but I don't think it's at the competent flying stage yet.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on May 01, 2012, 03:57:19 pm
It's a good job that you were able to rescue it as it looks a lovely bird.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Bellringer on May 01, 2012, 05:31:34 pm
An RSPCA inspector has just been and given it the 'once over'. It seems to have recovered from its ordeal and he decided to leave the shed door open and see what happened. It promptly flew out and away as if nothing had happened, so presumably the rest must have been all it needed. Good result.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on May 01, 2012, 09:12:53 pm
That's good news, I'm glad there was a happy ending. 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on May 01, 2012, 11:37:16 pm
I would imagine that he realised that he was at the wrong Forum member's house... and he has now flown to Rhos to move in with Merddin!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on May 02, 2012, 10:50:09 am
Cute though he is, my pigeons and Fluff the dove would not be too keen! ;D
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on May 04, 2012, 03:13:58 pm
For the last few days we have enjoyed watching a male and female Greater Spotted Woodpecker taking it in turns to come to our garden and feed on the peanuts and fatballs.
They must be nesting in the nearby woods as we heard Woodpeckers  tapping on the trees a couple of months ago.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Yorkie on May 04, 2012, 06:43:06 pm
. . . . . . . we heard Woodpeckers  tapping on the trees a couple of months ago.

Nah!  That was the local natives calling each other on their mobile logs!     L0L

Probably a trunk call!      _))*
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: TheMedz on May 05, 2012, 02:10:07 pm
A pair of goldfinches have been setting up a nest about a foot away from our dining room window. Fabulous just watching them at work.

Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on May 05, 2012, 02:52:36 pm
You're very lucky to see those birds in your garden and especially nesting there.        $good$
 Bellringer posted something about Goldfinches previously so today I've just bought some Nyger seeds and a special feeder and hope that the smaller birds will be attracted to them.
A friend of mine lives in Tyn Y Coed Road and he had nearly a dozen Long Tailed Tits visit his bird table but I don't think that any have nested there.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: TheMedz on May 05, 2012, 03:14:53 pm
It's the second year running we've had a Goldfinch nest in the back garden although this time it's round the side of the house not in the middle of the back garden. They seem to be nesting  earlier this year. 3 chicks reared and away around August last year, so here's hoping. Funnily enough I've had a bird nesting box under the eaves since we came here and not one bird has been near it.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: TheMedz on May 07, 2012, 12:06:09 pm
Sitting on the nest looks like laying might be imminent.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on May 07, 2012, 11:46:57 pm
Your goldfinches look lovely, you are lucky to have them so close.  I do hope that they are successful in raising their family - I hope you'll keep us posted. 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Jack on May 08, 2012, 09:16:11 pm
While walking above the Conwy Valley on Sunday I heard and saw my first cuckoo of the year.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on May 09, 2012, 01:37:52 pm
There were 6 eggs originally in this Raven's nest on Llanddwyn Island but there are only 3 chicks there now.
The horses were grazing on the Warren in Newborough and the Swan was on her nest by the lake in Llanfairfechan
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on May 09, 2012, 10:01:15 pm
That's a lovely range of wildlife, Hugo. 

Jack, it's nice to see the photo of a cuckoo.  I used to hear them regularly when I lived for a while in South Yorkshire and then in Lincolnshire but there don't seem to be any close to me now.  I've seen a cuckoo only twice, while I was in Lincolnshire.  The first one flew low over my garden and said "cuckoo" as it went past, so that even I couldn't fail to recognise it.  :) The second one (stop reading here if you are a birdlover of a sensitive disposition) was dead on my kitchen floor and about to be devoured by my cat.  :(
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on May 10, 2012, 12:08:38 pm
I am hopeless on birds but I think we have pigeons making a nest in these bushes outside the kitchen window. They have been flying in all morning with twigs almost as big as themselves. I've not been quick enough to get a photo of one flying in but here is a blurred one of one of them flying out.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on May 10, 2012, 12:26:19 pm
It certainly looks like a Pigeon Hollins but I'm sure ME will tell us if it isn't.   It's unusual though for one to be nesting so near the ground in bushes where they are vulnerable to predators
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on May 19, 2012, 10:50:45 am
My wife was given a couple of weeks ago, a bird feeder and a bag of niger seed specially for finches. We hung it in our monkey puzzle tree along with the two ordinary feeders we have there and to her great delight, the finches have found it after about a week. Apart from chaffinches and green finches, it has attracted goldfinches which are especially delightful to see as the markings of the male are exquisite.

Bellringer, I bought some nyger seeds and a nyger bird feeder after you posted this but no birds  have visited the feeder.  I've put down fat balls,peanuts,meal worms and birdseed and they have all gone but I've still got a birdfeeder full of the small nyger seeds.
The feeder for the nyger seeds has an opening of only about a quarter of an inch and I was wondering if your feeder was the same.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on May 19, 2012, 10:59:06 am
It certainly looks like a Pigeon Hollins but I'm sure ME will tell us if it isn't.   It's unusual though for one to be nesting so near the ground in bushes where they are vulnerable to predators

I didn't see this until now! That's a wood pigeon, keep an eye out for cats, sparrow hawks, magpies etc, powerful flyers wood pigeons!  D)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on May 19, 2012, 11:41:48 am
Yes, a bit too powerful for their own good. We have a big white bird shape with wings outstretched on the glass of the kitchen window. We can't find any casualties so it must have recovered.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Bellringer on May 19, 2012, 12:21:08 pm

Bellringer, I bought some nyger seeds and a nyger bird feeder after you posted this but no birds  have visited the feeder.  I've put down fat balls,peanuts,meal worms and birdseed and they have all gone but I've still got a birdfeeder full of the small nyger seeds.
The feeder for the nyger seeds has an opening of only about a quarter of an inch and I was wondering if your feeder was the same.
[/quote]


Hello Hugo. It took several days before we had much activity and then it seemed there were all types of finches around it. However it has quietened off but there are still a few 'regulars'. And yes the feeding holes are really quite small but the seeds do go.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: 1_rob_1 on May 19, 2012, 10:15:26 pm
Definitely wood pigeon - they dont normally nest so low though.
Merddin Emrys - I take it you keep pigeons too. What area are you from, what type do you keep & do you lose a lot to peregrines. + what other birds of prey do you have probs with in the area?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on May 19, 2012, 10:43:39 pm
Hi Rob,
           It's an unusual story with me and pigeons! It started some years ago with finding a young wood pigeon that had fallen from a nest by a main road, in Oxfordshire. We hand fed him/her with success then a second one! Last year in Penrhyn Bay local pigeons adopted me, then pigeons needing a home turned up, one who wobbles, can fly but likes being indoors! Two others who cannot fly also are with us! And a dove! How they come to us I do not know? But we love them! I've witnessed 3 sparrow hawk attacks and every time we were able to save the pigeons (visitors twice, once one that can't fly) great birds, amazing how bright they are when you get to know them!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on May 20, 2012, 10:28:08 am
Not sure if this is good or bad news but there is a broken egg shell on the grass near the bushes where I suspect the pigeons are nesting. Does this look like a pigeon's egg?
They are definitely still there because when I went to take this photo one of them quickly flew out. They appear to be coming from the rhododendron bushes which go quite high above the lower bushes.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: 1_rob_1 on May 20, 2012, 04:04:21 pm
Merddin Emrys - So yours is the home for all the strays. Pigeons are very intelligent, but are ruled by their stomachs, if there is food available they will be there. I keep tipplers (no they dont drink a lot). They are endurance flyers & can fly non stop for 20 hours + .   They are trained not to land until I call them in for food.

hollins - Yes it does look like a wood pigeon egg. They are white & about 1 1/2 inches long. They lay 2 eggs so they may still have 1 left.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on May 20, 2012, 04:35:13 pm
Thanks Rob for that info. The broken egg is exactly as you describe.
Here is another regular and amusing visitor!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on May 20, 2012, 05:43:04 pm
You're very lucky to have a regular visitor like that Hollins as they are such a beautiful bird.  We have only ever had one here once and that was many years ago.
We did have a Corncrake in the garden around about the same time and at first I thought it was a small chicken running down the garden. It wasn't until the cat brought it in to the sun lounge that we could identify it properly.   It wasn't harmed at all but obviously would have been in shock so we kept it safe until it fully recovered and released it in a cornfield near our house and it just ran off very quickly.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Michael on May 20, 2012, 09:04:15 pm
First time in my life I have ever asked a question about wildlife.
I like wildlife, but I know nothing about it.
But, your post, are you saying your cat brought in a wild bird, more or less in one piece?
Before I read your post I would have bet a pound to a penny that that was impossible. Mike
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on May 20, 2012, 10:25:35 pm
Believe me Mike, there wasn't a scratch on the Corncrake and the cat even brought it in through the cat flap.   I checked the bird thoroughly and there was no mark on it or any damaged feathers or otherwise I'd have gone straight to the RSPCA.
We kept it in a cage until we could identify it and make sure that it had fully recovered.  This took about 3 hours but when I released it in the cornfield it ran off like the clatters so I knew it was going to be ok.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: TheMedz on May 20, 2012, 11:02:11 pm
Our cat is eight years old and for the first time ever this evening brought us in a present from the garden. A lovely little mouse and as with your Corncrake, Hugo, it was totally unharmed. That is more than can be said for my back after trying to move the chest of drawers in the dining room (without removing all the plates bowls etc ) to try and catch the furry little creature (mouse not cat) that had run underneath. Happy ending. Mouse finally caught and dispatched into the long grass across the road from us.

Our previous cats were somewhat more prolific including bringing in alive and flapping through the cat door  two of the neighbours prized Koi carp, dropping them at my feet  and demanding that they be cooked while they were still fresh.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on May 21, 2012, 08:43:07 am
Aaaaagh--when my daughter was pregnant with her first, many moons ago, she was very nauseous, especially when her cat presented her with a live earthworm every morning! :-X
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: sam on May 21, 2012, 02:58:18 pm
My nain told me that when she was a child the family cat used to catch a mouse every day, bring it to the doorstep where my nains mother would pick it up, pop it in a saucepan, boil it up and give it to the cat for tea! :o
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on May 23, 2012, 10:53:41 am
This is Mr Pink who was once wild but came to us nearly a year ago with a wing problem, he's very happy here!

(http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i331/penrhynpigeons/DSCN1568.jpg)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on May 23, 2012, 06:49:25 pm
a different kind of wildlife, blackfly! the ants look after them as farmers look after their animals!

(http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i331/penrhynpigeons/DSCN1577.jpg)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on May 23, 2012, 08:39:53 pm
Mr Pink doesn't look quite so pink anymore.

But, he looks a darn sight happier and healthier than when my wife brought him to you, injured, and in a box!

Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on May 23, 2012, 09:09:24 pm
It was good that you rescued him. He has a life of luxury here (by pigeon standards!)  D)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on May 23, 2012, 09:11:27 pm
If re-incarnation exists, then I am coming back as a pigeon.... I shall feign injury, and move in with YOU!

Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DaveR on May 23, 2012, 09:31:42 pm
If re-incarnation exists, then I am coming back as a pigeon.... I shall feign injury, and move in with YOU!
Make sure that you're not the one I saw squashed on the road today, can't remember where.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: TheMedz on June 02, 2012, 10:34:36 am
The pictured trapped mouse found the contents of bird feeder in our garden a little bit too tempting. Maybe our cat was saving it for later. Ps the mouse was freed and taken to the field across the road at a cost of bitten fingers and a visit to the hospital  minor injuries unit for a tetanus shot.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Pendragon on June 02, 2012, 11:44:35 am
A few weeks ago we had a Robins nest out the back of the club.  Sadly we think the nest was discovered by possibly a Magpie and the four chicks were killed when they were only a couple of days old...shame.  Sorry about the picture quality.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Pendragon on June 02, 2012, 11:54:41 am
These little fellas are living in the roof of the George and Dragon, Conwy.  The mother must be a stray but she's doing a fantastic job of rearing these four little kittens.  There's a grey one that's really cute but unfortunately he was far too fast for me to take a good photo.  They all come out occasionally and play on the roof while mum goes looking for food.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on June 02, 2012, 08:35:20 pm
Medz and Pendragon, what amazing and interesting photos!
You will both be on some wildlife watching programme soon.

Also loved reading about your fabulous walk Pendragon, well done.
My favourite is walking by the coast.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Bellringer on June 02, 2012, 08:47:10 pm
We have had two robins' nests this time and sadly both have perished. One before the eggs had hatched 2/3 weeks ago, and the other just after the youngsters had hatched. In the latter case my wife found the bits and pieces in another part of the garden so another bird or something had obviously had them within a couple of days hatching. Nature can appear very cruel at times.

According to "Spring Watch", magpies should not take all the blame as woodpeckers are also very predatory and account for a high percentage of young bird casualties.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: TheMedz on June 04, 2012, 12:36:10 pm
2 of the 3 fledgling goldfinches in the the tree at the side of the house almost ready to go.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on June 04, 2012, 02:09:20 pm
A bee for Blodyn!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: martin on June 07, 2012, 08:11:02 pm
Spiders after the rain.  Having ventured out into the garden during a lull in the rain, I noticed a nest of baby spiders, each one not as large as a pin head, the scale is shown by the water droplets caught in the web.  I expect they will either make a tasty snack for a Blue Tit, or grow and play havoc with the local fly population.  The camera  have is not all that fantastic, just a fixed lens type, so on macro, the depth of field is very limited, hence the out of focus periphery of the ball of spiders.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on June 07, 2012, 08:12:19 pm
Walking from Amlwch Port to Point Lynas we saw our first Dolphin of the season. It was on it's own after fish and although it didn't leap out of the water when it surfaced we could see that it was too large to be a porpoise so we presume that it was a Bottlenosed Dolphin.
Further on we met a couple who had been watching a pod of Dolphins hunting for fish and they had been swimming in a circle so as to trap the fish in the middle.
By the time we got to the spot where they had seen them Jet skis had arrived and scared the Dolphins away.     :(
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: martin on June 07, 2012, 08:14:38 pm
WHAT!  It has censored the second word of the bird known as a Blue (something that rhymes with PIT), how daft can you get?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on June 07, 2012, 09:02:15 pm
Bluetit?.  :)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: martin on June 07, 2012, 09:31:14 pm
Ah, that's how it's done, thanks ME.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DaveR on June 07, 2012, 10:13:08 pm
WHAT!  It has censored the second word of the bird known as a Blue (something that rhymes with PIT), how daft can you get?
What's daft about it? The software can't distinguish between me talking about a bird or just calling you a tit, can it?  :laugh:
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on June 07, 2012, 11:16:58 pm
Or even a CHUFF!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Paddy on June 08, 2012, 11:21:43 am
Spiders after the rain.  Having ventured out into the garden during a lull in the rain, I noticed a nest of baby spiders, each one not as large as a pin head, the scale is shown by the water droplets caught in the web.  I expect they will either make a tasty snack for a Blue ***, or grow and play havoc with the local fly population.  The camera  have is not all that fantastic, just a fixed lens type, so on macro, the depth of field is very limited, hence the out of focus periphery of the ball of spiders.

Great pic Martin. I think the lack of depth actually helps it.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on June 08, 2012, 04:48:31 pm
Our resident game bird does a funny thing. He stands on the wall on one leg!
At first I thought he only had one leg but no, he hops off and the missing leg appears and he trots around quite normally.
Hope you can see what I mean from this heavily cropped photo.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on June 08, 2012, 05:10:14 pm
Normal for birds, they seem to need to rest a leg, mind you we do have a visiting pigeon with one leg  :)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on June 09, 2012, 03:25:24 pm
There were only two seals in the water at Angel Bay when we walked over the Little Orme today and I reckon that we must have been wetter than them.   
With the walk abandoned we went to Bodafon Farm and had a nice coffee and look at the Birds of Prey there.  Apparently though our favourite Otis the Little Owl was with some of his mates in the Victoria Centre today.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on June 16, 2012, 02:47:25 pm
Bellringer, thanks very much for the tips you gave a few weeks ago on that new bird feeder.   My feeder has been hanging up for weeks with nothing really happening but today there were two Goldfinches busily pecking away at the seeds.
Hopefully they'll now be frequent visitors to the garden.   
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Bellringer on June 16, 2012, 04:40:58 pm
Good to hear that Hugo.

I heard some one on Springwatch say that birds had not been as plentiful on bird tables and feeders in the last few weeks because they have all been busy nesting and gathering insects and caterpillars for their young. Now that young have fledged the parents have/are perhaps introducing them to feeders etc. so there should be more activity.

We also had a lull but they seem to have returned including the goldfinches - aren't they a beautiful little bird?
 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on June 16, 2012, 05:56:17 pm
They are really beautiful and I was lucky to see many of them when I had a walk above Capel Garmon recently. The Medz is lucky to have a pair nesting in his garden.
I know there are various nests in the hedges around my back garden but don't know what type of birds are nesting there as I keep away from the area where the nests are.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: TheMedz on June 16, 2012, 07:27:22 pm
The nesting pair of goldfinches and their 4 chicks have now all successfully left the nest. We had so much pleasure having such a good close view looking through the window at them building the nest and then the chicks growing up. We had another pair (could be the same pair I suppose !)  of them in a different tree in the garden last year that hatched three chicks a lot later on in the year. So you never know there could be a nest very close to you Hugo. The goldfinches this year  always worked in pairs one vociferously keeping watch sat on the phone line outside the house while the other fed the chicks. Then they would both gather on the phone line and then  fly away together for the next lot of food.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on June 20, 2012, 01:33:30 pm
http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/need_to_read/2012/06/19/rare-rose-coloured-starling-spotted-in-north-wales-55578-31214873/#.T-HBR58AW-U.email (http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/need_to_read/2012/06/19/rare-rose-coloured-starling-spotted-in-north-wales-55578-31214873/#.T-HBR58AW-U.email)

I drove past this morning and there were still a number of birdwatchers on the Marine Drive with their cameras focused on the building. Some of them had massive cameras so I didn't bother to stop and get my Canon Powershot out.      :-[
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on June 21, 2012, 11:59:23 pm
There is a baby seagull which has been on my roof for the last two days and nights.
It has emerged from the nest very prematurely, it is a fat, grey feathery chick, with no visible wings and about the size of a tennis ball.  I think it simply tumbled out of its nest in next doors chimney stack.

The mother bird stands guard about two feet away to deter predators, but that just means that she can't go and get food for it.

Its quite sad really to hear its plaintiff cries, and I expect it will either fall off my roof due to weakness or get nabbed by a cat in the next few days.

Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on June 22, 2012, 11:50:51 am
Doesn't your mate ME rescue seagulls as well as pigeons?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on June 22, 2012, 12:22:10 pm
 No, strictly pigeons and a dove, friendly creatures ;D.  The North Wales Bird Trust on Bodafon Fields may be able to help, or perhaps some food could be thrown on to the roof? Not meant to feed seagulls though??  ???
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on June 22, 2012, 01:31:16 pm
Distressed baby seagull, or no distressed baby seagull.... I ain't going outside in this weather,  it will have to take its chances.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Jack on June 22, 2012, 04:00:17 pm
Distressed baby seagull, or no distressed baby seagull.... I ain't going outside in this weather,  it will have to take its chances.

Its only a bit of Summer rain, Fester  :D  $walesflag$
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on June 22, 2012, 04:15:31 pm
Here are some photos taken of the Pink Starling that has been in the news recently.  My friend Tellytubby took the photos early in the morning before all the other snappers had arrived and he was rewarded with these pics.   
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on June 23, 2012, 06:52:34 am
Wow, great pics there of a very rare bird!  $good$
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on June 23, 2012, 10:09:28 am
Tellytubby is a very keen birdwatcher and was there at 7.00am to take those photos and they are really good.
He's taken many more good photos of birds and this week told me of a possible sighting of an Eagle in the area so watch this space.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: pentan on June 23, 2012, 12:01:05 pm
No, strictly pigeons and a dove, friendly creatures ;D.  The North Wales Bird Trust on Bodafon Fields may be able to help, or perhaps some food could be thrown on to the roof? Not meant to feed seagulls though??  ???

Why not try some crack you seem to have plenty of it spaced out birds would suit you
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on June 23, 2012, 12:51:10 pm
 ???  What??
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on June 29, 2012, 08:43:46 pm
As I've said elsewhere, I'm just catching up after not being on the Forum for a while. 

Lovely photos of the bee, Hollins; the spiders, Martin; and the pink starling by Tellytubby. 

It's good to hear of the progress of your goldfinches, TheMedz.  Next time you rescue a mouse, try picking it up by its tail.  It doesn't harm the mouse and it shouldn't be able to bite you.  However, this does not work with shrews, as a shrew held by the tail is able to climb up its own body (so to speak) and nip its rescuer. 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Pendragon on July 03, 2012, 07:29:09 pm
Saw these little fellas on the flat roof earlier.......my Dad bought me a book on birds but i don't recognise them?  It looked like mother and chicks  :D
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: 1_rob_1 on July 03, 2012, 07:38:00 pm
Blackbirds - the mother is on the right & 2 chicks to the left - - Only the male blackbird is black.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Pendragon on July 03, 2012, 07:51:04 pm
pfffft i thought they'd be more interesting than that.....
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Yorkie on July 03, 2012, 08:47:06 pm
They probably thought all those cables were oversize worms! L0L
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: snowcap on July 03, 2012, 10:15:31 pm
can,,t believe how much the young look like thrushes
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: 1_rob_1 on July 03, 2012, 10:36:23 pm
The chicks do look like song thrushes with the dark backs & speckled chest - They look nothing like blackbirds until they moult out their baby feathers.
 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Pendragon on July 04, 2012, 12:47:49 am
yep......blackbird chick  $good$ thanks
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on July 08, 2012, 12:24:59 pm
That niger feeder that I bought after hearing Bellringers story has been really good. Since the two Goldfinches started using it they have now become regular visitors and they must have nested nearby as their fledglings are using it too.
We have had Greenfinches there and the most colourful male Siskin now makes regular appearances.  In the short space of time the feeder has been refilled 3 times but it's well worth the money for the pleasure we've had watching them.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Bellringer on July 08, 2012, 04:25:00 pm
Pleased that the feeder is working out for you Hugo. We are also having a regular and nice variety of finches on our niger feeder too, as well as lots of blue tits etc on our peanut and sunflower seed feeders.

Unfortunately regular visits by those pesky squirrels too.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on July 08, 2012, 04:43:22 pm
That was a great tip of yours Bellringer and thanks again.  We have problems with Squirrels too and can have  up to 3 at a time in the garden.
Marco doesn't care too much for them so we can rely on him to scare them off when he can.  I bought a Squirrel proof peanut feeder and thought that would be ok but the little blighters managed to get the lid off. I've now wired the lid up so that feeder is safe for the birds.
I have two other nut feeders but need them for the Greater Spotted Woodpecker that comes here sometimes so with those feeders it's a case of first come first served.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on July 12, 2012, 12:54:55 am
Well, love 'em or hate 'em, (usually hate them) ... the baby seagull is still alive, and pottering about on my roof.
After several weeks.

I took a picture of it tonight but the quality was poor.
It is apparently getting fed, (according to the roofer working next door) by its Mother.

It is getting bigger, and developing.... surely it will soon be packed off to ice-cream stealing school.

In all seriousness, they have stolen from me, and are horrible to other people... but I didn't like to see a living creature suffering.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: snowcap on July 13, 2012, 12:36:04 am
if they pinch your fish chips and pea,s (£6 od) you,l soon change your mind, thieving little birds. or something like that.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on July 14, 2012, 09:10:22 am
One for Ludo maybe?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on July 14, 2012, 12:02:48 pm
Not one I shall be adding to my collection !
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Ludo on July 14, 2012, 05:46:06 pm
One for Ludo maybe?

KEEEE-HAWWW!!!! (http://soundbible.com/mp3/Herring%20Gull%202-SoundBible.com-1496174558.mp3)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: snowcap on July 14, 2012, 11:47:06 pm
that's how all gulls should be, STUFFED.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Yorkie on July 15, 2012, 09:12:22 am
Apparently they taste a lot better than Duck and have been sold as such.  Probably devoid of feathers and suitably butchered, of course!    ZXZ
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on July 15, 2012, 10:34:11 am
That is an insult to Yorkshire Pudding :P
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Yorkie on July 15, 2012, 12:04:45 pm
That is an insult to Yorkshire Pudding :P

I bet you like yours made in the meat pan with the juices dripping from the meat into the batter giving a soggy middle and a crispy outside.   Just like mi' Mum used to make!   ZXZ

And also served as an entree before the main course . . . . . .  WWW
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on July 15, 2012, 01:04:18 pm
Like my Granny made as well !

It was served before the meal to fill people up, so that they didn't eat as much meat which was either the dearer item or rationed !
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on July 16, 2012, 05:02:34 pm
My recent purchase of a Squirrel proof peanut feeder isn't Squirrel proof!   :(          First the rodents took the lid of it so I sorted that out by wiring the lid back to the feeder.
Then I noticed later that the peanuts had all gone and discovered that the little blighters had gnawed through the wire at the bottom of the feeder and all the nuts dropped out.
I'm not giving up yet though as I have filled the bottom third of the feeder with stones and will put some more nuts in tomorrow. How long that will last I just don't know!    ???
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on July 17, 2012, 03:28:21 pm
Sorry to hear you're having such trouble with the squirrels, Hugo.  My sister and brother-in-law used to have similar problems but (as I wasn't providing the food) it used be fascinating watching the squirrels working out how to beat the latest "squirrel-proof feeder. 

I don't have a problem with squirrels but have been trying some squirrel-proof feeders to deter big birds and give the little ones a chance.  They've stopped the jackdaws but the magpies with their longer beaks can still reach through the outer cage and can empty a suet ball or nut feeder in a day.  For the moment I've given up on those, which leaves the little birds with only the seed feeder.  As it's rather windy here, the feeders are all fixed securely to a wire fence, which probably helps the magpies. 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on July 17, 2012, 03:48:15 pm
I've been a bit slow in posting this but (don't look, Fester!) here's a picture of a cinnabar moth.  These will fly in the day, particularly if disturbed (e.g. while walking though long grass) as well as at night but they're usually too quick for me.  I think that this one was "grounded" by strong winds.  The caterpillars can be seen on ragwort in late summer and are a very distinctive orange with black bands. 

I've no idea what the big, hairy caterpillar is.  Does anyone have any suggestions?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Yorkie on July 17, 2012, 04:40:16 pm
Here's a Tiger Moth in flight!   ZXZ
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on July 17, 2012, 04:52:00 pm
Well, Yorkie, the caterpillar was probably big enough to grow into one of those!  ;D
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: snowcap on July 17, 2012, 09:26:03 pm
we thought the moth was a blood sucker when we were kids and would,nt go near them, all because of their colour.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on July 18, 2012, 12:17:52 am
It looks like a pretty butterfly.... therefore I am not afraid of it.

On the pier today I saw a fearfully large moth,  pottering about on the decking.
It was primarily brown, but had intricately patterned wings, and what looked like 2 'eyes' as a pattern on its wings.

I was very afraid of it.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Yorkie on July 18, 2012, 09:04:25 am
Maybe the "Eyed Hawk Moth"
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: 1_rob_1 on July 18, 2012, 02:17:17 pm
Still on the subject of moths.

Blodyn - your caterplllar in the pic. will turn into an  "Oak Eggar Moth"
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on July 19, 2012, 12:35:32 am
Maybe the "Eyed Hawk Moth"

Possibly Yorkie.... but I would like to see a picture with its wings closed to be more sure.... wasn't quite as blue or startling as that I don't think.  The 'eyes' looked brown in colour.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on July 19, 2012, 12:36:29 am
Still on the subject of moths.

Blodyn - your caterplllar in the pic. will turn into an  "Oak Eggar Moth"

Not if I have anything to do with it, it won't!   $angry1$
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on July 19, 2012, 09:09:34 am
Still on the subject of moths.

Blodyn - your caterplllar in the pic. will turn into an  "Oak Eggar Moth"

Rob, thanks so much for identifying the caterpillar.  I've now looked it up and it will obviously turn into a very handsome moth. 

Fester - leave it alone!!!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on July 19, 2012, 09:16:34 am
 _))* _))* _))* -- You tell him Blodyn !!!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: 1_rob_1 on July 19, 2012, 09:35:55 am
Caterpillars are fine, as long as they are not in your garden, they can soon "demolish" whole plants.
I find the cabbage whites the most destructive in my garden, but the resident blue tits tend to take most to feed their chicks.
So, Fester, as Blodwyn said, leave them alone - live & let live!! - they wont do you any harm. - I think you would like the elephant hawk moth caterpillars.  :o  - NOT! they are about 4" long.

Could your moth have been an Emperor? these are quite common, they can be lighter or darker than the one in the pic & when the wings are fully closed you only see 2 eyes. The pinkish mark at the end of each wing helps to identify them. The pic is of a female, which is larger & a slightly lighter brown colour than the male.

Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on July 19, 2012, 09:46:44 am
Poor Fester, you'll be giving him nightmares. great photos though!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Yorkie on July 19, 2012, 11:58:29 am
Poor Fester, you'll be giving him nightmares. great photos though!

Maybe he could do with a bit of Moth(ering)!    :D
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on July 19, 2012, 12:50:52 pm
Oh-- this cheers me up on a miserable day !! ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on July 19, 2012, 11:43:11 pm
YES!  I am certain that was the moth I saw on the pier yesterday.

Common are they?  Sorry to hear that... perhaps a little TOO common.

I would gladly leave them alone, but they wont leave ME alone...
I've seen them, crashing about in the bathroom, flying around the light, fluttering in my face, trying to give me a heart attack.

Strangely, my daughter (who lives 120 miles away) has the same phobia of moths.

I find that if one flies in your face, and you punch it, it turns to dust.... almost like a vampire in sunlight!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on July 21, 2012, 10:19:46 am
I was in the sun lounge  3 days ago when a brown bird the size of a Jackdaw flew in and then flew low across the ground before flying off.  It was flying away from me and it all happened so quickly that I couldn't identify the bird.
The next day I saw it come in from a hedge, land on the lawn and then fly off towards the house but I could see by it's beak that it was a Hawk.
It did the same thing yesterday but this time it perched on a statue by the window and my wife saw it fly to our Dovecote and then fly off with a small bird in it's mouth. It's a Sparrowhawk and although it's a natural thing to happen in nature, it is still not nice to see it happen in your own garden.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: 1_rob_1 on July 21, 2012, 11:01:52 am
I take it your dovecote is empty & there for decorative purposes.

I quite often see a  pile of feathers in my garden & know the local sparrowhawk has visited. They only kill when hungry, so if I do see one with its prey, I try not to disturb it or it will only kill again.

I keep & fly a small breed of pigeon & if they stay in the air, the sparrowhawks are not a threat, but sometimes the sparrowhawks can drive them down to the ground so that they can catch one. The female sparrowhawks are the main threat to them because they are a lot larger & more powerful than the males.
I sometimes also have a problem with peregrine falcons, - when my birds are flying high, they can be seen for miles & attract the attention of the peregrines, once they are in the area, I can almost guarantee that at least one will be taken.

I dont particularly like birds of prey because its not nice seeing my own birds get taken, but they have to survive so its a case of live & let live.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on July 21, 2012, 02:56:48 pm
Yes, the Dovecote is for decorative purposes only as we don't like to encourage the birds to nest in it because there are cats in the area and they have had chicks from other nest boxes that I have had in the garden.
We have Wood Pigeons and Collared Doves coming here regularly and about a week ago there were loads of Pigeon feathers on the ground but no dead bird so I don't know what had happened there.
At the moment I just don't know what to do about the threat of the Sparrowhawk.  We have bird feeders every where but I don't want it to be a feeding ground for the Hawk. I still want to feed the birds but at the same time I don't want to put them at risk.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on July 21, 2012, 03:54:57 pm
We have had quite a few Sparrow hawk attacks with feathers and 1/2 eaten birds on the grass in the back. Usually all the bird apart from I think it is the liver gets eaten, but the feathers are a nasty reminder.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: 1_rob_1 on July 21, 2012, 04:21:43 pm
Theres not a lot you can do about them. They are habitual birds. If they see my birds out at a particular time each day, they tend return at at around that time every day, so if I see one around, I tend to make sure my birds are in, then I vary the times when I release them. I dont like to provide the local hawk population with food. I do have to breed more birds than I want because I know that I will lose a few every year.
The only deterrent which may work for you is to buy a life size plastic bird of prey & put it in a prominent spot in your garden, because birds of prey are not very sociable with each other & they will see it as a threat. It has to be moved to different places in the garden every week or two, because they will eventually get wise to it if it doesnt move.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on July 21, 2012, 06:18:58 pm
About 3 times in the last year I've saved pigeons from the dreaded sparrow hawk! I'm not keen on them at all!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on July 21, 2012, 07:02:03 pm
I am a little unsure about the plastic bird idea! Many years ago we were advised to put a plastic owl on the roof to deter seagulls. They sit and snuggle up to the bloomin' thing !!
Once had a woman sitting on a picnic stool in the back lane with a pair of field glasses. Didn't like to say anything-----but -----
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: 1_rob_1 on July 22, 2012, 10:27:31 am
The plastic bird of prey idea can work, but for it to be effective, it has to be moved quite often or the birds it is there to deter become wise to it. (then maybe snuggle up to it & use it as a windbreak)
Personally, I have never bothered & just accept the occasional losses.

I also keep a small number of fantail pigeons. These dont fly high enough for the peregrines to catch, & the sparrowhawks leave them alone because the big tails make them look too large for them to attack. They are also too alert & fast for the local cats. - I never lose any of these to predators, so I only ever need to breed from these if someone wants some.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on July 22, 2012, 12:19:11 pm
My neighbour has a plastic Heron alongside her fish pond but the real thing just stands alongside it when it comes to eat the fish!   Perhaps I'll have to start cutting down on the food until things calm down a bit.  I won't stop feeding them but will stop topping up the feeders all the time.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on July 22, 2012, 01:33:40 pm
I have had to cut down the amount of bird food offered, as the Pigeons were hogging it all and so were the Jackdaws, who were also waking everyone up with their arguing. The little birds haven't been able to get a look in despite my 'caged' feeder. The bigger birds have got so crafty that they nudge the feeder till food drops out and then they are happy !
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on July 22, 2012, 05:57:14 pm
I have the same problem with the Pigeons and Crows and also the Squirrels but Marco's a good help as he chases the Crows and Squirrels away.
He doesn't seem to  mind the Pigeons and they only move away when he's very near to them.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on July 22, 2012, 06:20:17 pm
Frizzy shoos the pigeons, but they are sitting on the old outhose roof eating seeds from a Valerian which grows there. This bugs him as he cannot get at them !
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: 1_rob_1 on July 22, 2012, 08:33:31 pm
Ive often heard that the plastic herons dont work - the theory is that herons are quite solitary birds & feed alone  - - Im not convinced.

I have always found that the tubular clear plastic feeders with the metal cap on the top (as in pic) tend to be pretty squirrel proof, & the larger birds struggle to use them.
If you use a feeding table, then any bird will feed from it.
The only prob with the hanging feeders, is that if mixed seed is used, the feeding birds are quite fussy what seeds they eat & will flick out what they dont want, so a lot will end up on the floor - for the pigeons & other undesirables
Basically, however you feed the birds, you will always end up feeding some undesirables.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Yorkie on July 22, 2012, 09:12:35 pm
I was told by the RSPB at the Junction that the best feed for this type of feeder is sunflower hearts.  Apparently very popular with all small species of birds.   Only just started using it today so no major results yet.    :D

Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: 1_rob_1 on July 22, 2012, 09:34:14 pm
These feeders can be used for quite a few different types of seed.
You should soon see results once the birds have realised it is there.
Sunflower hearts are quite popular with the finches. Goldfinches especially, love them.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DaveR on July 23, 2012, 11:05:29 am
There was a large Heron standing in the river outside the Royal Oak Hotel in Betws Y Coed yesterday, he seems to be there quite a bit.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Yorkie on July 23, 2012, 12:22:38 pm
Must like the beer!   Z**
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on July 28, 2012, 01:36:18 pm
http://www.northwaleschronicle.co.uk/local/114770/whales-sighted-off-anglesey-coast.aspx#.UBPcUOmyMIA.email (http://www.northwaleschronicle.co.uk/local/114770/whales-sighted-off-anglesey-coast.aspx#.UBPcUOmyMIA.email)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Yorkie on August 02, 2012, 05:01:04 pm
Doing a bit of gardening today and suddenly on the raised (3 feet) a stone moved!   Not a stone I discovered but a Toad (or is it a frog?).

Popped him (or her) on a courgette leaf to take the shot.   It has now disappeared somewhere.  There is no water feature in our garden or any other garden around us, so we are wondering where it came from or what "make" it actually is.    D)

Nearest I can find is a Common Toad or Woodhouse Toad.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: 1_rob_1 on August 02, 2012, 10:07:54 pm
Looks like a common toad to me. They live on land for most of their lives & are mainly solitary. They  "get together" with numerous other toads once a year just to mate, in a pool which they use every year, then they go their separate ways again.
They only really need water to breed, so there is no point looking around for a pond in which it may live.
I couldnt tell you whether it is male or female, but when I have seen them in their masses "courting", the males are considerable smaller than the females.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on August 02, 2012, 11:41:02 pm
The Toad is great! 
It was very nice of him (or her?) to pose for you so patiently,
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: snowcap on August 03, 2012, 12:36:12 am
c.mon Yorkie you been sunbathing again?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DaveR on August 03, 2012, 08:47:15 am
I couldnt tell you whether it is male or female, but when I have seen them in their masses "courting", the males are considerable smaller than the females.
Sounds like Club 147 to me...  :laugh:
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Pendragon on August 03, 2012, 10:55:06 am
As Jj and I were locking up last night something caught my eye at first I thought it was a rat and was horrified.  I stood in the darkness and watched as the creature scurried along the wall.......that's one fat rat I thought.  On closer inspection it turned out to be a Hedgehog.  The quality of the photo isn't that good sorry.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Yorkie on August 03, 2012, 11:52:29 am
Set your camera to Autoflash.    ;)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Pendragon on August 03, 2012, 11:57:34 am
It was Yorkie, the photo was taken in the pitch black  :)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Quiggs on August 03, 2012, 06:43:25 pm
A Hedgehog scurries around our block of flats each night, also three foxes, usually about 11-00 / 11-15pm. Some of the residents have been putting food out for them, but as soon as I try to take a photo, they're off like shot.   :(
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Llechwedd on August 04, 2012, 12:11:58 pm
Saw a fox walking down St Seiriol's Road the other night.  No I hadn't had a drink.!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on August 04, 2012, 12:49:47 pm
Two in Rectory Lane regularly I am informed
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: TheMedz on August 04, 2012, 08:15:40 pm
There's a pack of about 5 or 6 roaming on the slopes of Pen Dinas and they are regular middle of the night visitors to Black Gate. I haven't seen one of them abide by the traffic lights yet?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Yorkie on August 17, 2012, 05:02:13 pm
Pigeon shooting been happening all afternoon on Dinerth!   Pigeon pie or roast, will no doubt be on someone's menu once they've hung a bit!

 $dins$
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on August 17, 2012, 05:44:07 pm
 :o :o horrifying!  :(
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: 1_rob_1 on August 17, 2012, 06:56:20 pm
Pigeon shooting!!!!!!!
DON'T DO IT!!!
Its inhumane - -  - - They may be peoples pets that are being shot.  :(
How would people like it if their pet rabbits - hamsters - cats - dogs etc. were being targeted.

Wood pigeons are often shot for sport, but there are often other (pigeon) casualties.

Pigeons shouldnt be targeted any more because of  the re-introduction of 'endangered' birds of prey. These tend to keep the wild pigeon numbers down & they also attack/kill domestic pigeons kept for pets/sport.

 So in conclusion, the more wild pigeons that are killed for sport -  the more domestic pigeons will be taken - More birds of prey will breed successfully - more domestic pigeons will be killed due to lack of natural food. - Domestic pigeon keepers will then diminish.

IDEA!!!! - send the pigeon shooters to west shore & let them shoot any dogs whose owners dont pick up their poop, & let them shoot someone else's pets.

Pigeon opinionated

Rob
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Yorkie on August 17, 2012, 07:11:03 pm
:o :o horrifying!  :(

Thought you might have that reaction!  By the way do you have turkey for Xmas?   :D
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on August 17, 2012, 07:23:33 pm
:o :o horrifying!  :(

Thought you might have that reaction!  By the way do you have turkey for Xmas?   :D

No! We have been vegetarians for many years, we also love pigeons after rescuing several in need oh help.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: 1_rob_1 on August 18, 2012, 07:59:11 am
Quote
By the way do you have turkey for Xmas?


Not this christmas - -  -  - - We had chicken.  :D
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Yorkie on August 18, 2012, 10:45:33 am
I've often fancied cooking a multi-bird roast where you have a turkey stuffed with a goose and followed by, say, duck, mallard, guinea fowl, chicken, pheasant, partridge, pigeon, woodcock, etc. up to a maximum of 9 or 10 different birds.

Apparently this was a classic dish in past times and no doubt a favourite of Mrs Beeton!

I tried the ALDI three bird roast but it didn't carve very well, but was certainly tasty.

 $drink$
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on August 18, 2012, 07:33:26 pm
That to me is like someone eating a meal made out of your friends and pets!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Yorkie on August 18, 2012, 08:32:07 pm
I suppose it must look that way to some with special dietary regimes, but most people are brought up to eat met in all it's forms.   As we know in other parts of the world, dogs are eaten as is bush-meat and even human flesh.  Despite my liking for meat I have a great love for animals but have to consider how what I eat has been bred and looked after during the creatures short life. Generally  I am quite happy with what I see and understand. 

Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: 1_rob_1 on August 18, 2012, 10:12:10 pm
My Mrs likes the 3 bird roast from Aldi. But for me, definitely not my kind of thing. 1 type of game meat, fine - if you like that kind of thing. - But mixing it - doesnt that kind of destroy the flavour?????.

I have hunted/shot numerous types of game, even wood pigeon, but only for the pan. & they all have their distinctive taste. (no they dont all taste like chicken :D)
 
I have spoken to a local game huntsman, because I worry about my birds being shot, (by him) & he has told me that he recognises my birds as domestic because they all fly & turn together, & circle the same area without breaking formation. + they are there virtually every day. So he doesnt target my birds. (very professional)
On the other hand though - everything else that moves is fair game.
Its not fair, but theres nothing that can be done. If its game, or considered a pest, then it can be hunted.
Im not totally against a lot of these hunting sports, eg. hare coursing - most hares are bred for the sport (cruel) but quite a number escape which adds to the wild population.
Fox hunting - fair enough, the fox is at the top of its food chain, & because it is so adaptable, we could soon be over-run with foxes if it wasnt for the hunters - but they should play fair, if the fox goes to ground, then the hunters should  give in to defeat, (its got away) & not start digging up its earth & sending the terriers in.

Still very opinionated (& fair to all wild beasties)

Rob
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on August 24, 2012, 10:52:10 am
There's a bumblebee nest in St.Tudno's churchyard!  I'm really excited about this as bumblebee nests can be hard to find. 

These are buff tailed bumblebees.  Buff tailed bumblebees nest in holes below ground (e.g. mouse holes) and the photo shows a bumblebee in flight just leaving the nest entrance amongst the grass (sorry it's not a good photo, I've still got only my mobile phone).  If you're visiting St. Tudno's, the nest is close to the main path through the churchyard and there's a notice close to the nest with some information on it.   

Nearly all of the bees going in and out of the nest will be female worker bees (the queen is very much bigger than the workers).  The males appear in late summer and do not gather pollen or return to the nest once they have left it, though they may hang around waiting to meet the new queens.  At night and if it is raining, the female bees stay in the nest but the males have to find other shelter, often under flowers which they use like umbrellas.  The second photo shows a male garden bumblebee elsewhere on the Orme, sheltering under a dropwort flower head. 

In the autumn, the old queen, workers and males will all die and the new queens will each search for another hole in the ground in which to hibernate.  The queens emerge again in spring and each will look for a suitable place in which to make a nest and form a new colony.

The buff tailed bumblebee is one of the more common bumblebees in the UK.  However, the numbers of all bumblebees have been declining as the number of wildflower meadows has declined,  which is one of the reasons I'm so pleased to have found a nest in the churchyard. 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: 1_rob_1 on August 24, 2012, 10:36:43 pm
I had a pair of robins nesting in a box in my garden early last year, they laid their eggs (5)  - then abandoned their nest.
I didnt disturb the nest, but a few weeks later I saw bees flying in & out of the nest, & came to the conclusion that as the birds were building their nest, a hibernating bee must have laid its eggs, which must have hatched as the robins were laying theirs.
I try not to disturb nature, & I was more exited (if thats the word) at the bumble bees using my box, even though they used it at the expense of a clutch of robins.

Bumble bees have been at risk for a few years now so it is always nice to see a nest of them, especially in my garden.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on August 25, 2012, 03:09:29 pm
This year I have noticed far few Butterflies than usual and wondered if this was a general trend around the country.  I was lucky this week though to see a Peacock Butterfly in the garden and as I was walking my dog a small blue Butterfly landed near me. I don't know the variety but it wasn't one like those on the Orme as it was twice as big and a brighter blue than those Orme ones.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: snowcap on August 26, 2012, 12:15:21 am
saw 2 red admirals last week when cutting the grass, thought they looked larger than usual but like you said there seems to be less about this year, may be the weather
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on August 27, 2012, 04:44:08 pm
I had a walk on the Common Land above Bryn Cadno yesterday and saw numerous Butterflies of different varieties but still not as many as I would have expected at this time of year.
There are loads of Nettles and wild flowers that attract them to that particular site.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on August 27, 2012, 08:38:13 pm
There's been a MURDER!

Well, I have cordoned off the area as it looks most suspicious.

Last night the security light overlooking our garden kept flicking on and off, but there was nothing to see each time I peered out.

But, today I see that the entire lawn is covered with a carpet of white feathers....but nothing else except a few blood splats.

Yes, it looks like a fully fledged seagull has bitten the dust.
The main suspects are Mr Sparrowhawk, and Mr Fox!

Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: 1_rob_1 on August 27, 2012, 09:20:02 pm
Mr fox is the main suspect.
A fledged seagull is way too large for a sparrowhawk to attack, never mind kill.
Peregrine falcon?? not very likely as they only hunt in daylight.
There are no wild owls in Llandudno large enough to kill a seagull.
 
I suppose a lot of people will think: ah well, thats one less.
But a seaside town wouldnt be quite right without the cry of the seagulls. - even if it is at 4am in the morning    ;D
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on August 27, 2012, 09:27:54 pm
Actually.... now you mention it, there have been some pretty whopping owls in the trees behind my house recently.
One in particular.
I only see it in silhouette, but it is very large and statuesque. 

Another suspect in the line-up!

Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: 1_rob_1 on August 27, 2012, 09:44:17 pm
It wont be one of the local owls, seagulls are too large for most owls to attack, & if there were any large owls in/around LLandudno, they tend to avoid the seagulls & go for smaller prey.

The prime suspect is still Mr. Fox.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on August 31, 2012, 10:39:57 pm
I saw this Caterpillar in the garden the other day, It seems that it will become a grey dagger moth (after Googling it!)

(http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i331/penrhynpigeons/P8250180.jpg)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: snowcap on August 31, 2012, 11:36:18 pm
looks like a man u supporter in disguise
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on September 03, 2012, 04:38:44 pm
ME, that's a super photo of the caterpillar - don't let Fester anywhere near it! 

Regarding the butterflies, I was talking recently to a butterfly expert who said that this "summer" the weather has been bad for butterflies and there are indeed fewer of them than usual.

Rob, you were very lucky to have a bumblebee nest in your birds' nest.  There are some species of bumblebees that will nest in abandoned birds' nests but I haven't heard of them ousting the birds.  Do you remember what colour the bumblebees were?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SDQ on September 03, 2012, 05:52:21 pm
There was a bumble bee nest in the lower part of Llandudno Signalbox last year. They were BIG bees too, about an inch long, predominately black with an orange tail end.
Nobody knew they were there until an engineer went under the box to do some maintenance & disturbed them. When he left there were bees coming up through the lever frame for about 3 hours afterwards which freaked me out as I'm not a big fan of bees & wasps. Luckily they were coming up near the door so I wedged it open and they automatically headed for the light and left the box. After about 3 hours they stopped coming up and went back to using the hole in the wall that they had originally used.
Nobody ever saw them again and they never came back so I guess they always nest in a new place instead of returning to an old one.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: 1_rob_1 on September 03, 2012, 09:02:12 pm
Not too sure what type of bumblebee, they were very light orange, nearly yellow With black stripe(s)  - Also they were a quite small type.

My knowledge of bumble bees isn't very extensive, I only know the basics.

SDQ: The queens leave the nests late in the season & hibernate over winter under stones/sheds/debris. They emerge again in spring & find themselves a new place to nest & lay their eggs, so yes they nest in a different place every year. (they only live for about a year so the queen will die at the end of the season)
 
Cock robins choose a few nesting sites & fill them with leaves, the hen robin will then choose which site it wants & they will then build their nest. The bee probably laid its eggs in the pile of leaves before the robins built their nest.

Normally when we get a bumble bee nest in the garden, they are the common type, & either nest in a large pile of stones/slabs near my composters, or on the ground in a small wooded area. If on the ground, all that can be seen is a small pile of leaves.   I have tried to encourage them with upturned clay plantpots full of leaves for them to nest in, but they prefer to build their own nests.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DaveR on September 04, 2012, 08:07:16 am
I saw this Caterpillar in the garden the other day, It seems that it will become a grey dagger moth (after Googling it!)

(http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i331/penrhynpigeons/P8250180.jpg)
Great photo, ME.  $good$
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on September 08, 2012, 10:49:22 am
SDQ: it sounds as if your bumblebees were red tailed.  The queens are indeed very big, though the workers and males are smaller. 

Rob: Yours were probably common carders, which often nest in piles of leaves, etc above ground and are generally a golden brown colour.  I too have tried to tempt bumblebees with home made nesting sites but they haven't been very impressed! 

I didn't realise that cock robins offered the hens a choice of nest sites.  Thanks for that interesting information. 

Here are a  couple of my photos of bumblebees but there's also information on bumblebee identification on the Bumblebee Conservation Trust website (http://bumblebeeconservation.org/about-bees/identification/common-bumblebees/).
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: 1_rob_1 on September 09, 2012, 03:53:57 pm
Very good site for bumblebee identification. I will keep that in my favourites.
The bees in the nestbox weren't the Common carder bee, as they had stripes, they looked more like  young male white- tailed bumblebees.
I am aware that there are a few types of bumblebee & will be a bit more observant in the future & identify them correctly instead of just passing them off as virtually the same.

I remember as an infant school child picking drowsy bumblebees off some rosebay willowherbs on a railway embankment near where I lived. - - - - My mother was horrified when she saw that I had a handful of bees.     :o   - - - I didnt get stung, even though my hand was closed round them. Amazing insects!!
(they must have all been males - the males cannot sting)
 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on September 12, 2012, 12:19:59 pm
A beautiful looking Jay has been coming to our garden and feeding on the peanuts there and it has been lovely watching it as normally they are quite shy birds. Today there were loads of birds in the garden as I was watching TV in the sunlounge and then I noticed a large bird fairly upright standing on the lawn. I was trying to recognise what variety it was when I saw the wings of a Blackbird flapping underneath it.
It was a Sparrowhawk and it had caught one of the Blackbirds so I shot out to try to rescue it but it flew off carrying the Blackbird in its talons.
I know it's nature but still not a nice thing to see first hand.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: TheMedz on September 12, 2012, 12:30:00 pm
It must be that time of year because I came home yesterday to find the drive covered in blood and feathers and one dead pigeon in the shrubbery. 10 minutes later and I disturbed a peregrine falcon (I think) trying to make it two for the day. Fortunately that pigeon got away only minus a few feathers. I also noticed today that the Foxes from up on Pen Dinas have started to appear on the nearby roads during daylight in search of food.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: 1_rob_1 on September 12, 2012, 01:49:22 pm
A sparrowhawk attacked one of my fantail pigeons on Monday, it damaged one of its wing with its talons & had started plucking it, there were white feathers all over the place. Luckily one of my neighbours disturbed it, which saved the fantails life.
The fantail is ok, its blood stained damaged wing will heal (luckily it wasnt broken) & the plucked feathers will grow back.  It is moulting at the moment & has lost a lot of its feathers, especially in its tail.
The sparrowhawk must have been very hungry, because my fantails have large tails & therefore the sparrowhawks think that they are too big to attack.
It must have been a female sparrowhawk, male sparrowhawks are too small to take on a pigeon.

The Blood stained wing & plucked neck can be seen in the pic.


Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on September 12, 2012, 02:08:22 pm
Poor little b****r, he had had a lucky escape....   A lovely face that bird has got.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on September 12, 2012, 07:14:26 pm
 :o poor thing let's hope for a speedy recovery! Thank goodness he escaped!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: 1_rob_1 on September 12, 2012, 07:31:40 pm
He is a she   ;D
I'm glad she escaped, I only keep 4 fantails & pass on any I breed.  Her  partner would have missed her & would have been lonely until I had bred him another.
I have inspected & cleaned up the wounds & she will make a full recovery.
I cant blame the sparrowhawk though, they only hunt & kill when they are hungry. - Its not very nice to think that they eat their prey live though.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on September 12, 2012, 09:41:11 pm
I'm glad your fantail survived, Rob, she's really pretty and it would be sad to think of her mate being lonely. 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on September 13, 2012, 10:37:02 pm
Whilst on the subject of pigeons, a sad tale to relate today.

I was talking to a fellow kiosk owner on the pier today, when we heard a dull thud.
We went out side to find a fine looking pigeon in distress on the floor.
To me, it looked stunned, but it could not get to its feet, nor could it lift its head.
I could not figure out if it had simply crashed, or what had happened.
I was worried that it had broken its neck, plus the fact that I might be frightening it by my close proximity.

I gave it a few minutes peace to see if it would get itself sorted, but I could see it was struggling.
So, I went to grab my camera/phone to see if my good friend Merddin Emrys had a bed in his poorly pigeon's hospital.
But just as I was talking the picture (below) to send to him, the bird closed its eyes and died.  :weeping: bawling.gif bawling.gif

It was ringed with a purple plastic ring, and a green one on the other leg.
The bird didn't have the usual red looking legs either, it had pinky flesh coloured feet!




Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on September 13, 2012, 10:47:54 pm
 :( :( hard to say what happened unless it flew in to a window? always sad when this happens, was there a phone number on a ring at all?

we currently have 4 pigeons and 1 dove in residence, a young woodpigeon has been with us for 3 weeks now!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on September 13, 2012, 11:18:43 pm
I have to confess that I didn't check for a phone number....   :-[ :-[
It looked like it had been ringed by the council or something, does that even happen??

I have seen these colour rings on the legs of many local pigeons recently, and always wondered why.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: snowcap on September 14, 2012, 01:00:47 am
it may be a racing pigeon the number on the ring can identify it to the pigeon club , I think. it certainly looks like one
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on September 14, 2012, 09:14:08 am
I'll never know now, I gave it a burial at sea!   :( :(
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: 1_rob_1 on September 14, 2012, 01:18:38 pm

It looks like a racing pigeon. As Merddin Emrys said, it could have flown into a window & broke its neck, if there was a window close.
Racing pigeons can get exhausted & disorientated whilst racing, they can become prone to "crashing" or trying to land & missing the landing place, therefore dropping to the ground.
The pigeons you see in the towns are normally "lost/tired" racing pigeons, that join the wild ones hoping for a rest & food & drink. The lost ones will probably stay, the tired ones will probably continue on their journey home after a rest.
The rings on pigeons are club/owner identification tags, they are put on the young birds when they are about 10 days old, & after another week at the most, their feet/legs have grown & the ring can then not be removed.
The rings are specific to the club which supplies them, & a different colour is used every year, so that you can tell the age of the bird at a glance  I am a member of the national tippler union. The ring colour for that club for this year is red. Looking at the ring, it has the year, the clubs initials, & the number used to register the bird to me   eg:  12 NTU 1657  All clubs use this format.

If a bird has 2 rings on, it means that the owner is a member of 2 clubs, - or 1 ring may be clipped on to a racing pigeon before a race. These are removed when the bird returns home & time stamped  to prove the bird returned at the time it did. - or one of the rings will be a plastic one that can be clipped on for quick identification.

Quote
I have seen these colour rings on the legs of many local pigeons recently, and always wondered why.
Fester:  wonder no more   $good$
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on September 14, 2012, 09:18:30 pm
Hmm, then it would seem that I have done the owner a dis-service by not checking.

However, although I have had many pet birds, I love birds in general, I didn't fancy touching this dead one. 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: TheMedz on September 14, 2012, 09:42:00 pm
We recently had an injured racing pigeon in the garden and rang the RSPB to find out what to do. They told us to look under it's wing where generally the phone number of the owner is tattood The RSPB person did however say that  once the owner found the pigeon was injured they may not be too interested in going to the expense of recovering the bird. Unfortunately before we had the chance to find out the local Falcon had removed the option.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: 1_rob_1 on September 14, 2012, 10:37:24 pm
I dont know why the rspca told you that, pigeons never have phone nos. tattooed under the wing. - they dont!!! - - --  If the club printed on the ring is contacted - in my case the national tippler union (ntu) - - they will give you the owners contact details, - in most cases, the owner of the bird will tell you to keep it, or release it, (or do whatever with it) because if the bird is injured or will not return to its home, then it is worthless to the owner & is not worth the transport costs to have it returned.
Its a bit sad that competing pigeon owners think this way, but keeping them myself I understand. (but dont agree)
My birds are bred off some of the best competition birds in Europe, but even though more than capable, I dont & wont compete, because I dont agree with the stress imposed on competing birds. They are kept for my own enjoyment only.

For anyone in the know - my birds are direct descendants of the Jack Boden strain, acquired from Paul Bowden & never crossed, highly sought after birds. - For anyone not in the know, ignore this last paragraph, because it will mean nothing to you.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on September 22, 2012, 05:36:57 pm
The insects love this sedum.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on September 22, 2012, 05:42:16 pm
The last one came out a bit small.
This one will hopefully be better
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Jack on September 23, 2012, 03:00:38 pm
Lovely photos Hollins, butterflies have had a poor year but I've seen many more in September than any other month.  First one is a Small tortoiseshell, the second a peacock and the third a comma!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on September 23, 2012, 03:11:13 pm
Thanks Jack. I know nothing about butterflies so I was hoping someone would tell me what they were called.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on September 24, 2012, 09:27:57 am
Those are lovely photos, Hollins.  It's good to see the bees and butterflies enjoying the sedum. 

For bumblebees, late season pollen and nectar are important to help build up the new queens which will overwinter.  The poor males will be taking quite a battering in this weather as they don't return to the nest and generally shelter by clinging to flowers, like this one.  There were a couple of buff tailed males clinging to this ragwort plant yesterday evening - I don't think they'll be very happy today.   :(  Let's hope they've already had a chance to meet some of the new queens.   ;)

Sorry it's not a better photo - I still have only my mobile phone as a camera. 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on September 24, 2012, 10:52:15 am


Sorry it's not a better photo - I still have only my mobile phone as a camera.

Still miles clearer than mine and that's just with your phone!
Well done Blodyn, maybe I should get a phone with a camera....... :laugh:
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Yorkie on September 24, 2012, 04:17:26 pm
Sometimes 'tis not the equipment, but the way it's used!  Is the lens clean, and do you have it set to anti-shake?    ZXZ
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on September 24, 2012, 08:25:49 pm
Yes, bad workman always blames his tools.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on September 28, 2012, 03:52:15 pm
I was sitting in the sun lounge the other day and got my binoculars out to see if the Finches were feeding but couldn't see any there,  Just in the branch above the feeder I could see why. 
There was a hawk there, a different one to the Sparrow Hawk I had seen in the garden previously.  This one had a blueish grey head but was of a similar size to the Sparrow Hawk.
I went outside to chase it away but it had flown away before I got out of the house.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on October 03, 2012, 09:46:25 pm
Hollins, there's nothing wrong with your photos!  My success rate with the phone camera is poorer than that with a "prpoer" camera, so I have to take more photos. 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on October 05, 2012, 10:24:29 am
I've just been watching a male and female Greater Spotted Woodpecker feeding on the peanuts in the garden.  I haven't seen them for a while so it's nice to see them again and I've topped the feeders up just in case they visit again.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on October 05, 2012, 11:04:07 pm
I saw these in the garden the other day, a Comma butterfly and a grasshopper type of insect

(http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i331/penrhynpigeons/P9280262.jpg)

(http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i331/penrhynpigeons/P9300284.jpg)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on October 06, 2012, 09:29:27 pm
Superb photos ME.
We had some visitors to our garden last week. A cat with two small kittens. They established themselves in an old rabbit hole. The mother drank the several pints of milk we put out for it and now they have moved on to pastures new and are nowhere to be seen!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on October 08, 2012, 09:08:25 pm
Fantastic photos, ME.

Hollins, I hope your pretty visitors have found themselves a safe home.  One of my cats was a stray who appeared in the garden.  It took three years to get him to come indoors at all and another year before he moved in properly.  Now he can't be bothered to go out much and he's curled up on my lap as I'm typing this. 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on October 14, 2012, 01:17:05 pm
Last night was a busy time in our garden for the Badgers.  I had set the security lights to be activated further up the garden where they feed and sure enough at about 8.00 pm the first two appeared and the Brock was really big, probably the biggest we have seen here. They were there for a while and then just went next door.  Our dog was unaware of their presence because he was fast asleep but the next two were smaller and Marco just stood by the glass door watching them until they vanished in the night.
When we go to bed I normally go into the garden to make sure that the Badgers have all gone but as soon as I opened the door and the security light came on there was another one in the borders so I had to go and scare them away before letting Marco go out.
It was nice seeing them and watching the large Brock go on his hind legs trying to get to the peanut feeder was quite amusing.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on October 15, 2012, 02:43:36 pm
Hugo, you are lucky to be able to watch badgers from the comfort of your home - what a treat!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on October 21, 2012, 06:35:10 pm
Just a few of the Birds and animals we saw yesterday in Llangollen
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on November 06, 2012, 05:42:05 pm
I was sitting in the sunlounge a few days ago when a male Sparrowhawk swooped across the garden and perched on a tree just above the peanut feeder. I ran out as quick as I could and off he flew before he could attack any of the birds in the garden.
A couple of days before that, I could see feathers in the garden from a Woodpigeon and ever since we have not had any Woodpigeons in the garden whereas three normally called every day.  The pigeons are pretty big birds and I would have thought that the Sparrowhawks would have gone for the smaller birds.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Jack on November 10, 2012, 05:04:43 pm
Up to 100 waxwings have been seen in the Mostyn Champneys car park this afternoon in the B&Q and DFS areas.  They are rare visitors to these shores from Northern Europe and a very striking bird indeed.  Lots of birdwatchers and photographers looking for them.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Tellytubby on November 10, 2012, 05:24:48 pm
 $good$ :o D) Excellent photo Jack - I haven't seen any this year but was lucky to get some good photo's at Sainsbury Rhyl last year. I've been out on the river clwyd this afternoon and seen large flocks of redwing and fieldfare and a merlin.

Will have to pop over to LLandudno.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on November 10, 2012, 05:28:50 pm
That's a lovely photo Jack and I'm sure that my friend Tellytubby will be down there soon with his camera.   :)     When we were in Ruthin he showed me another spot where  loads of Waxwings go to feed on the Rowans and other trees.     $good$
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on November 10, 2012, 05:31:01 pm
Tellytubby's quick off the mark and beat me to it while I was posting my note.    ;D
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Gwynant on November 10, 2012, 07:52:43 pm
           When I  used to work in the old ASDA (where Debenhams/BHS is now, pre. 2003), round about this time of year many birdwatchers would turn up on the car park occasionally (where the re-cycling area was, by the traffic lights) with huge lenses to photograph one or two waxwings in the trees around Wthe Fire Station/Car Wash area across the road, so is it right to assume that this area is on their regular migration route, and they return to this area instinctively?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Jack on November 10, 2012, 08:10:50 pm
Hi Gwynant, the only other time I have seen waxwings was in the B&Q car park 2 years ago! they love the berries of the rowan trees that are in the carparks.

I don't think they are regular migrants but if there is a particular cold spell in Scandinavia or there is a berry shortage they come to the UK in numbers.  Most are seen on the East coast (as its nearer Scandinavia!) but this year there are thousands of them already all over Britain.  If you are on Twitter you can follow @waxwingsuk who tweet (quite apt!!) the most up to date sightings of waxwings in the UK.  As well as Llandudno waxwings have been sighted in Kinmel Bay, Denbigh and Deeside today in North Wales alone.  Guess they could turn up anywhere there are berries so its worth keeping an eye out in the garden too!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Yorkie on November 10, 2012, 08:16:57 pm
I planted a small rowan sapling in my garden last year but it seems rather slow in getting itself going.   It is only about two feet tall so it will be a while before I see a waxwing in my garden!   :D
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Gwynant on November 10, 2012, 11:08:55 pm
            $thanx$  Thanks very much  for that info Jack. I am not a keen birdwatcher myself but I have a couple of friends who are so I will pass on the info. I was just curious as to why they returned to the same spot always.  $good$
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: TheMedz on November 12, 2012, 11:35:40 am
About 50 or 60 Waxwings still around B&Q and DFS  this morning
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Gwynant on November 12, 2012, 03:19:55 pm
           My neighbour just dropped in to point out a tree-ful of waxwings (60-70) in a rowan tree loaded with berries on the junction of Lon Gwalia and Lon Cymru (Llandudno) which could be clearly seen from my back garden. Of course as soon as I went back for my camera they flew off in the direction of Champneys, but they looked very impressive through his powerful binocs. He says that they have been returning there regularly in the past few days.
                                                                      :rage:
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on November 12, 2012, 06:08:11 pm
It must be a wonderful sight to see so many Waxwings together so have your camera ready Gwynant.      ££$
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: TheMedz on November 12, 2012, 08:16:17 pm
The one tree on the corner of the B&Q car park was just full of them at one stage.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: snowcap on November 12, 2012, 11:07:01 pm
drove past at about 12,30pm there was a man taking photo's of the birds in the trees then,any of you chaps?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on November 14, 2012, 04:45:53 pm
I went past B & Q this afternoon but couldn't see any sign of the Waxwings but it must have been a lovely sight for those that were lucky enough to have seen them.
Over the last three days I've not seen sight or sound of any small birds in our garden and although the feeders have all been full only crows and Squirrels have been near them.    I've seen a male and female Sparrowhawk in the garden about 6 times and am concerned that this may have frightened the smaller ones off.     :(
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on November 16, 2012, 03:32:27 pm
There have been some lovely photos of the waxwings on the Forum.  Thanks to everyone who's posted them as it's likely to be the closest I'll get to seeing them.

I've been to see some slightly larger wildlife.  There are now four ponies at the Maes y Facrell nature reserve on the Great Orme, doing their winter grazing job.  The ponies are very friendly, so there was no problem getting close enough to photograph them without a long lens - more of a problem getting far enough away to fit them into even a wide angle! 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on November 26, 2012, 06:37:54 pm
Tellytubby took these photos of the Desert Wheatear on Rhyl Promenade by the Golf Course yesterday.    They are a rare visitor to the UK and Tellytubby said that there are only 3 in the UK at present.
He was lucky to get the photos as there were numerous twitchers trying to do the same thing.    $good$
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blodyn on November 26, 2012, 07:49:16 pm
Those are sweet, Hugo, congratulations to Tellytubby!  &well&

I must admit that I wouldn't have known that it was a rare bird. 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on November 26, 2012, 10:20:06 pm
Tellytubby is really good at identifying birds and has taken some lovely pictures of many different types. At the moment he isn't sure how to post those photos on the forum so I've sent him an e-mail today which may help him.
Hopefully we can look forward to some of his photos on here in the future.      $good$
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on November 26, 2012, 10:43:16 pm
good to see nice pictures of birds  D) I never really know the rare ones mind, even though I'm a member of the RSPB! :laugh:
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on November 26, 2012, 11:21:12 pm
Are there only three Wheatears in the UK because they got left behind?

According to the RSPB they are migratory, and relatively prevalent in the UK between March and October?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SDQ on November 26, 2012, 11:41:50 pm
Are there only three Wheatears in the UK because they got left behind?

According to the RSPB they are migratory, and relatively prevalent in the UK between March and October?


When it says migratory it means between Asia and the Arabian Desert. They are rare in the UK.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on December 25, 2012, 11:19:24 pm
We went to see the starlings at Colwyn bay Pier this afternoon, they put on a great display!

(http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i331/penrhynpigeons/P1010334.jpg)

(http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i331/penrhynpigeons/P1010333.jpg)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on December 26, 2012, 02:03:28 pm
Had a spotted Woodpecker visit our bird table on Christmas Day and also saw another fox wandering down the middle of the road at 1.30am this morning.

Large Camel in the sea by the pier this morning !! :twoface: _))*
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on December 29, 2012, 10:19:43 am
Visitors to the garden this morning!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DaveR on December 29, 2012, 10:53:28 am
Wow! Are there many wild deer by you?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on December 29, 2012, 11:36:04 am
We don't really know to be honest. We don't see them that often but the Deer Initiative are coming to do a survey and maybe put some cameras in the woods so we may know more in the future.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on December 29, 2012, 05:39:18 pm
You're very lucky to have such lovely visitors to your garden Hollins.      $good$
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on January 11, 2013, 10:06:44 pm
A bit of a cheat, this one, because it wasn't local but this robin was really tame. The photo wasn't taken with a zoom The robin was quite happily standing right by our feet but we were in the Lake District not North Wales.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on January 11, 2013, 10:51:22 pm
Very cute! he was local to you at the time!  ;D
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on January 16, 2013, 04:49:28 pm
I've just been watching a large Crow in my garden and could see that it was digging up the peanuts that the Squirrel had previously buried.  It was quite funny watching him do it but when the Crow went to pull up the Daffodils that had just sprouted above the ground I wasn't amused and sent him packing but no doubt it'll be back.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: TheMedz on January 16, 2013, 09:41:12 pm
I have to admit having a growing dislike for jackdaws since I've moved here. Can't recall ever having coming across them before moving but they eat everything I put out for the smaller birds before they have chance to take it. However on saying that you have to admire their ingenuity. I have put up several feeders in positions the garden that should allow the smaller birds to get a chance to feed. The jackdaws have taken a good look and every time I put up a feeder they find a way. The latest one is to swoop down and brush against and swing the feeder so that the bird seed comes out of the side and falls to the floor. The best example however was on the road outside the house where one jackdaw was stood on a disposed of half empty crisp bag while another one spread the broken crisps out onto the road for the rest of them to snack on.

As an aside I think we should be expecting a new batch of kid goats in the near future if the recent strange noises and antics from the goats on the lower reaches of the Orme are anything to go by.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: TheMedz on February 14, 2013, 05:55:02 pm
First spotting of the new batch of Orme Goat kids today. Nice feeling made nicer by the sun coming out for a change. Also spotted this little chap in the hedgerows on the way back from town via Haulfre. White Zebra Finch according to thinternet and usually found in a cage.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on February 14, 2013, 11:47:40 pm
This is most odd The Medz. An amazing coincidence.

I actually think that very bird was in my house for several hours today! (Between lunchtime a 5pm)
You see, my neighbours cat brought the finch home in its mouth, (unharmed)
My neighbour knew I loved birds, and wondered if I should look after it. 
No problem, and Mrs Fester popped it in a cage and fed it.  We were contemplating involving Merddin Emrys in this affair.

Then we realised that another neighbour kept finches in an aviary, and eventually popped round and discovered that it was one of his!   I hope it doesn't escape again.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: snowcap on February 15, 2013, 12:03:48 am
neighbours every body needs good neighbours,nice one fester.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: snowcap on February 15, 2013, 12:12:27 am
they say cats have nine lives , how about the poor little finch , the cat brought it in , who knows what it went through from The Meds taking it,s photo and the cat bringing home without harming it. Hope it has learned it,s lesson and stays were it will be looked after.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on February 15, 2013, 07:02:01 am
What a great story, with a happy ending!  $good$
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on February 15, 2013, 08:32:36 am
What a lovely story-- with a happy ending as you say ME

Are there more Robins around this year? I always thought that they were territorial birds, but I had 2 on the bird table together yesterday and two more singing in the bushes in the garden.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: snowcap on February 17, 2013, 07:13:02 pm
this is a not such a nice ending but here goes. This morning I noticed a goat on the cliff tops at blackgate and it appeared to be chasing off rooks or crows that were hanging around what looked like a little newborn kid, when I pointed it out to the wife she said she had seen it there yesterday doing more or less the same thing but had not noticed the kid. The goat kept wandering off and returning to the same spot but the kid did not move over a period of a couple of hours and I realised the kid must have fell off the cliff edge and landed below with a devastating effect .Now for the bad news. I'm Looking up and can't believe my eye's there are two dogs off there leads and fighting over the dead kid with the mindless owner stood above them oblivious of what is going on on the cliff edge below him at this time the goat had been joined by two others and they could only look on and watch the two scavengers with there kid Eventually the idiot realised what was going on and was able to eventually call the dogs off. The goats left after a while and they seem to be getting on with there lives. It's made me wander what those dogs will do next time they see a kid and if that b------d as learned a lesson about letting his dogs run around off there leads. to say i am wild is not scratching the surface.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: TheMedz on February 17, 2013, 09:45:19 pm
On the same theme. We were awoken from our sleep at about 7am yesterday by a screaming noise on the lower reaches of the Orme near the traffic lights at Black Gate. Looking out of the window we saw a young goat trying to deliver a kid. It's position was precarious on about a forty five degree slope. For the next hour we kept an eye on the goings on but no delivery. About 9pm the usual walking traffic up the Orme began to get going and  a couple with two dogs approached more intent on taking photos of the view than watching their dogs. One dog off its lead went right up to the goat and barked causing the goat to try and get up and failed rolling down the slope onto the platform near the lights making all sort so noise in obvious distress. The goat eventually got enough energy to find its way into the parking area of the house on the top of old road. Still trying to give birth. After endless calls to the Orme warden. No response just a broken  answer phone we left the goat in peace. A couple of hours of waiting and endless viewings from a distance we saw a a passing vet or something similar (apparently used to delivering lambs but not goats) had arrived  in passing and took charge. With the help of a few of us (supporting , hot water towels ! and in one case taking part by holding the goat by the horns to save it trying to run off)  she diagnosed a breach position. Withno appearance from the RSPSCA who we'd rung she decided to try and extract the kid manually. After a further half hour  she managed to pull out the kid but after a few sharp intakes of breath it gave up its struggle. The vet said it was way short of its normal delivery time and it had stood little chance of making it out alive. The dog had definitely not helped the situation. A Saturday I'll never forget.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: snowcap on February 17, 2013, 10:38:08 pm
I saw you many times walking over to try and keep watch on the goat, not much fun in this weather. I saw the better half with you a couple of times and had an idea that was what the trouble was. At least you made sure no harm came to the poor creature. It's a shame the way it turned out.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on February 19, 2013, 11:00:43 pm
Lots of seals at Angel Bay at the moment, let's hope no one disturbs them!

(http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i331/penrhynpigeons/P1010785_zps9fdad9ca.jpg)

(http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i331/penrhynpigeons/P1010782_zpsafbae490.jpg)

(http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i331/penrhynpigeons/P1010773_zpsfb83adf6.jpg)

(http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i331/penrhynpigeons/P1010769_zps63b428cc.jpg)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: snowcap on February 20, 2013, 12:12:26 am
there should be a ranger around to keep an eye on them until the idiots who go down to them learn to keep away
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on February 20, 2013, 04:22:00 pm
It's nice to see so many Seals back there ME,  thanks for posting that.   I'll pop down there soon to have a look.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on February 21, 2013, 11:16:40 am
Been for a quick look at the seals this morning-- I managed to spot 15 on the beach and 1 swimming around.
It was like Siberia on there, perishing, the wind cut through you. Frizzy enjoyed the walk though. Nice to see a doggie bin which had actually been emptied too.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on February 21, 2013, 08:53:19 pm
Living in the middle of a housing estate in Llandudno Junction we're getting quite a few birds never before seen in our garden in the 36 years we've lived here ... the last couple of years has seen many goldfinches (12 at the highest count) - they're with us every day and cost us a fortune in niger seeds!

But very recently we've seen up to 6 redpolls and a flock of long-tailed tits, along with siskins and a lone male bullfinch.  Few weeks ago a lesser woodpecker landed in our tree and we've seen a sparrow-hawk take out a couple of the feral pigeons that we're plagued with.

Blue tits, coal tits and sparrows seem to regular inspectors of the nesting-boxes, although we have only had blue tits nesting in them in the past.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on February 26, 2013, 05:17:10 pm
There were 12 seals on the beach at Angel Bay when I went there this afternoon. There were 11 in a close huddle and a whitish coloured one on its own much further away.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: TheMedz on February 26, 2013, 07:45:28 pm
Few weeks ago a lesser woodpecker landed in our tree and we've seen a sparrow-hawk take out a couple of the feral pigeons that we're plagued with.



Several woodpeckers by the sounds of it(not seen them yet) also in evidence in the trees on the slopes behind Roft Place on the Orme.

Never known so many Blue tits and Robins in the garden since I introduced the black sunflower seeds into the feeders.

Still awaiting the return of the Goldfinches. Despite the building work and scaffolding going on next door during the last year the nest is still intact from last year.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: TheMedz on February 27, 2013, 09:27:05 pm
There has probably been other pictures of this year's Orme goat kids posted before these but the sunshine late this afternoon seemed to bring out all the new young goats playing together. 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on March 03, 2013, 07:43:32 pm
Some Pembrokeshire wildlife for a change!
We saw these on our walk on the Stackpole Estate yesterday. The robin was quite happy to sit and pose for photos. Never moved even when the flash went off!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on March 05, 2013, 05:42:06 pm
Loved TheMedz photos of the baby goats. Here are a couple of the lambs which have just been having their mad half hour!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on March 21, 2013, 10:33:13 am
My wife gave our Old English Sheepdog his cut for the Spring and had a full bag of combings from his coat but we put it into the garage as we thought that it was too cold for the birds to start their nest building.
We were wrong though as we could see them looking around for nesting material so we put a large quantity down and it soon went.  The Crows are carrying off Marco's cuttings as quickly as we can put them down, it's a nice thought knowing that they will have a warm home during this cold spell.     
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on March 23, 2013, 02:34:26 pm
Just a few days later and I think the crows will need all that wool to keep warm as we have had the heaviest snowfall of the year today.I've stocked up all the birdfeeders just to make sure the birds are well fed and I could see that the Badgers and the Fox have been here again as their footprints were clearly visible in the snow.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on May 15, 2013, 11:05:27 pm
Keith Jones a friend I go walking with, took these photos when he was on the Sychnant Pass road a few days ago.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on May 18, 2013, 03:46:03 pm
The foal photos are beautiful. Thanks Hugo and Keith!

This poor fellow didn't make it sadly.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: TheMedz on June 04, 2013, 11:05:06 am
Not a very clear photo unfortunately. The mother fox and 3 cubs were out playing in the failing sunlight on Pen Dinas last night. The 3 cubs were just too fast for me to capture them on film.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on June 05, 2013, 04:22:44 pm
Sheep in the shade.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Yorkie on June 05, 2013, 04:31:56 pm
Sheep on a spit!    Sunday (or any day) roast!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on June 06, 2013, 12:23:26 pm
On a more pleasant note, we have blue tits nesting in a birdbox, today one took his first flight! one of the parents looks proud, the little one is now hiding in a border, let's hope he does well!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on June 06, 2013, 01:38:31 pm
Lovely photos ME, it must be a pleasure for you watching those birds in your garden.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on June 06, 2013, 01:46:18 pm
Thanks Hugo, had to take them through the conservatory window in the sun, here is the little fellow after his first flight and another of one of the parents.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on June 06, 2013, 02:45:04 pm
Super photos ME. Don't know how you did that through a window.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on June 06, 2013, 03:17:50 pm
Luckily I cleaned the windows a couple of days ago!  ;D
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: 1_rob_1 on June 16, 2013, 09:31:50 pm
I found the link below for a circular walk around The Little Orme via Angel Bay. what are the best months/times to see the seals?

http://www.conwy.gov.uk/upload/public/attachments/410/llandudno_WEB_ENG_FLAT_2.pdf (http://www.conwy.gov.uk/upload/public/attachments/410/llandudno_WEB_ENG_FLAT_2.pdf)

Thanks.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on June 16, 2013, 10:38:41 pm
Not sure of the best times but if you look back to my post in this thread, we saw quite a few back in February!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: craigollerton on June 17, 2013, 11:48:44 am
My favourite site for local creepy crawly wildlife on the Great Orme and Llandudno. As documented by Jenni Cox.

www.creepycrawlypictures.co.uk
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: 1_rob_1 on June 17, 2013, 07:16:29 pm
Cheers ME,
 Im in llandudno quite often, but never been on the Little Orme & quite fancy a walk round it, & to see the seals would be a bonus.
Up to now, I know that I will be in llandudno in early July, early September & early Feb, so I will make sure I go there in Feb, but I may go there sooner, just for a walk.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on June 18, 2013, 08:38:01 am
The Little Orme is far wilder than the Great Orme and has some very dangerous cliffs. A sensible idea might be to get hold of some kind of 'set' walk to start with-- just to get an idea of the lie of the land.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Jack on July 10, 2013, 09:49:54 pm
Managed to photograph this Large Red Damselfly (Pyrrhosoma nymphula) while working today!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on July 10, 2013, 11:12:11 pm
Very nice!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Ian on July 11, 2013, 07:18:16 am
I've been seeing a few of those, Jack. Must be the hot weather, but they're stunningly beautiful when on the wing.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Yorkie on July 11, 2013, 07:53:19 am
I've been seeing a few of those, Jack. Must be the hot weather, but they're stunningly beautiful when on the wing.

Or deep fried!    :D
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DaveR on July 11, 2013, 08:48:38 am
You often see a Dragonfly around the upper pool in Happy Valley.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on July 11, 2013, 05:27:02 pm
We were having a meal outside in our garden last night and the resident Sparrow Hawk must have had the same idea because he was sitting by the bird feeders under the Dovecote.   My wife saw him first and got up and then he flew away pretty quickly but I know he'll come back soon.   :(
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on August 06, 2013, 01:56:38 pm
Two Dolphins spotted swimming in Conwy Harbour.


http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-23587796 (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-23587796)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on August 07, 2013, 06:47:54 pm
I had a walk in Cwm Ystradlyn today and we were surprised by the number of small white butterflies that were everywhere.   There were other types too including Peacock and Red Admiral Butterflies
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: welshwiz on August 07, 2013, 09:24:43 pm
We did a walk round Tryfan last week and when we got back to the ogwen valley
there was a field full of small white butterflies.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on August 08, 2013, 06:01:00 pm
There do seem to be loads of butterflies around at the moment. I took these photos today.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Jack on August 08, 2013, 06:20:08 pm
Nice one Hollins! Top photo is a small copper - haven't seen one yet this year.
Other two are small white and peacock.  Amazing how they love buddleia.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on August 08, 2013, 06:22:40 pm
Thanks Jack. I was hoping someone would tell me what they were. I think it was you who educated me last time!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Trojan on August 12, 2013, 05:27:56 am
Nice one Hollins! Top photo is a small copper - haven't seen one yet this year.

Saw one in Tiverton, Devon last year.

At 5' he's the smallest copper in the UK.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on August 12, 2013, 07:00:42 am
 L0L _))*
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Linda on August 12, 2013, 09:08:10 pm
Two Dolphins spotted swimming in Conwy Harbour.


http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-23587796 (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-23587796)

we were at west shore last tues and we were sure we spotted something breach beyond the sand banks. We have seen possible dolphin/porpoise off Old colwyn and Llanddulas my friend saw them the same day last year and again a week or two ago. Quite exciting and a privilige.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on September 06, 2013, 11:22:59 pm
These photos were taken at the village pond in Gwaenysgor earlier this week.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on September 07, 2013, 06:25:59 am
Lovely birds!  $good$
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on September 07, 2013, 10:01:50 am
How about this one?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on September 07, 2013, 10:50:11 am
Looks like our canary!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Yorkie on September 07, 2013, 12:14:14 pm
How do you like your pigeons? Roasted or Boiled?   :D

In a pie!    $dins$
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on September 07, 2013, 12:30:32 pm
 :o :o NOOOO! :(
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on September 22, 2013, 06:17:16 pm
The Squirrels were raiding all my peanut feeders so I sent off for a Squirrel proof feeder and then this came.  It's not only Squirrel proof it seems to be small bird proof too so I've had to put the old feeder back so that the Woodpeckers and smaller birds can at least get some peanuts!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on September 27, 2013, 01:25:58 pm
I was supposed to be dead heading but got diverted into taking these. Any interesting ones jack?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on September 27, 2013, 03:54:21 pm
Tortoiseshell, Peacock, Red Admiral ?? I think are there, but not sure on the 'raggy' one. I'm sure Jack will know. ;D
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Jack on September 27, 2013, 06:09:02 pm
Nice photos Hollins! Yes small tortoiseshell, peacock, red admiral and the 4th is a comma.  Comma's have very ragged wing edges!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on September 27, 2013, 06:22:43 pm
Thanks Jack. That's a lovely photo too.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: 1_rob_1 on September 27, 2013, 09:53:15 pm
Perfect red admiral in Haulfre Gardens 21/9/13
Also in the same location there was a Comma & a Painted lady - They were just a bit too fast for pics - or I was just a bit too slow :-)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Yorkie on September 28, 2013, 07:28:23 am
there was a Comma & a Painted lady

Otherwise known as a "punctuation mark" and a "tart" !   _))*
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Jack on September 28, 2013, 08:57:16 am
You can see the 'punctuation mark' in silver on the underwing of the Comma! (Hence how it got its name :))
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Llechwedd on September 28, 2013, 10:07:13 am
Bautiful photos.  What  kind of camera do you have?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on September 28, 2013, 04:52:42 pm
The photos of the Butterflies are all superb and I was also wondering what camera Hollins,  1 Rob 1 and Jack were using to capture such lovely photos.
They must have some good cameras and a lot of patience to capture those moments.     $good$
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on September 28, 2013, 05:01:22 pm
Hi Hugo. My camera is the one that DaveR recommended to me recently. It is a compact camera called Sony RX100.
I have been having such fun with it because the results have been so successful. I can't take credit for the photos because I haven't ever changed it from the automatic setting. You just point and shoot. It really is foolproof!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Ian on September 28, 2013, 05:15:25 pm
Ah, but it's the framing that makes the difference...
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: 1_rob_1 on September 28, 2013, 06:16:02 pm
Hi Hugo
The Red Admiral shot was taken on my wifes compact canon (handbag size) - Im not sure of the model. If you inspect the pic very close up it is slightly blurred because it had to be set up fast as the butterfly wouldnt stay still for longer than a few secs.

 I use a Canon Powershot 620. (bit old hat now)
Very sharp images, even on auto, but also has most of the functions of most professional cameras.
I am very impressed with the Canon cameras (colour & sharpness) & have taken many fantastic wildlife shots on mine, - Shame the zoom isnt better, but cant really expect more from a compact. :-)

Rob
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DaveR on September 30, 2013, 09:20:00 pm
Whilst at Dinorwig Quarry, we saw this very large bird circling above - can anyone identify it?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: 1_rob_1 on September 30, 2013, 09:22:24 pm
Buzzard.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Yorkie on September 30, 2013, 09:27:11 pm
Looks to me like a Golden Eagle with colour definition on underside of wings and general outline.  I believe that Snowdon area is home to this species.   ;)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DaveR on September 30, 2013, 09:31:27 pm
Looks to me like a Golden Eagle with colour definition on underside of wings and general outline.  I believe that Snowdon area is home to this species.   ;)
I think you may be right! It certainly looks very similar to this Golden Eagle:
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Jack on September 30, 2013, 09:35:51 pm
Agree with Rob, Buzzard!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Gwynant on September 30, 2013, 10:44:58 pm
                    Definitely a buzzard, they can have a wingspan of up to 4ft 6ins.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Linda on September 30, 2013, 11:03:50 pm
Buzzard,Im sure as we have quite a few around where i live and i have had a couple of visits from young ones braving the trees in the garden.They catch sparrows with such speed, amazing wingspan.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Yorkie on October 01, 2013, 11:20:46 am
Having had a closer look I am not convinced and of it being one or the other!  A closer shot would be the only way to tell definitely.  I think it could be a Honey-Buzzard or a Golden Eagle.
 
This shot is a Buzzard. ZXZ
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on October 01, 2013, 10:17:31 pm
According to Tellytubby who is a good authority on birds, it is definitely a Buzzard.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DaveR on October 02, 2013, 08:27:03 am
A Buzzard it is then. It was a very impressive sight seeing it soaring effortlessly above the mountains.  $good$
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on October 02, 2013, 11:12:29 am
They are getting more common but are a very impressive sight with a wingspan of 43 to 54 inches.      When we were walking around Dorathea Quarry a Buzzard kept soaring above us and Teletubby and Rhuddlan both do a mean impersonation of their bird call and the Buzzard kept on responding to them and followed us around for quite a while.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on October 02, 2013, 11:16:41 am
With the darkness getting earlier each night we are seeing the Badgers and Foxes in the garden more and more.   I've seen the Fox about three times this week and the Badger nearly every night.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on October 02, 2013, 08:07:07 pm
I posted a picture of a buzzard on this thread many, many moons ago.  It had been sat in a tree in my garden.

It was a causing a mass panic amongst jackdaws and seagulls who were attempting to harass it into leaving.

It treated them with contempt and ignored them.  Then is flew off, majestically, over my roof. A superb sight.

I was in awe of this creature, but Hugo and others replied by saying they were quite common in the area.
I've not seen one 'in the flesh' since though.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on October 03, 2013, 04:45:19 pm
You were very lucky to see a Buzzard in your back garden Fester as they are so impressive,  I think I've only ever seen one on the Great Orme and that was high in the sky.  You can recognise them by the wingspan which can be over four feet wide and by their distinct call.

www.rspb.org.uk/buzzard‎ (http://www.rspb.org.uk/buzzard‎)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Bellringer on October 03, 2013, 06:55:28 pm
Buzzards can regularly be seen in the Conwy area esp. between the town and Henryd,
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: snowcap on October 03, 2013, 09:16:06 pm
there are a pair of them nesting near our golf club every spring and we have four of them flying over our golf course on a regular basis
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on October 20, 2013, 02:51:27 pm
A Red Admiral Butterfly in the sunshine in Llangollen yesterday and some Birds of Prey at the Exhibition there.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on October 27, 2013, 10:43:11 pm
Some of the Birds we saw by the River Clwyd  on Saturday.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on December 09, 2013, 06:31:20 pm
Stranded Whale set free on Pensarn Beach

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-north-west-wales-25306076 (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-north-west-wales-25306076)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: TheMedz on January 31, 2014, 10:31:37 am
Its that Baby Goat time of year again. This one is new born today.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on March 05, 2014, 03:10:21 pm
I heard that there were many baby seals at Angel Bay in Penrhynbay so I popped along there to have a look.    It was high tide when I arrived there but couldn't see any of the white seal pups there but did see about eight adult seals on the beach there.   
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Yorkie on March 05, 2014, 05:13:59 pm
Is this a "spot the seals" quiz?    :D
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on March 05, 2014, 06:49:22 pm
I can see 4 1/2 seals in that pic! Do I win a prize?  ;D
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on March 05, 2014, 08:14:19 pm
Is this a "spot the seals" quiz?    :D

Yes and it's sponsored by Specsavers       ;D

Here's one I prepared earlier

I can see 5 in the photo  ME but there were about 8 altogether in that area
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on March 25, 2014, 02:38:25 pm
I noticed the Crows in the garden searching for material to line their nests, so I got out a carrier bag full of Marco our Old English Sheepdog's cuttings and put them on the lawn.
Within a short time all the wool had been taken away by the Crows so each morning now I put another lot there for them.  Once the Crows have had enough wool the smaller birds will come and take the rest.
It's quite a comical sight watching them stuffing their bills with so much wool that I don't know how they can see when they fly off.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: snowcap on March 26, 2014, 08:29:08 pm
they are even taking the hairs of the goats back on the orm, or may be just looking for fleas, i was watching them come back and forth yesterday
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on March 26, 2014, 10:31:57 pm
They are still collecting wool here, I put a pile of it in the garden this morning and when I came home in the evening it had all gone.  Must remember to put some more out tomorrow.  On Monday I was in the sunlounge when a beautiful Red Admiral Butterfly rested on the wall outside, it was the first one I've seen in the garden this year.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on March 26, 2014, 10:51:27 pm
they are even taking the hairs of the goats back on the orm, or may be just looking for fleas, i was watching them come back and forth yesterday

Mike, I obseved about 20 goats munching away on the grass on your 7th fairway, and 8th tee, at 6pm this evening.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Yorkie on March 27, 2014, 07:18:42 am
They are still collecting wool here, I put a pile of it in the garden this morning and when I came home in the evening it had all gone.  . . . . .

Saw a couple of Crows flying round Upper Colwyn Bay wearing knitted jumpers!   Must be a bit chilly up ther.    _))*
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Pendragon on March 27, 2014, 12:39:27 pm
I was looking out the window on Sunday night (early Monday) 12.40am and to my surprise a large fox came out from St Mary's and walked up the street.  It looked in quite a bad way I thought as its back was bald.  Believe it or not I've never seen a wild fox.  I was that fascinated by the time i thought of taking a photo it was already half way up the street.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on March 27, 2014, 11:45:33 pm
At the car park in Manchester where I left my car for 2 weeks recently, I saw a fox in the road as I drove in.

It followed me to the pay booth, where the guy in charge was feeding another fox from his hand!

He said that they come most nights, and he had got to know them well.  It was a strange sight to behold.

Beautiful creatures though.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on March 28, 2014, 08:37:58 am
I was looking out the window on Sunday night (early Monday) 12.40am and to my surprise a large fox came out from St Mary's and walked up the street.  It looked in quite a bad way I thought as its back was bald.  Believe it or not I've never seen a wild fox.  I was that fascinated by the time i thought of taking a photo it was already half way up the street.

Sounds like it had a bad attack of the mange.  It's a shame to see a creature like that because a healthy looking fox is a nice sight to see. A Fox comes to our back garden now and again but thankfully its coat is in good condition.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: TheMedz on March 28, 2014, 03:26:00 pm
Currently sat watching a fox moving in and out of the trees at the top of Pen Dinas above Black Gate. The same fox I assume that has figured out how to get into the food scraps
recycling box with the locking handle if I leave it at the side of the house with chicken left overs and bones in.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blongb on March 28, 2014, 06:48:27 pm
That could be the one that lives up above the Headlands on Hill Terrace. We saw it running up Hill Terrace on Wednesday night as we came back from quiz night in the Kings Head.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: snowcap on March 28, 2014, 08:01:16 pm
may be the one that had the 4 cubs last year?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on March 29, 2014, 08:54:25 am
A smallish one got trapped in our garden earlier in the year. It had jumped down off the wall and couldn't get a run to get back. It eventually managed, but not without a struggle. Many a time see them along the road and in the car park on Gloddaeth when out with the dog during the evening.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on April 18, 2014, 03:35:01 pm
A busy bee!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: snowcap on April 18, 2014, 09:36:34 pm
about time they were back in work getting warmer now, nice one Hollins
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on April 21, 2014, 03:28:03 pm
A beautiful photo of the flower and Bumblebee, did you take it with your new Sony  camera?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on April 21, 2014, 03:35:46 pm
I've been forever stocking up my bird feeder with the Nyger seeds as the Goldfinches are going crazy after them and I even had to buy another large bag of the seeds this week.
I had never seen them in the garden until I started feeding them with these Nyger seeds and it was only after reading a posting from Bellringer that I tried it out and have enjoyed seeing them ever since.
They are such a beautiful bird and The Metz even had them nesting in his garden last year but sadly he said, the Winter gales destroyed the bush that they were nesting in.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on April 21, 2014, 04:05:51 pm
A beautiful photo of the flower and Bumblebee, did you take it with your new Sony  camera?

Thanks Hugo. Yes the Sony camera has given me a lot of pleasure. It will be a year old in June. I seem to have taken 4636 photos with it but lots have been deleted of course. I try to hang on to it very closely having seen the nasty accident that DaveR's had but at Portmeirion I had a near miss tripping on some steps but fortunately Mr Hollins was there to catch us!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: TheMedz on April 21, 2014, 05:36:01 pm
The pair of goldfinches are again very much in evidence in the garden.  I just haven't found where they put  have the nest this year
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: TheMedz on May 06, 2014, 07:05:38 pm
I thought I saw a black and white Cat running with the goats yesterday but on closer inspection today  it looks to be a small or possibly young black and white goat. Sorry about the quality of the photograph (well out of the range of my zoom lens) but has anyone any idea what this little animal is. Could it be one of the Black goats mentioned in the 2011 entry in this section of the forum?

Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on May 07, 2014, 05:53:57 pm
There is a bit of an assortment here!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on May 20, 2014, 10:58:15 pm
This large beetle has been flying around just lately, some sort of stag beetle??
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on May 20, 2014, 11:04:39 pm
Looks like it is a cockchafer!  usually found in the South of England!

http://www.nhm.ac.uk/nature-online/species-of-the-day/biodiversity/economic-impact/melolontha-melolontha/ (http://www.nhm.ac.uk/nature-online/species-of-the-day/biodiversity/economic-impact/melolontha-melolontha/)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Linda on May 20, 2014, 11:11:57 pm
Commonly known as the May bug, we used to get loads banging against our windows then falling to the floor, our dog then was very curious and she used to nose them about, and we had to stop her picking them up and carrying them around in her mouth, she was gentle but the bugs didnt like it too much lol.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on May 20, 2014, 11:21:17 pm
We can't recall seeing one before??
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Ian on May 21, 2014, 08:39:09 am
Quote
Looks like it is a cockchafer!  usually found in the South of England!

That's climate change for you :-))  Mind you, we also get false widow spiders here, and even further North...
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on May 21, 2014, 12:02:01 pm
We used to get them each year, bumping around the outside light, but haven't had any for a couple of years. Must watch out for them as they tend to terrify some people !
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: suepp on May 21, 2014, 01:21:37 pm
I hope you don't mind me putting in a photo from Ruthin, but I love this one of the swans and 8 cygnets at our local park
(http://)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Quiggs on May 21, 2014, 03:48:59 pm
Cockchafer. Or May Bug. Have a 3 to 4 yr. life cycle, even 5 if there is a prolonged cold period. So they appear for a year or so and then disappear for a few years. And have a larger No. Every 30 Yrs
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on May 21, 2014, 11:56:50 pm
Cute picture Suepp.  $good$

Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on May 25, 2014, 04:51:41 pm

Dolphins spotted off coast of Kinmel Bay, Conwy

http://www.bbc.co.uk/go/em/fr/-/news/uk-wales-north-west-wales-27564566 (http://www.bbc.co.uk/go/em/fr/-/news/uk-wales-north-west-wales-27564566)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Bellringer on May 25, 2014, 05:04:29 pm
Cockchafer. Or May Bug. Have a 3 to 4 yr. life cycle, even 5 if there is a prolonged cold period. So they appear for a year or so and then disappear for a few years. And have a larger No. Every 30 Yrs
AND can make a terrible mess of your lawn in extreme cases e.g. grubs in lawn and jackdaws etc. dig them up to get at the feast.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on May 29, 2014, 07:05:08 pm
Black Stork pays a visit to Conwy Castle




http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/local-news/bird-notes-black-stork-pays-7190474#.U4d2ERX132E.email (http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/local-news/bird-notes-black-stork-pays-7190474#.U4d2ERX132E.email)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on June 07, 2014, 02:51:03 pm
Yesterday we were watching Blackbirds collecting nesting material from our garden and today they were enjoying a courtship ritual there.   I thought that they only bred in the Spring but looking it up I found out that  the breeding season lasts from early March to late July, and chicks are often found in a nest well into August.   During this period, blackbirds rear 2-3 broods. In a good year, fourth broods may be attempted.
The thunderstorms early this morning don't seem to have affected them off at all.

Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on June 07, 2014, 06:16:38 pm
Pigeons can be all year if they have the right conditions, we have a week old baby now!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Yorkie on June 07, 2014, 06:46:27 pm
Pigeons can be all year if they have the right conditions, we have a week old baby now!

Not in my garden they can't!  We have 2 pigeons who are daily visitors and spend their time picking up all the seed and food spilt from the bird feeders by the smaller birds.   The only problen is they also appear to consider the seeds I have planted as a additional supply! 

Once they are well fattened up they may well finish up in a nice pigeon pie!  Yum, yum!   :D
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on June 10, 2014, 01:10:40 pm
We have found these in the garden inside an old lawn roller.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Yorkie on June 10, 2014, 01:50:24 pm
Gorjus!   Just wish we could adopt one but an impending move into an apartment makes it impossible.    $cool$
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Linda on June 12, 2014, 10:47:22 pm

Dolphins spotted off coast of Kinmel Bay, Conwy

http://www.bbc.co.uk/go/em/fr/-/news/uk-wales-north-west-wales-27564566 (http://www.bbc.co.uk/go/em/fr/-/news/uk-wales-north-west-wales-27564566)
They were at Colwyn Bay Monday, we and several other folk watched them for over an hour, from the shore Old Colwyn, amazing!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on June 13, 2014, 09:45:34 am
Was high up on the Orme yesterday, but was too far away to see detail, but something (s) were leaping in and out of the water off the Marine Drive.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Linda on June 14, 2014, 01:05:10 am
Was high up on the Orme yesterday, but was too far away to see detail, but something (s) were leaping in and out of the water off the Marine Drive.
That sounds about right Nem, there was a report of about 8 bottle nose dolphin off the orme that day, thrilling to think they are visiting,. We could land up being the new Newquay and folk coming for miles around to see them. who knows lol
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on June 15, 2014, 10:02:47 pm
We have found these in the garden inside an old lawn roller.

Hollins!!   What's happening to those gorgeous kittens???    .... and where is their Mum? 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on June 16, 2014, 07:21:06 am
Fester, the kittens belong to a feral cat that adopted us about three years ago. She has had several litters since then but not many of the kittens make it. Last time she had five but only one survived and we found a home for that one with a neighbour.
We think they are probably taken by badgers or foxes.
We feed the mother but she won't let you get near her and we have no idea where she came from.
She is a clever mother, she moves them around. This was the third place we saw them. They were originally born in the compost heap!
Hope you had a great holiday.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on June 22, 2014, 01:29:42 pm
A Swiss insect shed.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on June 22, 2014, 03:03:40 pm
Nice, but is it only for Swiss insects?  :laugh:
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on June 22, 2014, 03:17:46 pm
Good point! I think the foreigners will need an insect passport.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Jack on June 22, 2014, 03:48:33 pm
Here is a Welsh bug hotel  $walesflag$ at Pensychnant, Conwy.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on June 22, 2014, 04:01:36 pm
Ha! Well done Jack. I had never seen one before.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on July 23, 2014, 02:18:05 pm
I've been walking on the sandy beach at Old Colwyn a lot recently and noticed more and more Jellyfish stranded on the sand.  There are a number of different varieties on the beach and are mainly small ones but I've also seen a few big ones too.
By chance there was a TV programme this week that said that the Jellyfish population has increased for some unknown reason and they wanted people to report on the sightings so they could build up a complete picture of their movements and numbers
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on July 23, 2014, 02:46:20 pm
Look who came visiting this morning. Isn't he wonderful?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on July 23, 2014, 02:49:23 pm
I hope that you weren't tempted to  kiss him though Nemesis!       :)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on July 26, 2014, 10:36:49 am
Too far away really for a decent photo but hope you can see this heron perched high up in the sequoia.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on July 26, 2014, 11:48:10 am
I hope that you weren't tempted to  kiss him though Nemesis!       :)

Actually I was sick as a parrot that I missed him-- I was doing the weekly shop in Asda and my OH snapped him, so no, but it might have been interesting !!!! :o
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on July 27, 2014, 01:36:34 am
The Baby Seagull that has been plaguing my life for the past few days is no more.

Basically, since it took up residence in our garden, the garden has been off-limits to Mrs Fester and I as we get swooped on and attacked by any number of adult seagulls if we dare to venture outside. It's an annual occurrence this.

However, a 3am commotion this morning, outside my Mum's bedroom... (she is visiting us for her 80th Birthday) ... saw a fox with something substantial in it's mouth being attacked by a mass of seagulls as it made it's way down the road.

No baby seagull in sight this morning, and circumstantial evidence suggests, it made a tasty meal for the fox family.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DaveR on July 27, 2014, 06:35:00 pm
The Baby Seagull that has been plaguing my life for the past few days is no more.

Basically, since it took up residence in our garden, the garden has been off-limits to Mrs Fester and I as we get swooped on and attacked by any number of adult seagulls if we dare to venture outside. It's an annual occurrence this.

However, a 3am commotion this morning, outside my Mum's bedroom... (she is visiting us for her 80th Birthday) ... saw a fox with something substantial in it's mouth being attacked by a mass of seagulls as it made it's way down the road.

No baby seagull in sight this morning, and circumstantial evidence suggests, it made a tasty meal for the fox family.
I salute that fox.  &shake&
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: snowcap on July 30, 2014, 09:59:50 pm
been doing some gardening  in curlycaps garden down the road from you fester and there were a load of feathers in the garden but no remains, looked like young seagull feathers, also some strange grey droppings close to similar to dog droppings
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on July 31, 2014, 01:15:04 pm
The 'strange grey droppings' sound about right Snowcap. You can tell the difference if the dog rolls in them-- you can't breathe ! :puke2:
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: craigollerton on July 31, 2014, 01:30:13 pm
Pigeons can be all year if they have the right conditions, we have a week old baby now!

I've had a funny year with pigeons Merddin. A little story to tell... but cut a long story short...

I popped back home with a grapevine for the garden and went out to plant it, turned round to pick up a trowel and there it was sat on the back door step. First I thought it must have broken something, was very tame so I picked up spotted the ring underneath and started investigating. 3 days later after force feeding it by hand (wouldn't eat for itself), it started to eat and drink without assistance. Great I thought, then I get a phone call from the Pigeon Association with a chap 3 miles away, so returned it to the owner. Owner was thrilled as most that get returned never make it, mainly because the pigeons are unfamiliar with their new surroundings or are fed the wrong type of food which the pigeon rejects. So I here he is... sat on my shelf in the conservatory. I would let him out during the day, firstly because I wanted rid but then he'd come back at dusk all by himself.

(http://i1293.photobucket.com/albums/b599/craigrockfield/pidgee1_zps1525e67f.jpg)

Anyway, I there was this pair of pigeons which had spotted me feeding him, and one of them came back over randomly having seen me scattering some of my remaining seed on the roof. Next thing 3.30 p.m. on the dot it would sit on my conservatory door waiting to be fed!

(http://i1293.photobucket.com/albums/b599/craigrockfield/pidgee2_zps8afbe346.jpg)

And here is a snap of me feeding the little bugga...

(http://i1293.photobucket.com/albums/b599/craigrockfield/pidgee3_zps5b7b3eba.jpg)

Well I went on hols for a month, came back nowhere to be seen. Then the following day it was up on the roof again, not come down since yet though. Maybe it will, maybe it won't. Shall see.

Fascinating animals pigeons, and some have lovely colours on their plumage.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on July 31, 2014, 02:08:00 pm
Clever birds pigeons, apart from our resident birds we have some very tame regular visitors, who remember faces, know where the seed is etc. our young one is now ready to be released, no doubt he will hang around with the others!

They even find ways of looking in to see where I amM
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: craigollerton on July 31, 2014, 02:13:00 pm
Keep sharing the pics when you do release him  $good$
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DaveR on July 31, 2014, 06:43:05 pm
Saw this rather nice Butterfly whilst out walking in Beaumaris the other day. Is it a common one, I know nothing about them?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: craigollerton on July 31, 2014, 06:49:05 pm
Great shot Dave, I have not seen that one before either. Could be a rare one?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on July 31, 2014, 07:15:35 pm
Meadow Brown  ??? not sure..........
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: craigollerton on July 31, 2014, 07:19:33 pm
Hi Dave, just did some trawling for you, it's a Gatekeeper Butterfly (Pyronia tithonus) mate. Rare for this part of the UK anyway. Nice find :)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on August 01, 2014, 01:08:09 am
This is the closest picture I could find to the creature that tried to kill me last night.

It was a very evil moth, the size of which I have never seen..... and it kept banging into my window, interfering with Emmerdale.

So, after turning the lights out outside, I was minded to overlook this frightening beast, and I forgot about it.

About Midnight, I went to the loo, and I could hear a loud flapping, vibrating sound, and to my horror, this monster was trying to batter it's way through the half-inch gap in the bathroom window.
It was the size of my fist, and was hell-bent on killing me.

Realising that it was a 'him or me' situation, I attempted to crush the evil beast in the window by closing it.... but NO!, it was too fiendish, and it chose the perfect moment to drop back a few inches.
It is still out there,  and no doubt there are others like it..... BEWARE!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on August 01, 2014, 10:57:04 am
Fester---you are a wuss ! ;D
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Ian on August 01, 2014, 10:59:13 am
You do realise he's actually cowering behind that thing, Nem? It's even bigger than he said!  WWW WWW WWW
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on August 01, 2014, 12:23:30 pm
Yeah ! Think it crossed our back garden last night-- then I realised it was a bat ! :twoface: :twoface: :twoface:
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on August 01, 2014, 05:22:40 pm
Could Fester's moth have been a Death's Head Hawkmoth? (google it) - that's the biggest moth I've seen, a few years ago.

http://www.andynewman.org/html/deaths_head_hawk_moth.html (http://www.andynewman.org/html/deaths_head_hawk_moth.html)

Plenty of rich people around who would have moths that big in their wallets!!!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Ian on August 01, 2014, 06:13:05 pm
I suspect it was more like this...

[smg id=3280]
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Ian on August 01, 2014, 06:15:20 pm
For ME: click here (http://www.google.co.uk/imgres?imgurl=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.chatham.edu%2Fimages%2F_banner%2Fsp-mikehabib.jpg&imgrefurl=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.chatham.edu%2Fabout%2Fspotlight%2Finnovation%2Fmikehabib.cfm&h=400&w=680&tbnid=xzag9JepygE7aM%3A&zoom=1&docid=UODxo60H3_7SuM&ei=scnbU760LJDb7Abq2YC4DA&tbm=isch&client=firefox-a&ved=0CCwQMygLMAs&iact=rc&uact=3&dur=1241&page=1&start=0&ndsp=13)

Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on August 01, 2014, 06:30:55 pm
Could be Festers missing Seagull chick...... ;D
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Ian on August 01, 2014, 06:39:45 pm
 _))* _))* _))*
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on August 01, 2014, 08:03:59 pm
For ME: click here (http://www.google.co.uk/imgres?imgurl=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.chatham.edu%2Fimages%2F_banner%2Fsp-mikehabib.jpg&imgrefurl=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.chatham.edu%2Fabout%2Fspotlight%2Finnovation%2Fmikehabib.cfm&h=400&w=680&tbnid=xzag9JepygE7aM%3A&zoom=1&docid=UODxo60H3_7SuM&ei=scnbU760LJDb7Abq2YC4DA&tbm=isch&client=firefox-a&ved=0CCwQMygLMAs&iact=rc&uact=3&dur=1241&page=1&start=0&ndsp=13)

Thanks Ian, I could not see the first one!  :(
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on August 01, 2014, 11:36:16 pm
Could Fester's moth have been a Death's Head Hawkmoth? (google it) - that's the biggest moth I've seen, a few years ago.

http://www.andynewman.org/html/deaths_head_hawk_moth.html (http://www.andynewman.org/html/deaths_head_hawk_moth.html)

Plenty of rich people around who would have moths that big in their wallets!!!

No, it wasn't a Death's Head Moth...... my Father in Law identified it, as he has been a collector of them, but had never seen a live one.
I honestly can't remember what he said.... 'a something eyed moth' .... because I was too panic stricken, and was more concerned with ensuring that he never saw a live one this time either!

Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on August 02, 2014, 01:45:42 pm
Could Fester's moth have been a Death's Head Hawkmoth? (google it) - that's the biggest moth I've seen, a few years ago.

http://www.andynewman.org/html/deaths_head_hawk_moth.html (http://www.andynewman.org/html/deaths_head_hawk_moth.html)

Plenty of rich people around who would have moths that big in their wallets!!!

No, it wasn't a Death's Head Moth...... my Father in Law identified it, as he has been a collector of them, but had never seen a live one.

.
I honestly can't remember what he said.... 'a something eyed moth' .... because I was too panic stricken, and was more concerned with ensuring that he never saw a live one this time either!

It wasn't one of these was it Fester?    They are carnivores so be careful, very careful
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: craigollerton on August 02, 2014, 01:49:47 pm
 _))* $good$
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: craigollerton on August 02, 2014, 02:47:57 pm
Hey Merddin, Pidgee came back today, and brought a friend with him/her! Couldn't get a snap of the two together as I wanted to make sure the second bird witnessed me feeding the other, so to encourage its return lol :) Will try when they stop by next.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: craigollerton on August 05, 2014, 05:53:29 pm
Hey Merddin, Pidgee came back today, and brought a friend with him/her! Couldn't get a snap of the two together as I wanted to make sure the second bird witnessed me feeding the other, so to encourage its return lol :) Will try when they stop by next.

(http://i1293.photobucket.com/albums/b599/craigrockfield/53de9e43e4b01dade9782ed0_zpsd8eb04a2.jpg)

Here we go Merddin taken yesterday.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on August 17, 2014, 06:20:11 pm
My wife and I were woken up at about 2.30am the other day when we heard what sounded like someone getting attacked in our back garden.  The noise was quite frightening and continued for a long time.
The security lights came on and I saw two Badgers, one chasing the other and all the time this awful noise continued.  I had a look in the garden the following morning but there was no evidence of a fight taking place so I'll never be able to find out what was going on, unless of course I see Badger cubs there in a few months time and then I'll know!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Yorkie on August 17, 2014, 06:35:37 pm
Automatic night vision cameras are quite cheap nowadays.   With all the activity in your garden it may be worth a small investment.   We could then all share these exciting moments!   ZXZ
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on August 21, 2014, 11:18:29 pm
I saw this fellow drowning in my water-logged barbecue.
He was about 1.5 inches long.

So, I fished him out and let him go.
Anyone know what species of beetle he is?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: snowcap on August 22, 2014, 12:19:12 am
looks like a lesser stag beetle (Dorcus Parallelipedus)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on August 22, 2014, 03:42:14 pm
Just found an enormous caterpillar in the garage, it is an elephant hawk moth! Pic from this webpage.

http://www.nhm.ac.uk/about-us/news/2010/september/big-eyed-horny-caterpillar-sightings-up79696.html (http://www.nhm.ac.uk/about-us/news/2010/september/big-eyed-horny-caterpillar-sightings-up79696.html)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Yorkie on August 22, 2014, 07:55:11 pm
Just found an enormous caterpillar in the garage, it is an elephant hawk moth! Pic from this webpage.


I understand that deep fried in beer batter with a bit of tartare sauce they make a half decent meal.   L0L
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: TheMedz on September 03, 2014, 08:45:10 pm
A new addition this week to the North shore  beach donkeys.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on September 03, 2014, 09:00:35 pm
What a beautiful looking Donkey, was that taken at Wyddfyd?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: TheMedz on September 03, 2014, 09:13:13 pm
Yes. We heard the news on Twitter this morning and went up this evening. As we did we managed to speak to John who said they didn't know the gender yet. As it was running around the pen it looked like it's legs were about 3 sizes too long for it's body. With the lovely temperature and light one of those good to be alive moments. Wonderful!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on September 03, 2014, 09:17:42 pm
How beautiful. I hope there is still some sand on the beach for it in years to come.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on September 03, 2014, 09:20:24 pm
Thanks for posting the photo,  I'll pop up there this weekend to have a look.   
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: TheMedz on September 03, 2014, 09:22:13 pm
Top Pen. Just before the Ski slope car park.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: TheMedz on September 03, 2014, 09:27:37 pm
How beautiful. I hope there is still some sand on the beach for it in years to come.

Totally agree about the beach. Just feel so fortunate being in the incredible position of ,every day, being able to see these donkeys roaming and rolling around in their fields on the hill.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: TheMedz on September 03, 2014, 10:06:23 pm
Another couple.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on September 03, 2014, 11:31:23 pm
How beautiful. I hope there is still some sand on the beach for it in years to come.

Given the vehement nature of the protests regarding the beach being turned into 'rocks'
... I am surprised that very few seem to be using the bit of beach that remains.
All through August it was only half full, and now in a sunny, warm September, there is NO ONE using it, so what's the point?

Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on September 26, 2014, 09:15:25 pm
I've been walking with my dog on the beach at Old Colwyn recently and there have been loads of Jellyfish stranded on the beach after the rough tides that we have been having.  They are mostly the ones that look like plants but there have been others which are a blue colour with a marking like a cross.
My dog doesn't seem bothered about them but does tend to mark things that are lying on the sand.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on October 04, 2014, 09:11:51 am
Julian Hughes from RSPB Conwy reveals why birding is on a high as autumn approaches.
Almost predictably, as soon as the school holidays ended, high pressure brought settled weather to North Wales.

These conditions can bring “drift migrants” – Scandinavian birds that drift west into British airspace, where light rain can ground them.
A few Tree Pipits and a Dotterel were the best that the Great Orme could provide, although good numbers of Wheatears and Whinchats were scattered along the coast.

http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/bird-notes-good-autumn-weather-7749923 (http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/bird-notes-good-autumn-weather-7749923)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on October 14, 2014, 12:29:48 pm
Bird Notes: Surprise great snipe spotted in North Wales
http://www.dailypost.co.uk/whats-on/whats-on-news/bird-notes-surprise-great-snipe-7931391 (http://www.dailypost.co.uk/whats-on/whats-on-news/bird-notes-surprise-great-snipe-7931391)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Gwynant on October 30, 2014, 11:13:00 am
                While walking along a beside a river yesterday I came upon this little fella sitting in the middle of the footpath and he didn't move even when I stopped to photograph him from inches away. As there were a few people with dogs in the area I picked him up and put in the leaves and grass a few feet back from the path where he just sat there looking at me and carried on munching! What struck me was that he showed absolutely no fear whatsoever even when I picked him up and seemed completely unfazed by the presence of what must have seemed a giant taking an interest in him. Someone passing said it was a shrew or a vole but I think it was some kind of mouse. Can anyone tell me what it was?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on October 30, 2014, 11:34:45 am
Hi G. Great photo...  I think it is a long tailed field mouse/Wood mouse?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Jack on October 30, 2014, 04:49:07 pm
Yes, that cute little fellow is a wood mouse!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on November 03, 2014, 06:25:52 pm
When I was walking my dog on the  Old Colwyn beach today I came across the dead body of a very large spotted Dogfish.  Unfortunately I could smell it even before I saw it but that didn't seem to put the Seagulls off.      :puke2:
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on November 03, 2014, 08:10:16 pm
Omg......... a good job Marco didn't decide to roll in it!

Quite a few seals around in Angel Bay on Friday. very vocal they were too!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on November 04, 2014, 12:13:40 pm
Bird Notes
A Snow Bunting remains at Llandudno’s West Shore as does a Black-necked Grebe at Bodfari. A Black Redstart was on the Little Orme watching the seals in Angel Bay.
http://www.dailypost.co.uk/whats-on/whats-on-news/bird-notes-twite-ultimate-little-8045569 (http://www.dailypost.co.uk/whats-on/whats-on-news/bird-notes-twite-ultimate-little-8045569)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on November 04, 2014, 03:04:12 pm
Omg......... a good job Marco didn't decide to roll in it!

I think the smell must have been too much for even him, but he did leave his mark on a number of Jellyfish stranded on the beach.

Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on November 08, 2014, 12:26:47 pm
I don't know if anyone remembers my discovery in June of four kittens in an old lawn roller in the garden?
Well here is the sequel. Two kittens disappeared never to be seen again but here are the two that survived. We finally managed to catch the mother in a cage and got them all to the vets to be neutered. They are all happily living life together. We still can't handle the mother but the kittens are used to us picking them up. They even have a cat flap in to the sun room now so they will have protection in the winter.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on November 08, 2014, 01:20:49 pm
Hi Hollins, Nice story and photos, we had a similar experience 4 years ago, "wild" feral cat, four kittens etc. re homed funnily enough in Switzerland, but the story is about the mother who took up residence under our garden table, despite trying different boxes/sheds, she sleeps on a towel on the chair tucked under the table?, she just tolerates me bringing food out without running away, in the end I opened the back window leaned over and put the food out, one night I left the window open, and was surprised when she came in while I was watching TV, she checked the room out then walked over to where I was sitting, jumped up, lay down next to me, still cannot touch her but for the last 4 years we have watched telly together and when I switch off, back under the table!!    &shake&
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on November 08, 2014, 01:37:56 pm
Amazing, great story. They certainly have a mind of their own.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Yorkie on November 08, 2014, 04:41:45 pm
Amazing, great story. They certainly have a mind of their own.

There is an old adage that says, "you don't adopt a cat - a cat adopts you."   Still rings true today!
 ZXZ
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on November 08, 2014, 05:22:51 pm
Amazing, great story. They certainly have a mind of their own.

There is an old adage that says, "you don't adopt a cat - a cat adopts you."   Still rings true today!
 ZXZ
Makes a lot of sense... $good$
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on November 11, 2014, 12:23:08 pm
Bird Notes:

http://www.dailypost.co.uk/whats-on/bird-notes-put-out-bunting-8087713 (http://www.dailypost.co.uk/whats-on/bird-notes-put-out-bunting-8087713)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Dwyforite on November 11, 2014, 01:57:17 pm
another thing said about the difference about cats and dogs, dogs have masters whilst cats have servants how very true.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on November 21, 2014, 10:17:11 am
LOOK: Whale rescued after getting stranded on Anglesey beach.

“Pygmy sperm whales are more common in the warmer waters off west Africa. They have been found increasingly in European waters in the past few years because of climate change."
“We are quite excited because sightings of these types of Kogia whales are quite rare.”

Photos...http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/look-whale-rescued-after-getting-8146356#rlabs=11 (http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/look-whale-rescued-after-getting-8146356#rlabs=11)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on December 20, 2014, 11:01:47 am
We bought this bird feeding basket at the Manchester Christmas Market a few days ago. I think this is a woodpecker enjoying the contents. Sorry for poor photo but had to take it on full zoom through the kitchen window.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on January 07, 2015, 11:28:43 pm
Tonight, the security light snapped on.... and I assumed it was a little cat that has been regularly visiting us, but NO!

Right in front of me, not frightened by me, or the bright lights was this very mangy, pathetic fox.

I felt really sorry for it, because its hind quarters were as bald as my head, and red-raw and sore looking in many places. it may well have been blind?   It stayed a long while, and never seemed aware of me standing only 3 feet away.

What is one to do when you see an animal suffering like this?   Surely the RSPCA are not interested in foxes?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Dwyforite on January 08, 2015, 01:22:29 am
I feed up to a dozen Fox's every night and have done so for the last five years,about three months ago some of them showed signs of mange so I got in touch with the fox welfare society they said if I administered the medicine they would supply it for free.so when it arrived my wife bought some round doughnuts every day for three weeks to which I took a small biro type pen as used in a bookies and inserted a hole in the doughnut and inserted five drops of this medicine into same.being ball shaped I found I was able to throw these at the feet of the foxes I wanted to treat.i am glad to say this appeared to work  as the four I fed tonight all seemed to be regaining their coats.all the local taxi drivers see me feeding these foxes and sound their horns or slow down to show their passengers.the latest I have fed them was 2.20 am on a new years day when a police patrol car stopped and asked me what I was doing,luckily the foxes appeared or I may have been carted away.but if the mange does get a hold it can make the fox blind and lead to its death
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on January 08, 2015, 11:04:54 am
Very interesting Dwyforite...... especially about the blindness.   This one in my garden may well be past help, but I don't like to see it suffering.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on January 08, 2015, 11:17:53 am
Well done Dwyforite for looking after the Foxes and caring for their welfare.  Wild animals need all the help and protection they can get so keep up the good work   $good$

I've never seen a Fox with the mange as bad as the one Fester photographed, it looked absolutely awful.   Is there any body people should notify when they see an animal in that condition?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Meleri on January 08, 2015, 11:46:13 am
I would get in touch with the National Fox Welfare Society Fester. They have a website wwn.nfws.org.uk or e-mail them the photographs to natfox@ntlworld.com or telephone Fox Rescue Emergency 07778183954. They also have a face book page.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on January 08, 2015, 12:03:44 pm
We had one in the same state about 3 weeks ago drinking from our birdbath, although it still had hair on it's tail. We rang he RSPCA who were about as much use as a chocolate fireguard. They told us to prod the poor thing with a sweeping brush to test how alert it was. Our local councillor found out that if you ring the environmental people at the council they will arrange things ! We didn't try this as the poor beast went away and hasn't returned. I was glad when it had rained heavily so the smell of him went.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on January 08, 2015, 10:50:20 pm
Thanks Meleri,  I will act on that information.  Although I have no idea how they will find it!

Nemesis, I think the advice you were given by the RSPCA was ludicrous, and downright dangerous.

Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on January 08, 2015, 11:20:18 pm
On the other hand that advice could work with the bloke living in the cave!  WWW
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on January 09, 2015, 09:38:51 am
On the other hand that advice could work with the bloke living in the cave!  WWW

 _))* _))* _))*
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on February 04, 2015, 08:46:09 pm
Up to 70 dolphins are photographed off the east coast of Anglesey


http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-north-west-wales-31127591 (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-north-west-wales-31127591)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on February 13, 2015, 10:26:09 pm
We were in Newborough forest today and the photos were taken by Teletubby.   The Red Squirrels were very active in the small car park.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on February 14, 2015, 05:17:30 am
Well done Tellytubby and thanks Hugo for posting them. Super photos.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Ian on February 14, 2015, 08:58:56 am
Reds are delightful. Now sure exactly why.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on February 15, 2015, 10:02:44 am
This is a bit of a tenuous posting but as ME once said, "They were local to you at the time!"
The camel is made from Lego.
The bird was a female peregrine falcon being trained to deter messy pigeons from the hotel balconies and the other photo was a flock of birds flying in formation by the Dubai Downtown skyline.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on February 20, 2015, 10:47:24 am
Took granddaughter to see the red squirrels at Newborough yesterday and saw quite a few, as well as birdlife including a pair of jays that landed very close to the car.

Just as we were about to leave a black squirrel appeared - sorry about picture quality, it was through wet windscreen!  Never knew there were black ones as well.

(http://www.anwcc.org/squirrel-black.jpg)

Different camera but it seems to have developed a focussing problem!
(http://www.anwcc.org/squirrel-red.jpg)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on February 20, 2015, 11:23:27 am
I'm glad that you were able to see those Squirrels.    In the past I've walked miles and miles through the forest on the other side of the road but never saw one.
It's great though to see them from the comfort of the car in the Llyn Parc Mawr car park.   We noticed the various colours too and at first the Reddish ones looked like weasels as they had a bright wide belly on them, it was only when they stopped running and we saw the tails that we could tell the difference.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on February 28, 2015, 04:06:06 pm
I was on the Little Orme today with my friend Tellytubby and we saw about 36 seals at Angel Bay.  I counted 36 but Tellytubby said that there were 37 or 38 but whatever the number there were more than we had ever seen before.
On our way over the cliffs of the Little Orme we were luck enough to see a pair of Peregrine Falcons, a few Buzzards and Terns, Razorbills and a variety of other birds too.
The photos were taken by Tellytubby with his Nikon  41x  zoom camera which is great for taking shots from a distance.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on March 15, 2015, 10:35:17 pm
Tellytubby went to Angel Bay in Penrhyn Bay this afternoon and counted 41 Seals there.  Here are some of the photos he took today.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on April 09, 2015, 08:07:17 am
Welsh lamb!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on April 30, 2015, 01:50:00 pm
A few weeks ago we had a call from a local vets in Llandudno about a baby collared dove that needed looking after. We hand fed him and got him eating on his own, last week we released him and  every morning he flies back wanting to come in for food and relaxing! Then about 8 pm we open the door and he walks out and flies off to roost! Lovely little bird!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on May 17, 2015, 11:38:23 am
ME................. A neighbour has just rung me and has an injured racing pigeon in his care. Do you have any contacts whereby he could find the owner please.
It has a number on its leg.
Thanks

Nem
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on May 28, 2015, 07:56:00 pm
A friendly robin at Bodnant this afternoon.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on May 28, 2015, 09:28:46 pm
ME................. A neighbour has just rung me and has an injured racing pigeon in his care. Do you have any contacts whereby he could find the owner please.
It has a number on its leg.
Thanks

Nem

 Nem, sorry, only just seen this, we were on holiday for a week, did you find the owner? Hope the bird is ok!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on May 29, 2015, 11:34:51 am
I looked on the net for them and they found a phone number under it's wing in ink. It had come from Wigan and they made some arrangements. Haven't heard since.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on May 29, 2015, 04:44:54 pm
Chester zoo has teamed up with Denbighshire County Council to capture live video of Lesser Horseshoe Bats in a maternity roost to monitor this rare and charismatic species at one of their historical houses.

Across their range numbers of lesser horseshoe bats have been decreasing, and they are rare in the British Isles. However, in parts of Western England and Wales they now seem to be increasing and this project is helping to monitoring this change.

Chester Zoo has provided funding to install cameras within the Lesser Horseshoe Bat roost at Nantclwyd y Dre in Ruthin.

Five cameras have been installed - four provide images at the house, and one provides this live video 24 hours a day, thanks to sponsorship from streaming company NWSG.

The lesser horseshoe bat roost is in the attic of the house. It is a maternity roost, where female bats have their young during the summer months (approximately April to September). From June onwards you may be able to spot baby bats cling to their mums.

Nantclwyd y Dre (Nantclwyd House) is a Grade 1 listed house in Ruthin, Denbighshire. It is Wales's oldest timbered town house and is owned and managed by Denbighshire County Council’s Heritage Service. It is open to visitors from April to September, so if you want to see more of these bats please visit
LIVE FEED.....BEST IN THE EVENING
http://www.chesterzoo.org/attractions-and-exhibits/web-cams/bat-cam (http://www.chesterzoo.org/attractions-and-exhibits/web-cams/bat-cam)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on May 31, 2015, 11:41:27 am
I was driving into Llandudno yesterday and on the left hand side in the Craigside housing estate I saw a number of twitchers with cameras running to one of the gardens there.
Does anyone know if there was a rare bird in that area?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on May 31, 2015, 04:30:55 pm
Or a topless sunbathers?   :twoface:
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on June 01, 2015, 06:09:05 pm
WATCH: First Dyfi osprey chicks of the season hatch in Machynlleth

The first chick hatched on Friday at 6.33pm followed by the second which was born earlier this afternoon
Monty the osprey and his mate, Glesni, spent the winter in Africa before returning to his nest near Machynlleth, looked after by the Dyfi Osprey Project.

The first chick hatched on Friday at 6.33pm followed by the second which was born earlier this afternoon.
Emyr Evans, of the Dyfi Osprey Project, said: “Sometimes nature can be so unpredictable, yet at other times, you can almost set your watch to it.

Great videos.....http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/watch-first-dyfi-osprey-chicks-9368635 (http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/watch-first-dyfi-osprey-chicks-9368635)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on June 03, 2015, 06:22:00 pm
Just had a visitor!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on June 03, 2015, 06:36:51 pm
FAN tastic.....Very grand visitor.... $good$
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on June 06, 2015, 02:04:20 pm
Another visitor on the drive today, Harry Heron this time!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on June 06, 2015, 02:50:23 pm
A Peacock told me there was some fish around here.!!!!!!! ? ;)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on June 07, 2015, 12:09:15 am
Fabulous pics Hollins, you are being spoiled with all these bird species dropping in!  :)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on June 12, 2015, 06:23:27 pm
Adder on Anglesey beach surprises photographer

This is the shocking moment an unsuspecting photographer realised a large adder on a North Wales beach wasn’t dead.
Darren Owen was walking on Cymyran beach on Anglesey when he spotted the snake on the sand.
Leaning in to take a picture of the reptile, he was shocked when the snake snapped at him.

Photos...http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/adder-anglesey-beach-surprises-photographer-9445119 (http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/adder-anglesey-beach-surprises-photographer-9445119)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on June 14, 2015, 07:42:57 pm
I was driving down Kings Drive in Colwyn Bay yesterday and as we were driving through the Pwllycrochan Woods, a large bird of prey flew across the road.   I know that there are many buzzards in the area but this bird was large and was a different colour to any Buzzard I've seen before.
My wife had a better look at this golden brown coloured bird and thought that it was an eagle but I've not seen any other reports of an Eagle in the area so it remains a mystery of what we actually saw.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on June 14, 2015, 08:15:59 pm
The Welsh mountain zoo sometimes have birds go astray ?.....
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on June 14, 2015, 10:53:58 pm
The North Wales Bird Trust at Bodafon Farm also have some escapees too but I couldn't contact them this afternoon so I  just left a message
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on July 24, 2015, 04:04:03 pm
I've tried to encourage the smaller birds into our back garden by providing feeding places in different parts of the garden.  I've also got three bird baths around the place and fill them up regularly so that the birds always have water to drink or bathe in.
Watching the Blackbirds bathing in the water is such a delight,  they are just so comical with their wings splashing  water every where.  Quite often after the Blackbirds have had a bath I've gone out and refilled the bird bath  as they have emptied the water with all the splashing about that they do.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Ian on July 24, 2015, 05:06:54 pm
There is at least one golden Eagle in the hills above Conwy Valley, Hugo. I've actually seen it, so I know it's there.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on July 24, 2015, 06:25:56 pm
You are very lucky to have seen such a magnificent bird like that.      $good$

Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Ian on July 24, 2015, 06:49:38 pm
I remember the shadow falling over us as we were walking. Almost floating as it drifted onto an outcrop. Farming friends knew of it, and have seen it several times, so whether it's an escapee or a recent immigrant, I don't know. The last mating pair I know of was in the Glyders, about 35 years ago.  I thought they'd all gone.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on July 24, 2015, 07:52:22 pm
I had a friend come over to see me many years ago and he travelled through mid Wales with the sun roof down and he saw a large bird that he had never seen before.
When he looked at my book on birds he was able to identify it as a Golden Eagle,  so that was a great start to his holiday.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on July 27, 2015, 09:33:17 am
Have any of your farming friends had any livestock losses in the area where the bird was seen?     If they have, it could be resident to that area.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Ian on July 27, 2015, 09:53:45 am
Their neighbours have to foxes, they suspect. But no unexplained ones, as far as I know.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on July 27, 2015, 10:56:38 am
If there is no evidence of the Golden Eagle attacking livestock it could be that the bird is from Ireland and just passing over.   I wish that I had seen that Eagle like bird properly when I was driving through Pwllycrochan Woods as that was very impressive too.   My other car has a video camera on it and I could have played it back and identified it.   As it was that road is so bad I had to keep my eyes on the road and only got a brief look at the bird. 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Ian on July 27, 2015, 10:59:02 am
Would its territory extend to here, d'you think?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on July 27, 2015, 11:07:53 am
It's nearer than Scotland so it's a possibility.   
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Ian on July 27, 2015, 11:59:23 am
On the B5381 at the highest point there's a very large Raptor that we always see sitting on a pole. Never seen it in flight but it's much larger than a Buzzard.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Bosun on July 27, 2015, 12:18:17 pm
Ian, I have also seen that bird, and in flight, but always whilst I was driving so I could not get that good a look at it, and by the time I had safely stopped and got the binoculars - of course it was gone. I have wondered what it was and have been reluctant to voice any suggestions in the presence of proper 'twichers' in fear of ridicule so I am grateful for your confirmation that I am not imagining things.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Ian on July 27, 2015, 12:37:54 pm
It's a magnificent bird, whatever it is. My wife's the Ornithological enthusiast - I'm just an enthusiast :-))
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: mull on July 27, 2015, 09:37:40 pm
Young Sea Eagles from Mull go off wandering on thier own and have been seen in NI, SW Scotland and no doubt IOM.
There is no reason why they would not sometimes over fly North Wales.
They are a huge bird ( 8FT ) wingspan.
Scottish Natural Heritage have just accepted that these birds do take young lambs which is only natrual but a lot of farmers up here want a reduction in numbers.
Having gone off wandering when young   they usually return back home , find a mate and settle down for life together.
Just like us !
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on August 04, 2015, 03:35:54 pm
RSPB Conwy's Julian Hughes
A few weeks ago, I mentioned a couple of Bee-eaters seen over Llandudno’s Great Orme and then near Anglesey’s Penmon Point, and I speculated on where they had gone next.

Now, the RSPB can reveal that two pairs of these colourful Mediterranean birds are nesting in a Hanson sand quarry near Carlisle, Cumbria. They are thought to have young in the nest and a viewing scheme has been opened now that the eggs are safe from law-breaking collectors.
http://www.dailypost.co.uk/whats-on/whats-on-news/bird-notes-rare-bee-eaters-9788721 (http://www.dailypost.co.uk/whats-on/whats-on-news/bird-notes-rare-bee-eaters-9788721)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on August 04, 2015, 04:22:21 pm
Thanks Steve for posting that article, those Bee -eaters they look really beautiful birds.     Tellytubby would have liked to have seen them on the Great Orme as he's a keen bird watcher
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on August 04, 2015, 05:18:28 pm
Thanks Steve for posting that article, those Bee -eaters they look really beautiful birds.     Tellytubby would have liked to have seen them on the Great Orme as he's a keen bird watcher
They are very unusual, at first glance they look like Kingfishers, now we know what we are looking at.... $good$
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on August 12, 2015, 06:21:59 pm
I haven't seen any Badgers in my garden for a while but last night at about 10.00pm a large brock came in and went over to the Dovecot where the peanut feeder is and then went through the hedge to next door.
It must be that the Badgers are coming in earlier as it's now quite dark by 10.00pm
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on August 18, 2015, 04:49:14 pm
Just in case any of our walkers ........ ££$
Rare exotic Hoopoe bird spotted on Pen Llŷn in Gwynedd

A rare exotic bird has been spotted on the Llŷn Peninsula.
The RSPB Conwy Nature reserve will be sending down a team to try to catch a glimpse of it
The Hoopoe migrates to Europe from North Africa in Spring but is only usually seen in the south coast of England.
But Stephen Garner, a regular bird watcher from Pwllheli, spotted its distinctive black and white feathers with an orange mane on Saturday at Nant Gwrtheryn, Llithfaen.
Mr Garner said: “This was a once in a lifetime opportunity to see a Hoopoe.
“I’ve seen one before at Fuerteventura in the Canary lslands but I have never seen one in North Wales before.
“The bird was just hopping along the ground eating some ants and after about five minutes - it flew off.

They also have a very distinctive flight, (undulating is the best description I can think of.)

http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/hoopoe-bird-spotted-gwynedd-rspb--9880329 (http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/hoopoe-bird-spotted-gwynedd-rspb--9880329)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on August 19, 2015, 07:07:58 am
Local to me.....saw this lovely family scene on a walk along the lake shore last night.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on August 19, 2015, 07:32:35 am
I saw one of those Hoopoes as I was driving along the Wrexham bypass a few years ago, a very impressive looking bird.  Last year we had a walk along the river from Rhuddlan to Rhyl and there was a Hoopoe spotted there too but unfortunately we didn't see it.

Liked the photo of the Swans and the cygnets too, such graceful looking birds
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on August 19, 2015, 12:27:34 pm
When I've been to Egypt, Hoopoes are quite common, but beautiful to watch, ~(and comical to listen to)

But I have never heard of them being in the UK, never mind N Wales.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on August 19, 2015, 12:43:56 pm
I thought that it was last year when the Hoopoe was in Rhyl and then Pensarn but it was actually 2013


http://www.google.co.uk/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=6&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0CDYQFjAFahUKEwjXjbP6h7XHAhXIPtsKHWivAGg&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.bbc.co.uk%2Fnews%2Fuk-wales-25369277&ei=G2vUVZcUyP3sBujegsAG&usg=AFQjCNENrUsz5e8tpmZUcL14Vpe0vUk0Fg (http://www.google.co.uk/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=6&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0CDYQFjAFahUKEwjXjbP6h7XHAhXIPtsKHWivAGg&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.bbc.co.uk%2Fnews%2Fuk-wales-25369277&ei=G2vUVZcUyP3sBujegsAG&usg=AFQjCNENrUsz5e8tpmZUcL14Vpe0vUk0Fg)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on September 08, 2015, 08:56:48 am
Tellytubby sent me this photo taken by someone in the Spinnies reserve near Penrhyn Castle.        The photo is of a Mink that could play havoc with the bird population  especially with the Kingfishers that are there.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on September 13, 2015, 01:55:57 pm
We saw a Badger in the back garden last night and it seems that they have started coming back again.  We knew that they had been around last week because we could hear their distinctive squeaking noises as they were looking for food.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SDQ on September 16, 2015, 10:41:37 am
Had a visit from this little guy at work yesterday. I haven't seen one for years!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on September 16, 2015, 12:13:18 pm
That's a nice photo SDQ  it's not often you see Hedgehogs nowadays.   My next door neighbour used to have loads of them in her garden and they would breed in there but since we've had Badgers coming to the house I've not seen one in my garden
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on September 18, 2015, 10:56:51 am
I saw this Heron near our garden early yesterday morning (6.15am) managed to get a very quick pic of him before he flew off!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: snowcap on September 18, 2015, 11:54:52 am
Bet he,s been raiding some poor kids goldfish pond. There were four of them in the field next to our golf club yesterday, do,nt often see more than one at a time.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Michael on September 18, 2015, 08:12:30 pm
   Hello Snowcap. Hope you don't mind preventing a possible confusion in some members minds.
   Yes, Snowcap lives very close to my golf course when he is Llandudno, but he also lives elsewhere most of the time. Obviously that place also has a golf course close at hand. So any goldfish owners around here don't have to worry.
   My apologies, Snowcap, for writing about your personal matters. I don't imagine you will mind, you have mentioned it yourself Mike
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on September 25, 2015, 05:01:38 pm
Local to me in Budleigh Salterton this time!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on September 27, 2015, 04:18:28 pm
I've just looked through the front window and seen over a dozen Long Tailed Tits on our Laburnum tree.  It was lovely to see them in the garden again as we haven't seen them here for many years and even then we only ever saw one or two.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on October 19, 2015, 07:24:05 pm
This morning, my lie in was disturbed by a strange scratching noise at the bedroom window.

When I opened the curtain, I was confronted by this guy!
But, he wasn't sat there looking smug like this, he was up on his haunches.... and shouting at me!

I didn't know Squirrels could make a sound, but for about 5 minutes he was making a snarling noise, somewhere between a shrieking bird, and a frightened cat.  Weird really.
I don't know whether he was frightened of something, wanted something.... or was mad with me about something!
Even more bizarre, he stayed exactly in that spot for the next 2 hours at least..... maybe longer, but I went out for the day.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on October 20, 2015, 09:39:29 am
We've lived in the same house in Llandudno Junction since 1977, middle of an estate, and in all that time we've only twice seen a squirrel in our garden ... until now.

There are two of them constantly crossing our garden carrying bunches of acorn leaves with acorns - the tree is beyond next door.

Don't know where they're going with the acorns - perhaps starting a new oak forest.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Ian on October 20, 2015, 11:59:34 am
Certainly plan ahead, these squirrels :-)))
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on October 20, 2015, 03:59:30 pm
I'm afraid we are over run with squirrels and are constantly having to try and keep the numbers down. One of them got down our neighbour's chimney and made a real mess but they also strip the bark of the trees and eat our fruit!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on October 20, 2015, 04:31:01 pm
When I was a little boy (over 60 years ago) I lived in the house that is next to the Mill at the bottom of Bodnant Gardens.  Squirrels used to come into our kitchen and would take food off our hands ... but in those days they were the red squirrels.

The grey squirrels started in the 1950's and a couple of guys working for the estate were tasked with shooting them.  My Dad was in the Garden one day with someone who had a gun.  "There's one up there" said my Dad, and his mate pointed the gun and shot - down came a dead squirrel - a red one.  My Dad was reminded of that often - especially as he was the estate electrician and should not have been colour-blind!

I'm sure there are many of you who would be jealous of my childhood, brought up on the Estate and able to roam around the Garden and surrounding woodlands at any time of the year!  When I was 6 years old, we moved to the house that is next to the entrance for the Welsh Food Centre and I lived there until getting married, my parents there until many years later.

The new area, recently opened to the public, by the "skating pond" was always my favourite part of the Gardens - spent many an evening up that way fishing for trout with my Dad, and seen woodpeckers and kingfishers there as well!  Idyllic, and love going back there.

Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on October 21, 2015, 05:43:31 pm
Sorry not local swans but thought you might like these pics anyway.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: TheMedz on November 15, 2015, 03:46:00 pm
One of the two new arrivals on view in Angel Bay this lunchtime (sorry about the quality of my phone camera)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on December 15, 2015, 12:36:10 pm
Local to me!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on December 15, 2015, 12:52:26 pm
A Hoopoe! .... and a beautiful one at that.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: squiggle on December 15, 2015, 01:35:02 pm
Certainly plan ahead, these squirrels :-)))

Skerryvore in Bryn Pydew at least used to have a big old walnut tree at the bottom of the garden. Every year, we used to see the nuts growing and hope to get some. Every year, just as the nuts seemed to be nearing ripeness, the tree got stripped.  We used to joke that the local squirrels got together and planned a midnight raid.

There's nothing so grand where we are now but we do have a hazel tree.  That can get stripped of nuts in a short time too.  Had worse this year I'm afraid. I've never seen this before but rats took bites out half a tree worth of apples. They also had some sweet corn. I won't claim to never having had a run in with rats when we lived in N Wales but there seem to be times in this part of rural North Norfolk where rat populations seem to explode.

---
Thinking Pydew and wildlife. I remember my father thinking he'd seed a parrot!  Of course it was just a green woodpecker.

---
Something I'd have liked to have seen in N Wales is a pine marten.  My mother feels sure she has seen a couple in Gwydir forest but a quick google now seems to suggest there is some debate about their existence.

---
I've never seen a hoopoe!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on December 15, 2015, 02:25:24 pm
Hollins, you are so lucky to have seen that Hoopoe, was it in your garden or somewhere abroad?        I saw one once as I was driving on the Wrexham bypass  but only had a brief glimpse of it unfortunately.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on December 15, 2015, 02:35:58 pm
Still in Dubai Hugo.
I am glad I posted that now if only to discover what kind of bird it was.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: squiggle on December 15, 2015, 03:11:45 pm
Thinking hoopoe and North Wales, I've just been pointed to this:

http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/news-opinion/rare-hoopoe-bird-spotted-north-6401886 (http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/news-opinion/rare-hoopoe-bird-spotted-north-6401886)

Usless info but these days, I'm about 1/2 hour from Cley which is also mentioned in this article.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: squiggle on December 15, 2015, 06:33:46 pm
Usless info but these days, I'm about 1/2 hour from Cley which is also mentioned in this article.

To continue this drift. The bird (and I've never seen one of these either) in that area is the elusive bittern. It is resident but not easy to find. It is suggested it seems to exist in Welsh song that anyone who had any primary school in Wales probably knows, ie, deryn y bwn. 

Only references I've seen seem to point to Brecon (down south) and I've only seen the grey heron in Wales.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: squiggle on December 15, 2015, 06:45:45 pm
(opps, need to clarify one thing above.  Lots of different birds at Cley but the bittern is the resident bird to spot)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on December 15, 2015, 09:51:38 pm
Clever wildlife in our garden!

The squirrel is now seen almost every day - comes over the back fence, crosses our lawn, over the fence to next door - then later returns carrying something.

Has taken to digging near our ornamental toadstool or the ornamental badger under the camelia bush, and buries his nuts.

Yesterday, we watched him dig by the badger.  Also watching him from a few yards away was a male blackbird.  Squirrel covers up this stash and scampers away.  Blackbird hops over, digs up the squirrels store and has a meal!

Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: squiggle on December 15, 2015, 10:16:48 pm
Here is a squirrel in action where we live now.  Could not work out who was opening bin lid - had to be an animal but what?. My parents got one of those trail camera things which I set up. Those bins contain peanuts (taken there) and other food for bird feeders.


http://www.jonbanjo.com/3tpic/sq.mp4 (http://www.jonbanjo.com/3tpic/sq.mp4)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on December 15, 2015, 10:44:10 pm
Nice video clip, they are clever little creatures those Squirrels.    They were pinching the peanuts in the bird feeder in our garden at an alarming rate so I invested in a Squirrel proof peanut feeder and filled it up as soon as I received it.
A few hours later it was only half full as those crafty creatures had taken the lid off!   I think I've sorted it out now but only time will tell.
I removed the Geraniums from their pots this week to put some Daffodil bulbs in and in one particular pot it was full of peanuts so that must have been where they were stashing the peanuts for Winter.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: squiggle on December 15, 2015, 11:42:10 pm
We have baffles on the bird feeders at the front theses days.  They were put up initially to deter the plague of rats mentioned previously but they also make life hard for squirrels.

While there are debates about the grey squirrel these days, we are not completely against them.  We now have a squirrel feeding box with peanuts in on a trellis one the boundary fence. For the most part, they stick with this plan.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on December 16, 2015, 02:54:08 pm
I popped down to Angel Bay in Penrhyn Bay as I had heard that there were a lot of Seals about recently.   It was high tide and I could only see one Seal on the beach and a couple out at sea.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on January 11, 2016, 11:46:34 am
With the cold weather forecast for the coming weeks I wanted to make sure that we had enough bird food in.   Mrs H was shopping in Home Bargains in Colwyn Bay and bought a bag of Wild Bird Food Feast, 12.55 Kg for £3.99.
Now that's what I call a bargain and it should last them through this cold weather spell.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on January 16, 2016, 06:24:45 pm
Local to me and you, I think.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SDQ on January 16, 2016, 06:40:09 pm
Clever the way you also got the cranes in the background.
I'll get me coat!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on January 17, 2016, 04:51:25 pm
Local to me and you, I think.

You didn't stay in the UK for long Hollins.    ;D   

Enjoy your holiday and please keep posting those photos of the mountains  $good$
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on January 17, 2016, 05:55:58 pm
Hi Hugo and SDQ,
Thanks for your interest.
Hugo, I will put some photos on the Switzerland thread for you.
This was the view this morning looking towards the bridge that I took the bird photo from yesterday, quite a blizzard!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on January 17, 2016, 06:20:17 pm
Looks like a typical day in Colwyn Bay this time of the year.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on January 20, 2016, 03:25:34 pm
I popped over to Angel Bay today and there were over two dozen Seals on the beach and a few more in the water too.   I noticed that there were more Seal pups on the beach today than I had seen on any of my previous visits here.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on January 24, 2016, 12:48:25 pm
There were a few small herds of Goats around the Marine Drive yesterday but I didn't notice any older Goats or kids in the herds.   The Fulmar's were quite vocal as we were walking past and we saw a solitary Seal on the beach at Pigeon's Cove.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blongb on January 24, 2016, 07:19:35 pm
There were a few small herds of Goats around the Marine Drive yesterday but I didn't notice any older Goats or kids in the herds.   
/quote]

As I came down Ty Gwen Hill this afternoon Hugo there was a fairly young Nanny with a newborn Kid on the terricing above Kendricks Cave.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on February 15, 2016, 12:24:26 pm
A couple of visitors to my garden recently and Tellytubby saw the Owl on one of his walks
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on February 15, 2016, 03:31:11 pm
Lovely photos Hugo.
We have had some amazing bird murmutations flying over us the last couple of days.
You can hear a rushing noise and see the shadow of them going past but it is almost impossible to get a camera out in time.
I did get this glimpse yesterday but not sure if it will be clear enough to pick it out.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on February 15, 2016, 04:47:52 pm
Hugo, love the pigeon! 😀
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on February 15, 2016, 05:49:59 pm
Hugo, love the pigeon! 😀
What's the owl done wrong?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on February 15, 2016, 06:00:53 pm
Hugo, love the pigeon! 😀

I thought that you might, quite often we have a variety of Pigeons in the garden but there are two that stand out because of their colours.  The one in the photo and there is a similar looking one and we often see the two together.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on February 15, 2016, 06:07:17 pm
Lovely photos Hugo.
We have had some amazing bird murmutations flying over us the last couple of days.
You can hear a rushing noise and see the shadow of them going past but it is almost impossible to get a camera out in time.
I did get this glimpse yesterday but not sure if it will be clear enough to pick it out.

That's a lovely sight to see and hear and sadly not as common as it once was.    Many years ago in Rhyl we used to see the Starlings grouping together and flying in ever changing formations and they used to roost on the road bridge across the Foryd.    At the time you don't always appreciate things like that, it's only when you don't see them any more that you realise how wonderful nature is
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on February 15, 2016, 06:22:18 pm
Here's my latest visitor ! He has patches of white all around his neck.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on February 15, 2016, 10:04:04 pm
It's really funny seeing the Blackbirds in the bird bath, their wings flap like made and the water goes everywhere.   I have to top up the bird baths frequently because of them
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on February 19, 2016, 12:40:35 am
I saw this friendly little Robin when I had a look at Gwydir Chapel yesterday
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on February 20, 2016, 04:42:26 pm
What's going on?
Have you got fed up of your seagulls and sent them all up here?!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on February 21, 2016, 10:53:40 am
You must be feeding them too well Hollins,  keep it up please.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on February 22, 2016, 12:01:29 pm
The first frogspawn has appeared in our pond this morning - at least 5 dollops of the stuff!

They've made a right mess of the plants with their cavorting, and the fish seem spooked - but they now have a supply of food!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on February 22, 2016, 02:53:42 pm
There were about a dozen or so Seals  at Angel Bay today
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on February 23, 2016, 02:48:39 pm
I  had a walk to Angel Bay yesterday and took my dog with me,  there were quite a few people there and many had dogs.    A lot of the dogs were off the lead like mine was and they were all well behaved.  I thought no more about it until I spoke to my neighbour today and he told me that the Dog Wardens were out in force in Angel Bay yesterday and fining people who didn't have their dog on the lead.
In all honesty I hadn't seen a sign so I consider myself lucky that I didn't get a fine too.
If I had of been fined yesterday then I would have had a much different attitude to the white CCBC  van parked in a bus stop on the West Shore.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Bellringer on February 24, 2016, 10:07:56 am
Discovered we have frog spawn in our garden pond. Not sure whether this is early or the normal time for it to start appearing.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on February 25, 2016, 08:04:12 am
My next door neighbour normally has Frog spawn in January in his pond and you can tell when the Frogs are ready to lay their spawn because they make such a racket.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on February 25, 2016, 08:05:41 am
I saw the Swan and Chaffinch when I was out walking yesterday
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on February 25, 2016, 01:04:23 pm
The Swan and Chaffinch,  I thought I was about to see a picture of a new pub!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on February 25, 2016, 01:09:14 pm
You wish! Z**       
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on February 25, 2016, 01:19:00 pm
You wish! Z**     

Well, there are so few decent ones, yes I do!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on February 26, 2016, 07:57:11 pm
I  had a walk to Angel Bay yesterday and took my dog with me,  there were quite a few people there and many had dogs.    A lot of the dogs were off the lead like mine was and they were all well behaved.  I thought no more about it until I spoke to my neighbour today and he told me that the Dog Wardens were out in force in Angel Bay yesterday and fining people who didn't have their dog on the lead.
In all honesty I hadn't seen a sign so I consider myself lucky that I didn't get a fine too.
If I had of been fined yesterday then I would have had a much different attitude to the white CCBC  van parked in a bus stop on the West Shore.

Llandudno dog walkers wrongly fined £75 in 'mistake' by private firm

I did wonder about the legality of their action, but only because Mostyn Estates are the Landowners and not the CCBC

http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/llandudno-dog-walkers-wrongly-fined-10956197 (http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/llandudno-dog-walkers-wrongly-fined-10956197)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: mull on February 27, 2016, 05:10:21 pm
Glad we dont have to put up with this on Mull.

How does it work if you refuse to give them your correct name and address.
Surely they can not expect anyone walking thier dog to be carrying £75 pounds on them.
Only time I carry any cash when walking the dog is if I am calling in for a pint on the way home and then it is nothing like £75.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on February 27, 2016, 05:17:23 pm
As far as I have been led to believe, if you refuse, they threaten you with the police, but they have no legal rights. There again if I am wrong I am sure that someone will correct me ! :P
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on March 02, 2016, 04:51:30 pm
I was by the little Chapel of St Trillo's when I took the photos but didn't stay too long as it was too cold and rough out there.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Lyndylou on March 05, 2016, 01:35:10 pm
Not so local but interesting  friend or foe ?

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-3465240/Birds-feather-stick-Incredible-moment-bird-revives-friend-knocked-flying-window.html (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-3465240/Birds-feather-stick-Incredible-moment-bird-revives-friend-knocked-flying-window.html)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on March 05, 2016, 04:05:32 pm
I saw these today when I was out walking
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on March 05, 2016, 04:54:42 pm
Super clear photos there Hugo.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on March 05, 2016, 06:12:07 pm
Thanks Hollins,  I wasn't quick enough to catch the Kingfisher which dived into the pond and then immediately came out again.    I was too busy eating a hot cross bun when the Kingfisher made its appearance.    ;D
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: squiggle on March 06, 2016, 04:02:54 pm
Lovely photos hugo.

There are some common birds I don't see where I live near Cromer, North Norfolk.  No starlings or jackdaws or even herring gulls - but the common gull comes in masses if a feild gets ploughed.

Favourite site in the field round the back here last year was a Yellow Hammer,  I don't remember ever seeing one in Pydew and this is the only time I've seen one here.

I 've also tied to take bird table shots.  You might like the snippet below form a few year ago, never knew magpies tool beakful of nuts.

Magpies, Javys and the great spotted wopecker are rare visittorss to our garden, I think coming when food is shorter.

Have never seen a kingfisher anywhere but thinking Wales, my mother tells me of a path near Penhryn Castle - I'm sure you would know it.

Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on March 06, 2016, 04:34:38 pm
I took the bird photos in the Spinnies which is a nature reserve by Penrhyn Castle.    I did see a Kingfisher there but I was eating a hot cross bun at the time and missed it as it dived into the water.
I think over 100 different species of birds have been spotted there.   There is a bigger bird reserve in Llandudno Junction and that's well worth a visit
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: squiggle on March 06, 2016, 04:55:40 pm
Sorry had somehow missed to read where you had taken the other photos....

Norfolk is pretty well set for places to see birds.  There are the salt marshes, eg. near Cley - about 1/2 hr fro me by car and the Broads.  Maybe this year we wil take at trip to one of the latter and I'll finally get  a picture of another type of resident  - the swallowtail butterfly... And back to birds, one day, I'll see a bittern...

I'm a bit vague over the Junction place.  I know my mother liked to go somewhere, I think after the Conwy tunnel?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on March 06, 2016, 05:02:34 pm
Yes, the Nature Reserve at Llandudno Junction was created when the Conwy Tunnel was being built.  The spoil from the tunnel helped to create the reserve.  They have done a great job there and there is a nice shop and cafe to relax in after looking around the reserve
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: squiggle on March 07, 2016, 10:39:49 am
Thanks for the info, Hugo.

Just one more bird table shot for you, taken today..  The b lighters are at again (baffle had fallen).  They have their own box of peanuts but...


Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on March 07, 2016, 10:44:16 am
I've got two Squirrel proof nut feeders and they seem to be working as previously the little blighters were costing me a packet.    I still put some food out for them though but they are not coming here as often, perhaps they have got the message.

Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: squiggle on March 07, 2016, 11:03:30 am
I've got two Squirrel proof nut feeders and they seem to be working as previously the little blighters were costing me a packet.    I still put some food out for them though but they are not coming here as often, perhaps they have got the message.

I must admit my mother stocks the feeders here so I don't know the cost.  I seem to shift sackfulls of seeds and nuts for her though...  The feeders that go down the quickest are often the sunflower seed ones though - it's amazing what the little visiting birds get through.  She's also putting out 1/2 coconut shells round the back at the moment which are apparently being devoured by a gang (and they usually seem to come in gangs - don't they) of long tailed tits.

I think our own policy with grey squirrels is one of tolerance - well give you a box but please leave the feeders to the birds... but attitudes vary.  I gather Anglesey had a push to get rid of them and make it a place for the reds.  Have you got any pics of them?








Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on March 07, 2016, 12:17:19 pm
Red Squirrels in Newborough Forest
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: squiggle on March 07, 2016, 12:24:40 pm
Great pics, Hugo - thanks.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on March 07, 2016, 12:30:15 pm
We used to have Badgers coming to our back garden every night and the occasional fox too and we could see them when we were in our sun lounge but now we are in the front of the building we don't see them at all.
I still like to feed them and know they have been there so what I do is to put some peanuts in an ornamental cast iron frog that is in two halves.  The Frog is so heavy that only the Badger is strong enough to lift the top half off and get at the peanuts
If the Frog is disturbed then I know that the Badgers have been in the garden and been fed, but last night I was making a cuppa in the kitchen and the security light came on and I could see the Badger helping himself to the peanuts.
I rushed upstairs and got my camera to take a photo, the quality of the photo taken through the bedroom window is very poor but next time I'll have the camera ready for a better shot.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: squiggle on March 07, 2016, 01:26:48 pm
Hugo, I know the frustrationns and hope you do get the better quality photo but all the same, when you consider having to act quickly, grab what is to hand, maybe light, etc. etc. I think it's a great picture - I'd have been pleased to have captured it at all!

I can only think of maybe seeing a badger once.  I was dropping down from Junction back to Pydew, towards the green and I saw an animal whose gait was certainly not fox or dog.  On a later in life HNC in buisiness IT, I did learn from a tutor that there were groups of badgers in Pydew but I'm not sure exactly where and if I did know I'd probably follow his caution with giving exact locations...

Foxes, I should have taken my own pics . if I had camera then and thought about it then...  I have seen one as "bold as brass" in the bottom of Skerrryvore  - I got within say 10ft. 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on March 07, 2016, 02:30:20 pm
It was very rushed when I took the photo but next time I'll be better prepared.   They get  very spooked at the slightest noise so I couldn't even open the window to take a better photo.
The most we have seen in the garden at any one time is 3 and one of our best memories is when a female Badger came one evening and it was obvious that she had had cubs.   She came back the following evening and brought her very small cubs with her.   The Brock came much later and was a lot bigger than the female.
I saw 7 in my neighbours garden all together on the terrace, there were 5 adults and 2 cubs and it was a wonderful sight to see.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: squiggle on March 08, 2016, 12:45:38 am
Good luck with the photo, Hugo.  I'll look forward to seeing you post a new picture sometime.

The magpie was difficult btw.  Wily old bird, incredibly sensitive to the slightest of movement. I tried a few times to "sneak up" (if one can do such a thing from being behind say a bedroom window) but it always saw me and was away...  In the end, I used the tripod for my mother's spotting scope and set the camera up with a focus on the bird table. When I knew the bird had come, I just clicked the IR remote for the camera a few times and hoped for the best. One of the pics zoomed in just happened to have the bird with the beak full of nuts.

Nice to hear about the badgers.  As I say, I've never really had a proper view of one but I think my mother has a memory of one from her England/Wales border Shropshire childhood that she will probably post about in the next couple of days.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Lyndylou on March 08, 2016, 11:40:57 am
http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/local-news/ducks-move-first-sign-spring-11005893 (http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/local-news/ducks-move-first-sign-spring-11005893)

RSPB Conwy Latest news
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on March 08, 2016, 12:05:20 pm
They were at it in the Spinnies too,  a bit of an orgy was going on with two drakes to one female.      :-[
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on March 08, 2016, 03:04:55 pm
Walking on the pavement this morning at West Shore I encountered a very large, lone swan. I made to walk in the road to avoid the bird as I had the dog with me. " I'm trying to get it back across the road "said a man in fluorescent gear. He got between the swan and the wall and tried to shoo it. The swan promptly turned round and jabbed him right where it would hurt ! Sorry, but I had to laugh !
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on March 11, 2016, 06:12:58 pm
There was a flock of Curlews in the field opposite Llandrillo College today but I couldn't get near enough to take a decent photo.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on March 13, 2016, 05:26:52 pm
Some of the birds in Conwy
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on March 14, 2016, 02:59:33 pm
As it was such a nice day, I popped down to Angel Bay in Penrhyn Bay and had a look at the Seals on the beach.   The tide was coming in quickly and a group of 12 or more were congregated at the far end of the beach.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on March 14, 2016, 10:53:02 pm
I was just about to let our dog go out into the garden for the last time tonight when the security light came on and I could see the Badger munching away at the peanuts I had left. The noise must have disturbed the Badger because he shot off into our neighbours garden.
I put our dog back in the house and had to go in the garden and scare off any others that may have been out of sight at the top of the garden.
When it was safe to do so I let the dog out and he just ran around like a headless chicken but at least I knew he was safe from the Badger.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on March 16, 2016, 06:42:24 pm
ME will you please come and collect your birds as they are pooping on my roof and costing me a bomb in birdfood.      ;D
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on March 16, 2016, 07:01:08 pm
None of mine there, they are your very own tame pigeons lol! Lovely birds!  D)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on March 16, 2016, 07:36:42 pm
Some of the birds in Newborough Forest today
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on March 30, 2016, 08:44:21 pm
There were comments on murmurations earlier, there is a short video attatched to this link....

Watch up to 30,000 starlings above Conwy Estuary in spectacular formation.
Birds of a feather certainly flocked together above Conwy this month drawing thousands of avid watchers from all over the UK.

Thousands of the species have gathered each evening over the last month over the estuary before dropping into the reeds at the RSPB reserve to roost overnight.

http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/watch-up-30000-starlings-above-11114939 (http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/watch-up-30000-starlings-above-11114939)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on March 31, 2016, 05:18:47 pm
My wife gave our dog Marco his first haircut of the year and we put some of the cuttings in the back garden.    It wasn't long before the Crows came and took some away, at least they'll have nice warm nests in the nearby woods.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on March 31, 2016, 09:08:28 pm
Apologies for being pedantic - but aren't those jackdaws?

Last year our rabbit, sadly no longer with us, used to be tormented by a magpie that would hop up behind him and take tufts out of his tail to take to the nest!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on March 31, 2016, 09:16:36 pm
Apologies for being pedantic - but aren't those jackdaws?

Last year our rabbit, sadly no longer with us, used to be tormented by a magpie that would hop up behind him and take tufts out of his tail to take to the nest!

Jackdaws were ripping up loads of newspaper in then street today, shredding it for nesting material
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on March 31, 2016, 10:30:52 pm
Apologies for being pedantic - but aren't those jackdaws?

Last year our rabbit, sadly no longer with us, used to be tormented by a magpie that would hop up behind him and take tufts out of his tail to take to the nest!

Well spotted DVT    Jackdaws and Magpies are both members of the crow family, or, more technically, corvids.   Today there were two Jackdaws and two Crows helping themselves to the cuttings and one of the Crows is in the first picture. They were a young pair of Carrion Crows and they were quite nervous  ones too.

In this photo the Carrion Crow is in flight in the centre and the Jackdaws are either side of it, while the Pigeon is  just not interested in the cuttings

Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on April 01, 2016, 01:08:36 am
Not local but.... cute!
The male Stork has returned from migration, to its injured mate, for the 15th straight year!
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-35936411 (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-35936411)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on April 01, 2016, 08:02:56 am
That's a nice story, the instincts of the birds are incredible.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: snowcap on April 01, 2016, 11:30:43 pm
unless i am mistaken pigeons do,nt line their nests they just lay eggs on sticks made into a flat nest
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on April 02, 2016, 12:21:57 pm
A bit like this nest
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on April 02, 2016, 04:54:09 pm
That is how my pigeons nest, how cute!  D)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on April 02, 2016, 05:59:28 pm
We have enjoyed watching the Wood Pigeons doing their courtship in the back garden.  They are ever so funny, just like a sketch from the Benny Hilly show with the male chasing the female around.
As the males are chasing the female around they dip their beaks down and the tail feathers are up in the air and just fan out and they do this procedure quite often.
It's just so nice to see nature up close like that.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on April 05, 2016, 11:20:33 am
Bird Notes columnist Julian Hughes of RSPB Conwy reveals what birds have been spotted in the past week.
Birds had been streaming north all day, as the migration floodgates finally opened.
http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/local-news/spring-migration-floodgates-finally-open-11138736 (http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/local-news/spring-migration-floodgates-finally-open-11138736)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on April 06, 2016, 04:51:23 pm
Welsh Mountain Zoo releases seals on Penrhyn Bay beach
A group of grey seals rescued during the past five months by the Welsh Mountain Zoo have been released back into the wild of the North Wales shores.
The two males and two females were bought into the Zoo with various conditions, each being undernourished and underweight and in need of a period of rehabilitation.

The seals, rescued from various North Wales beaches, were transported to the Zoo and cared for by their experienced team.
They have rehabilitated in two specially designed pools, been carefully monitored and have made great progress.
Now weighing 40 kilos each, Zoo Keepers are happy that the seals are fit enough and were released at Penrhyn Bay beach this morning (Wednesday, April 6).
http://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/160630/gallery-welsh-mountain-zoo-releases-seals-on-penrhyn-bay-beach.aspx (http://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/160630/gallery-welsh-mountain-zoo-releases-seals-on-penrhyn-bay-beach.aspx)

 $good$ $good$
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on April 06, 2016, 04:58:47 pm
The Welsh Mountain Zoo has done a lot of good work in helping the Seals over the years.     $good$
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on April 11, 2016, 08:10:18 am
Early morning visitors!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on April 27, 2016, 12:45:39 pm
Neighbours have cut down a few bushes near us, and we think blackbirds were nesting in them.  The birds have now decided to make a nest in our clematis, close to our back door.  Hopefully they won't mind our coming and going but our big concern is local cats.  Anyone know how we can prevent the cats getting at the nest as we think it's easily reachable for a prowling moggy?

http://www.anwcc.org/nest.jpg (http://www.anwcc.org/nest.jpg)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on April 27, 2016, 03:19:39 pm
I have a nest in a similar kind of position in a fuchsia bush near a wall. I am hoping that when the leaves thicken up it may prevent the local moggies gaining access.
I read somewhere that old CDs placed facing the sunlight are a deterrent to cats, but it may also put the birds off.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on April 27, 2016, 03:33:34 pm
Thanks for the advice on CD's - problem is we don't see the cats during the day, they come round at night - only know they're in the back garden because they set the security light off!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on April 27, 2016, 04:51:29 pm
Hi DVT,     I have used liberal amounts of cheap pepper around the base of a nesting tree, (every 3/4 days)  seemed to work OK but needs dry weather for best results.   
 ££$
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on April 27, 2016, 07:06:53 pm
We've tried putting pepper down,  also peppermint and I've heard of people trying coffee powder to repeal them,  not sure that any have been effective.
I am told that you can buy metal cats with shiny eyes that are supposed to scare real cats.
But again I have not tried this myself.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on April 27, 2016, 09:05:52 pm
Early morning visitors!


Thanks for posting those lovely photos of the Deer, you are so lucky to see such a wonderful sight.  What type of Deer are they?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on April 27, 2016, 09:27:45 pm
Also.... I saw an Ultrasonic Animal Repeller on Wowcher earlier...... (Effective for cats and dogs apparently)  £9.99,  need to check what reviews its had.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on April 27, 2016, 10:24:58 pm
Early morning visitors!


Thanks for posting those lovely photos of the Deer, you are so lucky to see such a wonderful sight.  What type of Deer are they?

To be honest we are not sure but we think they are fallow deer.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on May 09, 2016, 10:31:45 pm
I didn't want to butt in when I saw a few locals enjoying the delights of Mike's Golf Course.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on May 10, 2016, 06:56:02 am
So who put the red flag on the goat's horn?  ;D
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Ian on May 10, 2016, 08:45:17 am
Superb shots, Hugo.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on May 16, 2016, 12:08:45 am
Every night I leave some peanuts out for  Badgers who comes into my garden and just so I know that they have been I leave the peanuts inside a cast iron frog that is in two parts.
The Badgers come into the garden when its dark and in the morning I'll know if they have visited the garden because the top half of the Frog has been removed. Occasionally I see them when the security light comes on, but tonight I was watching TV in the sun lounge at about 9.30 pm and it was still light outside and I couldn't believe my eyes when a Badger just calmly walked into the garden and started to eat the peanuts that I had left inside the cast iron Frog.   
I dashed upstairs and found my camera and  quickly took a few photos before he scoffed the peanuts and moved on.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on May 16, 2016, 12:14:17 pm
Nicely done Hugo!
In other news, I was on Llandudno prom today and I noticed that a pair of nesting seagulls had chosen a crazy place to build their nest.
I have never seen them nest anywhere other than cliffs or high buildings (my chimney etc)
But these two are low down, on the prom in a very vulnerable roadside area.  It doesn't make any kind of sense.
Even if the eggs remain long enough to hatch, then the chicks will soon tumble the 8ft or so into the road and get splatted. 
Passers by, cats, children or foxes are surely going to bring a sad end to this venture.

Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on May 16, 2016, 12:39:28 pm
Spotted the nest this morning, as I drove by, I thought an inexperienced pair, and as you said "crazy" does not look good for the future.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on May 24, 2016, 02:54:49 pm
The Ponies were in Cwm Prysor and the Ducks in Llanasa
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on May 24, 2016, 04:01:17 pm
Love the foal and what a great photo of the furry chicks!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on May 24, 2016, 08:09:51 pm
Pair of Canada geese with three young goslings on the Far End pond in Bodnant, also thousands (millions?) of tadpoles, and some sticklebacks in the water.

Also seen on the feeders just inside the entrance in the past week there has been sighting of a yellow hammer (not seen it myself) and a lesser-spotted woodpecker (which I did see).

Also found a nuthatch nest in the bark of one of the giant sequoia trees.

Plenty of interesting wildlife as well as plants in Bodnant at the moment - laburnum is on its' way way and we expect it to be fully out next week!

I have to say that becoming a volunteer "archer" is one of the most enjoyable things I've ever done!  Say hello if you see me there, one of the forum members did find me today!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on May 30, 2016, 08:32:18 pm
No wonder my peanuts go down so quickly !
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on June 04, 2016, 05:14:37 pm
Horses on Newborough Warren today
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on June 23, 2016, 05:57:03 pm
I went to Llanfairfechan today to see the Swans but the Pen was sitting on her nest so I couldn't tell if she had eggs or any Cygnets under her.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on June 26, 2016, 10:23:00 am
On the ponds in Llanasa yesterday, the ducklings have grown quite a bit since my last visit there
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on July 06, 2016, 10:47:12 pm
Just come downstairs and nearly died of shock,  the creature below was thrashing about on my living room floor.
After spending a few agonising minutes chasing it around and trying to scoop it up, I managed to bundle it outside.
It was lunging towards me and flicking it's tongue out.
I didn't know what it was, but Google images suggest it is called a 'Slow Worm'
There is nothing 'slow' about it, believe you me..... now where is the brandy?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: snowcap on July 06, 2016, 11:11:00 pm
still thinking of spending six months abroad, that,s what a snake would look like and would realy put the willies up you. There are some nasty little begers out there.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: TheMedz on July 07, 2016, 08:23:08 am
It obviously gets around then.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on July 07, 2016, 11:16:13 am
Definitely a slow worm - badly named!  Perfectly harmless but still puts the wind up you!

Possibly been caught by a bird (seagull or similar) and dropped, then made its way for cover in your house!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on July 07, 2016, 01:35:07 pm
Where was that Medz?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: TheMedz on July 07, 2016, 06:57:32 pm
Found it in our front garden. Needless to say that is not me holding the fork. Can't stand snakes. A friend of one of the neighbours brought his pet boa constrictor to their house. Mrs Medz couldn't wait to stroke the snake and I wandered off as far away as possible.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on July 11, 2016, 02:21:54 pm
My dog often chases the Squirrels in the garden but thankfully he never catches any.   There is one Squirrel though who is pretty clever and instead of running away he just runs up the tree and hides in the Dovecote until he sees that my dog has gone.
That same Squirrel has also found a way of getting the peanuts that I put out for the Badger.    I hide them in a hollow cast iron Frog that is in two halves.
The Pigeons know the peanuts are there but can't do anything to get them as the Frog is too heavy but the Squirrel  has now found out a way of pushing the top of the Frog off and getting to the peanuts inside.   I took the photos looking through the glass in my sun lounge
     
                                                                                    ?{}?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on July 11, 2016, 02:29:32 pm
Great photos Hugo, I like them all, especially the dovecote ............ $cool$         
Title: Re: Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on July 20, 2016, 06:35:24 pm
I think this cheeky beggar is auditioning for a place in Hugo's garden.........

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TiUUBUACd1w (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TiUUBUACd1w)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on July 20, 2016, 11:07:19 pm
That Fox was incredibly cheeky Steve and I really enjoyed that clip.   Thankfully my occasional visiting Fox  isn't so brave, especially if he sees my dog looking at him through the window
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on July 28, 2016, 05:50:27 pm
This pretty green moth has been attached to our car all day. I don't think I have seen one this colour before.

Sorry Fester, look away!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on July 28, 2016, 06:47:52 pm
 I think it is a Large Emerald..............A resident that is generally uncommon and locally distributed throughout Derbyshire. Probably present in all areas of old deciduous woodland that has a large proportion of mature birch. Population densities are low and only recorded in single figures even at favourable sites.
http://www.simplybirdsandmoths.co.uk/sbam/index.php/1666-large-emerald-geometridae-geometra-papilionaria/ (http://www.simplybirdsandmoths.co.uk/sbam/index.php/1666-large-emerald-geometridae-geometra-papilionaria/)

Hi Hollins, Are you on one of your many trips?  If it is the above moth, I think you have been very lucky to see it.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on July 28, 2016, 07:05:29 pm
No, at home in North Wales SteveH.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on July 28, 2016, 08:38:33 pm
Your memory is excellent Hollins, to me there's nothing pretty about it!!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on July 29, 2016, 03:00:04 pm
I'm sure that you would change your mind Fester after an enjoyable day out at Pili Palas on Anglesey.      $good$
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on July 29, 2016, 06:27:33 pm
Sorry Fester, but it aint your week. Just caught this little chap in the house, running down the corridor where my freezer is. Picked him up to put him outside and he had a darn good go at biting me. Managed to snap him as he hurried off !
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on July 30, 2016, 12:37:16 am
He's alright Nemesis, quite cute really, a little lizard.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on August 04, 2016, 02:16:40 pm
I was reading in the sun lounge earlier today when something swooped down and carried a Pigeon for about 20 yards before landing and killing it.   It then dragged it under the hedge to eat it.
The Hawk was large, much bigger than the Sparrow Hawks that I've seen here before and it may have been a Peregrine Falcon.
It's not a nice sight to witness in your own garden, but I suppose that it's nature in the raw.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on September 05, 2016, 01:39:33 pm
Saw this insect today. Anyone like to tell me what it is please?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Ian on September 05, 2016, 02:04:02 pm
That's a Dragonfly, suborder = Anisoptera, I think.  They have the wings open at rest, as opposed to the similar looking damselfly, who close their wings at rest. Very common around rock pools in September.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on September 05, 2016, 02:08:18 pm
I think it is a Green Drake mayfly....check out this link.....

http://www.nationalinsectweek.co.uk/discover-insects/mayflies/green-drake-mayfly (http://www.nationalinsectweek.co.uk/discover-insects/mayflies/green-drake-mayfly)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Ian on September 05, 2016, 02:36:36 pm
This is an Anisoptera DF:

[smg id=3352]

which seems nearer to Hollins' specimen in colouring, I think
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on September 05, 2016, 03:59:10 pm
Emperor Dragonfly In reckon - young male one before it turns blue or a female which stays green ... found quite a few nymphs during the Bodnant pond dipping sessions and plenty of the adults flying around during the past couple of weeks up at the far end pond.  It;'s Britain's biggest dragonfly and certainly spectacular in flight - flying back and forth when looking for prey - I saw one "pounce" on a pond skater with great accuracy, just like a hawk!

Bodnant also had red dragonflies and plenty of the blue damsel flies.  Damsel flies and dragonflies differ in the way they fly and hold their wings when at rest.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Meleri on September 05, 2016, 04:09:03 pm
What a little beauty, fantastic photos Hollins. I think it might be a female Southern Hawker Dragonfly.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Ian on September 06, 2016, 07:49:32 am
I agree. Certainly the most likely. From British Dragonflies:

Flight Period: June to October (sometimes individuals in May and November)

A large, inquisitive Hawker usually seen individually. It may fly quite close to investigate observers. The spots on segments S8-10 are joined, unlike other Hawkers. The ante-humeral stripes are broad and strongly coloured. The costa is dark and there is an elongated triangular mark on S2.

Male: brightly marked on a dark background, usually apple green except for S8-10, which are pale blue. Occasionally, all pale blue marked individuals are seen.
Female: brown with bright geen markings.
Habitat Breeds in water line vegetation in well-vegetated, small ponds, often in garden ponds. Hunts well away from water and may be found hawking woodland rides well into the evening.
Status & Distribution Very common in southern and central England and Wales, more local elsewhere (vagrant only to Ireland).
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on September 06, 2016, 08:37:33 am
Thank you everyone for your input.
It was interesting looking up all the suggestions and I am sure that Meleri has the answer. It fitted that description exactly.
 $thanx$
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on September 27, 2016, 08:03:00 am
The Badger called last night to feed on the peanuts I had left for him.  By the time I got my camera this was the only photo I could take as he was off again as quickly as he arrived.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on October 02, 2016, 05:03:15 pm
We were amazed to see so many mackerel being fished out of the sea today at Colwyn Bay.
The seagulls were also enjoying the rich pickings.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on October 03, 2016, 06:23:22 pm
At the start of our walk today, Rhuddlan spotted loads of Ladybirds on top of a concrete post and when we had another look there were loads of them on other posts too. 
I've not seen so many together before and can't remember seeing any in my garden this year.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on October 03, 2016, 06:41:27 pm
Great photos, the different colourings in such a small group are unusual, and I would have thought a bit late in the season, must be the good weather.

In the seventies I took a long 1 inch tube from the garage, banged it on the drive to clear any muck trapped inside, and was amazed when it emptied hundreds of ladybirds everywhere.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on October 03, 2016, 09:10:17 pm
I imagine that would be the same time as we went walking near Scammonden Dam in West Yorkshire and it was difficult to walk anywhere as there were so many ladybirds crawling about.

There seem to have been many more than usual this year.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on October 03, 2016, 10:17:40 pm
Great photos, the different colourings in such a small group are unusual, and I would have thought a bit late in the season, must be the good weather.

In the seventies I took a long 1 inch tube from the garage, banged it on the drive to clear any muck trapped inside, and was amazed when it emptied hundreds of ladybirds everywhere.

Tellytubby took the first two photos and he's really good at taking photos and I took the other two.   Like I said I can't remember seeing any in my garden this year and I'm in the garden often during the Summer.
That's interesting about the 70's Steve because in 1976 I was working in Rhyl and we had a plague of Ladybirds in the town.  Millions and millions of them all over the pavements etc.   That day they even closed the catering on the prom as the Ladybirds were flying in and landing on the griddles.  Walking into town was awful as you couldn't avoid treading on them
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: snowcap on October 03, 2016, 10:24:34 pm
I was working shift work the year in question and we were on night turn, it was about three in the am when having a break outside, it was like walking on hailstones you could only just see the floor. Never seen anything like it since
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on October 03, 2016, 10:39:37 pm
I can still remember all the crunching noises as I was walking in the street in Rhyl, it was just awful that day.  It hasn't happened since thank goodness.
In about 1963 I was working with my Father in the Summer in a building site above Llandrillo College and the sky turned black when a swarm of midges came over from the Mochdre area.    They covered the site for about 15 minutes before flying off towards Rhos on Sea.
It would have been bad enough anyway but just before they had arrived I had taken my shirt off and put some oil on my body for protection against the Sun.
The workmen had to hose me down with cold water to get them off.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on October 04, 2016, 09:15:19 am
Unless it is just me, we seem to have many more small black biting insects this year, including mosquitos. They seem to have wish to bite me, as I have been covered in itchy bumps.

A couple of evenings ago I heard a loud angry buzzing in the utility, which has a polycarbonate roof. I went in there bearing a duster to 'flap' the offending creature out of the back door just in time to see it land on a roof beam and a huge spider dash out and grab it. It then retreated between the poly and the beam and proceeded to kill the buzzing insect. The speed it dashed out at was amazing. :o
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on October 04, 2016, 11:49:32 am
Agreed Nemesis, but in the last month there has been a massive influx of wasps, mostly on the pier.
All the shops have been inundated with them.
I was surprised that they would venture out to sea, surely that's not normal for insects?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Ian on October 04, 2016, 12:14:16 pm
It isn't, but wasps are now looking to find their winter shelter and they're both hungry and inebriated from the fermented fruit they're scavenging off. Not a good time to deal with them.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on October 04, 2016, 02:05:47 pm
It isn't, but wasps are now looking to find their winter shelter and they're both hungry and inebriated from the fermented fruit they're scavenging off. Not a good time to deal with them.

Hungry and inebriated?
That describes not only wasps, but the growing army of people occupying the doorways of all the shops in Mostryn Street every night.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Ian on October 04, 2016, 02:57:29 pm
 :-X
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on October 10, 2016, 04:44:32 pm
The Badger came into our back garden the other evening for the peanuts we leave for him.   He normally comes in after we have gone to bed but this time he was a bit earlier so there was a mad scramble to get a camera hence the dodgy photo
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on October 10, 2016, 06:07:07 pm
You did better than I did, the other night I had 4 hedgehogs running up and down the grass, and with the camera battery low, the end result... zero photos, .....and I think I will have a long wait to capture a similar scene.  :(
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on October 10, 2016, 07:41:58 pm
I haven't seen a Hedgehog for a long time, so you are lucky there Steve and at least you've got the memory of seeing them.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on November 02, 2016, 05:43:50 pm
A few weeks ago we spotted dozens of Ladybirds on posts by Eirias Park Colwyn Bay and when we had a close look we noticed that some of them were quite different to the normal British ones.
In the Daily Mirror there was an article on these unusual Ladybirds, they are called Harlequin Ladybirds and are alleged to carry STI's  and bite humans so it's something to be aware of.
The Harlequins have different colour variations including large red or orange spots on black wing cases.   I used to like Ladybirds but will have to be a bit more careful in the garden from now on.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on November 02, 2016, 08:06:16 pm
Our daughter, in Yorkshire, has had so many invading her house that she has been using the vacuum cleaner to clear them up. When I sent her the article from the Mirror she promptly disinfected the machine !
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on November 03, 2016, 08:30:00 am
Seen a few ladybirds here, mainly more of an orange colour than red but not invaded.
These creatures though are another matter...........
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on November 13, 2016, 09:11:50 am
Woody woodpecker.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on November 13, 2016, 10:40:09 am
Looks like the Greater Spotted Woodpecker, a lovely sight to see in any garden.    I haven't seen one in our garden for quite a while but hopefully they will return soon.
That Maple in your garden still looks brilliant and in full leaf.   Our Maples have lost most of their leaves but that's probably due to the windy  weather that we've had recently
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on November 13, 2016, 12:54:04 pm
Hi Hugo,
Yes it is a very special tree. A wonderful legacy from the previous owner of the house.
There are plenty of leaves on the floor but we haven't had any strong winds so it is still looking good.
It is difficult to capture just how red it is with photos.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on November 14, 2016, 01:29:10 pm
While I was on the prom in Old Colwyn I took some photos of the birds on the rocks there
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Jack on November 14, 2016, 05:54:44 pm
Like the bottom picture of the turnstones - they do exactly as they say on the tin - turn stones to find their food.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on November 14, 2016, 07:36:14 pm
Is the top one a Fulmar?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Jack on November 14, 2016, 10:56:14 pm
No a black headed gull Fester. Doesn't have a black head this time of year though  ;D
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on November 14, 2016, 11:10:24 pm
If anyone could identify the birds Jack, I thought that it would be you.    They are a small bird with a particular flight and I've always thought that they were some type of Tern.
The wingspan looked no more than 24 to 30 inches and the bill with the black tip made me think that it was a Tern.  My friend Tellytubby who knows the different species wouldn't be impressed with my lack of knowledge

I wonder if they are young common Terns and the black cap that those Terns  normally have is starting to appear through the plumage
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Jack on November 15, 2016, 07:44:08 am
Not sure to be honest Hugo; common terns are summer visitors to our shores so don't think they would be around at this time of year. You will have to get a photo next time  :D
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on November 18, 2016, 03:45:07 pm
I was in the kitchen earlier and looking into the back garden when a large Heron calmly strolled across the lawn.   It's the first time I've seen one in our garden so I rushed upstairs, but by the time I got my camera out the Heron had disappeared.
It has probably gone into my neighbours garden as they have, or at least had a lot of fish in their garden pond 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on November 18, 2016, 07:30:28 pm
Jack,  I must have misread your posting about the Gulls  but you were spot on when you said Black headed Gulls.   $good$

 My friend Tellytubby also said that they are  adult black headed gulls in very pretty winter colours.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on December 03, 2016, 04:55:30 pm
We had a nice walk along the beach in Pentraeth and saw  many varieties of birds along the way.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Jack on December 03, 2016, 06:49:03 pm
Nice photos Hugo  :) wigeon and curlew in the first photo, wigeon in the second, redshank in the third and finally little egret.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on December 03, 2016, 11:08:52 pm
Thanks Jack, it was coming up to high tide when we were there but if we tried to get any nearer to the birds then they flew off.   It was good to see so many there though.      $good$
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on December 21, 2016, 09:02:23 pm
On Saturday we went to St Asaph to have a look at a flock of Waxwings that had been seen in large numbers near the bridge.  We saw them but didn't stay long there as there were many bird watchers there with massive cameras waiting to take photos of the birds.
We walked upstream and saw a variety of birds such as Dippers Ducks and a Heron but didn't get sight of the elusive Kingfishers that can be seen around that area.
We later moved on to the Nature Reserve at Rhuddlan but didn't stay long there either as it was windy and cold but we did stay long enough to speak to a photographer called Tony Pope who had seen the Otter there earlier that day and had taken some fantastic photos of it which he posted on Facebook.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on December 23, 2016, 10:42:29 am
First case of bird flu confirmed in Wales
The deadly disease was found in a wild duck and vets are warning that other cases are likely to follow.
http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/local-news/first-case-bird-flu-confirmed-12359189 (http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/local-news/first-case-bird-flu-confirmed-12359189)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on December 28, 2016, 09:03:30 am
There were about 10 Waxwings reported to have been seen in the Pen Y Bryn car park on Boxing day but although I walked past there about 3 times during the day I hadn't noticed them or the bird watchers that tend to follow these rare sightings.
Yesterday I walked past there with my dog and saw about 4 bird watchers  and later on I went back with my camera.    I didn't see any Waxwings there but hung about for about 15 minutes and then gave up.
I drove out of the street and right at the end of the school playing field were about 6 of these beautiful birds so I stopped and went to get my camera but before I could get it out of it's case off they flew again and not one photo taken!
The photos below were taken by someone else earlier this month
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: PhilMick on December 28, 2016, 03:38:59 pm
We should get the waxwings here soon then (in Staffordshire). The redwings normally come with them too.

Sometimes we'll see a fieldfare as well.

Great photos above.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on December 28, 2016, 04:27:57 pm
I hope that you do see them there PhilMick as they are an attractive looking bird.     $good$     
We saw about 60 of them in St Asaph last week and bird watchers from all over the country came to see them.     
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: PhilMick on December 29, 2016, 07:17:23 pm
The red wings strip every berry from every tree and Bush and then disappear until next year.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on January 07, 2017, 10:09:36 am
Very tame robin to be found in Bodnant car park - careful you don't run over him as he comes hopping round your feet as soon as you get out the car!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on January 10, 2017, 09:16:18 am
Bird flu has been confirmed in a wild bird on the RSPB Conwy reserve, the charity has said.
RSPB staff found a dead teal on the reserve and immediately reported the discovery to the Defra helpline.
http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/local-news/bird-flu-confirmed-dead-duck-12427678 (http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/local-news/bird-flu-confirmed-dead-duck-12427678)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: PhilMick on January 10, 2017, 04:15:43 pm
I hope that you do see them there PhilMick as they are an attractive looking bird.     $good$     
We saw about 60 of them in St Asaph last week and bird watchers from all over the country came to see them.   

No sign of Redwings, Waxwings or Fieldfares just yet.

They usually arrive after a few very icy days and strip berries from everything - perhaps this weekend.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on January 10, 2017, 04:55:02 pm
I hope that you do see them there PhilMick as they are an attractive looking bird.     $good$     
We saw about 60 of them in St Asaph last week and bird watchers from all over the country came to see them.   

No sign of Redwings, Waxwings or Fieldfares just yet.

They usually arrive after a few very icy days and strip berries from everything - perhaps this weekend.

I'll be staying indoors if the weather gets that bad,        $cofffee$
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Bellringer on January 10, 2017, 05:00:00 pm
We have seen about six field fares in the Henryd Road area of Gyffin (Conwy) in the past week.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on January 23, 2017, 04:10:34 pm
I had a walk to Angel Bay this afternoon and there were dozens of seals on the beach and in the water.   The bull seals seemed to be romping in the water and making a right noise as well.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on January 25, 2017, 10:41:22 pm
I had a walk along a river bank today and a Dipper was busy preening itself on the other side of the river so I couldn't get a good photo of the bird but the Robin was very friendly and not too far away
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on January 26, 2017, 11:33:09 am
Trying to get rid of some dead bits and pieces yesterday and I had 2 Robins trying to get into my green rubbish bag. A few meal worms got them out and they quite happily shared them. :)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on February 05, 2017, 01:14:31 pm
The Cormorants don't seem too bothered about the state of the Colwyn Bay Pier.

The Robin was happy to pose for the photo at the Bird Reserve in Llandudno Junction
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on February 18, 2017, 10:51:56 am
Nice article
Revealing the secrets of Wales’ most enigmatic bird

RSPB Conwy reserve manager Julian Hughes joins a ringing project that aims to shed light on the finger-crunching hawfinch.
http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/local-news/revealing-secrets-wales-most-enigmatic-12617794 (http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/local-news/revealing-secrets-wales-most-enigmatic-12617794)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on February 18, 2017, 05:58:25 pm
A beautiful looking bird Steve and I haven't been lucky enough to have seen one.    My friend's brother who lives in the Dolgellau area is lucky to have them coming to his bird table quite often
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on February 28, 2017, 12:01:02 pm
Doris and Ewan blow in unusual gulls to the North Wales coast
.Bird Notes columnist Julian Hughes of RSPB Conwy reveals what birds have been spotted in the past week
http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/local-news/doris-ewan-blow-unusual-gulls-12666625 (http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/local-news/doris-ewan-blow-unusual-gulls-12666625)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on February 28, 2017, 06:17:35 pm
I've tried a few times to see the link but it has been unresponsive unfortunately.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on February 28, 2017, 07:47:31 pm
I've tried a few times to see the link but it has been unresponsive unfortunately.
I have just tried it again, working as it should, ..... &shake&
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on February 28, 2017, 10:32:00 pm
It must be my computer then Steve as the link is still unresponsive.    I'll look on the RSPB website instead as the article seems very interesting and I'd like to see that is happening there.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on March 01, 2017, 12:11:35 am
H.  Just in case, I have copied the main points

North Wales hosts six different types of breeding gull each summer, not just the Herring Gull which gets a bad name because of our wasteful food practices.
In winter, a few other gull species show up, and last week’s storms caused two scarcer Gulls to appear.
A Glaucous Gull, a white-winged seabird from the Arctic edge, was at Old Colwyn on Sunday, where Scaup, Long-tailed Duck and Velvet Scoters remain on the sea.

Pictured....Little Gulls, our tiniest gull, pluck insects from the surface of the sea while hovering over the waves.

A flock of eight fed off Criccieth on Sunday, blown inshore with a Great Skua, and another Little Gull was on the Glaslyn estuary at Porthmadog; these gulls will ultimately head east to nest around the Baltic Sea.

Grey Phalarope was another storm-blown waif at Porth Ysgaden near Nefyn, while a Lapland Bunting was at South Stack.
A flock of Waxwings flew over Penrhynside on Monday morning, and a Hooded Crow was on Holyhead Mountain.
Black-necked Grebe and a flock of Scaup are on Anglesey’s Inland Sea and Slavonian Grebes nearby off Penrhos Coastal Park.
Spotted Redshanks and up to 50 Twite are at Connah’s Quay.
A friend this week filmed tens of thousands of Sand Martins consuming insects in a feeding frenzy in Senegal ahead of their flight to Europe.
With good weather, the first will be in North Wales in just a few weeks, perhaps sooner, as several were sighted in south west England at the weekend.

Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on March 01, 2017, 08:36:39 am
Thanks very much for posting those details Steve, it's really appreciated.        $good$


I was in the RSPB reserve in Llandudno Junction a few weeks ago looking for the Bullfinches but could only see them at a distance as the area where they were, was temporary closed off to the public.  It's nice to know that the Bullfinch population seems to be on the increase as they are such attractive looking birds.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on March 01, 2017, 04:35:10 pm
Loads of birds were enjoying the high tide at Conwy today
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on March 24, 2017, 01:49:32 pm
I was in the garden this morning and saw this little bird by one of the trees.   He didn't seem afraid as I got nearer and I thought that he had maybe fallen out of the nest and couldn't fly so I was relieved when he flew up to the tree and just started eating the peanuts there.
It would have made a nice close up photo on the peanut feeder but when I went to take a photo the battery went.    :rage:
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on March 24, 2017, 02:10:08 pm
Looks a bit like a Coal tit ?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on March 24, 2017, 02:25:11 pm
I've looked at some photos and you could well be right Steve, thanks very much for that.      $good$
I took two more photos before the battery went flat,
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on April 03, 2017, 01:16:34 pm
I don't think that ME has been feeding his Pigeons recently because every time I go in the garden now they seem desperate for food.       ;D
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on April 03, 2017, 02:25:11 pm
What a lovely tame pigeon! Mine are all fit and well, this is Twiglet, born here and bonded with me!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on April 03, 2017, 09:37:09 pm
The little bird with a black head and white stripe is definitely a Coal T1t - lots of them visit the feeders in Bodnant.

ME - please come to my back garden and collect all your pigeons - they are a right pain, stealing all the food for the small birds, and making a mess of the lawn.  You can have them all for free!!!  Then the goldfinches can eat in peace.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on April 04, 2017, 08:08:34 am
Lol, not my pigeons, mine all live in the aviary. We do have visiting pigeons, but the little birds all eat from the feeders with no problems from the pigeons.  :)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on April 04, 2017, 09:06:46 am
Hi ME ... never thought they were yours!  Some have rings on so suspect some "pet" pigeons have integrated with the feral ones.  We have had the occasional visit from a sparrow hawk which seems to like them!  Hope the hawk doesn't get yours.  Such is wildlife, can be cruel.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on April 13, 2017, 10:35:23 pm
Incredible footage of Dolphins off Angel Bay


https://www.google.co.uk/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=1&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0ahUKEwjK7Z-psaLTAhVqDMAKHW11BSwQFggiMAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.dailypost.co.uk%2Fnews%2Fnorth-wales-news%2Fwatch-incredible-footage-dolphins-playing-12892290&usg=AFQjCNE0GZF_S3SAAiizC2lp_Gue8nvXqw&bvm=bv.152180690,d.ZGg (https://www.google.co.uk/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=1&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0ahUKEwjK7Z-psaLTAhVqDMAKHW11BSwQFggiMAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.dailypost.co.uk%2Fnews%2Fnorth-wales-news%2Fwatch-incredible-footage-dolphins-playing-12892290&usg=AFQjCNE0GZF_S3SAAiizC2lp_Gue8nvXqw&bvm=bv.152180690,d.ZGg)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on April 19, 2017, 01:45:59 pm
These two pied wagtails have been aiming at the lounge window today but when I took a photo of them and zoomed in on it I noticed that one of them looks as if it only has one leg.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on April 19, 2017, 01:51:01 pm
Poor little thing!   They normally run around like crazy,  that's out of the question for that little fella.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on April 25, 2017, 11:25:05 pm
We have Badgers coming into our garden on a regular basis and I normally go out and scare them away before I let my dog out but he still chases up the garden as if they are still there.
Sadly though he has very recently had two big operations and he is not allowed to jump or run for a while so I slowly walk him on a lead around the garden.
I was just about to put him on a lead tonight for his last walk when the security light came on and this small Badger just ambled along about 12 feet away so I had to chase it away and wait a while before going out.    He knew it had been and followed the scent all around the place but at least he was on the lead and couldn't do his mad runs after it.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on April 26, 2017, 10:21:35 am
Sorry to hear about Marco Hugo. Hope he makes a full recovery.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on April 26, 2017, 10:49:51 am
Hope all goes well.........  ££$
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on May 05, 2017, 11:42:50 am
I don't think that ME has been feeding his Pigeons recently because every time I go in the garden now they seem desperate for food.       ;D

We are about to buy a house near you Hugo, so hopefully that pigeon will visit us!   :)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on May 05, 2017, 12:10:54 pm
I don't think that ME has been feeding his Pigeons recently because every time I go in the garden now they seem desperate for food.       ;D
We are about to buy a house near you Hugo, so hopefully that pigeon will visit us!   :)
All the best for the move ME.     ££$

Hugo, how is Marco getting on ?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on May 05, 2017, 03:53:39 pm
I don't think that ME has been feeding his Pigeons recently because every time I go in the garden now they seem desperate for food.       ;D
We are about to buy a house near you Hugo, so hopefully that pigeon will visit us!   :)
All the best for the move ME.     ££$

Hugo, how is Marco getting on ?

Yes, good luck with the move ME,  as soon as you are settled in I'll bring  all the Pigeons round to your place and it'll save me pounds in bird food.
Marco is a lot better thanks Steve.   He had a big hernia operation about 4/5 weeks ago but sadly it wasn't successful and he then had to undergo a much bigger one in Hartford Cheshire.    The vet in Hartford is a specialist  in that type of work and in fact we have just come back from there after getting him checked out again.   She's pleased with his progress but we have to go back again in 2 weeks so she can
see how he is progressing so for the moment there are no walks on the beach and only short walks on the flat.
Marco seems very good but we do have to curb his enthusiasm for the time being.  In fact you would't think that he had had an operation other than the fact that  his crown jewels are somewhere in Hartford.       :(     
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on May 07, 2017, 02:41:54 pm
Hope this little chap doesn't become any more friendly. Frizzy nearly had him by the tail this morning !
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on May 11, 2017, 08:38:54 pm
Bodnant's resident Canada Geese now have five youngsters - you will find them at the Far End.  Also Moorhen with two chicks.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Ian on May 12, 2017, 08:19:02 am
When you say 'resident', DVT, does that mean they stay all year or return regularly?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on May 12, 2017, 11:45:11 am
This pair have stayed since last year - Mr Goose appeared in February 2016 and Mrs Goose arrived a few weeks later.  They had three goslings, but two disappeared one weekend although were growing nicely - mink was suspected.  The third one reach adulthood and the three stayed through last winter, becoming quite friendly to visitors.  Youngster left a few weeks ago, presumably to look for a mate.  Mr & Mrs Goose had a nest on the island this year and the chicks hatched last weekend.  Hopefully they will be safe as mink has not been spotted for some time, herons could also be a predator.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on May 12, 2017, 05:53:44 pm
This is a bit of a sad one.
We found this beautifully made nest on the floor in the garden minus the occupants.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: snowcap on May 12, 2017, 10:57:21 pm
most likely rotten magpies, they wait for the young to hatch then make their kill
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on May 26, 2017, 11:53:18 am
This visitor caused a bit of commotion just before bedtime last night,  crashing around the kitchen, scared Mrs H, who is not into flying insects of any description, let alone this large noisy specimen, and it was the first time we had encountered this bug, it was easy to catch and release, and glad to see the back of it.

Cockchafers
No, we didn’t make that name up, the common English name for Melolontha melolontha is indeed the cockchafer.  Although they are beetles they are also commonly called May bugs, and you can see why from the graph above.  These large beetles emerge as adults in May or June after living in the soil as larvae for 3-5 years. They are strong though inelegant fliers and are attracted to light, meaning they often fly through open windows and gatecrash evening barbeques!  But don’t worry; they are not harmful to humans.  Find out more here  -
http://www.nhm.ac.uk/nature-online/life/insects-spiders/common-bugs/cockchafer/index.html (http://www.nhm.ac.uk/nature-online/life/insects-spiders/common-bugs/cockchafer/index.html)
 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on June 01, 2017, 05:53:47 pm
One of them was sat on my chair outside The Seaclyffe Hotel today..
I let it have the chair...
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on June 06, 2017, 01:22:45 pm
This bird slammed into my patio windows earlier.
The poor little thing is stunned, so I'm leaving it alone for now, whilst making sure local cats don't get near it.
I thought it was a pigeon, because of its body shape, feet and plumage.
But it's head and beak shape is definitely not a pigeon.
Anyone any idea what it is?
(Whichever way I rotate the photo on my iPad, they still come out upside down on here, can admin help?)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: spotty dog on June 06, 2017, 01:59:41 pm
Looks like a young wood pigeon
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on June 06, 2017, 02:05:40 pm
Ah yes.... I've googled it.... it WAS a wood pigeon
Either an adult female or an fledgling.

I say 'was'.....
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on June 06, 2017, 02:47:00 pm
Yes, a young woodpigeon.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on June 06, 2017, 03:57:05 pm
I'm afraid I was so keen to keep cats away from it, that I carried it up to the top of the garden... gave it a little stroke on its head and promised it would be ok.

I turned my back, and a flock of jackdaws descended on it, and killed it.
I know that nature must take its course but I'm really gutted about it.

I had no idea jackdaws were predatory in that way?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on June 06, 2017, 04:43:28 pm
 :-[  :-[
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on June 06, 2017, 05:14:12 pm
Indeed Merddin,  and I can find no references to Jackdaws killing other birds!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on June 06, 2017, 05:51:58 pm
Really it needed to be in a cage until ready to fly off.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on June 06, 2017, 06:14:24 pm
Don't make me feel worse!!  I thought I was helping.

It did not like being handled, and according to all web sources jackdaws should not have attacked it.
I was trying to get it safe from cats, and place it higher up the garden.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on June 06, 2017, 08:22:17 pm
The Jackdaws this year seem particularly nasty, they seem to be 'ganging up' on the smaller birds and are very noisy in the early hours of daylight.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on June 06, 2017, 11:28:58 pm
When I was on the computer yesterday two Jackdaws had one heck of a scrap and the aggressive one flew off with part of the wing of the other and appeared to be eating it on my front lawn
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: BrianP on June 07, 2017, 02:48:35 pm
On the BBC Springwatch programme the other night, they showed Jackdaws taking young chicks from nests. Although they are not known for taking chicks, it does happen.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on June 07, 2017, 03:21:27 pm
When I was on the computer yesterday two Jackdaws had one heck of a scrap and the aggressive one flew off with part of the wing of the other and appeared to be eating it on my front lawn

OMG That's gross ! :puke2: :puke2: :puke2:
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on June 07, 2017, 03:38:22 pm
On the BBC Springwatch programme the other night, they showed Jackdaws taking young chicks from nests. Although they are not known for taking chicks, it does happen.

Then I imagine that a mob killing of a sizeable bird is certainly not their normal behaviour then?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on June 07, 2017, 05:26:37 pm
One for Jack?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on June 07, 2017, 06:02:36 pm
I think it could be a speckled wood, but not sure.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Jack on June 07, 2017, 07:29:26 pm
Spot on Steve - speckled wood
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Jack on June 07, 2017, 07:32:47 pm
Indeed Merddin,  and I can find no references to Jackdaws killing other birds!

I was watching Springwatch the other night and Jackdaws were taking young swallows out of the nest and in my garden I have seen them attack and kill sparrows. Also saw a gang of them kill an injured feral pigeon. They seem to opportunistic killers.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on June 07, 2017, 08:31:49 pm
Thanks for that Jack,   This behaviour is at odds with Wikipedia articles.

I always thought that the only animals who kill for the sake of it, (I.e.not for food), were humans!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on June 07, 2017, 11:05:47 pm
Snap ! Hollins.
Taken last week in my garden - could be the same one as yours!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Ian on June 08, 2017, 08:09:10 am
Thanks for that Jack,   This behaviour is at odds with Wikipedia articles.  I always thought that the only animals who kill for the sake of it, (I.e.not for food), were humans!

I suspect a fair number do. Cats, certainly, Foxes and others, I think. A Fox will decimate a field of young lambs and leave them. Cats will often toy with mice instead of killing them directly.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on June 13, 2017, 08:44:19 am
Huh ! Jackdaws ! I have just been attacked by one whilst watering a pot on my front doorstep. Luckily it missed my eye, but my head is pretty sore. :o
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on June 13, 2017, 09:42:26 am
How strange, we have jackdaws here, who mingle in with the visiting pigeons with no great problems really, I've certainly never been attacked by one. But it is the breeding season and hormones are causing havoc in birds at the moment!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on June 13, 2017, 11:15:52 am
Seems to be a gathering of them around, think there could be a nest in one of the chimneys.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: bigbadhenry on June 14, 2017, 11:06:07 am
I've got shitehawks nesting on next doors chimney, can't cut the lawn due to dive bombing gulls.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on June 15, 2017, 08:22:28 pm
Just a few photos of the wildlife we saw on Bardsey Island yesterday.   On our way back we passed a nesting colony of sea birds and saw many varieties of birds there including Puffins.    In one spot where the currents met there must have been loads of Sand eels  there because the sea birds including many Gannets were going into a frenzy looking for food.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on June 15, 2017, 08:25:16 pm
Bardsey Island
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on June 19, 2017, 04:35:26 pm
Another boat trip today but this time around Puffin Island.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on June 19, 2017, 04:37:06 pm
Puffin Island
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: snowcap on June 19, 2017, 10:31:16 pm
do the puffins know they have been invaded or are they away on holiday
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on June 19, 2017, 10:55:59 pm
Rats were introduced to the Island some time ago and because the Puffins nest in Rabbit burrows the Puffin population declined.
The rats were exterminated from the island in recent times and the Puffins have started to come back but only in small numbers
Tellytubby took this photo today on our trip around the island
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Ian on July 15, 2017, 08:24:00 am
This isn't exactly local,. but well worth reading.

https://www.newscientist.com/article/2140836-never-before-seen-photos-of-leopard-cub-being-raised-by-a-lion/ (https://www.newscientist.com/article/2140836-never-before-seen-photos-of-leopard-cub-being-raised-by-a-lion/)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Ian on July 15, 2017, 08:34:31 am
The pics (credit joopvanderlinde1)

[smg id=3367]

[smg id=3366]

[smg id=3365]
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on July 15, 2017, 09:42:03 am
I read that article yesterday, and sympathised with their problem, very tricky situation, be interesting to find out if there is a happy ending.

The BBC article I read says.... "The local safari lodge say there is a resident female leopard there who almost certainly has cubs. And as Nosikitok's pride are unlikely to prove as indulgent as she is, the best outcome for the leopard would be a safe return to mum"

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-40603065 (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-40603065)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on July 24, 2017, 06:03:43 pm
We enjoyed an interesting walk on the Great Orme today and saw a variety of wildlife.   The Kestrel,  Gannet and the Weasel were too quick for us to photograph but at least the Rabbits  did stay still for a bit
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on August 05, 2017, 08:25:50 am
I have no doubt that someone will say that it is my imagination but are the gulls noisier and more aggressive than before?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Bri Roberts on August 05, 2017, 08:31:56 am
They certainly were noisier at 4.30am this morning.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: mull on August 05, 2017, 11:55:56 am
Without a doubt.
Spent a few days in Llandudno 3 weeks ago.
Had an evening meal in the Cottage Loaf.
1st evening outdoor on raised area, no problem.
2nd night outdoor in the coutyard backing on to the side of the Palladium. Spent the whole meal being watched by Sammy the seagull pounding up and down the wall. During the half hour we were there he made at least 2 attempts to snatch meals off diners at adjoining tables. Felt uncomfortable for the whole meal, will eat indoors in future.
Being a retired safety officer I can see a safety problem with this,and one the landlord should be aware of, ie, how long before one of these attacks knocks a scalding hot pot of tea or coffee over a customer or child.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Bosun on August 05, 2017, 02:15:26 pm
We, and all our neighbours ago that the seagull problem is getting worse every year, and this year it is dreadful. The noise is horrendous and they are becoming more aggressive and opportunistic, even to the extent of trying to snatch food off the BBQ. Something is going to have to be done before a child loses an eye to these flying rats.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on August 05, 2017, 03:02:15 pm
I totally agree, something needs to be done, I feel to need a crash helmet to hang my washing in the back garden and we haven't had an undisturbed night now for months. My great grand kiddies are coming to visit next week and the 4 year old had a nasty experience last year on the prom, so we shall have to be extra vigilant this time.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on August 06, 2017, 04:22:18 pm
Mull, knocking over things to injure a child indirectly is a distinct possibility, as I have witnessed the gulls fly straight into children (and even adults), in order to rip the food from their hands or mouth, irrespective of what injury they might cause.

They used to be sly and even a little amusing, now they are an aggressive menace.

I have noticed the jackdaws learning some of these tricks from the gulls too.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Ian on August 07, 2017, 10:46:29 am
Hmm. Wonder if they behave like that simply because they haven't been conditioned not to?  If approaching humans were more risky, then possibly they might be deterred.  We could redeploy the Kingdom people from nicking dog owners and litter droppers to deterring seagulls. If we made it result-based, then they'd probably arm them all and have them walking the prom ten hours a day.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on August 12, 2017, 07:49:52 am
I've noticed that there seem to be less Butterflies around nowadays but as we passed a Buddleia Bush  ( or Butterfly Bush)   I saw a few Red Admiral ones on it
Normally you get loads of different types on the plants but we only saw 3 or 4 this time
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on August 12, 2017, 08:23:40 am
Lovely photo Hugo.
They are really difficult creatures to photograph.
I have been in two butterfly houses recently by chance. not the same as seeing them in the wild I know but still lovely to see.
I took these in a garden centre in Gland, Switzerland on the way back to Geneva airport last time. There was an amazing huge blue butterfly in there but it wouldn't stay still long enough for a photo.
I think Jack was the forum's butterfly expert.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on August 12, 2017, 09:13:26 am
Certainly are a lot less butterflies this year, even in Bodnant where I spend two days a week ... have seen red admirals and meadow browns plus the common cabbage white but very few of them ... and there are plenty of plants there to keep them all happy!  Actually seen more dragon-flies than butterflies this year, plus loads of damsel flies where there's water.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on August 12, 2017, 09:44:49 am
It is strange why we are seeing less Butterflies this year.   I've noticed very few  in my garden and when I've been out with my friends walking in the countryside, it's been the same there sadly.
One thing we did notice on our last walk was that there were loads of Bumble Bees on a large Lavender strip and that was nice to see but the Bees and Butterflies are hard to photograph like Hollins has pointed out.
Title: A Murder of Crows
Post by: Meleri on August 14, 2017, 04:22:06 pm
I was woken up this morning at 5.30 by a noise on my roof, when I went outside to investigate there were dozens of crows walking about, one look at me in my Pj's and they were off. As the day has gone by more and more have arrived and no exaggeration there are now hundreds of them flying around and making a terrible noise :o Apart from impending doom has anyone an idea what they could be up to? It's like a scene from Alfred Hitchcock 'The Bird's'
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: spotty dog on August 14, 2017, 04:32:15 pm
Are you sure they are not Rooks Melery
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on August 14, 2017, 04:36:08 pm
Rooks, are they the ones that grunt like a pig?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on August 14, 2017, 04:48:18 pm
I think that they must be the Ravens Fester that grunt like Pigs,    Rooks are big black birds too but they have a white beak
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Meleri on August 14, 2017, 05:01:14 pm
They are completely black, no white beaks. I have just been outside to have another look through my binoculars and would you believe it, they have all gone  ;D Any ideas on their behaviour, whatever they are ?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: spotty dog on August 14, 2017, 05:09:20 pm
 The old adage If you see 1Rook it's a crow if you see 2crows they are Rooks
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on August 14, 2017, 05:20:31 pm
Meleri,  were they Jackdaws or Crows?     Jackdaws are smaller than Crows and have a grey like cap on the head.     Crows are bigger and look like the Ravens and sometimes it is difficult to tell them apart.
The photo is of a Jackdaw
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Meleri on August 16, 2017, 02:03:50 pm
I think you are right Hugo, they do look like Jackdaws.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on August 16, 2017, 06:32:47 pm
We get Jackdaws around a lot, especially at this time of the year. In the vicarage garden there is a pear tree. Pears must be a favourite of the birds and when they are over ripe the juices make the Jackdaws drunk. They stagger around our lawn, eventually retiring into the hedge to sleep it off.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on September 02, 2017, 07:43:14 am
Tellytubby sent me this photo that he saw on Facebook.  The Parrot was in Old Colwyn but apparently has been seen in Llandudno and Colwyn Bay
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on September 02, 2017, 01:45:40 pm
Oh!  Bring it my way, if anyone catches it!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on September 02, 2017, 02:11:38 pm
Some interesting facts ......

The ring-necked, or rose-ringed, parakeet is the UK's most abundant naturalised parrot. It became established in the wild in the 1970s after captive birds escaped or were released
https://ww2.rspb.org.uk/our-work/our-positions-and-casework/our-positions/species/invasive-non-native-species/ring-necked-parakeets (https://ww2.rspb.org.uk/our-work/our-positions-and-casework/our-positions/species/invasive-non-native-species/ring-necked-parakeets)

Parakeets now outnumber native British birds after escaping into the wild
Parakeets have reached record numbers in the UK, outnumbering native species such as kingfishers, barn owls and lesser-spotted woodpeckers.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/earth/wildlife/3531948/Parakeets-now-outnumber-native-British-birds-after-escaping-into-the-wild.html (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/earth/wildlife/3531948/Parakeets-now-outnumber-native-British-birds-after-escaping-into-the-wild.html)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on September 02, 2017, 10:39:40 pm
Seen quite a few in Sefton Park, Liverpool ... I'm told they're in other Liverpool parks as well ... so no doubt they will soon head this way!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on September 05, 2017, 03:55:25 pm
Passing the Oval cricket fields over the last few weeks, I have noticed a large flock of birds, which I think are Lapwings, is this unusual for Llandudno ?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on September 05, 2017, 11:12:33 pm
There used to be loads of Lapwings in the fields where the Liddell Estate is now but their habitat has gone, but you can still see them in the Bodafon Farm fields and there are  usually many in the fields opposite Llandrillo Technical College
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on September 17, 2017, 11:37:26 am
Butterfly bonanza to take place at Conwy nature reserve.     Pensychnant is open today and the Butterflies are being released at 2.00pm


http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-north-west-wales-41233011 (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-north-west-wales-41233011)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Quiggs on September 17, 2017, 09:03:37 pm
The Birds on the Oval are Oyster Catchers, I think that they go there when the tide's in at West Shore. They also visit Llandudno Bowling Club, you wouldn't believe the size of the holes they dig in the Green. We put a mousetrap in one and covered it over, it was on top of the Green next morning and the hole was even bigger. Any one got a 'Shotgun' WWW
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on September 18, 2017, 10:34:40 am
Thanks Q, I always see them from a distance and have never been able to ID them properly.
I saw the club had a Hawk kite bird deterrent earlier this year, was this the reason ?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Quiggs on September 18, 2017, 03:43:27 pm
Yes it was intended as a deterrent, but we found them pecking below it. It was said that a woman had phoned the RSPB to say that a bird had been tied to a line and was in distress. It obviously fooled her more than the Oyster Catchers.   &shake&
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on September 20, 2017, 08:02:13 am
Tellytubby sent me a photo of a Seal with her pup taken recently in Angel Bay and posted in Facebook so I thought that I'd have a walk there on Monday and see it for myself.
Unfortunately I couldn't see the pup but I did see the only Seal on the beach and judging by the marks on her back she must have been in a fight or two sometime
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on September 20, 2017, 08:56:42 am
Butterfly bonanza to take place at Conwy nature reserve.     Pensychnant is open today and the Butterflies are being released at 2.00pm
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-north-west-wales-41233011 (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-north-west-wales-41233011)
Over 200 released!  It's been a very good year for Red Admirals and quite a few to be seen in Bodnant as they are emerging now.  But a bad year for others, especially Peacocks.  According to the guy at Pensychnant there is a parastic fly that is destroying the larvae.  Red Admirals lay eggs single over a wide area so are not as suscepticle as the species that lay eggs in big clumps - safety in numbers doesn't always work.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: squigglev2 on September 20, 2017, 12:09:04 pm
I'm a different (North Norfolk) area DVT but I've not seen many butterflies this year.  Barely a (usually common here) small tortoiseshell around.  There is a buddleia round the back which can be a magnet for peacocks and I've not seen one this year.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on October 13, 2017, 12:45:47 pm
This is not pleasant, but they need information......

Fears red squirrels face wipeout on Anglesey after first suspected case of deadly virus reaches island
One of the animals has been found dead at Coed Mor and experts are testing it for the potentially lethal squirrel pox virus.

One way the public can help stop the virus spreading is by cleaning feeders regularly. Signs to look out for include scabs, blisters or grazes when the native creatures visit your garden.
Please report any sightings of red squirrels to the Trust by contacting 07966 150847 or mail@redsquirrels.info.
http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/red-squirrel-pox-wipeout-anglesey-13752523 (http://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/red-squirrel-pox-wipeout-anglesey-13752523)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on December 10, 2017, 11:16:14 am
A couple of Rabbits in a garden in Moelfre didn't take much notice when a group of us walked past them as they still carried on feeding.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on January 14, 2018, 10:13:48 am
 Yesterday Tellytubby and I went to Llanddulas to  see a first-year Glaucous Gull, the world’s second largest gull species that breeds high in the Arctic.
We also had reports of many Kingfisher sightings in the River Dulas but unfortunately we didn't see any but we did see the Gull which has been there a few weeks now and it was reported in the paper before Christmas because it was feeding on a dead porpoise that had been washed ashore.
We saw the Gull on the beach but nearer Rhyd Y Foel than Llanddulas
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on January 14, 2018, 05:50:17 pm
Sea birds at Rhyd Y Foel
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on January 24, 2018, 10:47:04 pm
I saw this little bird preening himself on the rocks at Rhos on Sea yesterday
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on January 25, 2018, 12:19:15 am
Ruddy Turnstone   ?   ?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: snowcap on January 25, 2018, 07:29:56 pm
no need to call Hugo that he only took it's photo
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on January 25, 2018, 07:59:31 pm
no need to call Hugo that he only took it's photo

 _))*        $good$
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on January 25, 2018, 08:12:21 pm
no need to call Hugo that he only took it's photo

 _))*        $good$

Nice one Snowcap      $good$
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on January 27, 2018, 03:12:43 pm
For ME! :)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on January 27, 2018, 07:01:38 pm
new BBC series filmed on Snowdonia fronted by Welsh nature expert Iolo Williams starts on Monday.

The renowned presenter, known for hosting TV programmes about nature and habitats, will reveal his favourite places to visit in Snowdonia for wildlife and spectacular scenery.


The show is likely to spark huge interest in the region - offering a fresh boost to North Wales' tourism. It comes a year after the area was named among the must see places to visit in 2017 by travel bible Lonely Planet.

Reflecting on how the landscape changes with the four seasons, Iolo’s Snowdonia - filmed over 12 months.
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/whats-on/arts-culture-news/beauty-snowdonia-captured-new-bbc-14208492 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/whats-on/arts-culture-news/beauty-snowdonia-captured-new-bbc-14208492)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on January 28, 2018, 10:30:40 am
These are the first lambs that I've seen this year
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on February 04, 2018, 08:28:23 am
Early morning visitor.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on February 04, 2018, 10:32:29 am
That's a lovely sight to greet you in the morning, you're really lucky Hollins
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on February 10, 2018, 03:59:18 pm
There were dozens of Wigeon in the field across the road to Llandrillo Technical College but they were too far away for me to get a decent photo of them
Angel Bay had a lot of Seals on the beach today and one lady told me that she had counted 38 of them.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Meleri on February 10, 2018, 04:15:06 pm
Hugo where is the best place to park the car when visiting Angel Bay, as we haven't been there before?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on February 10, 2018, 07:14:00 pm
I always park in the same place Meleri and it's at the shortest distance to Angel Bay.    At the bottom of the Penrhyn Bay hill take the road to Rhos on Sea Golf Course.
After a short distance take the first left after the Garage, then turn right and keep on that road.   It then goes along Penrhyn Beach East, at the far end there is a cul du sac and park there.
Just drive carefully when you get to that cul du sac as the traffic on the left has right of way

Once you have parked up go to the head of the cul du sac, you'll see the steps ahead so go up there and at the top turn right and follow the path all the way to Angel Bay.     Hope that you enjoy your visit to there.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on February 19, 2018, 10:26:36 pm
Our pond has frogspawn in it, seems early?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on February 20, 2018, 09:03:57 pm
First lot of spawn appeared in our pond last week on the 11th ... four "dollops" of it there now!  Not seen any frogs though!  (Llandudno Junction)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on February 23, 2018, 04:05:05 pm
With the temperature dropping below freezing at night I wanted to protect the crown of my Australian Tree Fern from damage caused by the frost so I improvised and put a load of my dog's clippings on the crown of the plant.
This morning I noticed some clippings on the lawn but thought no more of it until a short while ago, when I saw a Jackdaw take a huge beak full and fly off to built its nest.
At least the birds know that Spring is on its way, even if it doesn't feel like it is at the moment
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on February 23, 2018, 04:14:40 pm
I had one of those ferns Hugo, a few years ago it looked like it had died, I did not get around to digging it out, thought I would leave it till spring, just as well, it recovered and is still going strong.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on February 23, 2018, 04:39:29 pm
This is how it looked a couple of months ago ans since then it has been freezing so I hope it survives this Winter
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on March 18, 2018, 12:35:25 pm
I noticed the Crows looking around for nesting material so I put some of our dog Marco's hair on the ground so they could help themselves to it and in no time it had all gone.
We have an Australian tree fern in the garden and as I didn't have any fleece handy I put a lot of the dog's hair around the crown of the plant to protect it from the very bad weather that we have had this Winter and the Crows started to help themselves to that too.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on March 21, 2018, 10:10:03 pm
Watch out if you meet this guy in Bodnant - if he thinks you have food he'll follow you all day, and peck your legs!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on March 25, 2018, 06:23:53 pm
The Orme goats came to town today, enjoying the gardens on the Oval, until a noisy motorbike went passed and they scattered onto Gloddaeth Ave. they seemed to be looking for the others, standing quietly, and guess what, the motorbike returned, fortunately they headed back to the oval without incident.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on March 26, 2018, 08:56:18 am
There were 10 of them happily munching in the St. George's churchyard on Saturday.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on March 26, 2018, 09:59:54 am
Whose there?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on April 16, 2018, 11:28:18 am
The goats having been around the area feeding, for about 3 weeks now, I put it down to the bad winter, and lack of grazing, however another explanation on BBC news this morning.....

A school in Llandudno has had to close off parts of its grounds because the areas have been invaded by goats.

Ysgol San Sior primary school is on the lower slopes of the Great Orme headland, where a herd of Kashmiri goats have lived since Victorian times.

But some of the herd have come down off the headland and there are fears they have left ticks on the school field.
Conwy council said the goats had been driven out of the herd by rival goats.
They have then headed down the hill to the school, eating fruit trees the children have planted and leaving droppings behind.

"We've had several children come to the office having picked up a tick on the sports field. It's very worrying as ticks can cause health problems.
"We're a school which tries hard to be environmentally friendly and teach children about the importance of nature. But the goats are causing too many problems.

"The children have been growing fruit trees, and they're really disappointed when the trees are damaged by the goats breaking in and eating them."

Conwy council said that the Great Orme goats are wild animals, and although it manages the country park where they live, it's not directly responsible for them.

It said the animals were in the school grounds because they had been driven out of the herd by rival males as there were so many goats.

The council said it had been working to reduce the size of the herd by moving some of them elsewhere, and with a trial of goat contraceptives, and that had been working.  Ref BBc
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on April 16, 2018, 03:48:43 pm
Osprey returns to Porthmadog Glaslyn nest for 15th year


http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-north-west-wales-43780442 (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-north-west-wales-43780442)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on April 16, 2018, 08:28:00 pm
The goats having been around the area feeding, for about 3 weeks now, I put it down to the bad winter, and lack of grazing, however another explanation on BBC news this morning.....

A school in Llandudno has had to close off parts of its grounds because the areas have been invaded by goats.

Ysgol San Sior primary school is on the lower slopes of the Great Orme headland, where a herd of Kashmiri goats have lived since Victorian times.

But some of the herd have come down off the headland and there are fears they have left ticks on the school field.
Conwy council said the goats had been driven out of the herd by rival goats.
They have then headed down the hill to the school, eating fruit trees the children have planted and leaving droppings behind.

"We've had several children come to the office having picked up a tick on the sports field. It's very worrying as ticks can cause health problems.
"We're a school which tries hard to be environmentally friendly and teach children about the importance of nature. But the goats are causing too many problems.

"The children have been growing fruit trees, and they're really disappointed when the trees are damaged by the goats breaking in and eating them."

Conwy council said that the Great Orme goats are wild animals, and although it manages the country park where they live, it's not directly responsible for them.

It said the animals were in the school grounds because they had been driven out of the herd by rival males as there were so many goats.

The council said it had been working to reduce the size of the herd by moving some of them elsewhere, and with a trial of goat contraceptives, and that had been working.  Ref BBc

Something has happened, in all the years we have lived here we have had 'goat invasion' every year, but never with so many for such a long time.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on April 19, 2018, 05:14:23 pm
We had a quick look at the Bird Reserve near Talacre yesterday and saw this bird on her nest in the middle of the pond.   I think that it's a Canada Goose but please correct me if I'm wrong
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on April 19, 2018, 08:18:26 pm
Yes ... it's a Canada goose.  If you go to the Far End of Bodnant Garden there is Mrs Goose sitting on her nest on the island, Mr Goose just swimming around without a care in the world (until the eggs hatch).  Don't know how many eggs there'll be this year as they are left alone - have to wait and see how many goslings appear!

Dippers are also nesting under Dipper Bridge near the Old Mill, and grey wagtails are nesting in the wall of the river nearby.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on May 04, 2018, 11:20:04 pm
This giant bumble bee had been sitting on our patio looking sluggish and vulnerable.  So my wife hand fed it a sugary solution, and after sucking it up for a few minutes, it flew away revitalised!  Good deed done!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Ian on May 05, 2018, 07:31:19 am
The weather this spring has caused bees no end of problems.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on June 06, 2018, 07:56:53 pm
We saw this very friendly and young bird on a footpath today but even our resident bird export Tellytubby couldn't be certain what species it was
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on June 07, 2018, 07:06:23 pm
I was at Lake Vyrnwy earlier today marshalling for ThreeCastles Classic Rally - arrived early so visited the bird hide - and saw the very same birds on the feeders!  I had to ask what they were as I was also puzzled ... they are juvenile siskins - they'll get their colour later!  The ones I saw did have a little bit of the yellow colour on the tail feathers, but their distinctively patterned backs were exactly as your pic, and they were with some adult ones.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on June 07, 2018, 08:12:07 pm
Thanks DVT,   here are two more photos of that little bird, he was a right little poser
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on June 07, 2018, 09:06:14 pm
Here are the ones I saw, plus a rather scruffy adult!
I think yours were younger and the feathers not as well developed.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on June 11, 2018, 12:47:14 pm
More fascinating pictures have emerged of those killer whales roaming off North Wales coast.

https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/more-fascinating-pictures-emerged-those-14768833 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/more-fascinating-pictures-emerged-those-14768833)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on June 11, 2018, 04:47:19 pm
Thanks for posting that Steve, it must have been an incredible sight for those people lucky enough to see them.    I remember many years ago a forum member reported seeing an Orca off the Great Orme.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on June 15, 2018, 02:08:43 pm
Saw this on our wall. Any moth experts? I think it could be a type of hawk moth.....but could be wrong.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on June 15, 2018, 02:44:56 pm
Lime hawk moth, I suspect!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on June 16, 2018, 08:45:02 am
I went to see if it was still on the wall yesterday evening and it was on the ground below the wall. Thinking it could be dead I picked it up whereupon it revealed another pair of wings bearing bright blue 'eyes'. thus I think it is an Eyed Hawk Moth.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on June 16, 2018, 11:20:19 am
Looking at Google Images for Eyed Hawk Moth you appear to be correct.  There are quite a few different hawk moths, we found very large caterpillars in our garden a couple of years ago and they turned out to be the Elephant Hawk Moth!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on June 16, 2018, 02:38:19 pm
It is still sitting where I left it, is still alive, but doesn't seem to want to move.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on June 18, 2018, 11:25:23 pm
Hit it very hard with a shoe, please!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on June 19, 2018, 02:12:13 pm
 :o It went.........last seen flying up the Orme ! :D
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on June 19, 2018, 04:36:43 pm
Must be hawk moth season - just found this one by the front door!  I suspect it could be a Death's Head Hawk Moth, judging by the orange underwings with black stripe, also the body stripes ... but the "skull" is not clear and the only one I have ever seen before was twice the size - this one's about 50mm nose to tail.  I cannot find anything else that resembles it, so anyone have any suggestions, please?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on June 19, 2018, 09:12:44 pm
After consulting my Collins Gem Guide I think you could be right, trouble is quite a few of the hawks look very similar unless you can see the second set of wings. I wasn't sure about the Eyed Hawk until it revealed the under wings with the eyes. The Elephant Hawk looks much like this in my book, but appears to be lighter in colour.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on June 22, 2018, 02:17:33 pm
Here's another one, on our gate this morning - nearest I can find in my books is the Mother Shipton moth ... anyone know for sure?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on June 22, 2018, 09:28:43 pm
https://butterfly-conservation.org/51-1345/dusky-sallow.html.

Just had a bit of a Google and wondered if this is your moth. It seems lighter in colour than Mother  Shipton.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on June 23, 2018, 08:50:32 am
Thanks for that - it could be.  It was unusual pattern on  the wings that I was trying (unsuccessfully) to find.  The favoured habitat described doesn't match my garden, but it did appear to be a little bit lost!  I moved it from our gate and put it into a clematis growing up the fence, not seen it since.  I think we get so many variations of nature's wonders that it proves difficult to positively identify!

On a slightly different note - where are all the butterflies this year? - saw a number of small blue ones when I was on the West Shore end of Marine Drive marshalling the Three Castles a couple of weeks ago, but all I've seen in my two days a week in Bodnant are speckled woods, and not many of them.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on June 23, 2018, 11:21:37 am
Now you mention it, I haven't seen many either. We usually get a few on the Buddleia, but it hasn't flowered yet, so I shall have to wait and see. Flies and Wasps yes they are all over.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on June 24, 2018, 11:39:20 pm
I’m getting millions of bees in our garden, they seem to love any flowers which are purple.
However, few if any butterflies.   
Is it too early for them?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Ian on June 25, 2018, 07:55:10 am
"Dr Nigel Raine and Professor Lars Chittka at Queen Mary, University of London found that there is a clear advantage to bees that start out life primed for purple.

"The purple flowers are more rewarding," says Raine.

By rewarding, he means they are unusually nectar-rich. Similar colour preferences are found, but not previously explained, in several other bumblebee species from Asia, Europe and North America, Raine says."
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on June 25, 2018, 08:13:39 am
Interesting info, Ian.

I have noticed bumble bees in our garden favour one flower - some will just visit buttercups and some will just visit daisies - they don't mix!

Dester - you could well be correct on it being a bit early for butterflies, but I've not seen any caterpillars either!  Last year in Bodnant red admirals were often seen, but not one so far this year by me.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Ian on June 25, 2018, 09:12:37 am
In my apiarist days many moons ago, a swarm occurred and the bees following that queen all congregated on a blue hillman minx.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on June 26, 2018, 10:33:15 pm
It was hot on the Carneddau when we had a walk there today and old Uncle Albert inadvertently disturbed some Carneddau ponies that were having a drink in a stream that we had to go across
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on June 27, 2018, 08:09:20 pm
Good news on the butterfly front - although I was only in Bodnant for the afternoon today I saw more butterflies than I've seen all year - not sure what they were though, suspect meadow browns, but there also a couple of the white ones.  Back tomorrow so will try and get closer look.

We are over-run with bright blue damsel flies and quite a number of dragon flies.  Also seen, but only one, a d'moiselle damsel fly - the only damsel fly with coloured wings - irridescent blue sorry about poor quality of photo - limit of zoom, cropped and it wouldn't stay still!

The sun is bringing them out (along with the horse-flies!).
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on July 02, 2018, 06:06:49 pm
Huge Minke Whale spotted off South Stack Holyhead on a fishing trip   


https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/incredible-up-close-personal-footage-14854521 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/incredible-up-close-personal-footage-14854521)






Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on July 02, 2018, 11:19:48 pm
Finally, there are loads of butterflies around now, the Orme is full of them.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on July 16, 2018, 04:01:53 pm
Some well intentioned information seems to be causing problems......

A Facebook post which claiming to from Sir David Attenborough urging people to leave sugar water out for struggling bees has been revealed as fake.
The advice, which seemingly came from the environmentalists page, was unwittingly shared by millions in good faith that the act of kindness will help the insects.

“This time of year bees can often look like they are dying or dead, however, they’re far from it. Bees can become tired and they simply don’t have enough energy to return to the hive which can often result in being swept away.

However the BBC have now been forced to step in and confirm the advice did not come from Sir David Attenborough - and it could even cause harm to the already-waning bee population.

More..... https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/bees-water-sugar-fake-news-14913480 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/bees-water-sugar-fake-news-14913480)

Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on August 02, 2018, 06:50:48 pm
My OH. has had to make a quick exit from the garden, flying ants are appearing from everywhere, even cracks in the pavement, the seagulls are having a feast on the Oval, just waiting for the airborne frenzy to begin.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on August 02, 2018, 10:21:04 pm
Pleased to say that I've seen more butterflies than the last few weeks today - including Red Admiral, Tortoiseshell, Peacock, Common Blue (male and female) and Speckled Wood along with many white ones ... that was in Bodnant Garden where the spectacular wild flower garden attracted many.  Couldn't get them to stay still for photos though!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on August 03, 2018, 03:41:38 pm
Female gatekeeper seen in our garden this morning!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on August 03, 2018, 05:44:57 pm
Nice photo DVT,  you're lucky to see such a variety of Butterflies  at home and in Bodnant.      All I've seen in my garden this year are white butterflies although another variety did come in but flew off before I could identify it.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: BrianP on August 03, 2018, 11:34:35 pm
You did well to to find a Gatekeeper with its wings open. Everyone I tried to photograph kept its wings closed.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on August 04, 2018, 09:17:15 am
Yes, it kept still for quite a while.  It has a small piece missing at the top corner of right wing so has been in the wars somewhere!  Getting in close with a camera phone usually results in them flitting off before I can get them in focus!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on August 04, 2018, 04:14:31 pm
Another gatekeeper posed nicely this morning, plus a threatening looking red admiral who was not very co-operative, unlike the shelled creature who couldn't get away quickly.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on August 04, 2018, 04:15:32 pm
Pond-dipping in Bodnant this next week - that's going to be fun!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on August 04, 2018, 06:39:06 pm
We had a walk on the Carneddau today and saw some of the wild ponies that graze on the moorland
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on August 04, 2018, 08:14:59 pm
DVT and Hugo, excellent photo's, .......... :)     :)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on August 16, 2018, 04:44:04 pm
Unfortunately we witnessed one of our local Wood pigeons being run over, I went to pick it up for disposal, but found it alive and despite looking a mess, still quite strong, I put it in a box in the garage overnight, with no great expectations, however it survived , but now we needed more advice, some friends recommended "Broken Wings" who were exceptionally helpful, they arranged a pick up, but I am sorry to say the injuries were too severe.

The lady I spoke to deals mainly with pigeons, but can advise on other similar matters.  Tel.   07709 245976

Interesting extract from their web page plus advice.......
"This is a difficult and emotive subject and often the topic of much debate. There is a feeling, amongst the public and some wildlife rescuers, that a broken wing is automatically reason for a bird to be euthanased. Some believe a broken wing can never be fixed and that a bird which cannot fly will automatically be miserable. We feel that such generalisations are dangerous and have ended many lives prematurely and unnecessarily."
       MORE    http://helpwildlife.co.uk/sick-or-injured-wildlife/brokenwings/ (http://helpwildlife.co.uk/sick-or-injured-wildlife/brokenwings/)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on August 16, 2018, 09:44:17 pm
Unfortunately we witnessed one of our local Wood pigeons being run over, I went to pick it up for disposal, but found it alive and despite looking a mess, still quite strong, I put it in a box in the garage overnight, with no great expectations, however it survived , but now we needed more advice, some friends recommended "Broken Wings" who were exceptionally helpful, they arranged a pick up, but I am sorry to say the injuries were too severe.

The lady I spoke to deals mainly with pigeons, but can advise on other similar matters.  Tel.   07709 245976

Interesting extract from their web page plus advice.......
"This is a difficult and emotive subject and often the topic of much debate. There is a feeling, amongst the public and some wildlife rescuers, that a broken wing is automatically reason for a bird to be euthanased. Some believe a broken wing can never be fixed and that a bird which cannot fly will automatically be miserable. We feel that such generalisations are dangerous and have ended many lives prematurely and unnecessarily."
       MORE    http://helpwildlife.co.uk/sick-or-injured-wildlife/brokenwings/ (http://helpwildlife.co.uk/sick-or-injured-wildlife/brokenwings/)

Andy Jones, Merddin Emrys, will be crushed to hear this.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on August 17, 2018, 07:57:41 am
Poor bird 😪
We have a few pigeons that can't fly, perfectly happy in the aviary,  one came from Fester 7 years ago, still fit as a fiddle and very happy!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on August 17, 2018, 08:43:53 am
There was a happier outcome for this poor little swallow that flew into our garage window and concussed itself. Glad to say after a cuddle with Mr H it revived and flew away again.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on August 17, 2018, 12:16:33 pm
Poor bird 😪
We have a few pigeons that can't fly, perfectly happy in the aviary,  one came from Fester 7 years ago, still fit as a fiddle and very happy!

ME, I nearly got in touch with you, for some advice, but tried the rescue people mentioned above first, who turned out to be very helpful, despite the outcome, but it's nice to know that you and others out there, try a little harder.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on August 17, 2018, 06:42:57 pm
All the pet birds I have had in the past have to go through the ritual of flying into glass windows or walls at some stage.
It’s harrowing when it happens, but they never seem to properly injure themselves.  They just look a bit perturbed for a minute or two.
This is Oliver, I’ve been looking after him for a few weeks, he’s been pretty badly neglected by his owner for the last 18 years.
Vicious and wary when he first arrived at mine, but now as you can see, his inherent tameness seems to be slowly resurfacing.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on August 17, 2018, 07:37:47 pm
Looks great, and it should'nt be to long before he is on his feet......  ;)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on August 25, 2018, 08:47:20 am
Clever bees at Bodnant ... watch as they get the nectar from the Zauschneria Californica flower (on the Range border just as you enter). In its' native America it is pollinated by hummingbirds, who can easily reach the nectar at the end of the narrow, tubular flowers with their long beaks. The bees cannot do this so have worked out if they chew a hole at the base of the flower then can sip out the nectar. Cheeky!

This plant is also known as the Californian fushcia or the Hummingbird flower.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on August 25, 2018, 08:51:44 am
Until ths week I hadn't seen any caterpillars other than a few on  my son's vegetables, but these were seen devouring the foliage at quite a quick rate ... they're the buff-tip moth offspring and can reach a length of 75mm , these were not far off fully grown!!!  They can strip trees but don't do permanent damage, according to the info I found on google!

Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on October 05, 2018, 07:10:58 pm
Not exactly wildlife but these sheep amused me sitting in a line against the wall, not just these three but a flock stretching for a few hundred yards and what's more they didn't move when we walked past!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on October 11, 2018, 04:59:36 pm
The local crow and woodpidgeon population are feasting on the acorns from the Gloddaeth avenue central reservation trees, at first glance, everything appears normal, but when disturbed up to 100 birds fly out of the foliage, quite a sight, but difficult to photograph.  :'(
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on October 19, 2018, 04:02:52 pm
There were about 6 Seals on the beach at Angel Bay today and I could only see one pup there
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on October 25, 2018, 04:05:53 pm
We saw a couple of small herds of Goats on the Orme yesterday
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on November 24, 2018, 04:26:49 pm
There was quite a bit of Red Squirrel activity in the Dingle at Llangefni today when we had a walk in the area
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on November 25, 2018, 09:45:17 am
Tellytubby sent me these photos from the walk in Llangefni that we did yesterday and the photo of the bird is one that he took previously
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on January 06, 2019, 02:37:37 pm
Tellytubby has been out and about in the Little Orme area today and phoned me up to say that there were dozens and dozens of Seals in Angel Bay in Penrhyn Bay
In fact there were sightings of over 100 Seals there recently
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on January 13, 2019, 06:13:17 pm
Not exactly wildlife, but these Shetland Ponies were grazing in a wet boggy field near Blaenau Ffestiniog yesterday
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on January 31, 2019, 12:36:14 pm
A lot of snow fell here yesterday and this morning I had a look for animal tracks in the garden but there was no sign of any Badgers coming into the garden.
I'm a bit concerned because for many years now they have been coming here every night and I do leave some food out for them but I've noticed that for a few weeks or months now there has been no sign of them.
My neighbour told me that there appears to have been no activity in the many Badger setts that are near our houses so it is strange and it makes us wonder what is going on in the area to cause this absence of the Badgers

We hide peanuts in a cast iron frog like in the attached photo but in recent weeks/ months it hasn't been touched
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on February 04, 2019, 03:45:27 pm
This morning we found that the cast iron Frog in the garden had been disturbed and all the peanuts inside it had vanished but  because the snow had melted I was unable to tell if it was the Badger that had been there or not.
The cast iron Frog is quite heavy but in the past I've seen the Squirrel push the top section off, for all his effort though he only takes one peanut at a time and when he does go back for more peanuts he finds that the Pigeons have been and scoffed the rest!
Was it the Badger or the Squirrel, who knows but at least one of them had a treat
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on February 04, 2019, 05:14:11 pm
Great post............ :)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on February 08, 2019, 04:37:20 pm
Who knew that Great Orme Goats could climb up trees?

Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on February 08, 2019, 05:14:27 pm
Your kidding.....................  ;)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on February 09, 2019, 03:26:22 pm
A great photo Fester, you were obviously in the right place at the right time.   I've never seen that on the Orme before, was it above Haulfre Gardens?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on February 11, 2019, 01:10:52 pm
I didn’t take it Hugo, it was another Orme resident.
I just thought it was incredible to see.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on February 11, 2019, 05:22:04 pm
Thanks for posting it as it was such an unusual photo, I must have walked on the Great Orme hundreds of times but have never been lucky enough to see something like that
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blongb on February 11, 2019, 05:27:47 pm
We fenced off our front flowerbed with Chicken wire just in time to prevent the Goats from eating all our newly emerging Spring bulbs. It always amazes me that CCBC are able to neglect their responsibility to feed the animals during the Winter months. Any other livestock owner who showed such disregard for the animals welfare would be dragged up before the Magistrates.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Quiggs on February 12, 2019, 07:18:18 pm
I thought they were feral and belong to nobody, although a local councillor said he would take responsibility but I think he changed his mind as I never heard anymore about it
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on February 12, 2019, 10:51:47 pm
I'm sure that if anyone started to make a profit out of the Goats then you would find who the owner of the Goats is.    Probably the same one who released them on the Great Orme in the first place
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on February 13, 2019, 09:21:09 am
A bit of the early history, the link is quite interesting.

Reproduced from the booklet
‘Aliens on the Great Orme’  by Eve Parry 

The origin of the Great Orme goats and the story of their arrival in Britain, is interesting. In the early part of the last century, Squire Christopher Tower, from Brentwood in Essex, discovered a large herd which had recently been imported from Kashmir into France. The idea was to create a profitable woollen industry. Squire Tower decided to purchase two of these goats, and took them to Weald Park in Brentwood. The goats flourished, and soon produced kids, from which the Squire was, eventually, able to manufacture a cashmere shawl. George IV was highly impressed by this article, and was happy to accept a pair of the goats presented to him by Squire Tower.

So began the Windsor herd, which increased rapidly, and in the reign of Queen Victoria, cashmere shawls became extremely fashionable. It is often said that Queen Victoria was presented with the goats by the Shah of Persia, and it may be that these were added to the already existing herd.

Later in the Century, Major General Sir Savage Mostyn acquired two of the Windsor goats, and took them to the grounds of Gloddaeth Hall. It is possible, however, that they were unsuitable as park animals. There is an old Welsh farming practice, known as “Llwgu’r defaid” (starving the sheep). This was a method whereby goats were run with the sheep, in the hope of precluding the latter from straying into dangerous places, where the goats could more easily forage. Perhaps this may have been the reason why the goats were transferred to the Great Orme. Certainly, they are frequently to be seen browsing on extremely narrow ledges, and they climb the steep limestone cliffs with amazing agility.

          More,,, http://www.llandudno.com/the-great-orme-kashmiri-goats/ (http://www.llandudno.com/the-great-orme-kashmiri-goats/)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Ian on February 13, 2019, 09:33:43 am
All goats posses very interesting hooves: they have inner pads, akin to a sort of natural velcro, that provide traction, and cloven hooves that can spread apart, allowing greater purchase on uneven and rocky terrain. The tips of their feet have sharp dewclaws that keep them from slipping. They have powerful shoulder and neck muscles that help propel them up steep slopes so all in all, pretty agile.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on March 12, 2019, 10:33:21 pm
Even the Goats are keeping away from the West Shore in this weather

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-47535311 (https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-47535311)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on March 20, 2019, 10:43:10 pm
Tellytubby and I had a nice walk today from the old Llangelynnin Church on to the Carneddau and we were lucky enough to see lots of wildlife there.    There were numerous varieties of birds up there including a Red Kite and the pools were full of Frogspawn but no tadpoles yet
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on April 02, 2019, 12:37:03 pm
This is a must see, one of the best local films I have seen,     bear in mind the speed of the boat............

This is the spectacular moment a pod of dolphins join Llandudno lifeboat crew on a training exercise.
The mammals were caught on camera by crew member, Andy Jones as they frolicked in the sea off Llandudno Bay last night.

The volunteer said: "I have been on the crew for 13 years now and seen plenty of dolphins but that was by far the best show they've put on.
"We had just performed man overboard drills with the dummy when we started to head back to the beach in Llandudno Bay.

VIDEO  https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/amazing-moment-dolphins-leap-sea-16063094 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/amazing-moment-dolphins-leap-sea-16063094)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Ian on April 02, 2019, 02:37:27 pm
Stunning.  Magnificent creatures.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on April 02, 2019, 06:45:53 pm
Are they actually dolphins then?... not the harbour porpoise that regularly turn up in these waters.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on April 02, 2019, 07:32:31 pm
Are they actually dolphins then?... not the harbour porpoise that regularly turn up in these waters.
I am not sure, a quick search gave this...........

"The primary differences between dolphins and porpoises are anatomical. Externally, one can tell the difference between the two animals by looking at the head and dorsal fins. Dolphins usually have a “beak” that makes them appear "long-nosed," while porpoises do not have a beak and thus appear more "flat-faced." The dorsal fins on dolphins are usually curved or hooked, while those on porpoises are more triangular in shape. Up close, one can distinguish the two by their teeth: dolphins have cone-shaped teeth, but porpoises have flat or spade-shaped teeth."
https://www.diffen.com/difference/Dolphin_vs_Porpoise (https://www.diffen.com/difference/Dolphin_vs_Porpoise)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on April 03, 2019, 12:42:33 pm
Thanks Steve for pointing out the differences between the Dolphins and Porpoise, when you see them in the sea you have very little time to recognise what they are but the most obvious sign is the size with Dolphins being much larger than the porpoise.

That link you posted said that Porpoise are only found in the Pacific Ocean which is obviously incorrect but from the photo and your explanation they were Dolphins that were in Llandudno Bay.
A good spot to see either Dolphins or Porpoise is at Point Lynas in Anglesey and it's recognised as one of the best places to see them in the UK
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: spotty dog on April 03, 2019, 01:39:07 pm
Yes Hugo size is the most obvious trait, also porpoise are quite shy, there was a mother and calf in Conwy Bay last year.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on April 03, 2019, 03:24:58 pm
It's always nice to see them in their natural habitat Spotty Dog and to see a mother and calf is rather special.   Let's hope that we see many more of them this year
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on May 20, 2019, 02:56:53 pm
I have had a lot of butterflies in the garden since Easter, which is nice to see, including quite a few small blue ones, which I think look like the Great Orme butterflies, can anyone tell me if they come to the lower areas of the Orme .
While looking for more details, I came across this interesting link, well worth a look ............ http://www.llandudno.com/the-great-orme-flora-and-fauna/ (http://www.llandudno.com/the-great-orme-flora-and-fauna/)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on May 20, 2019, 06:40:01 pm
That's a very interesting link you have attached Steve and well worth a look at.     One time when I walked up the zig zag path on Invalids walk I saw hundreds of the blue Butterflies on or near the path, I've never seen as many since that time though
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on June 06, 2019, 12:33:52 pm
Having a cuppa in the garden a few minutes ago, this visitor hung around for a time, one I have never seen one before,  unfortunately no camera, so have used a stock photo, which does not do it justice.

Cinnabar    Tyria jacobaeae   https://butterfly-conservation.org/moths/cinnabar
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on June 06, 2019, 07:03:48 pm
Quite common in this area - they like ragwort so look on that plant for the caterpillars!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on June 15, 2019, 10:59:19 am
Sitting enjoying the morning sun, about 10.30 , when I heard a few honks ! took me while to register the sound, but in time to see a flight of about twenty Canada geese fly over the house, heading towards the boating lake ?                (stock photo)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on June 15, 2019, 05:19:50 pm
We were having a meal in Home From Home Cooking in Penrhyn Bay last night and at about 7.00 pm a similar sized flock of Geese flew overhead in a V formation and they were heading westwards, perhaps it was the same flock that you have seen Steve?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on June 20, 2019, 09:14:29 pm
Trying out my new camera with 60x zoom at Bodnant today!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: snowcap on June 20, 2019, 10:29:27 pm
keep them coming DVT
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Ian on June 21, 2019, 08:17:14 am
Canon?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on June 21, 2019, 09:28:37 am
Not a Canon ... it's a Panasonic Lumix ... a lot cheaper!  Well pleased with results so far.  Just need to sort out camera shake issues on full zoom!!!

The Pied Flycatcher was living up to it's name - it's a young one as not yet black and white!  There have been a number in the nest boxes at Bodnant but this was the first time I'd actually seen one.  It was sitting on the jetty for the island and kept going back there to eat it's catch.  Very fast flyer and was doing well in catching things!

The Moorhen was acting strangely - it was cutting pieces off the plant that was growing by the island at the Far End, then swimming across and putting them amongst all the plant of the same type on the edge of the pond.  Seemed to be nest-building but I couldn't find it.  Will keep an eye open next week to see what's going on.

I hadn't realised the Robin had a mouthful of caterpillar until I viewed the pic afterwards!

First pic is a Chiffchaff - very "plain" bird but sings nicely.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Ian on June 21, 2019, 10:16:15 am
I have a Canon with 50x optical zoom, but when you half depress the button it stores the frame which seems to ameliorate shaking quite effectively.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Jack on June 21, 2019, 11:08:14 am
Lovely photos DVT. I think the first photo is a dunnock rather than a chiffchaff but you are right it does have a beautiful song. A chiffchaff's song is very distinctive as it calls its name "chiff-chaff, chiff-chaff".

I believe the second bird is not a pied flycatcher but its cousin the spotted flycatcher. Once quite common, its population is now in free fall, and so a lovely little bird to see at Bodnant.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on June 21, 2019, 02:15:35 pm
Jack, thanks for the comments.  You've got me wondering now - comparing online pics of dunnock versus chiffchaff I reckon you're correct, in which case one of our bird experts was wrong as well as me!!!  There are chiffchaffs in the garden and can be heard often but rarely seen.

I am quite certain the flycatcher is a young pied variant.  A chap has been round the bird boxes (there are over 40 within the garden area, mostly at the Far End) and many did contain pied flycatcher nests and young - so I reckon this was a young one not yet in adult colours but certainly skillful at catching flies!

Attached is what I reckon was a young spotted flycatcher - this was taken near the Orme Toll Gate when I was marshalling on the Three Castles Classic Rally a couple of weeks ago - it was the first day I had used the new camera!  There had been reports in the press that spotted flycatchers were on the Orme and I reckon this is one of them.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Jack on June 21, 2019, 07:21:11 pm
Afraid that is a dunnock as well :-)

You can see why many birdwatchers refer to these as LBJs - "Little brown jobs"!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on June 21, 2019, 10:34:37 pm
Seems I need to brush up on my ornithology!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on June 23, 2019, 12:26:54 am
I find this thread irresistible and addictive.
I’m very keen on bird life, but I know so little about them it’s embarrassing.
In my garden, and on the Orme generally, I see all sorts of fabulous species but I never know what they are, despite employing my binoculars and my Birds of Britain book.
I know that I get a lot of wrens, robins, and a superbly noisy woodpecker.... as well as the usual jackdaws, magpies etc....
Today on my way to the summit, I thought I saw saw Stone Chats and Greenfinches,  but now I’m seriously doubting myself.
Keep the pictures and debate rolling!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Ian on June 23, 2019, 09:02:36 am
I agree.  With DVT and his new camera it should go from strength to strength.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on June 23, 2019, 12:16:29 pm
I'm not that good at identifying birds either but love seeing any form of wildlife and those photos of DVT's were great.      I remember you seeing a Buzzard in your garden Fester some years ago but I can't remember if you attached a photo of the bird.     I see them flying overhead now and again and am able to recognise them by their distinguished call
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on June 23, 2019, 06:28:23 pm
I'm not that good at identifying birds either but love seeing any form of wildlife and those photos of DVT's were great.      I remember you seeing a Buzzard in your garden Fester some years ago but I can't remember if you attached a photo of the bird.     I see them flying overhead now and again and am able to recognise them by their distinguished call

Yes, well remembered!   I did indeed post a picture of a buzzard which was ignoring the half hearted attacks from the rest of the birds in our garden.
An enormous and majestic creature that was, and never seen before or since.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on June 23, 2019, 07:43:40 pm
Fester, If you hear a commotion involving gulls and crows, it is sometimes an indication that a Buzzard is about, it happens at quite a height, a sort of aerial dogfight, the Buzzard seams to treat it as a bit of a nuisance, despite the crows getting close, I have seen this behaviour about 3 or 4 times over the last few years, last week being the most recent.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on June 23, 2019, 08:10:02 pm
Paid a quick visit to the RSPB reserve in Llandudno Jucntion this morning so here are a few more ornitholigcal delights - was playing with the camera settings so these are not as sharp as I'd like - need more practice.  I'll leave it you experts to say what birds they are but can anyone identify the "duck" because I don't think it's one of the usual suspects.  The bullfinch was a nice surprise but seemed camera shy.


Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on June 23, 2019, 10:57:07 pm
I can only recognise the Bullfinch and the Bluetit but I like the photo of the Goose.     It's not a Canada Goose but I can't say what type it is.
Is your camera a Bridge camera?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on June 24, 2019, 09:04:24 am
Great photos, I think number 2 is a Tufted duck and 3 is a Greylag goose

https://www.rspb.org.uk/birds-and-wildlife/wildlife-guides/bird-a-z/greylag-goose/ (https://www.rspb.org.uk/birds-and-wildlife/wildlife-guides/bird-a-z/greylag-goose/)       

https://www.rspb.org.uk/birds-and-wildlife/wildlife-guides/bird-a-z/tufted-duck/ (https://www.rspb.org.uk/birds-and-wildlife/wildlife-guides/bird-a-z/tufted-duck/)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on June 24, 2019, 09:12:56 am
Yes Steve, I reckon you're correct on those two.  The tufted duck was quite elusive, every time I lined him (or her) up to snap it dived out of sight!

There was a big flock (at least 50) of the geese sitting together on one of islands.  There were also a lot of Canada Geese but they weren't mixing with the grey ones.

It's the first pic that has me a bit puzzled as I don't think it's a female mallard as the markings don't seem right.

The youngster in the final pic might be nothing more exciting than a sparrow, but I will be pleased to be corrected on  that!

If tomorrow's plans come to fruition I hope to snap something a bit bigger than any of those!

... and to answer Hugo - yes it is a bridge camera - Panasonic Lumix DC-FZ82.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on June 24, 2019, 09:19:33 am
Think I've found the duck.  I noticed on a board inside the cafe a list of birds that had been seen and the last on the list was a Gadwall which I'd never heard of before - but I reckon that's what I snapped!  (Thanks Steve for the website link!)

https://www.rspb.org.uk/birds-and-wildlife/wildlife-guides/bird-a-z/gadwall/ (https://www.rspb.org.uk/birds-and-wildlife/wildlife-guides/bird-a-z/gadwall/)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Jack on June 24, 2019, 10:04:45 am
From the top they are gadwall, tufted duck, greylag goose, bullfinch, blue tit and house sparrow.

Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on June 24, 2019, 12:11:09 pm
Thanks Jack ... I have to admit I'd never heard of a Gadwall before ... learn something new every day!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on June 28, 2019, 04:16:58 pm
This clip about baby hedgehogs is well worth viewing

https://www.facebook.com/1071221419694245/videos/2218948718140663/ (https://www.facebook.com/1071221419694245/videos/2218948718140663/)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on June 29, 2019, 01:50:03 pm
Very friendly Donkeys in Wyddfyd Road yesterday
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on June 29, 2019, 03:29:34 pm
Nice photos, Hugo, and I think you have some Mules in there as well.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: snowcap on June 29, 2019, 10:13:11 pm
there was two fox's and two cubs running around in the top of that field last saturday evening, the donkys are nice untill they start calling to each other at four o-clock in the morning
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on June 29, 2019, 10:30:33 pm
That must have been a lovely sight seeing all those Foxes but the Donkeys at 4.00 am,  I'm not sure I'd like that either.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on June 30, 2019, 01:28:55 pm
Amazing how loud they sound, especially if the wind is in a certain direction. The gulls can start screaming at 3am, suddenly they stop and you think  ''Ahh..sleep''. 10 minutes later they are off again !
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on July 05, 2019, 04:22:23 pm
We saw these chicks on a building in the Powder works in Penrhyndeudraeth and then moved on to Pont Croesor where we saw the Ospreys.    Only through binoculars unfortunately but the 3rd photo was taken of the web cam just above the  nest
What a lovely location for the RSPB  site
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on July 11, 2019, 10:24:34 am
With all this nice weather, I have spent a lot of time in the garden recently, enough time for the local Blackbirds to trust me, there are six of varying ages, feeding and drinking in our shaded ( Under a shrub) "Food Court" , a small water bowl with some pebbles in it, is bringing a lot of visitors, ............I wondered if anyone has seen this behaviour before ?  Yesterday the youngest Blackbird, which has taken up residence in a nearby bush, surprised me, by suddenly falling flat on the ground, spreading it's wings and tail feathers, and lying still, after a few minutes, it got up and carried on as normal, about ten minutes later it repeated the same thing......... a quick search on the RSPB site reveals.................

"A male blackbird sits on my flower bed, spreading its wings and fanning its tail in the sun. Is it sick?"

"No, the blackbird is not sick, but you have observed some very interesting behaviour, known as sunning. This usually involves the bird adopting an unusual posture and deliberately positioning itself in sunlight. It may spread or raise its wings, fan its tail feathers, sit down, fluff the feathers on the head and back, and hold the head to one side, looking directly into the sun with one eye. In this country, sunning has been observed in blackbirds more often than any other species (Simmons, K.E.L. The Sunning Behaviour of Birds, Bristol Ornithologists Club, 1986"

No-one knows for certain the reasons birds do this and several theories have been proposed. However, sunning would appear to perform two separate functions: maintaining the bird's feathers in good condition, and helping to regulate it's temperature. There is even a suggestion that they do it simply because they enjoy it!

Precisely how sunning assists with the maintenance of feathers is not known, despite being widely studied. All birds have a gland on the rump, called an oil gland. The 'preen-oil' that this gland produces helps to keep the feathers flexible and hygienic. It has been suggested that the sun affects the preen-oil in the feathers in some beneficial manner, or that it helps to synthesize the Vitamin D from the preen-oil. This preen-oil also aids with waterproofing the birds' feathers. Additionally, the heat from the sun may stimulate activity in parasites within the feathers, making them more accessible when the bird starts to preen. Preening usually occurs directly after sunning.
Cont......  https://ww2.rspb.org.uk/birds-and-wildlife/bird-and-wildlife-guides/ask-an-expert/previous/sunning.aspx (https://ww2.rspb.org.uk/birds-and-wildlife/bird-and-wildlife-guides/ask-an-expert/previous/sunning.aspx)

Another article..... https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2018/aug/16/country-diary-blackbird-entranced-by-the-sun-crook-durham (https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2018/aug/16/country-diary-blackbird-entranced-by-the-sun-crook-durham)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on July 11, 2019, 10:43:56 am
We have a pair of Blackbirds nesting somewhere in the garden but I haven't noticed that behaviour so I'll pay more attention in future
What I have noticed though is when the Blackbirds go in the birdbath,  it's quite hilarious really, they flap their wings and the water goes everywhere and I often have to refill the birdbath after they have been there.
Their bird song is a delight to listen to as well.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Ian on July 11, 2019, 10:58:26 am
The blackbirds we have are also fearless.  They hop out and watch us gardening, from only a couple of feet. We're used to that from Robins, but not usually from blackbirds.

Yesterday I heard what sounded like a very strong wind, followed by a thump against our patio doors. I looked out to see a Sparrow Hawk disembowelling a wood pigeon. I've seen this particular Sparrow hawk catching smaller birds - we seem to be in its territory - but never anything as large as a wood pigeon.  Quite a sight.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on July 11, 2019, 09:12:48 pm
What a mess the Sparrowhawks leave when they do this Ian!

This week, a neighbour’s cat has attacked three different types of birds in our garden.
Tonight, I had to interrupt a life or death scrap between the cat and a large jackdaw.
The jackdaw is unlikely to survive as it has one wing now trailing on the ground.

Anyone got any good advice about how to deter cats from entering your garden?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: snowcap on July 11, 2019, 11:28:59 pm
i believe orange peel is a way of keeping them out as they do'nt like the smell may be worth a try
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Ian on July 12, 2019, 08:30:53 am
If they're not feral cats, F, I'd approach the neighbour who owns it and ask that they be fitted with a neck bell.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on July 12, 2019, 10:06:46 am
I have had a bit of success with pepper, in deterring cats from using our garden as a toilet. we spread it around, especially where we thought the cat was coming in. but this would need replacing after it rained.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on July 12, 2019, 11:22:04 am
It may be just nature with the Sparrowhawks but it is still upsetting to see it happening, especially in your own garden.   We've had to take a number of Pigeons to the vets over the years that have been the victims of Hawks and it's not nice to see
Cat's on the other hand are different, they are cruel and don't hunt for food and just tease or torment their prey before killing them.    We are lucky because we have a dog so the cats don't come here during the day but at night the security lights come on often triggered by cats.
There are a number of things on the internet that may help like Steve and Snowcap have said so it's worth a look there. 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on July 13, 2019, 12:59:20 pm
Following on from the Blackbird post's above, I wanted to check on, what we could feed them, and I found out more importantly what they should not eat, a few I was unaware of...........

Foods to avoid     ref  Woodland Trust
Certain foods should always be avoided when feeding birds, as they may have a damaging impact on their health:
Seed mixtures containing split peas, beans or lentils. Small birds cannot eat dry foodstuffs like these.
Leftover fat from cooking
Polyunsaturated margarine's or vegetable oils. Soft fats can destroy the waterproofing and insulating properties of feathers.
Dry biscuits as birds may choke on the hard lumps.
Milk. A bird's gut is not designed to digest milk and can cause stomach upsets.
Desiccated coconut. This can swell up in a bird’s stomach.
Moldy food. Some molds can cause respiratory infections.
Stale food. This can provide a breeding ground for salmonella bacteria, which can cause food poisoning.


I would like to recommend the Woodland Trust, a very interesting and informative site for those interested in the outdoors, lot's of link's, don't miss their Blog.

https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/about-us/ (https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/about-us/)

Blog   https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/blog/ (https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/blog/)

Top ten Coastal woods... Including   Marl Hall Woods, Llandudno, Clywd, North Wales    http://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/blog/2019/06/top-10-coastal-woods/ (http://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/blog/2019/06/top-10-coastal-woods/)


Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on July 13, 2019, 02:14:46 pm
Bodnant issue a weekly news letter to their staff and volunteers and the latest edition includes a report on the bird-ringing and monitioring of the nest boxes.  There are 42 nest boxes within the garden area, from the far end and up Furnace Wood areas, and there has been great success over the four years that this has been going on - a total of 389 young birds have fledged - with 137 of them being Pied Flycatchers.

Other boxes have been used by Great Tits (29 fledged this year) and Blue Tits (62).  One female blue tit fledged 7 then had a second clutch of 5 in the next nest box!

Certainly successful breeding at Bodnant - it's not just about the plants!

Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Ian on July 13, 2019, 03:25:08 pm
Excellent shots, DVT.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on July 13, 2019, 07:10:44 pm
Can anyone please identify the young bird in the third pic - the miserable looking guy in the leaves! - as I thought it was one thing and others thought it was various other species.  I did briefly see the adult that was feeding him/her and it was not a robin, the chick was a loittle bit bigger than that.  I have been proved wrong before with earlier posts so I won't say what I think it is!

... incidentally, it wasn't me who put *** in my posting - the system must have decided the word was not acceptable, yet the plural version twice in the same sentence was deemed OK !!!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Ian on July 13, 2019, 07:39:52 pm
I'll sort that.   Really no need for auto edit any more.  Our members are far too civilised :-)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on July 14, 2019, 11:49:00 am
I found the photos that Fester posted when he was lucky enough to see that Buzzard in his garden, it's quite a privilege to have seen such a sight

I didn't realise that it was posted on 2nd Nov 2010 so long ago.

Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on July 14, 2019, 03:29:57 pm
Wow, that was a quick 9 years or so!

I really wish I could have snapped a picture of it in flight, as it glided off over the roof of the house.
The plumage patterns under the wings were certainly a sight to behold.

I’ve never seen another one since, incidentally.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on July 14, 2019, 03:39:32 pm
Was trying to get a shot of a buzzard in flight the other day but trees kept getting in the way ... I'll let you know when I get it, they are fairly common nowadays.  Getting one still is very difficult though so well done to Fester for his shots.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Ian on July 14, 2019, 05:55:47 pm
They're quite a common sight down the valley on the high roads. They often sit on fence posts - waiting.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on July 27, 2019, 03:03:03 pm
Some photos from today´s garden post, part of my resizing efforts   !   !   which have worked  :D
The young "sunning" Blackbird mentioned before, now a fixture.   
As the garden was full of Butterflies, I waited with camera in hand for some time, but this is the only one that settled.
Mrs H. while re purposing a rockery, found this stone buried, we do not think it was a memorial, as the area was extremely unkempt.
And another of Sunbird !
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Ian on July 27, 2019, 06:37:30 pm
Blackbirds are very friendly creatures.  And my wife can better your wife's find:  the other day she unearthed a clutch assembly...  I had a quick poke and I suspect a lot more of the original car is down there.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on August 14, 2019, 10:06:41 am
More incredible footage has emerged of a pod of dolphins that are continuing to impress onlookers in the Menai Strait.

The mammals have been seen leaping out of the water in the Menai Bridge area by a number of witnesses since they were initially spotted last Thursday.
The performances have since attracted hundreds of dolphin-spotters.
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/more-incredible-footage-shows-dolphins-16748838 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/more-incredible-footage-shows-dolphins-16748838)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on August 15, 2019, 10:58:47 pm
Was told yesterday that kingfishers were in Bodnant again, so went in at 9.30 this morning and immdiately saw this guy at the Far End ... I reckon it's a juvelile as its feathers don't seem to be fully developed.  But (s)he sat there and posed for me for quite a while before lifting off and flying straight at me and shouting at the same time - I felt the draught as (s)he went past my right ear!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Ian on August 16, 2019, 08:50:43 am
They're beautiful birds.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on August 16, 2019, 11:33:05 am
Nice photo DVT you were so lucky to get a photo like that     
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on August 17, 2019, 04:20:34 pm
On July 11th, I posted about the "sunning" blackbird,......... our latest friendly visitors have been a young robin and a sparrow, who play and chase each other around the feeding area, then settle down, pecking for crumbs together,.......... this morning the sparrow turned up, had some food, then surprised me,  when it went to the same place as the blackbird, sat down, not quite spreading it's feathers but definitely similar behavior as mentioned before   ......... this went on for about 10 minutes, then the second surprise of the day.......... the robin turned up, chased the sparrow, and took it's place, with feathers spread........... interestingly not the last surprise, the sparrow stayed, had some food then swapped places with the robin, they did this a couple of times, even allowing me to move and get my camera.

Sorry not very good photo, however you can see the sparrow sitting, and the robin is partially hidden by the lower branch.
I have used a stock photo to show a sunning robin.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on August 17, 2019, 04:54:46 pm
Isn't nature wonderful Steve
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Ian on August 18, 2019, 09:14:04 am
Robins seem to have some fascinating behaviours.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on August 22, 2019, 11:09:39 am
For some years now I have been feeding suet cakes to the birds that come in my garden.     I hang the suet cakes on a tree and the small birds seem to love them and the cakes last quite a while.     
That was until the last two weeks when they all seem to have lasted for one day only so I thought that it might be the Crows, the Magpies or the Pigeons that were responsible
That was until last night about 10.00 pm and I found out who was the culprit.    The security light came on and the Badger came to eat the peanuts I had left for him.  After he finished eating the peanuts he walked to the tree in the garden and to our surprise he leapt into the tree and climbed up it until he came to the suet cake and ate the lot
I didn't realise that they could climb like that so no more suet cakes are going on that tree again
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Ian on August 22, 2019, 02:03:51 pm
When I discovered that most cows can leap farm gates effortlessly, I decided that I should drop any preconceptions of what animals can and can't do. They're always surprising us.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on August 22, 2019, 02:42:15 pm
I think Ian's got it right, just enjoy the surprises, looking forward to the next one............
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Quiggs on August 22, 2019, 03:25:43 pm
One occasion whilst travelling from Sychnant to Conwy, just after the cattle grid, I caught sight of a movement on the top of the hedge, immediately checking rear view mirror saw a Cow landing on the road. Three seconds earlier and it would have been on the bonnet of the car 🚙 and I probably would not be able to tell this story
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on August 22, 2019, 03:48:38 pm
I read somewhere that cows, although they can walk up steps they are unable to walk down them and here lies a mystery that I don't know the answer to.
I was born in Llandudno and lived in Cwm Place and at the time there were no houses or shops behind us, just open fields as far as John Bright's Grammar School.
Sometimes animals used to wander from the fields into the street and I remember one day seeing a black and white cow about thirty yards from our house.  I was under 5 at the time and can remember telling my Nain about the cow and then she wouldn't let me go out again just in case I got hurt.
In those days things were so different and people used to leave their doors wide open and one such person was my next door neighbour Sam Owen.    A really nice man who at that time lived in the upstairs flat.
Other older boys had also seen the cow and they herded it into Sam's garden and then they herded it upstairs into his flat.   The stairs went straight into the lounge and old Sam who was in his kitchen at the time heard a racket going on in the lounge and came in to see the  cow knocking all his furniture about.
I can't remember my parents telling me how they got the cow down the stairs, perhaps it was the herdsman John Morris who also lived in the street who got it down but it still remains a mystery to me
Title: Re: Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on August 22, 2019, 04:29:49 pm
This is complete coincidence I was looking at a You tube video about tools, and this was next in line for viewing, after reading about climbing badgers and leaping cows, I thought you might like this...............

I watched the first one, but there are others...
https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=ibex+climbing+dam+wall (https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=ibex+climbing+dam+wall)

Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Ian on August 22, 2019, 05:11:09 pm
We've seen a cow jump a farm gate. It was lured by the Bull a few fields away, but was very docile when we went to usher her back into the field from which she'd made the flying  escape.  But they can go down steps (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=njD5XAS4N_4) - not sure about stairs. I've seen them gingerly descending stepped surfaces.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on August 27, 2019, 07:03:19 am
Now that I've seen the Badger in my garden climb up the tree I know now why the peanut feeders, fat ball feeders etc have been found on the lawn in the mornings. I blamed the Squirrel for it at first until that evening when I saw the Badger leap up on to the tree.
Now there is no point in me leaving food for the birds on that tree as the Badger will eat everything I put up there.
Last night the Badger made his nightly visit slightly later than normal, just as I was going up stairs to bed but I was still able to get my camera and take some photos through the window of the sun lounge
 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on August 27, 2019, 10:07:56 am
It looks in extremely good condition ,,,,,,,,, all that extra food.     I forgot for awhile,  that it was a cast iron frog :-[
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on August 27, 2019, 10:38:33 am
Even the Squirrel knows where all the peanuts are hidden
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: spotty dog on August 27, 2019, 10:44:54 am
I keep waiting for you to post a picture of your lawn all plowed up Hugo, a friend of mine had friendly badgers visit regularly then one morning he came down to a destroyed lawn. Apparently if they find grubs under the turf they will root up the hole lawn overnight. I still think it's worth it to watch them
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on August 27, 2019, 11:09:20 am
Tell your friend not to be so mean and to feed the Badgers instead, it has worked for me so far.       :D
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on August 27, 2019, 11:26:01 am
I keep waiting for you to post a picture of your lawn all plowed up Hugo, a friend of mine had friendly badgers visit regularly then one morning he came down to a destroyed lawn. Apparently if they find grubs under the turf they will root up the hole lawn overnight. I still think it's worth it to watch them

I have the T shirt, when I lived up the valley, I found the scenes you mention, not just me, but, as far as I could see, affecting a lot of the sheep farmers,  my property bordered forestry land, and one year they renewed the fencing, a job extremely well done, with few gaps, I bought galleons of creosote and sprinkled it along the fence line, whether it was one or both, it worked.

PS Hugo if the feeding stops working, remember the creosote  ;)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on September 13, 2019, 10:56:29 am
The village pond at Gwaenysgor was fuller but more overgrown since the last time we saw it but the Ducks and Geese seemed to be enjoying it
We have seen some large Carp in the pond in the past but didn't see any this time
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on September 21, 2019, 04:39:48 pm
After seeing the Badger leap up and climb the tree in my garden and pinch the food left out for the birds, I said that I wouldn't put any more bird food out in that tree.
Anyway I changed my mind and thought about all the birds that go to the tree so I got my step ladder out and put the suet cake and peanuts out as high as I could out of reach of the Badger
Well so I thought, the next day the suet cake had all gone and the wired peanut feeder was all mangled up and most of the peanuts had gone
I was determined not to be beaten by the adventurous Badger so I got my extension ladder out and the peanut feeder is right at the top of the tree and out of harms way and only the birds ( or Squirrel ( can get to it now
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on September 24, 2019, 10:20:43 pm
Rare sighting of Northern Bottlenose Whale spotted off Porthmadog


https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-49815113 (https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-49815113)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on September 25, 2019, 03:34:49 pm
There were only a few seals at Angel Bay in Penrhyn Bay today and we didn't see any sign of Seal pups there.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: spotty dog on September 27, 2019, 07:45:23 pm
I see Hugo's badgers are on BBC 1ioio's street life
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on September 28, 2019, 05:29:58 am
Fame at last    $good$

My little visitors have been behaving themselves in the garden, so far no serious digging in my lawn
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on September 30, 2019, 08:40:56 am
I watched Iolo William's  on BBC Wales last night and it was about seeing wildlife in the streets.     It had quite a bit about Colwyn Bay on it and showed one lady who feeds the Badgers every night.  There were 5 Badgers feeding within a few yards of her patio door and it was lovely to watch.
The most number of Badgers I've seen in my garden at once is 3 and that was when a female brought her two cubs into the garden with her.  I did however see 7 when I was feeding the Badgers in my neighbours garden and that was a delight to watch
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on October 01, 2019, 03:37:30 pm
Concern for a visitor on the prom, who has been there for a few hours, apparently marine life rescue personnel on way to check up on the little'un's welfare.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on October 01, 2019, 04:00:03 pm
The seal has been rescued, and being looked after.. $good$

Coastguard message....
Over the last few weeks we have received a number of messages regarding seals who appear to be in distress asking for us to attend to try and help them.
You may also have seen a recent post on a local Facebook page regading a seal on the promenade in Llandudno.

Whilst these seals may need assistnace, the Coastguard are unable to rescue these seals as we are not equipped or trained to deal with wildlife. We will not attend incidents involving wildlife unless human life is at risk therefore please see the following advice from the British Divers Marine Life Rescue.          http://www.bdmlr.org.uk/index.php (http://www.bdmlr.org.uk/index.php)

BDMLR is an organisation dedicated to the rescue and well-being of all marine animals in distress around the UK.
RESCUE HOTLINE:
01825 765546 Monday-Friday 9am-5pm
07787 433412 Out of office hours and Bank Holidays

𝗜𝗳 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗳𝗶𝗻𝗱 𝗮 𝗹𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝘀𝗲𝗮𝗹:
Watch it from a distance. Do not approach the animal. Seals regularly haul out on our coasts - it is part of their normal behaviour and in fact they spend more time out of the water, digesting their food and resting. Therefore, finding a seal on the beach does not mean there is necessarily a problem and they should not be chased back into the sea as this may stop them from doing what they need to do - rest. A healthy seal should be left well alone.

After stormy weather and high tides, seals will haul out onto beaches to rest and regain their strength. Many do not need first aid, but we will always try to find someone to check them out just in case.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on October 02, 2019, 04:24:30 pm
I had a nice walk across the Great Orme today and managed to see a lot of various animals and birds along the way.    The Donkeys in Wyddfyd were all nice but this one was my favourite.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on October 18, 2019, 05:03:24 pm
Couple of shots taken at Bodnant yesterday ...
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Ian on October 18, 2019, 05:21:22 pm
The robin's excellent.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on October 19, 2019, 05:41:27 pm
Twirl, who used to be wild has recently taken up skateboarding!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Ian on October 20, 2019, 09:07:41 am
 ;D  Delightful :-)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on October 30, 2019, 03:39:29 pm
Some of the Carneddau Mountain ponies that we saw on Conwy Mountain today
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on November 05, 2019, 01:14:35 pm
There were only a few seals at Angel Bay in Penrhyn Bay today and we didn't see any sign of Seal pups there.

A seal pup that could be as young as two weeks is becoming a star attraction at a North Wales beach.
The marine mammal has not yet shed its white coat, which suggests it is a very young infant.

Video captured by North Wales Live shows it lounging on the rocks near the cliff edge, while its group keeps watch from the shoreline and the water.   cont    https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/adorable-seal-pup-making-waves-17202197 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/adorable-seal-pup-making-waves-17202197)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on November 17, 2019, 08:59:14 am
A Dipper on the fast flowing Afon Glaslyn in Beddgelert and a Robin happy to pose nearby
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on November 25, 2019, 04:57:08 pm
Stunning Anglesey starling murmuration caught on camera
The 'breathtaking' spectacle was captured on video at Cors Ddyga Nature Reserve.

The hypnotic video footage shared on the North Wales Bird and Wildlife Sightings Facebook group , shows the flying flock perform a spectacular aerial display, simultaneously shifting their flight patterns in mid-air.

Video    https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/stunning-anglesey-starling-murmuration-caught-17313247 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/stunning-anglesey-starling-murmuration-caught-17313247)

Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on December 04, 2019, 03:40:04 pm
Large number of seals in Angel Bay.       ref Pioneer
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on December 11, 2019, 06:38:12 pm
I've only just read this article on the mystery of about 330 dead Starlings in Anglesey and it makes awful reading


https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/police-say-mystery-mass-bird-17403053 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/police-say-mystery-mass-bird-17403053)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Ian on December 12, 2019, 09:55:25 am
It's happened elsewhere, too; it was near an air base in Scotland. I would doubt poisoning as the culprit unless it was a toxic nerve agent. It could be something physical.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on December 12, 2019, 05:18:16 pm
The Police believe that they have an explanation for the Starlings but need to do some tests before they can reveal what has caused this carnage


https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-50763597 (https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-50763597)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on December 14, 2019, 09:13:56 am
I am in Bodnant Garden two days a week and have found a few dead pigeons around the place recently ... but on Thursday I shot the murderer (with a camera).  It was raining heavily which is why the picture is not brilliant quality.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Ian on December 14, 2019, 10:27:54 am
Oh, yes;  a female sparrow Hawk (I think) who has taken three wood pigeons from our lower garden and who thinks nothing of attacking a solitary bird right next to our lounge window. It's quite a sight, watching the predator seize the hapless wood pigeon in flight, then crash into the lounge window and start to dismember the only partly-dead bird on the balcony.

It's only this year I've realised they attack the larger birds, such as wood pigeons. Leave a right mess, too, after they've plucked the pigeon.

I'm guessing she's the same one, since they have a fairly wide territory, I believe.  Feel a bit sorry for the wood pigeons but we have three bird stations and it must be like a smorgasbord for the Hawk :-) Magnificent to watch hunting, though.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on December 14, 2019, 12:37:47 pm
We have had a Sparrow Hawk here this week and although I didn't see it the evidence is at the top of the garden.   It's not a pleasant sight to see, especially if you see the kill but that's nature for you.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Merddin Emrys on December 14, 2019, 12:42:23 pm
I've saved a few pigeons from sparrow hawks in the past, can't say I'm keen on them!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on December 14, 2019, 02:59:04 pm
Interesting ... I thought it was a buzzard - the colouring and markings suggest that.  Can someone give a positive ID, please?

Buzzards hovering over Bodnant are common, identified by their mewing call as well.

Anyway, it flew past me when I was taking this, a much nicer bird - singing in the rain at the time.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on December 14, 2019, 05:00:33 pm
My go to site is the Wildlife Trust https://www.wildlifetrusts.org/wildlife/how-identify/identify-birds-prey (https://www.wildlifetrusts.org/wildlife/how-identify/identify-birds-prey)

Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on December 15, 2019, 12:32:50 pm
After looking again, I think it is as Ian suggested a female Sparrow Hawk, Buzzards are much larger and mainly hunt ground prey.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on December 19, 2019, 10:05:20 am
The Police believe that they have an explanation for the Starlings but need to do some tests before they can reveal what has caused this carnage
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-50763597 (https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-50763597)
Latest on the Starling story.....

"Several bodies were collected and sent off for tests with their findings indicating that the birds died due to "trauma and internal bleeding" after they plunged into the ground.

But scientists are still unsure at this stage what caused the birds to crash in to the road -  and they are continuing their investigation alongside North Wales Police.
An expert told North Wales Live that it wasn't uncommon for starlings to fly into the ground."
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/test-results-300-birds-found-17442485 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/test-results-300-birds-found-17442485)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: BrianP on December 20, 2019, 10:04:36 pm
It is a Fieldfare, common this time of year, often seen in groups.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on December 28, 2019, 05:42:44 pm
There has been a lot of local concern over the seal caught up in a rope in Angel Bay, since Friday........sparking fears it could die, has managed to free itself.

Rescuers had been called in to help the mammal who was stuck in the rope , which was attached to a buoy off Angel Bay near Llandudno, but in the end were not needed.                      ref DP
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on January 08, 2020, 11:58:39 am
VISITORS to the Great Orme have been reminded to keep their distance from seals on the Great Orme.

The RSPCA has had to issue the warning after an injured seal was spotted on the beach at Pigeon's Cove on Saturday, January 4.
https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/18145179.rspca-issues-warning-injured-seal-seen-llandudnos-great-orme/ (https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/18145179.rspca-issues-warning-injured-seal-seen-llandudnos-great-orme/)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on January 09, 2020, 03:04:29 pm
We enjoyed a nice walk in Ganllwyd yesterday and walked up to the Cefn Coch goldmine before returning back through the woodland where three Highland cattle were roaming freely.
They were lovely creatures but the Black hairy beast at one time kept coming towards me so I did a quick retreat and took some more  photos from a safer distance
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on January 16, 2020, 11:41:58 am
After a sort out of breakfast cereals, past their best before dates, we put them in a blender, and put out the resulting fine powder for the birds ( I did read recently that some biscuits and cereals can cause choking) we were surprised by the reaction, all the usual population seemed to turn up en masse, and in the middle a pair of long tailed tits, not seen one for many years.                 stock photos
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on January 16, 2020, 12:02:20 pm
Lovely photos Steve, you were lucky to see those very attractive birds in your garden       Now that you have mentioned it we haven't seen any of those birds here for a number of years.
We'll have to try your tip and see what happens         $good$
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on January 24, 2020, 01:45:04 pm
We had a visit from a few the other day - landing on our feeder.  Just managed to get the camera and take a few shots, but this is the best!  Note little fellow is holding the sunflower seed in it's "hand"!!!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on January 24, 2020, 01:48:10 pm
Took this one yesterday.  Note the millipede it's caught - don't know if it ate the creature, it would be like us trying to eat a six-foot-long sausage!!!
Title: Re: Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on January 26, 2020, 11:19:39 am
Wales a haven for wildlife - but for how long?

From slugs to spiders and bees to bottlenose dolphins - Wales is proving a haven for many species.

Its varied landscape and mild climate make Wales among Europe's "best wildlife-watching secrets", according to the Wildlife Trust.

Those secrets include a spider only found in Welsh caves, a fly unique to a north Wales river and a flesh-eating slug first found in a Cardiff garden.

However one in six species of wildlife, plants and fungi remain endangered.

Here we look at creatures who only call the green, green grass of Wales home, along with the country's major success stories and the efforts to save those in danger of disappearing altogether.   cont  https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-51109146 (https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-51109146)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on January 30, 2020, 11:55:47 am
GREY seal pups who were in serious ill health after washing up along the shore have been released back into the wild.

This followed a period of rehabilitation at the Welsh Mountain Zoo in Colwyn Bay.

The release took place from the beach in Penrhyn Bay this month.

More plus video of release.... https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/18196050.rescued-seal-pups-released-back-waters-penrhyn-bay/ (https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/18196050.rescued-seal-pups-released-back-waters-penrhyn-bay/)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on January 31, 2020, 10:39:35 am
I've only just read this article on the mystery of about 330 dead Starlings in Anglesey and it makes awful reading
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/police-say-mystery-mass-bird-17403053 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/police-say-mystery-mass-bird-17403053)

I watched a countryside programme the other day, and the Anglesey mystery came up, a knowledgeable gentleman, explained "he had seen this happen before, during the time when Starlings were flying  in murmurations, (which they were ) they were attacked by a raptor, causing panic, and in trying to evade, a large number struck the ground, those who hit a hard surface, unfortunately died."

Taking his explanation at face value, I believe this makes sense.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on February 04, 2020, 10:01:28 am
Gannet found on Anglesey beach hatched before fall of Berlin Wall
Litter-pickers organised by the Friends of Anglesey Coast Path do a great job keeping the island's beaches free of litter, and inevitably each winter they find a few dead seabirds washed up on the shoreline.

A Gannet found at Traeth Cymyran recently bore a leg-ring that was fitted while it was a chick on a nest in Shetland in 1989.

In that time, it will have travelled tens of thousands of miles, since Gannets spend each winter in the seas off West Africa.

The bird found on Anglesey was some way off being a record-breaker, however.

The oldest Gannet ringed in Britain was over 37-years-old when it was found dead on Orkney in 1998, and one from Wales’ only colony – on Grassholm in Pembrokeshire – was over 36-years-old when found in Devon the same year.     ref DP
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on February 04, 2020, 12:45:51 pm
When we were returning from a day trip to Bardsey Island in 2017 we saw an incredible sight of Gannets diving down into the water after the Sand Eels
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on February 14, 2020, 05:45:27 pm
I've only just read this article on the mystery of about 330 dead Starlings in Anglesey and it makes awful reading
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/police-say-mystery-mass-bird-17403053 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/police-say-mystery-mass-bird-17403053)

I watched a countryside programme the other day, and the Anglesey mystery came up, a knowledgeable gentleman, explained "he had seen this happen before, during the time when Starlings were flying  in murmurations, (which they were ) they were attacked by a raptor, causing panic, and in trying to evade, a large number struck the ground, those who hit a hard surface, unfortunately died."

Taking his explanation at face value, I believe this makes sense.

Looks like gentleman was right..........

Toxicology results are back on 300 starlings that died on Anglesey - this is what they show
DEFRA says it has carried out tests for numerous potential causes
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/toxicology-results-back-300-starlings-17751516 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/toxicology-results-back-300-starlings-17751516)


Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on February 27, 2020, 05:33:41 pm
Starling murmurations create stunning displays above Conwy reserve
An estimated 60,000 starlings have migrated together at the RSPB Conwy Nature Reserve this winter, creating spectacular aerial displays that can be seen for miles around.

Photo A starling murmuration above the RSPB Conwy Nature Reserve. Picture: Jonni Price.

Visitors to the RSPB Conwy Nature Reserve in Conwy, North Wales, may have witnessed the dazzling scenes of starling murmurations over the past several months.

The starling murmurations are a natural phenomena that sees large numbers of the bird flock together and move through the sky in a spectacular display of synchronised aerial acrobatics.

Starling migration from the UK and Europe reaches its peak between October and February, with up to 60,000 birds having gathered at the Conwy reserve this year.

The birds come to the reserve during the winter months to roost around the lagoons, arriving just before dusk and leaving at dawn to feed in local areas during the day.

The exact reasons for the murmurations, however, are unknown.

Photo  The starlings roost in the lagoons of the RSPB Conwy Nature Reserve. Picture Jonni Price.

Tim Wallis, Warden for RSPB Conwy Nature Reserve, said: "There are various theories as to why the murmurations occur, it's likely that these aerial displays act as a visual signal to other birds to join them.

"It's in the interests of the birds to group together for safety in numbers, so the more birds there are, the harder it is for a predator to pick out an invidual."

Research shows starling populations have declined by 66% since the mid-1970s, with the species being of high-conservation concern.

A reason for the declining numbers is unknown, though conservation efforts hope to ensure these displays will remain to be see in our skies for years to come.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on February 29, 2020, 09:54:41 am
Felt very pleased with myself to get this shot at Bodnant on Wednesday!

Just got the single shot then it few away!

... and the Canada Geese are back at the Far End - this time 4 of them!

Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on February 29, 2020, 10:11:46 am
A lovely photo DVT and it must have been a great sight to see.   Is it the Greater Spotted Woodpecker?

We had one in the garden some months ago but we rarely see them now even though we can hear them nearby in the woods when they are drumming
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on February 29, 2020, 10:18:46 am
DVT great photo, you should be pleased. clappinghappy
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on February 29, 2020, 01:10:58 pm
Yes, it's the Great Spotted Woodpecker (white stripe on wing rather than the speckled lesser-spotted) - and it's a male (red nape).

Iam trying to get a photo of every different bird in Bodnant Garden - I have over 20 different species so far but this is one of my best.

There are a few bird walks planned with an expert, well worth joining - see the Bodnant Garden NT website for info.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on March 03, 2020, 03:16:45 pm
We have recently identified a pair of Dunnock's around our feeding station, which we believe have been here for some time, but assumed were Sparrows, and remembering how difficult it is to differentiate between the LBJ'S, we checked for about a week, and are now positive, however no successful photo yet, I am hopeful for a forthcoming birthday present, of a wildlife camera, meantime a stock photo and link...

https://www.birdguides.com/articles/species-profiles/focus-on-dunnock-more-interesting-than-you-think/ (https://www.birdguides.com/articles/species-profiles/focus-on-dunnock-more-interesting-than-you-think/)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on March 03, 2020, 03:49:16 pm
I'm looking forward to seeing some photos of your feathered friends Steve when you get your birthday present.    You'll get a lot of pleasure taking photos, just like DVT  has been doing with his new camera

I still tend to call the Dunnock a Hedge Sparrow because that's what we called them many years ago and I'm forever being corrected by my friend Tellytubby who is an expert on birds
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on March 03, 2020, 07:34:38 pm
Hedge Accentor is another name for the dunnock.  Lot of them at the feeding station just inside Bodnant Garden, but I prefer to try and get pics of them perched in the branches or on the ground rather than on the feeder, so not had a really good one yet!

My camera is a Panasonic Lumix with 60 x zoom, DC FZ-82 model.  I was using burst (8 shots a second) as it didn't matter if I wavered a bit as I could pick the frame to keep, but now using straight-forward single shots which seem to give better quality, although not quite as much zoom.  Well pleased with the camera and no need to have a long inter-changeable lens to carry around.

There are some birds seen fairly often that still elude me - tree creeper and goldcrest being two of them - I'll keep trying!

In the meantime, here's a dipper - surprisingly colourful and amazing to watch as they walk under water to catch bugs.

I look forward to seeing your efforts, SteveH.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on March 05, 2020, 05:29:57 pm
These Goats were just enjoying the sunshine on the beach by Llys Helyg Drive and feeding on the grass below the gardens of the houses there.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on March 15, 2020, 02:03:28 pm
Welsh Mountain Zoo keepers bid emotional farewell to seal pups as they are released back into the wild

SEAL pups took a minute to find their flippers as they were released back into the sea.

The grey seal pups were released back into the wild from the beach in Penrhyn Bay following a period of rehabilitation at Colwyn Bay's Welsh Mountain Zoo.

video and photos
https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/18306416.welsh-mountain-zoo-keepers-bid-emotional-farewell-seal-pups-released-back-wild/ (https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/18306416.welsh-mountain-zoo-keepers-bid-emotional-farewell-seal-pups-released-back-wild/)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Cordyline on March 17, 2020, 12:33:54 pm
BBC Link (https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/av/uk-wales-35978226/conwy-zoo-releases-rescued-seals-back-to-wild-on-beach) to Seal release
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on March 19, 2020, 09:15:41 pm
As Bodnant Garden is still open, and free to get in as the staff are not permitted to make contact with visitors, other than from a distance, I took advantage of a visit this afternoon although not permitted to carry out my usual tasks.

Our Canada Geese have come and gone a couple of times over the past few weeks but it looks as though they are settled as Mrs Goose was busy making the nest as comfortable as possible - I don't think broken twigs can be very comfortable!  Mr Goose was quietly reflecting on life and probably getting ready for the impending offspring - last couple of years they have had 5 although only 2 or 3 have survived.  There have been no reports of the mink being seen since last June so hopefully he won't return.

Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: spotty dog on March 19, 2020, 09:20:06 pm
Once the nest is built she will pluck her own Brest to line the nest
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: snowcap on March 19, 2020, 10:07:55 pm
ouch
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on March 23, 2020, 08:26:55 am
We were in the kitchen last night when the security light came on and we could see a big male Badger who had come in for the peanuts that I normally leave out for the Badgers.
He was looking around for the peanuts when a small cat came into the garden, the Badger walked slowly away but the cat followed him and suddenly the cat started running and the the Badger shot off with the cat close behind
The cat was only about a third the size of the Badger so it's a good job for the cat that the Badger did run off and not stand his ground
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on March 23, 2020, 01:59:01 pm
I noticed a few Butterflies in the garden today and managed to take a photo of a Peacock Butterfly that was feeding on a plant
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on April 01, 2020, 02:51:54 pm
The recent spell of warm sunny weather has created a lot of activity with the birds in our garden and we remembered that the Crows and Jackdaws are normally some of the first birds to start nesting
We had some of our dog Marco's combings left and put them out in the garden and it wasn't long before the Jackdaws came and helped themselves to the wool
We had mixed feeling when we saw the Jackdaws helping themselves, sadly because we no longer have Marco but happy to know that he is still providing warm nesting material for the birds that live in our area
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on April 01, 2020, 02:57:38 pm
Lovely photos, a nice reminder of the handsome lad.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on April 01, 2020, 09:25:36 pm
Was he the last OE Sheepdog, or is my memory deceiving me? If he was and you have lost him, I am so sorry. x
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on April 01, 2020, 10:44:31 pm
He was our fifth and probably our last Old English Sheepdog.   We lost him last July and the house seems so empty without the big fella.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on April 02, 2020, 08:55:44 am
He was our fifth and probably our last Old English Sheepdog.   We lost him last July and the house seems so empty without the big fella.


So sorry Hugo :'( :'( :'(
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on April 04, 2020, 08:10:50 am
Veteran Osprey returns to North Wales

https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/local-news/veteran-osprey-returns-north-wales-17968984 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/local-news/veteran-osprey-returns-north-wales-17968984)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on April 08, 2020, 01:36:11 pm
Have you bought your T Shirt yet Nemesis?

https://www.northwaleschronicle.co.uk/news/18366467.llandudno-wild-goats-make-way-onto-t-shirt-raise-vital-funds-st-davids-hospice/ (https://www.northwaleschronicle.co.uk/news/18366467.llandudno-wild-goats-make-way-onto-t-shirt-raise-vital-funds-st-davids-hospice/)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on April 08, 2020, 02:00:31 pm
Not on your life Hugo.!!

Regarding your article about dog groomings:- Our daughter has got a Caucasian Mountain Dog. She was grooming her and left grooming's outside and is now mobbed by Magpies. !
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on April 08, 2020, 06:39:22 pm
Tellytubby sent me some great photos of a Water Vole that he had taken.   
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on April 09, 2020, 10:28:11 am
Common Scoters from North Wales began their 2,500-mile migration last week, they will head on to Scandinavia and Russia, some as far as northern Siberia, to nest.

Up to 80,000 of these ducks live in Liverpool Bay, and thousands can be seen off Llanddulas and Colwyn Bay in winter, when the seas around Wales hold half the British population.

A  Great White Egret flew from Penrhyn Bay to RSPB Conwy and a Ring Ouzel was on the Great Orme.     ref DP


Reduced mowing of road verges could see wildflowers bloom
Oxeye daisies, harebells and other wildflowers could have their best summer for years if councils reduce roadside verge mowing, experts have said.

The UK’s more than 310,000 miles of rural road verges have become a refuge for wildflowers squeezed out of the wider countryside, but often fall victim to frequent mowing which does not let them bloom and set seed.

However, some councils are now reducing the mowing of roadside verges in line with advice from wildlife experts at Plantlife, providing a boost not just for wildflowers but for a wide array of insects, birds and mammals they support.

cont ...  https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/18369058.reduced-mowing-road-verges-see-wildflowers-bloom/ (https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/18369058.reduced-mowing-road-verges-see-wildflowers-bloom/)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on April 10, 2020, 09:59:53 am
Dolphins leap from the sea in spectacular footage shot from the Great Orme
Jonni Price from RSPB Conwy captured a pod of 11 enjoying their freedom just as the UK went into coronavirus lockdown

Video    https://www.dailypost.co.uk/whats-on/trips-breaks/dolphins-leap-sea-spectacular-footage-18022891 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/whats-on/trips-breaks/dolphins-leap-sea-spectacular-footage-18022891)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: mull on April 10, 2020, 11:29:52 am
There is a downside to not cutting roadside verges.

Sightlines on corners reduced and how often these days are road signs ( safety warnings and directions ) hidden by failure to cut back on trees and bushes.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on April 10, 2020, 02:43:42 pm
There is a downside to not cutting roadside verges.

Sightlines on corners reduced and how often these days are road signs ( safety warnings and directions ) hidden by failure to cut back on trees and bushes.

The traffic barriers at bog island make the visibility nil.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Ian on April 10, 2020, 03:02:08 pm
And roundabouts are often created with bushes on them precisely to obscure visibility and thus slow traffic down.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on April 10, 2020, 04:29:11 pm
Send in the goats !!!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: mull on April 10, 2020, 05:45:50 pm
Trouble is the idiots don't slow down and cause accidents.
If the bushes were not there you could see them coming at speed, and act accordingly.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Ian on April 10, 2020, 06:35:28 pm
But the idiots are gong to cause problems regardless.  I think I would argue the other way: a good driver has a responsibility to allow for the idiots.  If bushes obscure their vision, they should slow down and ensure there's no idiot approaching before pulling out. It's not that different from pulling out of a side street, really.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on April 11, 2020, 11:40:47 am
I seem to remember a year or two back we were inundated with large, striped, flying insects. They have a very loud buzz. Can anyone remind me what they are please? I don't want to start squirting them with anything in case they are a type of bee. Never the less, I don't fancy being stung !
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on April 11, 2020, 12:47:56 pm
Could they have been these ...
https://ask.extension.org/questions/470451
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on April 11, 2020, 01:42:52 pm
Don't think so, they look smaller than the ones we have. They are as big as a Bumblebee, but thinner. Wondered if they are Horse Flies??
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on April 11, 2020, 02:05:10 pm
Don't think so, they look smaller than the ones we have. They are as big as a Bumblebee, but thinner. Wondered if they are Horse Flies??

Hornets?  nasty things
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on April 11, 2020, 02:10:15 pm
Could it be the Asian Giant Hornet?      The Asians seem to be chucking everything our way nowadays

Or perhaps it could be a Tiger Wasp, horrible big things.    One landed on the back of a guy when I was up in the mountains and no one was very quick to flick it off him
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on April 11, 2020, 03:22:57 pm
Goodness knows, they look like a Hornet and have a very loud buzz!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on April 11, 2020, 03:29:35 pm
Tellytubby sent me some more photos
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on April 26, 2020, 08:23:12 am
Last night we were watching a late night film when the Badger came in to the garden and set the security lights off.    I just had time to take a couple of photos before he shot of next door.
Another one appeared but shot off before I could take a photo

That cast iron Frog is in two halves and I put the food in it for the Badger and he takes the top off it to collect the food and that way we know that he has been in the garden.      The Squirrel does that trick also so we tend to put the food inside the Frog later in the day but now the Seagulls have worked it out too so we put the food in when it's dark so that the Badger can have it
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on April 28, 2020, 10:27:29 am
Those of us who live near the coast are used to Herring Gulls calling over the rooftops, but the presence of an Osprey, the fish-catching raptor that winters in west Africa, prompts a special kind of agitation.

Last Wednesday, the gulls went up noisily and I rushed outside to watch an Osprey flap lazily over the garden.
It, or another, has drifted around Llandudno for several days. One was over Rhyl too.

These may be sub-adults that will spend the summer looking for likely places to nest and feed in future years.
Several have visited the nesting platforms of North Wales’ breeding Ospreys this week, but were quickly chased off by territorial adults.

Lockdown sightings from gardens and local walks include Dotterel on the Great Orme, Richard’s Pipit on the Little Orme, Garganey at Cemlyn Bay and Great White Egret over Llandudno Junction.

The pair on the Dyfi estuary, where a new male has replaced “ Monty” after nine seasons, are also on three eggs and are just a few days behind the Glaslyn birds.                  https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/local-news/birds-ospreys-eggs-glaslyn-dyfi-18160344 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/local-news/birds-ospreys-eggs-glaslyn-dyfi-18160344)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on April 30, 2020, 06:22:38 pm
Update on above........ Found both sites available on live stream..enjoy.

Glaslyn Ospreys.     LIVE STREAM WEB CAM
Our ospreys are Mrs G and Aran - Mrs G is the oldest breeding female in Wales and has been breeding here since 2004. She has successfully raised 38 chicks to date and we know she has at least 85 grand-chicks. Her first mate was Ochre 11 (1998) and together they raised 26 chicks. He failed to return in 2015 which is when she attracted her current mate Aran. They have raised 12 chicks together.
The nest is located in the stunning Glaslyn Valley, near Porthmadog in North Wales.   

More info and live cam... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FvJUZl9Nck4 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FvJUZl9Nck4)



Dyfi Ospreys          LIVE STREAM WEB CAM
Cors Dyfi Nature Reserve
The Dyfi Osprey Project is a wild osprey nest. Please know that there are scenarios that some viewers may find difficult to watch. Interactions with other wildlife, sibling rivalry and weather can impact the eggs and/or ospreys. While we hope for a successful season, remember, anything could happen. This is not Disney World.

More info and live cam     https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wH7wpvs7OG4 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wH7wpvs7OG4)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on May 02, 2020, 03:59:11 pm
Snowdonia's secretive wild goats take advantage of lockdown to visit deserted tourist hotspot
The animals have come down from the hills and have been spotted wandering around Llanberis.

On a glorious spring day with sunny skies and warm sunshine Snowdonia would expect to host thousands of visitors eager to enjoy some fresh air and spectacular views.

But the coronavirus pandemic has forced people to stay at home and the towns, villages and mountainsides are quiet and empty of people.
This unusual situation has led to some curious sights such as some normally shy and secretive feral goats wandering freely around Llyn Padarn, Llanberis.

Photographer Eleri Roberts sent these images to North Wales Live after spotting a group of them in Padarn Country Park.

https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/snowdonias-secretive-wild-goats-take-18189318 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/snowdonias-secretive-wild-goats-take-18189318)

I wonder if their cousins would like to visit them...........
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on May 02, 2020, 06:48:23 pm
Go halves to give them the bus fare?????
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on May 03, 2020, 10:46:50 am
In the garden yesterday, I noticed brightly coloured birds in the tall trees, but could not identify them, I saw them a few times in the day, however during dinner, they landed on our patio, right outside the window, another first for this garden, and quite some time since I last saw one.

The European goldfinch or simply the goldfinch (Carduelis carduelis), is a small passerine bird in the finch family that is native to Europe, North Africa and western and central Asia. It has been introduced to other areas, including Australia, New Zealand and Uruguay.

The breeding male has a red face and a black-and-white head. The back and flanks are buff or chestnut brown. The black wings have a broad yellow bar. The tail is black and the rump is white. Males and females are very similar, but females have a slightly smaller red area on the face.

Sorry stock photo, Still waiting for my game camera to arrive :roll:
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on May 03, 2020, 11:38:49 am
We are lucky to have some Goldfinches in the garden and hopefully they are now nesting nearby.      After a tip from Bellringer we started using Niger seeds and in no time at all we noticed the Finches feeding and they seem to love the seeds, so much so that we order a 12,5 kg bag each time.
I seem to remember another forum member The Metz posting photos of them on a nest in his garden, he was so lucky to see that.


On a different note we must have all heard about the Goats in Llandudno and the Deer somewhere else and they have entered urban areas looking for food during this lockdown.
 I've noticed that the Seagulls have started to come inland for their food,  now that they are not being fed chips on the Promenade.
They have come to our back lawn and eaten food that we have left out for the small birds and the Badgers and then left their calling card on our sunlounge windows.      The other day I saw one picking up grass and moss and realised that he was picking up nesting material so I hope that they are not going to nest on our roof as they are even more aggressive when they have got chicks.
My friend was attacked by a Seagull and was left with a nasty head wound after he ran past a house that had Seagulls nesting on the roof,  after that he was too scared to run past the house so he altered the route of his regular run
 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on May 03, 2020, 12:28:47 pm
We surround our ground feeding area, with large plant pots overnight, with a couple of small access points for the smaller birds, the trouble with gulls they do not give up, and seem to remember where they have found food, do your best to knock this habit quickly, as for mess, the houses by me, all have a side garage, which leaves a gap between the houses, which the gulls choose to fly through,  unfortunately, that is in the same line we park our cars on, we clean the car most days, and I think the record was washing 5 times in one day.  &shake&

I read this morning, that in the Newcastle area, gulls are attacking feral pigeons..

Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on May 13, 2020, 11:04:58 am
Largest flock of colourful Bee-eaters ever seen in North Wales
Bird Notes columnist Julian Hughes of RSPB Cymru reveals what's been spotted in the past week.

The major bird spectacles occurred on Saturday, starting with eight Dotterels on the Great Orme; it’s a regular stopover site for these colourful plovers en route to the Scottish Highlands or Norway.
Even so, eight together is a bit special.

https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/local-news/bird-race-wales-rspb-bee-18236050 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/local-news/bird-race-wales-rspb-bee-18236050)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on May 19, 2020, 10:53:03 am
What you should do if you come across a baby chick
Bird Notes columnist Julian Hughes of RSPB Cymru reveals what's been spotted in the past week.

Rarity of the week was an Alpine Swift over Llandudno’s rooftops on Monday.   (I did spot a few Swallow type birds last week over West Shore /)

With a bright white throat and belly, they are larger than the Common Swifts that should be returning to nests in local roofspaces around now.
Only a dozen Alpine Swifts have occurred in North Wales, but this was the second in the vicinity after one over the Little Orme in 2015.

https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/local-news/what-you-should-you-come-18273193 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/local-news/what-you-should-you-come-18273193)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on May 20, 2020, 09:25:30 am
I remember reading on the forum a long time ago that someone had spotted an Orca when they had a walk around the Great Orme, it must have been a fantastic sight


https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/two-killer-whales-seen-north-18277400 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/two-killer-whales-seen-north-18277400)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on May 23, 2020, 02:40:16 pm
Our Blackbird relationship has continued this year, you may remember a young female (below), who became very friendly, she and others,
continued to feed over the winter, later we suspected she had a mate, as they fed together without the normal squabbling, they have been quiet for the last few days with the wind, so I was surprised when I took out some bits after lunch to the feeding area, and they immediately flew down to feed, Mrs H noticed that the male was feeding the female, then it clicked, it was a new female? chick, with the male, we watched for about 10 mins. before they flew off, this little ground feeding area, keeps on giving.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on May 23, 2020, 04:09:04 pm
They are lovely friendly birds and their song is so nice to hear.     Have you got a birdbath in your garden Steve?      Seeing a Blackbird having a bath is so comical, they really enjoy it and splash water everywhere
We have a couple of birdbaths in our garden but we also put Marco's old drinking bowl in the garden for the birds to have a drink from it.     The other day though the Blackbird sat in it and started having a bath and the water was going all over the place.  It was so funny watching him trying to have a bath in the small bowl
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on May 23, 2020, 04:34:27 pm
I put a stone in the middle of my bird bath as the edges seemed rather slippery for the smaller birds to drink from. The blackbird are really amusing, as they squeeze between the edge and the stone to bathe. The pair of collared doves come daily and seem to be losing their fear of the pigeons, but always move when the magpie comes along.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on May 23, 2020, 05:59:43 pm
We have a very small water dish in the feeding area, occasionally we have seen the Blackbirds bathing, however this years new visitors are a pair of Dunnocks, who have a nest close by, they have no fear of other birds, they get their share, also they bathe all through the day, even if we are a few feet away, I noticed the speed that their wings and tails feathers move is almost a blur, anyway we have to keep topping up this bowl, so when we can a new bird bath is on the list. 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on June 07, 2020, 10:41:27 am
About three weeks ago, we noticed a Blackbird that looked like it had been dragged through the proverbial hedge, we thought it had been attacked by something ? since then it has visited a few times, but is still in the same condition, and we are pretty sure it's not molting, and appears to be permanent, also we believe it is one of this years young birds, photo is nearest I could find, anybody come across this before.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on June 07, 2020, 11:52:54 am
We have a few blackbirds visiting and one of the males is scruffy, although not as scruffy as yours!  No hairdressers working these days so that could be why!!!  He does seem quite healthy.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on June 07, 2020, 02:58:10 pm
We have a few blackbirds visiting and one of the males is scruffy, although not as scruffy as yours!  No hairdressers working these days so that could be why!!!  He does seem quite healthy.

I don't think a hairdresser would help, his feathers seem to be at odd angles, rather than lying flat on his body, but, he is definitely fit, flying and eating well. 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blongb on June 07, 2020, 03:46:51 pm
Blackbirds are very resilient, we had one with a broken wing, that visited us on a regular basis. It got about, hopping around and would use nextdoors fire escape to get up to the roof.  {}{}
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on June 09, 2020, 03:14:23 pm
There was a photo of a young albino Blackbird in the Daily Mirror this week and it looked a strange sight
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on June 09, 2020, 03:20:01 pm
I met these lovely looking Goats on the Great Orme today and they may be heading down to town soon!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on June 09, 2020, 08:24:58 pm
They might look lovely......but.......!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on June 10, 2020, 01:45:46 am
They might look lovely......but.......!

Correct Nem, our garden has been completely destroyed by the buggers this year.
Some of the shrubs we have had for years don’t look like they will ever recover, and might need to be dug up and disposed of.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on June 10, 2020, 07:45:04 am
I saw the Goats in Maes Y Facrell Nature Reserve by the Copper Mines and before I went in I looked at the notice and it mentioned all the flowers that you can see in the Reserve and what time of the year you can see them
I'm afraid that the voracious appetites of those Goats will change all that this year
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on June 10, 2020, 08:43:37 am
Not to mention the new  kid  on the block, (St David's mascot) looks like trouble............

Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on June 10, 2020, 09:59:39 am
They might look lovely......but.......!

Correct Nem, our garden has been completely destroyed by the buggers this year.
Some of the shrubs we have had for years don’t look like they will ever recover, and might need to be dug up and disposed of.

Same here Fester, our rose bushes lost the leaves during the first raid. They started to sprout, then we had a second raid and they ate the lot again. Some of our shrubs are past redemption, the Euonymous in particular. They also seem to have a taste for Bear's Breeches which are horribly spiny and unopened Poppy heads. Beats me how they get in as we have walls, railings and a gate which is fastened at night.
People who haven't suffered their ministrations haven't a clue, they just think they are sweet. $angry$


Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blongb on June 10, 2020, 04:20:26 pm
It might be time to think about a joint action against CCBC for the damage they cause, by them not living up to their obligation to adequate look after the Goats in winter when the forage is in short supply. If their excuse is they are feral then, opening a goat curry house is a long overdue solution.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on June 10, 2020, 06:22:26 pm
What about Goatskin rugs too.     We had one in our lounge years ago and our dog would never ever walk across the rug, he always walked around it.
I don't know if that was out of respect for the Goat or more likely the smell of it put him off
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on June 10, 2020, 06:33:43 pm
It might be time to think about a joint action against CCBC for the damage they cause, by them not living up to their obligation to adequate look after the Goats in winter when the forage is in short supply. If their excuse is they are feral then, opening a goat curry house is a long overdue solution.

They say they are feral, we tried to argue with CCBC after our walls were badly damaged, no go, they have every excuse in the book. You'd certainly have half the populous on your back if you started making curry or rugs! We also had a rug years ago and it smelled vile !...Especially if the dog sat on it when she had been out in the rain.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on June 12, 2020, 02:49:31 pm
An operation is under way to save a whale beached on Deeside.

The huge marine mammal, which is the second largest animal after the blue whale, was discovered this morning.

Marine life experts are on the scene in the hope of saving the animal.

They believe it is young and may still be dependent on its mother.

People have been asked to bear in mind Covid-19 travel restrictions and not to come to the area.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on June 12, 2020, 04:56:13 pm
Here's an update on the Whale

https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/whale-freed-after-getting-stranded-18410220 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/whale-freed-after-getting-stranded-18410220)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on June 13, 2020, 10:54:53 am
Here's an update on the Whale
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/whale-freed-after-getting-stranded-18410220 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/whale-freed-after-getting-stranded-18410220)

Thanks for the update H, Fingers crossed.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on June 13, 2020, 03:20:14 pm
14:41  ref DP
Operation continues
The rescue bid is continuing at the moment and we have not yet had a further update from those involved.

The tide is now rising so if there is an opportunity to re float the whale, it is likely to happen soon.

Rescuers are not holding a huge amount of hope for the fate of the whale, however.


BBC  News report  https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-53034506 (https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-53034506)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on June 14, 2020, 01:11:35 pm
Sad News................
12:40  DP
Recap: Rescuers devastated after stranded Dee Estuary whale dies
A fin whale, trapped in the Dee Estuary for three days, has died.

Fishermen and coastguard confirmed the heartbreaking news this morning.
The 40ft mammal had been swimming zig zagging in shallow waters last night after spending much of the day beached.

But despite being back in the water, much of the damage had already been done after it spent several hours on the bank of the Estuary on Saturday.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on June 23, 2020, 11:24:13 am
Visitors to Llandudno have enjoyed great views of Peregrines recently, as three fledged chicks learn to hunt around the Great Orme seacliffs.

The male is colour-ringed, enabling it to be traced to a nest near Bolton, Lancashire, in 2013.
The British Trust for Ornithology’s ringing website shows how far Peregrines will travel between hatching and nesting.
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/local-news/angleseys-missing-tern-colony-linked-18469838 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/local-news/angleseys-missing-tern-colony-linked-18469838)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on June 24, 2020, 04:39:52 pm
Sneaky goats yesterday, we were working on the right of the garden, they were on the left, munching away, only when some passing children started pointing through the gate, we became aware of the little darlings, later in the evening I had to chase some gulls, from the  small bird feeder........................And to add insult etc.this morning   
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on June 24, 2020, 08:22:26 pm
That is just a sign of appreciation for the good food that you provided for them    ;D
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on June 25, 2020, 08:56:41 am
oh lovely !
There must still be a fair few goats still around as they had left deposits all over yesterday morning.
The local Jackdaws are very noisy and quarrelsome at the moment. They are very amusing when the pears on the vicar's tree begin to ripen and they get bladdered on the fruit. $donald$
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on June 25, 2020, 10:24:28 am
oh lovely !
There must still be a fair few goats still around as they had left deposits all over yesterday morning.
The local Jackdaws are very noisy and quarrelsome at the moment. They are very amusing when the pears on the vicar's tree begin to ripen and they get bladdered on the fruit.

Nem, I don't think this town group will go back up, still seeing a lot of them in the convent grounds, funny you mentioning bladdered Jackdaws, a neighbour suggested that the mess on the car, was caused by them, and not the gulls ? 

Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on June 25, 2020, 11:13:37 am
Don't say that Steve, next door have done some wall repairs but they can still hop up in no time, one layer at a time.
As for Jackdaws they are very greedy and empty the hanging feeder before the smaller birds can get near. Since we had a white car we get less ' decorating'. The last one was a deep purple and was constantly being targeted. My OH was for ever out with his bucket, as years ago we had one which had the roof ruined with the acid in the bird lime.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on June 28, 2020, 01:49:06 pm
On Thursday I noticed dozens of Butterflies in the garden.   They were all the small white variety, no other 'variety of Butterfly  was there the whole afternoon
I was not able to take any photos as they seemed very frisky and did not settle on the flowers
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on June 28, 2020, 04:22:47 pm
During the hot few days we had I saw a few of the white ones in my garden, also some red admirals - but they don't stay still long enough to be photographed!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on June 28, 2020, 06:40:56 pm
Back to the goats. There were a number of them n the garden of The Royal this afternoon. Two pairs were knocking 7 bells out of each other, their horns making a very loud 'clacking' noise. Can't imagine that we are going to be rid of them in the near future.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on June 30, 2020, 09:33:38 am
Back to the goats. There were a number of them n the garden of The Royal this afternoon. Two pairs were knocking 7 bells out of each other, their horns making a very loud 'clacking' noise. Can't imagine that we are going to be rid of them in the near future.

The "Town Herd", need to be relocated further afield, with the lockdown and the town being empty, they made it their home, the authorities need to realise that for their own good they should be moved, it would be cruel not to, these are wild animals. 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on July 02, 2020, 05:52:59 pm
During the last two weeks of this lockdown a large Seagull seems to have adopted us.    He comes here quite a few times during the day and just sits on the decking and stares at us.
This morning he walked through the open door of our sunlounge and I had to chase him out.  This afternoon the doors were closed so he was banging on the window using his large bill
However he has bottled his copybook when he left a large deposit on our glass roof so I am sending him back to Steve
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on July 03, 2020, 07:06:08 pm
This one's for Nem..........As long as it is the town herd .

The only two goats left in Avon Gorge will have to wait for new companions because of the coronavirus pandemic.
Bristol City Council was planning to restock the herd in “goat gully” but those plans have been delayed by Covid-19.

Six wild Kashmiri goats were introduced into the steep section of the gorge by Seawalls in 2011 to control scrub growth and restore rare wildflowers and grasses.

But the number has dwindled to two since then as the goats either succumbed to old age or fell to their deaths.

Two goats died of old age last year and two were chased off the cliffs by dogs in separate incidents in 2017.

The council’s grounds supervisor, Ben Skuse, said plans to travel to the Great Orme in Wales to get four more goats had been delayed by the pandemic.

In a report to the Downs Committee on June 29, he said: “In terms of the goats, there was a plan to travel to the Great Orme in June to get four more animals to restock our herd to six animals.
“Due to Covid this plan has been delayed.”

Mr Skuse said he would update the committee with future plans at a later date.

Cont  https://www.bristolpost.co.uk/news/bristol-news/plan-restock-herd-goat-gully-4290001 (https://www.bristolpost.co.uk/news/bristol-news/plan-restock-herd-goat-gully-4290001)

Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on July 06, 2020, 05:43:48 pm
I think that I must have had too much time on my hands during lockdown.        We feed a Badger most nights by leaving food inside a cast iron frog that has a detachable top  so in the morning if the top is off we know that the Badger has been and had his food during the night.   A Squirrel cottoned on to what we were doing so he raided the Frog before the Badger got there.
Since Lockdown though we have noticed that a Seagull has started to do it so the only way around it now is to put the food in the Frog after dark
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on July 06, 2020, 10:55:31 pm
Absolutely superb photos there Hugo.
It always amazes me how quickly the various animals overcome obstacles, and learn, when food is at stake.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on July 08, 2020, 10:21:45 am
Despite living so close to the sea, I was surprised the other day when a pair of Terns, flew an aerobatic display over the garden, a very noisy and spectacular show, and very enjoyable, I am assuming they were Sandwich Terns ?      stock photo
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on August 07, 2020, 10:01:35 am
The incredible moment rare 5ft turtle swims beside boat off North Wales
The leatherback turtle was described as being the size of a 'dining table' after being spotted off Conwy

The massive leatherback turtle was spotted by Paul Waterworth and his 10-year-old son Oliver while they were out on a fishing trip off the coast of Rhos-on-Sea on Thursday.

They had been taken out for a day of angling by Jack Thomas from Incentive Sea Fishing Trips when they spotted the incredible animal swimming through the water.

The species, which are the largest turtles in the world and can live to 100, are a rare sight off the coast of the UK.

A video captured by Mr Waterworth showed the turtle swimming beside the boat around six miles off the North Wales coast, before diving deep into the water and out of sight.

cont / video    https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/incredible-moment-rare-5ft-turtle-18730718 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/incredible-moment-rare-5ft-turtle-18730718)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on August 10, 2020, 03:02:01 pm
I have Just seen a large bee like insect, hovering over some flowers, I stress the word hovering, it was not a wasp or a hover fly, and fairly sure it was not a hornet, the wings looked like a small moth, two tone wings, brownish at the tips, distinct antenna, it was not buzzing, I found nothing during a Webb search, I can best describe it as having the actions of a hummingbird... anyone recognise anything ?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hammy on August 10, 2020, 06:55:42 pm
Maybe Hummingbee Hawkmoth. Saw one earlier this year.
https://www.rspb.org.uk/birds-and-wildlife/wildlife-guides/birdwatching/how-to-identify-birds/hummingbirds-and-hawkmoths/ (https://www.rspb.org.uk/birds-and-wildlife/wildlife-guides/birdwatching/how-to-identify-birds/hummingbirds-and-hawkmoths/)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blongb on August 10, 2020, 09:08:15 pm
I have Just seen a large bee like insect, hovering over some flowers, I stress the word hovering, it was not a wasp or a hover fly, and fairly sure it was not a hornet, the wings looked like a small moth, two tone wings, brownish at the tips, distinct antenna, it was not buzzing, I found nothing during a Webb search, I can best describe it as having the actions of a hummingbird... anyone recognise anything ?
   

Steve try looking up the hummingbird moth, we get quite a few at this time of the year.  $good$
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on August 11, 2020, 10:12:00 am
Thank you both, That's the one, the links description is spot on, and that is another first for me, this garden is quite educational, thanks again.

This stock photo shows the angle I saw it at........

Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on August 22, 2020, 04:56:52 pm
The mysterious shark which found a safe haven in Wales - and has now been named our national sea creature


https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/mysterious-shark-found-safe-haven-18807846 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/mysterious-shark-found-safe-haven-18807846)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on August 25, 2020, 04:08:31 pm
Fears Channel 4 TV show filming may have 'frightened' ospreys from North Wales nest


https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/local-news/fears-channel-4-tv-show-18824955 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/local-news/fears-channel-4-tv-show-18824955)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on August 28, 2020, 06:30:26 pm
Ever since we lost our dog, cats seem to be coming to our back garden more and more.     One is a Siamese cat and is a real predator, he goes after all the birds in the garden and size doesn't matter to him as he goes after the Seagulls too.
I've even seen him running after the Badger and chasing the Badger away
This week we have seen him chasing the Squirrel and he chased it all around the garden and in the end the Squirrel leapt up to the top of a tall tree for safety but then so did the cat and it was only when I ran out into the garden that the cat ran away.
I came back into our house but we were not sure if the Squirrel had been injured or not but after a few minutes and when it was safe to do so the Squirrel jumped down and ran quickly in the opposite direction to where the cat had gone.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on August 28, 2020, 06:38:31 pm
Hi Mull,  I can see that you've just logged in.      I hope that you and Lorna are both keeping safe and well and riding out the storms we seem to keep having
I watched a short programme on TV this week and it was about the wildlife on Mull and some surrounding islands and it was really interesting.    It looks beautiful there ( well on a good day! ) and the photographer filmed an Albino Fallow Deer that he came across, as well as a lot of other wildlife.   I can see what you mean about the roads there, they are ok providing the tourists are not about.   Something like here in North Wales        ;D
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Robbie G on August 28, 2020, 06:59:03 pm
We also have a cat visiting our garden and he is a squirrel hunter too I have not seen him catch one yet but he will give him time our daughter`s cat catches them on a regular basis but they don't seem to get any less 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: mull on August 29, 2020, 10:53:25 am
Hi Hugo.
All well up here on Mull.
You have my sympathy about the cats. The lady next door is a member of the Cats Protection League and takes in feral cats that are found on the island before moving them on. The things keep hanging around stalking the birds but worse of all We use old fish boxes to grow veg and strawberries etc and they keep using the boxes to have a crap. Usually I just cover the strawberries to keep the birds off but now have to cover everything. Fun  opening the door and shouting "cats" to Fly and watching them clear a 6 foot fence with her close behind.
In a way we enjoyed the lockdown having the island for ourselves, nice and quiet. Since 17 July they opened the place to visitors and standard of behavior has gone downhill since. It does not feel safe anymore, the virus has not gone away.
As for the single track roads many visitors have not got a clue how to drive on them. Came off the ferry yesterday and was behind one for nearly  15 miles doing less than 40 MPH  before I managed to get past them. It is against the law not to allow overtaking. The people were more interested in the wildlife and scenery than the road. I stopped too remind them that the car behind could be a member of the emergency services or doctor, on a call out, but all I got back from them was abuse. No telling some people.

Rant over!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on September 05, 2020, 10:42:07 am
Seen recently near West Shore............
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on September 07, 2020, 04:19:00 pm
'Alien' like sea creatures found on North Wales beach - and they could be worth thousands
Gooseneck barnacles, which are an expensive delicacy in Spain and Portugal, were found washed up on a Gwynedd beach.

Creepy looking sea creatures found on a beach in North Wales this weekend could be worth thousands of pounds.

Gooseneck barnacles were found attached to a piece of driftwood found washed up on a beach, near Caernarfon over the weekend.

They  are considered a delicacy in Portugal and Spain, where they're known as percebes and can be sold for "as much as £25 a go".

cont  https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/alien-like-sea-creatures-found-18889645 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/alien-like-sea-creatures-found-18889645)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on September 11, 2020, 09:57:22 am
That Siamese cat that comes to our garden to attack anything that moves whether its birds, Badgers or Squirrels is still on the loose. 
In fact when I was clearing a compost spot it was there about two foot away and starring at me and only moved when I yelled at it.   One thing I had time to notice was that the owner of the cat had responsibly put a bell on its collar so at least the birds have some chance.
However if I do manage to catch it I'll send it by first class post to Mull
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: mull on September 11, 2020, 12:35:37 pm
Fly would love the challenge ! $hands$
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blongb on September 11, 2020, 12:49:40 pm
That Siamese cat that comes to our garden to attack anything that moves whether its birds, Badgers or Squirrels is still on the loose. 
In fact when I was clearing a compost spot it was there about two foot away and starring at me and only moved when I yelled at it.   One thing I had time to notice was that the owner of the cat had responsibly put a bell on its collar so at least the birds have some chance.
However if I do manage to catch it I'll send it by first class post to Mull

A few years ago I had a friend up in Aberdeen who also had a big problem with a neighbors cat. He finally solved the problem by making lots of ice cubes and  buying a Catapult.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on September 20, 2020, 04:46:55 pm
I have been trying to identify a bird that has been around all afternoon, always in the hedge between us and next door, no sight of it, but an unusual sound, one I have not heard before, later looking around the front garden, I heard it again in the neighbours , after creeping closer and peering into their garden, I found the answer..........their dog had a new toy   :-[     :laugh:   :laugh:
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on September 20, 2020, 05:41:51 pm
An easy mistake to make Steve             &shake&

Here are the real things     


https://www.rspb.org.uk/birds-and-wildlife/bird-songs/what-bird-is-that/ (https://www.rspb.org.uk/birds-and-wildlife/bird-songs/what-bird-is-that/)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on September 21, 2020, 09:53:42 am
Thanks for that Hugo. I have sent the link to my Great Granddaughters, they enjoy feeding the birds, so they will now be able to i.d. them by their song.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on September 23, 2020, 04:33:26 pm
It was quite rough in Angel Bay this afternoon and I could only see one Seal pup on the beach although there were a few out in the sea
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Helig on September 24, 2020, 11:27:51 am
This is interesting but not local to the Llandudno area. I thought I would post it as they might fly over there, you might catch one over the Great Orme.

https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2020/09/22/proposed-golden-eagle-reintroduction-in-wales-another-public-meeting-more-controversy/

Helig
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blongb on September 24, 2020, 02:14:51 pm
This is interesting but not local to the Llandudno area. I thought I would post it as they might fly over there, you might catch one over the Great Orme.

https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2020/09/22/proposed-golden-eagle-reintroduction-in-wales-another-public-meeting-more-controversy/

Helig

The only people who will benefit from the reintroduction will be the shotgun cartridge salesmen. No sheep farmer will tolerate them any where near their lambs.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Ian on September 24, 2020, 02:26:50 pm
Ignorance is a real problem. National Geographic says of the US Golden Eagle it eats "rabbits, marmots, and ground squirrels. They also eat carrion, reptiles, birds, fish, and smaller fare such as large insects." Studies of farmland surrounding Yellowstone have revealed they have a minimal impact on farming and animal husbandry.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on September 24, 2020, 03:26:40 pm
Although one of my favorites, I can sympathise with the farmers point of view, especially as it will be the hard pressed hill farmer who this will affect, however releasing these birds is not straight forward, I read about the Scottish release last year................

Setback for southern Scotland project as female eagle attacks newly released birds.

Conservationists fear two golden eagles that were recently released in southern Scotland have been killed by a female of the species introduced into the area last year.

The South Scotland Golden Eagle Project said the behaviour of the female raptor, named Beaky, is very unusual.

A third young male eagle is being kept securely in an aviary in the area after the incident, in which one bird was killed and another has gone missing. The three males were satellite tagged.

full story  https://www.grough.co.uk/magazine/2019/08/09/setback-for-southern-scotland-project-as-female-eagle-attacks-newly-released-birds# (https://www.grough.co.uk/magazine/2019/08/09/setback-for-southern-scotland-project-as-female-eagle-attacks-newly-released-birds#)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on September 28, 2020, 09:58:53 pm
Tellytubby sent me this nice photo of a Seal that he took recently in Angel Bay
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on October 09, 2020, 10:28:44 am
After a long absence a Greater Spotted Woodpecker has returned to the garden and has been feasting on the peanut holder.     The female Woodpecker stays on the peanut feeder for over 10 minutes at a time but I have been unable to take a photo of her because as soon as I move off she goes
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on October 09, 2020, 10:41:15 pm
We left a lot of food out for the Badger tonight and were lucky to see him in the garden just after 9.00 pm
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Helig on October 14, 2020, 03:28:15 pm
More on the reintroduction of eagles:

https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2020/10/13/proposed-golden-eagle-reintroduction-in-wales-the-saga-continues/

Helig
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on October 15, 2020, 04:31:13 pm
Saw this today ... any ideas what's happened here?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on October 15, 2020, 05:06:13 pm
DVT, reminds me of our scruffy Blackbird, earlier this year........a couple of interesting links to check out...............

Dishevelled Crows
SEPTEMBER 4, 2017 / THE URBAN NATURE ENTHUSIAST
https://urbannature.blog/2017/09/04/dishevelled-crows/

Plumage Problems In Wild And Captive Corvids
A grounded premature rook or crow with white, brittle or partly broken wing and tail feathers needs expert and longterm care to allow the damaged feathers to be replaced during their annual moult. Birds affected should not be released before their complete annual moult..
cont  https://corvid-isle.co.uk/plumage-problems-wild-captive-corvids
Title: Re: Local Wildlife, Reintroduction of eagles to North Wales.
Post by: Helig on November 07, 2020, 02:10:23 pm
This might interest some of you:

https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2020/11/07/eagle-reintroduction-wales-project-2-x-live-interviews-coming-up/

There is a facebook live interview, plus question and answer session on Sunday, 8th November 2020 at 17.30 and another on Tuesday, 10th November at 19.00.

Helig
Title: Re:Not so Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on December 13, 2020, 11:19:21 am
What do you think Hugo, would make a change from your Badgers  :o
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on December 13, 2020, 11:29:16 am
I couldn't bear that Steve,  I wouldn't want a Teddy Bears picnic in my back garden
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blongb on December 13, 2020, 06:37:13 pm
I couldn't bear that Steve,  I wouldn't want a Teddy Bears picnic in my back garden

Just you remember Black Bears matter.    {}{}
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on December 14, 2020, 11:23:03 am
A few more.....
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on January 04, 2021, 06:14:22 pm
Mysterious footprints spotted in the snow in Rhiwlas.     It wasn't that long ago that I read an article about farmers that had seen a large creature in the Beddgelert area and it had killed about a dozen sheep and it had even come back later to finish off the carcass,
A few years ago I was walking on the lower slopes of Siabod with a friend when we also noticed unusual animal footprints in the snow,  The snow was about a foot deep and nothing had walked on it other than this animal.   What we didn't do was to take photos of the footprints and we both regret that to this day.
DaveR and PenDragon both have taken photos of strange tracks above Penmaenmawr and posted them on here so who knows what is out there?

https://www.northwaleschronicle.co.uk/news/18984282.mysterious-footprints-spotted-snow-rhiwlas/ (https://www.northwaleschronicle.co.uk/news/18984282.mysterious-footprints-spotted-snow-rhiwlas/)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on January 05, 2021, 09:11:28 pm
Tellytubby sent me this link after seeing my previous post.     Could there be something in all these sightings?


https://mol.im/a/9114361
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on January 14, 2021, 06:47:01 pm
Another sighting, this time in Cheshire

https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/north-wales-big-cat-lockdown-19626768 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/north-wales-big-cat-lockdown-19626768)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on February 04, 2021, 03:14:04 pm
There seem to be regular sightings reported recently.     Perhaps there is something prowling about in the area


https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/big-cat-seen-close-welsh-19758453 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/big-cat-seen-close-welsh-19758453)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife...Welsh mountain Zoo
Post by: SteveH on February 11, 2021, 10:19:26 am
This is the beautiful moment three abandoned seal pups were released back into the sea off North Wales.

The adorable seals washed-up on the coast during lockdown after becoming separated from their mother.
The trio were found by RSPCA officers two months ago and were taken to the Welsh Mountain Zoo in Colwyn Bay to recover.

"Whilst the Zoo has remained closed, our keepers remain as busy as ever, providing care and support for these seals and our many other animals.”

During their surprise stay on land, the group were cared for by experts at the zoo despite the attraction facing some major financial and resource pressures due to the current lockdown restrictions.

All were aged under two months old when they arrived at the facility and were unable to feed themselves.

Initially underweight at around 13.5kg each, each left the zoo weighing between 41kg and 45kg.

To help get them reach that healthy weight, each of the seals were fed a diet which mainly consisted of fish soup by the RSPCA until weaned.

cont  https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/beautiful-moment-abandoned-lockdown-seal-19813252 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/beautiful-moment-abandoned-lockdown-seal-19813252)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on February 12, 2021, 07:02:10 am
Tellytubby was out cycling yesterday and was lucky enough to spot a Kingfisher and Song Thrush on his travels
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on February 14, 2021, 08:48:39 am
Oh dear! Mum was waiting for this little one !
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on February 20, 2021, 11:40:04 am
The Goats were getting nearer and nearer to Maesdu Golf Course but turned back and went home to the Abbey Road/  Church Walks area
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on February 20, 2021, 03:02:28 pm
After the baby being wedged in my gate I am hoping that it has gone somewhere safer. Your pictures show a large herd Hugo and by the volume of droppings they went past during the night. Hope they carry on going past!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on February 24, 2021, 04:56:33 pm
Big cat sightings must be probed by Welsh Government 'before someone is hurt or worse', Tory MS urges
Darren Millar has made a fresh call for action after a number of sightings in North Wales


https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/big-cat-sightings-must-probed-19903213 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/big-cat-sightings-must-probed-19903213)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on March 17, 2021, 06:42:04 am
Covid: Lack of contraception sees goats boom in Llandudno.      They have got to be kidding!

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-56423211 (https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-56423211)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on March 17, 2021, 09:49:17 am
Covid: Lack of contraception sees goats boom in Llandudno.      They have got to be kidding!

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-56423211 (https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-56423211)

I think I've read that article already, seems very familiar........... maybe the BBC check out the 3Tforum  &shake&
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on March 17, 2021, 03:08:54 pm
Can't say that I've read it before as it was less than an hour old when I posted it, but if Nemesis had had a couple of bricks when the Goats invaded her place she could have started the contraception process for this year!        ;D
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on March 17, 2021, 03:14:27 pm
Can't say that I've read it before as it was less than an hour old when I posted it, but if Nemesis had had a couple of bricks when the Goats invaded her place she could have started the contraception process for this year!        ;D
Sorry Hugo, what I meant was, that the BBC article was near enough what we commented on over the past few weeks, .......thought the bricks were for camels only ?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blongb on March 17, 2021, 06:57:31 pm
Sorry Hugo, what I meant was, that the BBC article was near enough what we commented on over the past few weeks, .......thought the bricks were for camels only ?

That can be a very very painful process Steve..... especially if you put your thumbs in the wrong place.   ))*
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on March 18, 2021, 08:36:17 am
Can't say that I've read it before as it was less than an hour old when I posted it, but if Nemesis had had a couple of bricks when the Goats invaded her place she could have started the contraception process for this year!        ;D

Now there's a thought! If you hear strange noises you'll know what is going on . :o
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on March 18, 2021, 02:53:03 pm
Llandudno's goats brought traffic on the A470 to a standstill as they ventured further around the town.

The famous goats - usually found around the Great Orme - have been spotted invading the Primark car park, queuing outside barbers and even checking into a hotel in recent months as they trip trap further afield during lockdown.

But their appearance on the dual carriageway has sparked concerns they could be hit by a car - or cause an accident as they wander across the town into completely new areas.

The stretch of road contains a 40mph speed limit, which changes to a 60mph limit only yards up the road.

It has prompted calls for someone to take action on herding them back up the Orme.    _))*(You might get them up, but not for long ! ! )

"What happens if a goat is hit by a car or a driver swerves to avoid a goat and hits a person."

Others are asking for temporary speed restrictions and signs to ensure the safety of the goats and to make an 'asset' of them to benefit the town.

cont  https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/llandudno-goats-bring-a470-traffic-20200048 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/llandudno-goats-bring-a470-traffic-20200048)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on March 19, 2021, 10:41:20 am
The goats found their way into our back garden last night about 7pm, they came through the gardens of the parallel road behind us, unfortunately, their ground level is higher than ours, so the smaller ones were trapped, we managed to get them out, and checking this morning, the usual mess and damage, we thought this area was safe, and had moved our better plants etc, a lot of the shrubs just coming into bud, stripped........and after making our front garden fence look like a prison, with unsightly wire mesh fencing, this is adding insult to injury.

PS I am now convinced that the town herd has split into two, we are hearing reports as above about them being on the A470, but we are still seeing them in the Westshore area at the same time.




Perhaps Kilnsey (conservation) Park would like some of ours ?

Renowned for its conservation work under the custodianship of the Roberts family, Kilnsey Park has been reconnecting people with nature for decades.

Only here can you see the rare lady’s slipper orchid, once a common sight throughout the Dales, whose delicate blooms now only flower in a handful of locations, including the Park’s nature reserve.

Kilnsey Park also manages one of the UK’s Red Squirrel Captive Breeding Programmes.
It is a scheme which works to ensure that the gene pool of the critically endangered UK red squirrels is as large as possible.

The invasion of the Welsh town by goats providing unlikely inspiration. to introduce some British primitive goats to the park....

https://www.cravenherald.co.uk/news/19149849.see-new-additions---including-native-goats---kilnsey-park-spring/?ref=rss&IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589 (https://www.cravenherald.co.uk/news/19149849.see-new-additions---including-native-goats---kilnsey-park-spring/?ref=rss&IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on March 19, 2021, 03:23:09 pm
So sorry Steve, I know just what you mean, :( we are still suffering from the last invasion. Things just don't re-grow before they are here again. Walls don't re-instate either, especially when they are as old as ours. The mortar is too friable and just crumbles beneath the weight ! We have decided not to buy anything decent at the moment--, a few polyanths to brighten the front steps and that's it.
Our local councillor spoke on TV about them, but as you say, there are more than one group/herd and far more than we are led to believe.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on March 19, 2021, 03:35:16 pm
Thanks Nem, As I said, we thought the back was safe, and trying to get the youngsters out was like herding cats, they did damage to our stone walls, scrabbling to get out, it took some time but, we managed to open the gates, and get them out past the car  :o 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on March 20, 2021, 09:57:13 am
This a letter sent to the Western Telegraph newspaper, it shows that there are places out there that show interest in re homing some of these goats, and once things get better, this should be investigated further.


"I see that the infamous Kashmiri goats of the Great Orme Country Park are causing problems in the manicured gardens of Llandudno.

If wardens want to cut down on numbers, I am prepared to re-home ten in my Cardigan Island Coastal Farm Park tourist attraction at Gwbert, as long as someone can transport them down to me.

Provided that the ten do not comprise any more than two males, and that they are all young and healthy, they'd be welcome here. They'd have a good home here! Plenty of grass!

I wonder if the West Wales Wildlife Trust would also consider re-homing another 20 or so, on the 40 acre ,very grassy, Cardigan Island, which is a Nature Reserve 300 metres off Cardigan Island Coastal Farm Park.

Cardigan Island is only presently occupied by seabirds. It used to have a flock of wild Soay sheep until some years ago. Kashmiri goats should thrive on its abundant rough grazing and cliffs.They would be better than sheep in keeping the long grass in check.

By the way, I believe that one of them became Shenkin IV, the proud mascot of the British Army's Royal Welsh Regiment.

So , since Shenkin or Siencyn is the Welsh for Jenkins, I feel pretty sure that his extended family would feel quite at home here amongst us Jenkinses....... Seriously!! Not kidding!!

LYN JENKINS,

Cardigan Island Coastal Farm Park,

Gwbert,  "                   


ref https://www.westerntelegraph.co.uk/news/19170752.letter-llandudnos-goats-live-cardigan-island/?ref=fbshr&fbclid=IwAR3ct8g9LhTCfyKj2Un0k1od7I7INCsiHMOm3GNMcLLXneh9GS0wjyIUSxw (https://www.westerntelegraph.co.uk/news/19170752.letter-llandudnos-goats-live-cardigan-island/?ref=fbshr&fbclid=IwAR3ct8g9LhTCfyKj2Un0k1od7I7INCsiHMOm3GNMcLLXneh9GS0wjyIUSxw)

Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on March 24, 2021, 10:16:21 am
Baby boom for Great Orme goats...............Spot the two important words below, representing "Wishful thinking"

ONCE again the Kashmiri goats who live on the Great Orme, have invaded Llandudno, this time in force because of a baby boom.

This year the goats and their new kids, many more than normal, have roamed further into the town because the lockdown has reduced both traffic and the number of people on the streets.

The world wide publicity of their wanderings has generated has helped raise the town’s profile internationally.

Cllr Greg Robbins, a Llandudno representative on Conwy County Borough Council said: “Obviously the goats in Llandudno have been a fantastic attraction during the lockdown and attracted worldwide attention. However, there is concern at the distance some of them are wandering. There is one more daring group which seems to be wandering further than others.

Another Llandudno cllr, Louise Emery, said: “I think the problem this time of the year the goats always come down from the Great Orme and tend to stay in the Abbey Road area and do damage in people’s gardens, but they usually go back to the Great Orme when spring comes.

“We are hopeful for the contraceptive vaccinations this summer and are very confident the goats will return to the Great Orme as the weather warms up and the spring grasses grow.”

https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19183066.baby-boom-great-orme-goats/ (https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19183066.baby-boom-great-orme-goats/)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on March 27, 2021, 10:02:42 am
I watched an episode of QI last night, and was surprised to hear them discussing Llandudno's goats, they do seem to get everywhere !
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on March 31, 2021, 10:16:03 am
Last night about ten, 20 goats bedded down in the middle of Abbey Rd. and for a change 4 sheep, (picking up bad habits) keeping the grass down at the Convent, someone told me the sheep had got into the Convent nursing home through the automatic doors.  :o
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on March 31, 2021, 01:33:18 pm
2nd story today

A TOTAL of 1,300 native oysters have been returned to waters in River Conwy.

On March 25, the Pioneer reported that about 4,000 mature oysters were being installed in six harbours across the North East of England, Wales and Scotland as part of the Wild Oyster Project.

The ambitious scheme aims to bring back the ‘ocean superheroes’ from the brink of extinction

In a bid to restore native oyster populations, and in turn see the return of healthy coastal waters, nurseries filled with Oysters will be suspended underneath marina pontoons in Conwy Marina and Deganwy Marina of the River Conwy.

https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19200382.1-000-oysters-begin-important-work-returned-river-conwy/ (https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19200382.1-000-oysters-begin-important-work-returned-river-conwy/)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on April 13, 2021, 10:48:24 am
Local FB asking does anyone know about the marking's on the goats  ?  (photo Vincent drive) 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on April 13, 2021, 03:10:11 pm
I think it was on Country File a couple of weeks ago where they were scanning sheep to see how many lambs they were carrying - they were then colour coded depending on 1, 2, 3 or very rarely 4 lambs.  That way the farmer would know which sheep needed extra food.

I doubt that is the case with the goats, but someone must have marked them for some reason.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on April 17, 2021, 08:59:40 pm
Make a change from goats ... snapped this in Bodnant Garden this week (there were 3 of them) collecting lichen.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on April 17, 2021, 09:02:59 pm
... and this little fellow was singing his heart out - surprisingly loud for a small bird!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on April 18, 2021, 09:09:34 am
Love your pics DVT. Is the first little bird a Long Tailed Tit? We used to get a small flock of them came to the feeder, but haven't seen them for a while.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on April 18, 2021, 01:37:43 pm
Yes, Nemesis, it is a long-tailed tit - not seen very often an usually in quite large groups.  I have never before managed to get a shot as they are very active and seem to be camera shy.  There were 3 that I saw, and they were collecting lichen so must be nesting somewhere near the far end of Bodnant - I will be there again this week (Wednesday and Thursday) so see what I can find!

 I'm also told there are fly-catchers in one of the nesting boxes but not seen them myself.  Mallards are nesting inside the shed that is on the island (my Dad helped build that back in the early 1970's, so nice to see it is being put to good use!)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on April 18, 2021, 02:51:40 pm
Nice photos DVT, keep the camera handy when you're in Bodnant as it's nice to see what's there.        $good$
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on April 21, 2021, 11:30:57 am
At least they are learning some road sense, even if the last few sneaked through on amber......... ref FB
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on April 23, 2021, 04:52:52 pm
We saw an adder on our walk today.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on April 27, 2021, 06:46:15 pm
Massive' panther-like big cat spotted near famous North Wales landmark
Witness claims to have seen the creature near the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct and described it as 'jet black and built differently to any kind of dog'

https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/massive-panther-like-big-cat-20477725 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/massive-panther-like-big-cat-20477725)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on May 01, 2021, 10:35:17 am
I went to get a tyre repaired today and parked behind this vehicle and the Seagull looked like it was sitting on a nest but when I got out of my car I could see that there were no eggs laid.     I was told that the car hadn't moved for a while so perhaps the Gulls will nest there
Title: Re: Local Wildlife..........Brenig Ospreys nest vandelised
Post by: SteveH on May 01, 2021, 02:11:08 pm
We can only hope they have been spotted on a trail camera ................    $angry$      $angry$          $angry$

A police investigation has been launched after someone "took a chainsaw" to an osprey nest platform at Brenig Lake - just one day after they laid their first egg of the season.

Brenig Osprey Project partners discovered this morning that at around 9.30pm on Friday (April 30) someone intentionally felled the osprey platform at the Cerrigydrudion site between Conwy and Denbighshire.

The platform, along with the nest, was discovered floating in the lake below this morning.

Confirming the horrific incident on social media, the North Wales Wildlife Trust said: "Brenig Osprey Project partners woke up this morning to the worst possible news.

cont  https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/rare-protected-osprey-nest-chopped-20507716 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/rare-protected-osprey-nest-chopped-20507716)

PS Pioneer story   Watch: Horrific moment Llyn Brenig osprey nest is felled
North Wales Police's Rural Crime team has released the disturbing footage as part of its appeal to help identify the perpetrators of the incident - which occurred at 9.42pm on Friday at the reservoir on the Denbighshire-Conwy border.
Cont  https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19273485.watch-horrific-moment-llyn-brenig-osprey-nest-felled/ (https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19273485.watch-horrific-moment-llyn-brenig-osprey-nest-felled/)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Helig on May 01, 2021, 03:07:26 pm
More on the ospreys' nest:

https://raptorpersecutionscotland.wordpress.com/2021/05/01/osprey-nest-platform-cut-down-with-chainsaw-as-first-egg-is-laid/

There are some truly sick and twisted people in this world.

Helig
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on May 01, 2021, 04:17:53 pm
DP report........https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/video-captures-heartbreaking-moment-rare-20508532 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/video-captures-heartbreaking-moment-rare-20508532)

"Efforts are still being made here to persuade the pair that have been here already to stay around the area.

"One of the other nest platforms has been cleared and we hope they will migrate to that platform and lay further eggs this season but it's yet to be seen what will happen.

"What makes this occurrence even more tragic is that it was only yesterday that this pair breeding here, for the first time as breeding parents, laid an egg on this site."
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on May 02, 2021, 12:51:41 pm
North Wales Wildlife Trust
@North_Wales_WT
Good Morning and thank you all for the tremendous support you are giving to our ospreys,LM6 and LJ2,
This photo was taken at 6.45 this morning.Both ospreys were on the perch looking at where their nest should be.
#BrenigOspreyProject #DwrCymru #NorthWalesWildlifeTrust #LlynBrenig
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on May 03, 2021, 01:15:59 pm
Social media all over this story, very sad despicable act.        ref DP

 Swan killed and two others seriously injured at Rhyl lagoon
North Wales Police are appealing for information over the 'appalling incident of cruelty'

The incident happened at a lagoon at Rhyl Golf Club last night Sunday, May 3.

Police say were made aware of the incident shortly before 8am today after CCTV footage showed two young males at the location at around 8pm on Sunday.

The injured swans are being cared for at a local veterinary surgery.

Inspector Chris Jolley said: “This is an appalling incident of cruelty. We are working directly with the RSPCA and urge anyone who may be able to assist with our ongoing investigation to come forward.

We are aware of footage that is currently circulating social media and would urge anybody who may have information, or who may be able to identify the two males, to contact us immediately via the live chat on the force website or via 101, quoting reference number Z061031.”


And further news on the Osprey story ref BBC
"Extra security measures may be brought in to protect ospreys after their nest site was cut down with a chainsaw.

Conservationists replaced a platform destroyed on Friday at Llyn Brenig, which borders Conwy and Denbighshire.

An existing platform was opened to the birds on Saturday but the original platform has now been replaced.

Staff at Brenig Osprey Project say they will establish what security measures can be put in place if the birds decide to use one of the platforms."
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on May 04, 2021, 10:02:11 am
 Re above "Swan killed and two others seriously injured at Rhyl lagoon"

"Officers have now arrested a juvenile male from the Rhyl area in connection with the incident. He is currently in police custody is being interviewed by police and RSPCA officers"
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on May 07, 2021, 02:59:40 pm
TV farmer Gareth Wyn Jones has warned people not to feed wild ponies as it "could be killing them".

A group which looks after the animals say piles of carrots have been found left for them in the Sychnant Pass, near Conwy.
Experts believe the ponies' digestive systems aren't able to cope with food such as carrots or apples and risk developing horse colic.
Symptoms include excessive sweating, lying down often and a poor appetite.

A mare and her foal had recently to be taken off the mountains this week because the foal was unwell.

"Carrots have been found in piles around the Sychnant Pass twice now," said Mr Jones, who is secretary of Carneddau Pony Society, a group of farmers who "manages" them.

"But the ponies' digestion system will not break them down. It's not what these animals are supposed to eat."

cont  https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-57016518 (https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-57016518)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on May 07, 2021, 04:26:50 pm
Got this pic whilest walking in Bodnant Garden yesterday - they were being harassed by a couple of rooks but the rooks eventually gave up.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on May 09, 2021, 10:24:11 pm
New map shows where you are most likely to see a big cat in North Wales
The map suggests that region is home to a number of big cats

https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/new-map-shows-you-most-20556936 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/new-map-shows-you-most-20556936)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on May 13, 2021, 01:14:02 pm
Heard a very noisy cuckoo this morning, somewhere in the woods near Haulfre.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on May 15, 2021, 02:14:32 pm
A pair of ospreys needing to find a new home following the destruction of their nest may have missed their chance.

A new nesting platform was hastily erected at Llyn Brenig on the Denbigh Moors after their chosen site was cut down with a chainsaw in a “horrendous wildlife crime”.

A decoy egg was placed on the nest and the Brenig Osprey Project (BOP) said the pair had been showing “considerable interest”.

But a week ago a greylag goose began scouting the nest – and she has now laid eggs there.

“This situation has presented us with something of a dilemma,” the BOP team wrote on Facebook.

Despite losing an egg in the nest vandalism a fortnight ago, Brenig’s ospreys are still being seen in the area.

BOP said there was every indication the well-bonded pair wanted to remain at the lake and breed there.

cont  https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-osprey-pair-face-20605059 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-osprey-pair-face-20605059)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on May 17, 2021, 01:01:58 pm
Llandudno's Kashmiri goats invited to I'm A Celeb castle               $bounce$

Goats that caused havoc in Llandudno during the Covid lockdown could start grazing at the castle that hosted I'm a Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here!

The animal invasion resulted in floods of complaints after gardens were devoured, mess was left on pavements and elderly residents were frightened.

Some of the herd also grazed at the site of special scientific interest Nant-y-Gamar which overlooks the town.
They moved into Llandudno's empty streets in the wake of 23 March 2020.

Normally, they only leave the Great Orme in bad weather.

Now Gwrych Castle, eight miles from the Conwy town in Abergele, has been asked to help.

Dr Mark Baker, who restored the fortress, said: "If everything goes well with Conwy biodiversity officers, we are very keen to welcome goats to the castle."

The Kashmiri herd, from which the Royal Welsh regiment obtain their mascot, is said to be descended from a pair presented to Queen Victoria by the Shah of Persia.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-57137838 (https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-57137838)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on May 17, 2021, 05:19:35 pm
Now that sounds like a good idea !!!!
Title: Re: Funny goats
Post by: SteveH on May 22, 2021, 03:55:11 pm
The first clip had me in stitches, and it does make a change to be enjoying some goat antics for a change.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FD-B1uYykiw (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FD-B1uYykiw)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on May 23, 2021, 10:06:52 am
Council's stance on Great Orme goats as I'm a Celeb castle move rumours grow

"It's not the first time the wild goats have been sent off the Llandudno peak to live elsewhere in the UK.

Two of the main reasons for this are to make sure there is enough food for the growing population and to protect the whole herd from being wiped out, should there ever be a contagious outbreak such as foot and mouth.

A Conwy Council spokeswoman said: "Several organisations have an interest in the Great Orme goats for reasons of land ownership, conservation or animal welfare, including Conwy County Borough Council, Llandudno Town Council, Mostyn Estates Ltd, Natural Resources Wales and the RSPCA.

"Secondly, the goats are unique and we realised during the foot and mouth outbreak in 2001 that if such a virus had infected the Great Orme herds – the breed would exist no longer."

She added: "We sometimes receive enquiries about moving a small number of goats to other locations in the UK.

"Over the past 20 years we have relocated goats in small groups to graze conservation sites in Kent, North Yorkshire, Somerset and the Brecon Beacons."

Full article   https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/councils-stance-great-orme-goats-20632525?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/councils-stance-great-orme-goats-20632525?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on May 25, 2021, 02:32:35 pm
As warmer weather approaches, you’re going to see more and more bees buzzing around.

We have all heard the rule if you see a tired bee try and feed them sugar water to give them a boost and get them buzzing again.
However, people should never leave a constant supply of sugar water out.

Back in 2018, a Facebook post which claiming to from Sir David Attenborough urged people to do this very thing, leading to a lot of confusion after it was unwittingly shared by millions of people.

Following the misinformation, the BBC was forced to step in, They confirmed that the post had not come from Sir David Attenborough, and the advice could harm the bee population.

cont   https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/you-should-never-leave-sugar-20647378 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/you-should-never-leave-sugar-20647378)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on May 26, 2021, 10:32:14 am
Llandudno's famous goats rounded up and kept in pen over post lockdown antics

https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/llandudnos-famous-goats-rounded-up-20676444?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/llandudnos-famous-goats-rounded-up-20676444?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589)

PS just been told they are in Westshore, being chased out of gardens !  so much for the above
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on June 01, 2021, 02:53:05 pm
We spotted a Blackbird with a faint white collar, and promptly named him "Vicar" ,I haven't been able to get a photo yet, but will keep trying, however looking for a stock photo, I found out that it maybe a Ring Ouzel, (Ring ouzels are black and white thrushes, similar in appearance to a blackbird. They spend the winter in Spain and northwest Africa, returning to the uplands of the UK to breed in the summer https://www.wildlifetrusts.org/wildlife-explorer/birds/thrushes-chats-flycatchers-starling-dipper-and-wren/ring-ouzel (https://www.wildlifetrusts.org/wildlife-explorer/birds/thrushes-chats-flycatchers-starling-dipper-and-wren/ring-ouzel))

It is very difficult to tell if there is a difference between the two species, or differing names for the same bird, depending on continent.

stock photo below
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on June 01, 2021, 03:28:49 pm
You do get Ring Ouzels on the Great Orme so you may have been lucky and spotted one.       
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on June 03, 2021, 10:43:11 am
ROUNDABOUTS, road verges and grassland areas that are rich in native wildflowers will be left undisturbed over the summer to encourage biodiversity.

Conwy County Borough Council will cut flowers after they have set seed in late summer to attract bees, butterflies and birds to the area.

Insects including moths and beetles are in decline but are essential to pollinating crops, soft fruit, orchards, and wild and garden flowers.

The council has more than 40 biodiversity areas and 21 nature reserves which are managed to encourage pollinators. It has taken action like replacing seasonal bedding plants with herbaceous, perennial plant schemes which provide a food source for pollinators.

Cllr Greg Robbins, cabinet member for environment and transportation, said, “The Council takes its role and responsibilities for biodiversity very seriously. Managing areas to encourage wildlife is an important way to make sure we can support pollinators to thrive and help contribute towards a sustainable environment.”

For more information about biodiversity in Conwy visit www.conwy.gov.uk/biodiversity (http://www.conwy.gov.uk/biodiversity)

Title: Re: Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on June 06, 2021, 09:55:48 am
We could be next ?

Thousands of ‘strange-looking alien creatures’ have washed up on a beach in South Wales.

Pleurobrachia pileus are commonly known as ‘sea gooseberries’ and normally float free in bodies of water.

The spherical comb jellies are normally up to 2.5cm long and are commonly found across the UK, especially in summer.

They have a pair of tentacles which are usually up to 20 times the length of their body.

These are used for catching prey, while little hairs on their bodies help them to eat.

Madison Bowden-Parry, behavioural ecologist for The Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales, said: ‘They feed on plankton and other small animals and will mostly follow the migration of their prey, so this could control their location in the water column i.e., at the surface feeding which could bring them into shore.’

https://metro.co.uk/2021/06/03/south-wales-thousands-of-strange-looking-alien-creatures-wash-up-on-beach-14707175/?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
.
Title: Re: Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on June 10, 2021, 02:44:46 pm
Stunning ..Beautiful Shot of Swan Couple sliding through the mist over the water

enjoy.....  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t-L4Pc25aMU (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t-L4Pc25aMU)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on June 11, 2021, 10:18:02 am
We spotted a Blackbird with a faint white collar, and promptly named him "Vicar" ,I haven't been able to get a photo yet, but will keep trying, however looking for a stock photo, I found out that it maybe a Ring Ouzel, (Ring ouzels are black and white thrushes, similar in appearance to a blackbird. They spend the winter in Spain and northwest Africa, returning to the uplands of the UK to breed in the summer https://www.wildlifetrusts.org/wildlife-explorer/birds/thrushes-chats-flycatchers-starling-dipper-and-wren/ring-ouzel (https://www.wildlifetrusts.org/wildlife-explorer/birds/thrushes-chats-flycatchers-starling-dipper-and-wren/ring-ouzel))

It is very difficult to tell if there is a difference between the two species, or differing names for the same bird, depending on continent.

A couple of long distance photos of the Blackbird/Ring Ouzel ? ? in our garden, with a our regulars on their Takeaway run.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on June 11, 2021, 01:51:17 pm
About 3 years ago we too had a blackbird with white patches. Not seen it for a long time.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on June 16, 2021, 09:57:18 am
'Too late' for North Wales ospreys whose nest was hacked down with egg inside to breed
The pair remain in the Llyn Brenig area but they not likely to nest again this year

cont  https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/too-late-north-wales-ospreys-20823148?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/too-late-north-wales-ospreys-20823148?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on June 19, 2021, 09:41:54 am
Short story: 'Wild Bill Tudno (of Llandudno)', by Julia Davey                                                   ref Pioneer

THE Gweifer Gang trot into town, swaggering in white Kashmir and mountain hooves; Wild Billy goat Tudno at the helm. No saint - his two pronged ‘hat’ slanted down- battle worn ridges, boasting. Fringed eyes squint, crusty grin; his goatee catches the breeze. No sneeze to be heard as Bill’s musty stench rots Llandudno’s sweet, salt breath. Unperturbed, he reccees the haul, confirming rumours on Cyngrewdr, that time is ripe. Rich pickings to be had. Easy heist.

And so, with his ten best goats in tow, Bill heads south down Tudnor Street, sniffing out the best joints to loiter and eat - astride walls, borders, and gob-smacked gnomes. Alert, as shutters shift, curtains crease; burping, smirking, wiping clean, ‘daffs’, privet, anything green. Evening draws in and as the Celtic mist wraps around, Bill signals it’s time to be homeward bound. Seeing flowers scattered and bushes torn, locked-in locals appear slightly forlorn, but grateful to laugh, as they watch the gweifers climb Great Orme, the rocky pile where the goats were born.

Whilst the Gang lie low in the hideaway cave of St. Tudno, Wild Bill runs towards the eastern Head, casting his sharp eyes over the frothing bay to check on their wives and kids - on holiday - grass-full, content, at Little Orme; unaware of how Bill’s day was spent. He breaks a cheeky grin, and satisfied but with lips now dry, he joins the others at his adopted home, where the gweifers seem well behaved, considering their unruly roam.

Bill downs a few pints from the trickling spring then settles at the opening, Sheriff of all he surveys, catching the fading russet rays above the ink-splashed Irish Sea. Then goaded by his ‘men’, Bill enjoying the attention, recounts legendary tales of Orme gone by, of Neolithic hunters and ancient copper mines; of Romans, Victorian trams and Saints - the goats lie entranced by the pictures he paints.

Bill then flies them miles across land and sea to their ancestral home beyond Delhi. The Himalayan foothills, Bill explains, are the babes of the mountain range, crowned by Everest, the highest peak on this fragile earth; summer home to their cousins frolicking on its turf - milking their status as Kashmiri Gods in the sky. Not a dry eye in the place, and as the hours pass, the ‘blind’ bats wake and race catching moths, but no goat notices, so enthralled are they, by the magical tales that continue to flow, from Wild Bill Tudno (of Llandudno).
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on June 21, 2021, 11:15:06 am
Apart from the Ring Ouzel/Blackbird ?, another of this year's characters, is a tailless male Blackbird, no damage, just the missing the proud tail feathers.
Title: Re: Wildlife and Rural Crime Coordinator
Post by: SteveH on July 01, 2021, 10:05:13 am
THE first ever all-Wales Wildlife and Rural Crime Coordinator will outline his priorities today after being appointed to the position. The role is the first of its kind in the UK.

The coordinator post has been created by the Welsh Government, along with Wales’ police forces, to strengthen the response to Wildlife and Rural Crime across the country.

Rob Taylor, who was responsible for establishing the current North Wales Police Rural Crime Team, brings a vast amount of experience to the role, in particular in regards to wildlife law and investigations including the horrific chainsaw attack on the Ospreys nesting platform at Llyn Brenig in May.

cont  THE first ever all-Wales Wildlife and Rural Crime Coordinator will outline his priorities today after being appointed to the position. The role is the first of its kind in the UK.

The coordinator post has been created by the Welsh Government, along with Wales’ police forces, to strengthen the response to Wildlife and Rural Crime across the country.

Rob Taylor, who was responsible for establishing the current North Wales Police Rural Crime Team, brings a vast amount of experience to the role, in particular in regards to wildlife law and investigations including the horrific chainsaw attack on the Ospreys nesting platform at Llyn Brenig in May.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on July 07, 2021, 09:55:38 am
Seagull chick nests in converted lunchbox in Llandundo shopping centre car park
The gull has won the hearts of shoppers and staff from Wilkos on Mostyn Champneys

https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/seagull-chick-nests-converted-lunchbox-20981645?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/seagull-chick-nests-converted-lunchbox-20981645?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on July 07, 2021, 07:28:31 pm
I had a walk on the sandy beach at Colwyn Bay today, it was low tide and there were hundreds of Jellyfish stranded on the sand.   
Every single one of them was no more than about 9 inches across, unlike the previous week when only a few were stranded but they were all massive ones about two feet across.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on July 14, 2021, 01:06:06 pm
A 'RARE' pink grasshopper has been spotted in a garden in Prestatyn.       ref Pioneer

Mr Allman, 63, who has lived in Prestatyn since 2019, said: "I was just tidying the garden early afternoon on Tuesday, July 13 when the grasshopper jumped out into the open.

The pink of the Meadow Grasshopper is caused by caused by a genetic mutation known as erythrism, which affect the production of pigment. Pink grasshoppers are much more vulnerable to predation.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on July 16, 2021, 11:32:36 pm
The water in Llyn Elsi was quite low when we walked around the lake this week and by the dam we saw hundreds of small fish in a feeding frenzy in shallow water.
It was lovely seeing them and at times the water seemed to be bubbling as they all were after food
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on July 17, 2021, 11:58:45 am
Any idea what species they are?  The river in Bodnant has lots of young trout (good for the kingfishers!) but those seem different, and not sticklebacks which are also common in the Bodnant ponds.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on July 17, 2021, 01:21:13 pm
Sorry DVT but I've no idea what they were.   We think that they were Trout but don't know the variety but there were hundreds there and roughly all about 3 inches


They may have been wild Brown Trout according to the attached link
 https://fishingwales.net/fishing-locations/betws-y-coed-anglers-club-llyn-elsi/

Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on July 18, 2021, 01:03:13 pm
'Puma spotted' on Anglesey nature reserve by walkers
The grandson of a Llangefni couple claims they saw a 'big cat' in The Dingle Nature Reserve this month


https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/puma-spotted-anglesey-nature-reserve-21074840 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/puma-spotted-anglesey-nature-reserve-21074840)
Title: Re: Warning for North Wales dog owners
Post by: SteveH on July 19, 2021, 11:11:33 am
Dog walkers in North Wales have been warned to keep an eye out for hemlock, Britain’s most poisonous plant.

Hemlock has leaves like parsley with roots that resemble parsnips, and is sometimes confused with cow parsley.

cont  https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/warning-north-wales-dog-owners-21043129?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/warning-north-wales-dog-owners-21043129?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on July 28, 2021, 02:59:30 pm
CLWYD WEST MS Darren Millar is calling for stronger action from the Welsh Government and local councils to address seagull nuisance in North Wales.

Each year, Mr Millar receives numerous complaints from constituents about the birds.

He says that, this year - with the seagull population having migrated into residential areas during the pandemic - the problem seems to be worse than ever, resulting in the MS being inundated with emails and calls from residents desperate for something to be done to tackle the problem.

“Seagulls are a protected species but they can also be a great nuisance when they nest in residential areas. They are noisy, their droppings make a huge mess, and they can be very aggressive, especially while rearing their chicks.

cont  https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19474626.clwyd-wests-darren-millar-ms-says-receives-numerous-calls-annually-issue/ (https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19474626.clwyd-wests-darren-millar-ms-says-receives-numerous-calls-annually-issue/)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on August 23, 2021, 11:49:04 am
A NEW study has revealed Gogarth in North Wales to be the most photogenic nature reserve in the UK, with 845 pictures taken per hectare.

The research, conducted by Ark Wildlife, a provider of carefully selected natural foods and products, analysed more than 150,000 hashtags from the UK’s most wildlife-abundant nature reserves.

Found in Llandudno and covering three hectares, Gogarth ranked top of the list, just ahead of the second-placed Ditchling Beacon Nature Reserve in Sussex, and Cornwall’s Looe Island Nature Reserve in third.

The study said of Gogarth: “Located in Llandudno on the western slopes of the Great Orme, Gogarth is a special location to spot some beautiful species.

“Sitting on a steep grass bank, walking can be difficult. However, the stunning view can be enjoyed from the Marine Drive above.”

It also urged visitors to the reserve to look out for its impressive range of wildlife, including chough birds, silver-studded blue butterflies, grazing sheep and goats, and glow worms (at night).

Data was collected in August, with Ark Wildlife using the list on the Wildlife Trust website of all nature reserves and filtering by ‘stunning views’.

They then searched Instagram hashtag data to find how many images were associated with each nature reserve, and divided that amount by the number of hectares the reserve covers - to find which one had the most photos taken per hectare.

Sean McMenemy, wildlife expert and director at Ark Wildlife, said: “Nature reserves are vital for conservation work to help to protect our wildlife and to protect our planet for future generations.

“It is a joy to capture wildlife in action or a stunning sunset and to share these images to increase conservation awareness, but we don’t want digital photos to be all that is left if these habitats disappear.

“Maintaining wild areas across the UK to allow people to engage with wildlife is also good for our mental health. Using precious holiday time to slow down and appreciate the natural world is greatly beneficial as it contrasts starkly with our fast paced digital existences.”

 A full list of the top ten photographed Wildlife Trust nature reserves in the UK can be found at www.datawrapper.de/_/acSUz (http://www.datawrapper.de/_/acSUz).

Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on August 25, 2021, 10:01:11 am
Four seals who underwent rehabilitation at Welsh Mountain Zoo released into the wild

he Welsh Mountain Zoo released two males and two females near Angel Bay and the Little Orme where there is already a strong breeding colony.

A spokesperson for the Colwyn Bay attraction said: "After a few tentative looks, all four gladly took to the open water.

cont/video https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19535692.four-seals-underwent-rehabilitation-welsh-mountain-zoo-released-wild/?ref=rss&IYA-reg=a05105fc-304d-4c50-9807-edab51f779a4 (https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19535692.four-seals-underwent-rehabilitation-welsh-mountain-zoo-released-wild/?ref=rss&IYA-reg=a05105fc-304d-4c50-9807-edab51f779a4)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on September 03, 2021, 01:43:57 pm
A CONSERVATION group is sadly receiving a number of calls regarding deceased grey seal pups on North Wales beaches.

North Wales Seal Research Organisation (NWSRO) received reports relating to one deceased seal pup on Anglesey, one in Conwy and Flintshire.

Gem Simmons, NWSRO director, said: "Seals are very susceptible to disturbance and should never be approached if at all possible. We have a lot of disturbance issues the past few years but particularly after covid.

"There is a relatively high rate of natural mortality in grey seal pups however, I would say that the season has started early this year.

"It is important that we track both living sightings, rescues and deceased findings in order to aid conservation.

"With the deceased sightings we have been able to establish a baseline dataset in previous years allowing us to have a rough idea of their normal mortality then we will know over the years whether this increases or decreases."

Anyone who sees a dead grey seal pup on a North Wales beach is asked to share the location with NWSRO.

People are only advised to take photos if they are close enough to do so, but the animal should not be touched. Dogs should be kept away from the body.

Information sent to NWSRO will be added to their database and shared with the UK Cetacean Strandings Investigation Programme (CSIP).

NWSRO is an evidence based conservation organisation formed by a group of passionate volunteers who aim to protect and conserve seals in North Wales. The team collect data and highlight threats faced.

To report a sighting visit www.nwsro.org (http://www.nwsro.org)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on September 07, 2021, 09:58:55 am
Mystery surrounds why a number of pigeons have been found dead in a Welsh town.

An investigation has now been launched after the deceased birds were found in Llanrwst.

Garry Lloyd Jones, who raced pigeons as a teenager, told NorthWalesLive found three dead birds in his yard on Sunday, and said he’s spotted dead pigeons around the town in the past couple of weeks.

Read more:Mystery as 5,000 homing pigeons vanish into thin air

Wondering whether the cause could be poison or avian flu, Mr Jones mentioned the matter on Facebook, and other people in the Conwy Valley said they had also seen dead pigeons.

He has since reported the matter to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) and Conwy Council.

"I feed the pigeons every day and the birds are in a good condition. There’s usually around 80 to 100 of them, but yesterday only around 13 to 14 turned up.

"I've put two of the dead ones in the freezer so that Defra can inspect them.
“It’s worrying as I also had to put down two of our chickens. They lost weight and didn’t want to eat anything and, when I picked them up, they screamed.

"I've kept chickens all my life but I had no idea what was wrong with them."

Defra have no alerts for wild birds in Wales for avian flu at present.

cont  https://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/wales-news/pigeons-dead-llanrwst-mystery-birds-21500350?IYA-mail=a05105fc-304d-4c50-9807-edab51f779a4 (https://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/wales-news/pigeons-dead-llanrwst-mystery-birds-21500350?IYA-mail=a05105fc-304d-4c50-9807-edab51f779a4)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Ian on September 07, 2021, 10:15:49 am
Worrying.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on September 08, 2021, 10:01:14 am
Update on above story.....

A Defra spokesperson said: “Where dead or sick wild birds are reported to the Defra helpline, we will investigate as necessary as part of our disease surveillance work.

“Results for dead wild birds that have tested positive for avian influenza are routinely published on gov.uk here: www.gov.uk/government/publications/avian-influenza-in-wild-birds (http://www.gov.uk/government/publications/avian-influenza-in-wild-birds).”

A spokesperson for Conwy County Borough Council added: “Mr Jones is doing the right thing by reporting his concerns and has spoken with the duty officer in Regulatory Services.

“We’ve advised Mr Jones to follow the guidance on the wales.gov.uk website: Report and dispose of dead birds (gov.wales/report-and-dispose-dead-birds) and telephone 03459 33 55 77.”
Title: Re: Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on September 10, 2021, 10:04:44 am
 ;)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Blongb on September 10, 2021, 11:57:40 am
Kookaburra  $donald$
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on September 22, 2021, 02:26:18 pm
A TOTAL of 21 wild goats have been rescued using hay bales - after they ventured onto a treacherous outcrop on the Great Orme in Llandudno.

Officers from the animal welfare charity were contacted after the stranded goats were spotted on the unstable rocks near the sea, in an area known locally as Austin's Rock.

The animals became stranded after two female goats came into ‘season’ - and were pursued by 18 Billy goats off of safe land and towards the rocks near the sea. One kid goat was also stranded. RSPCA Cymru feared they were at severe risk from high tides at the next full moon, or from starvation due to a lack of grazing and food supply.

cont  https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19597452.rspca-council-use-hay-bales-rescue-21-goats-danger-great-orme/ (https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19597452.rspca-council-use-hay-bales-rescue-21-goats-danger-great-orme/)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on October 08, 2021, 10:07:52 am
Killer Portugeues 'jellyfish' have washed up on UK shores sparking an urgent warning from wildlife experts for Brits and their pets.

Portuguese man o'war have moved towards the UK following recent stormy weather and pose a risk to to anyone who goes near them.

The creature, often mistaken for a jellyfish, can stretch its tentacles up to an incredible 160ft long and is capable of killing a human long after it is dead.

Man o'wars, also known as bluebottles for their purple bodies, can deliver excruciatingly painful stings but it is worth noting that these stings are rarely deadly to humans.

cont  https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19634121.warning-killer-160ft-jellyfish-hits-uk-shores/ (https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19634121.warning-killer-160ft-jellyfish-hits-uk-shores/)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on October 09, 2021, 12:07:21 pm
Tellytubby has been very busy recently working as a volunteer and constructing boardwalks and improving the Big Pool near Gronant.
He has been hoping to catch a glimpse of the Kingfisher there and this week his patience was rewarded with these lovely photos
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on October 26, 2021, 01:34:11 pm
A further round-up of Llandudno's famous goats is being considered after one had to be put down when it was struck by a car.

The herd of Kashmiri goats took over the North Wales town during the Covid lockdown, gaining worldwide attention with their cheeky antics.

Although they were branded "vandals" by some residents - particularly keen gardeners - others were delighted by their presence.

Most of the goats returned to the Great Orme or were rounded up, but a small group remained around the Little Orme, Penrhyn Hill and Craigside areas.

Sadly one had to be put down by the RSPCA recently after being struck by a car.

Warning signs have been put up to make drivers aware of the goats' presence.

cont  https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/great-orme-goat-put-down-21969434 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/great-orme-goat-put-down-21969434)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on October 26, 2021, 05:39:35 pm
According to the press there are 3 left in this area. Surely common sense would be to round up and return them to the others on the Great Orme.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on October 31, 2021, 04:46:53 pm
Tellytubby has been out and about again and sent me these photos of a Yellow Hammer that he saw recently.     I've not seen one for years so he's a lucky guy
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on October 31, 2021, 08:21:51 pm
Brilliant, I’ve never seen one of those.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife.......Warning
Post by: SteveH on November 02, 2021, 10:11:59 am
North Wales put on high alert after bird flu outbreak on poultry farm
Members of the public are being urged not to touch any sick or dead birds they come across

The H5N1 strain has been confirmed in both poultry and wild birds in Wrexham county.

To limit spread, temporary Disease Control zones of 3km and 10km have been imposed around the infected premises.

cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/north-wales-put-high-alert-22037295 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/north-wales-put-high-alert-22037295)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on November 04, 2021, 09:58:31 am
AN AVIAN Influenza (bird flu) Prevention Zone (AIPZ) has been declared across the UK as a number of detections have been made in wild birds.

Chief Veterinary Officers from Wales, England and Scotland have declared the AIPZ across the whole of Great Britain to mitigate the risk of the disease spreading among'st poultry and captive birds.

cont  https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19693674.avian-influenza-bird-flu-prevention-zone-declared-across-uk/ (https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19693674.avian-influenza-bird-flu-prevention-zone-declared-across-uk/)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on November 04, 2021, 03:53:57 pm
So how are they going to inform the migratory wild birds not to enter the UK ?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on November 04, 2021, 05:10:19 pm
I hear the local council are good with signs  ;)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on November 08, 2021, 10:09:22 am
Thunder of hooves turns annual round-up of wild Welsh hill ponies into a spectator event
People came from miles around to witness the time-honoured tradion of mustering on the Carneddau Mountains

cont plus photo gallery https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/thunder-hooves-turns-annual-round-22095892?IYA-mail=a05105fc-304d-4c50-9807-edab51f779a4 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/thunder-hooves-turns-annual-round-22095892?IYA-mail=a05105fc-304d-4c50-9807-edab51f779a4)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on November 10, 2021, 10:01:31 am
Pod of dolphins spotted 'playing' off Llandudno's Great Orme
Around seven of the incredible creatures gave an amazing display for around 30 minutes

cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/pod-dolphins-spotted-playing-llandudnos-22115041?IYA-mail=a05105fc-304d-4c50-9807-edab51f779a4 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/pod-dolphins-spotted-playing-llandudnos-22115041?IYA-mail=a05105fc-304d-4c50-9807-edab51f779a4)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on November 14, 2021, 02:56:04 pm
I've got three nut feeders in the garden and the two in the fenced off area are regularly topped up but the nuts soon get eaten by the Squirrels.       I've noticed small holes in the lawn where the Squirrels have buried them for the Winter months but I'm not the only one to have seen them digging in the lawn because the Wood Pigeons keep their eyes on the Squirrels and then dig up the peanuts after the Squirrels have left.
I'm going to have to order a Squirrel proof peanut feeder soon

A few years ago a friend and I visited the Palaces of Owain Glyndwr and collected many acorns that had fallen on the ground as I wanted to grow them as Bonsai plants.    When I got home I put them in the shed until I was ready to plant them and then a few weeks later when I went into the shed the acorns had all vanished somewhere
A year or so later little Oak saplings appeared everywhere, in the lawn, in borders and in plant pots etc so I knew then who had pinched the acorns
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on November 14, 2021, 09:45:13 pm
Hugo, I can only imagine the disappointment and confusion the squirrels will feel when they return for their hidden treasure.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on November 15, 2021, 08:01:24 am
I'm hoping that they will go to my neighbours houses and scoff their peanuts.     Not only are they eating all those peanuts they are biting through the wire on the peanut holders and I have to replace the peanut feeders on a regular basis too         
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on November 16, 2021, 09:58:33 am
When I opened the curtains this morning, something caught my eye, that took me a while to identify, (too early in the morning to focus), but it did come closer, and I was able to see it was a Jay, I think it is over 25 years since I last saw one.

stock photo
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on November 16, 2021, 07:39:40 pm
Excellent Steve, I’ve never seen one in Llandudno
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on November 16, 2021, 09:50:58 pm
Seen a few in Bodnant recently, or may be the same one time and again!  Lot of food for the birds this year - sign of a bad winter to come?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on November 16, 2021, 10:38:57 pm
I haven't seen one in our garden for years but we were lucky a few years ago to see about 4 Jays together.    They were the parents and two  young Jays
A beautiful looking bird but their bird call is something else, it's easy to identify because it's so awful.    You're lucky to get a photo of it Steve because they are normally a shy bird
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hammy on November 17, 2021, 09:20:41 pm
We regularly spot a couple of pairs of jays in our garden (Bryn Pydew), they seem to have a love/hate relationship with the magpies!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Fester on November 18, 2021, 12:16:09 am
I haven't seen one in our garden for years but we were lucky a few years ago to see about 4 Jays together.    They were the parents and two  young Jays
A beautiful looking bird but their bird call is something else, it's easy to identify because it's so awful.    You're lucky to get a photo of it Steve because they are normally a shy bird

I think it was a stock photo, from google.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on November 18, 2021, 09:27:33 am
I haven't seen one in our garden for years but we were lucky a few years ago to see about 4 Jays together.    They were the parents and two  young Jays
A beautiful looking bird but their bird call is something else, it's easy to identify because it's so awful.    You're lucky to get a photo of it Steve because they are normally a shy bird

I think it was a stock photo, from google.

Yes, indeed stock photo, I had difficulty focusing my eyes that early in the morning, never mind a camera, a bit late now, but camera on the window sill, ready for it reappearing. of course the usual sods law comes into force.   :-\
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on November 18, 2021, 12:29:55 pm
This is the Jay bird song that I was talking about,  all members of the Crow family seem to make a similar cackle


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bnL9RuZjBZs (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bnL9RuZjBZs)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on November 18, 2021, 04:41:17 pm
Heard one in Bodnant this afternoon, distinctive screech, then did get a fleeting glimpse of it flying away!

For anyone visiting, I've usually seen them at the far side of the old park, near the glades.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on November 18, 2021, 05:19:17 pm
The saga with the Squirrels in my garden is still continuing, but my heavy duty Squirrel proof peanut feeder arrives tomorrow.     However I nearly didn't need it this morning when Teddy our puppy nearly caught it in the fenced off area of our garden but thankfully Cyril the Squirrel managed somehow to escape to plunder the peanuts another time
I mentioned that the Squirrel dug small holes in the lawn to bury the peanuts he pinched, then I noticed the Wood pigeon going to those small holes and helping themselves to the nuts.      Now I have a bigger problem on my hands, Teddy the Cockerpoo is digging even bigger holes in the lawn and pinching the nuts too.
Karma comes to mind now!       
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on November 18, 2021, 05:36:40 pm
Must be the time of year. I put out a small amout of food for the birds the other day and couldn't believe my eyes. Within seconds rats were running up, pinching the food and scuttling off. Poison out, away from the birds and not putting food out at the moment. We wondered if the fact that two lots of near neighbours are doing renovations and something had been disturbed. ?{}?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on November 19, 2021, 11:44:59 am
The Squirrel proof feeder arrived this morning so I've hung it up on the tree and we'll see just how effective it is.
I've also left one of the old feeders there just in case the Great Spotted Woodpecker pays us another visit
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on November 25, 2021, 10:04:56 am
GET up close to nature and pop along to the Binoculars and Telescopes Open Weekend this December at the RSPB Conwy nature reserve in Llandudno Junction.

This popular event, on December 4-5 from 10am-4pm, is the perfect opportunity to try binoculars and telescopes outdoors, surrounded by wildlife at the nature reserves.

It’s a fun, friendly, and interactive weekend, designed to help you select the best kit for your needs – whether for wildlife watching on your family walks, or if you’re an experienced birder or looking for a unique Christmas present.

A variety of binoculars and telescopes will be on display for you to check out, as well as friendly, impartial advice from the knowledgeable team of staff and volunteers.

Money raised through purchases at these events helps RSPB Cymru nature reserve teams to continue to deliver their wildlife conservation and advocacy work and allows thousands of people every year to get closer to nature.

The events are free to attend, with no need to book in advance.

For more information about the Binoculars and Telescopes Open Weekend and to find a full list of other events and activities on offer at our reserves, visit: events.rspb.org.uk/Cymru.                      ref pioneer
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on November 29, 2021, 10:11:14 am
The Squirrel proof feeder arrived this morning so I've hung it up on the tree and we'll see just how effective it is.
I've also left one of the old feeders there just in case the Great Spotted Woodpecker pays us another visit

The Squirrel proof feeder works but sadly it's not storm proof and it's a casualty of the recent storm     :(
  The other cheap feeder survived intact so no doubt the Squirrels will be back
Title: Re: Local Wildlife.........Bird Flu Emergency
Post by: SteveH on December 09, 2021, 01:14:00 pm
Emergency measures have been launched in Wales as the UK faces its largest ever bird flu outbreak.

Rural affairs minister Lesley Griffiths said a "lite" emergency coordination centre has been set up, with all bird keepers following strict measures, after three cases were found in Wales.

The announcement comes as the UK chief veterinary officer said the UK had a "phenomenal level" of avian flu.

Tens of thousands of farmed birds have been culled.

Ms Griffiths called on bird keepers, both domestic and industrial, to remain "vigilant and alert for signs of disease", while adopting strict biosecurity measures.

"This is now the largest ever UK outbreak of AI [avian influenza], and there is no immediate sign of the situation improving," she said.

The chief veterinary officer for Wales has confirmed three separate cases of bird flu in domestic poultry near Chirk, Wrexham, Gaerwen, Anglesey, and Crickhowell, Powys.

cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-59590799 (https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-59590799)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on December 14, 2021, 10:33:46 am
A bit of European news for a change...
My sister, who lives in Brittany, is well aware of the love/hate relationship some have with the goats here in Llandudno, and she has seen the many photos I have sent ...........I received a post from her this morning telling me that they are having their own wildlife problems, not as cute as ours, they woke to find their garden had been ripped up by a number of wild boar, apparently during covid their numbers have reached two million, and like our goats have started exploring residential areas, 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on December 14, 2021, 10:50:58 am
We only need a few of those and we'd have no gardens at all !
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on December 14, 2021, 06:43:57 pm
We don't need any of those wild Boars here as our dog Teddy has gone on a wrecking spree in part of our garden.    He's done more damage to it in 10 months than the Badgers ever have over all the years.           &shake&
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on December 15, 2021, 09:17:47 am
oh dear, 6 months on and we still miss ours. No chance of getting another unless our health imroves. Life is odd after over 5 years having a dog. Hope he calms down. x
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Robbie G on December 15, 2021, 02:13:31 pm
Hugo Mrs G is asking if Teddy needs a new home ? she is quite prepared to overlook the damage . he is a fine looking dog anyone could fall for him ,
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on December 15, 2021, 05:37:19 pm
If you had asked me a few months ago I'd have paid you to take him but he's calming down a bit now.     My Bonsai trees are now Bonsai stumps so I've fenced off the garden as you can see in the photo.      The wire fence is pegged down with plastic garden pegs but he has found out how to pull them up and then he crawls under the wire like a commando to wreck the top part of our garden
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on January 06, 2022, 09:52:30 am
Alarm over seal stampedes on North Wales coast if staycation boom continues
Call for visitor caution follows disturbances to Llandudno's grey seal colony

Seaside visitors to the North Wales coast are being asked to avoid grey seal haunts amid concerns they will be disturbed and driven out to sea to die.

Some 200 seals are currently occupying a beach at the Little Orme, Llandudno, as the breeding season gets underway.

Videos shared on social media in recent months have shown people getting too close to the colony and prompting a stampede of seals into the sea.

Without sufficient rest, following long underwater hunts, they could die from exhaustion, according to North Wales Seal Research Organisation (NWSRO).

“After battling tides and currents, they build up an energy and oxygen deficit which needs to be replenished by resting up,” said NWSRO director Gem Simmons, a mariine biologist.

“If they are disturbed shortly after returning to dry land, they will quickly find themselves in trouble.”

cont  https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/alarm-over-seal-stampedes-north-22656987?IYA-mail=a05105fc-304d-4c50-9807-edab51f779a4 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/alarm-over-seal-stampedes-north-22656987?IYA-mail=a05105fc-304d-4c50-9807-edab51f779a4)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on January 07, 2022, 04:59:16 pm
I picked the wrong time to go down to Angel Bay today as not only was it bitterly cold but it was also a high tide and the few Seals that were there were camouflaged between the rocks.
It was still nice to see them even if my visit there was very brief.   One thing I noticed was that there were a number of STOP notices on the path leading down to the beach so there is no excuse for anyone to ignore the signs and walk on the beach
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on January 30, 2022, 04:49:14 pm
Tellytubby has been out and about in the area and has sent me some lovely photos that he has taken of birds
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on January 31, 2022, 10:06:44 am
Excellent, lucky man. 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on February 01, 2022, 10:25:14 am
Mountain goats take over streets in Llandudno..........or Here we go again, I know a few neighbours who have spent a lot of money on new higher fencing, and some have installed temporary netting to keep them out, not just the damage, but the mess and stink left behind is nasty.

A GROUP of goats descended from the mountains into Llandudno’s streets on Sunday 30 January.

While strolling around the streets, the gang made themselves comfortable at various spots in the town, public green spaces and people’s gardens.

The goats settled on Gloddaeth Avenue, and were a welcome $angry$surprise to townsfolk. (But not everyone)


cont https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19889400.mountain-goats-take-streets-llandudno/?ref=rss&IYA-reg=a05105fc-304d-4c50-9807-edab51f779a4 (https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19889400.mountain-goats-take-streets-llandudno/?ref=rss&IYA-reg=a05105fc-304d-4c50-9807-edab51f779a4)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on February 03, 2022, 04:59:39 pm
Couple spot 'big black cat' that was 'the size of Labrador' while driving in North Wales   Puma 'sightings' in North Wales have become increasingly common in recent years

We often see reports like this in the papers but there is usually no evidence to support the sighting.   It's only a coincidence but a few weeks ago I was walking my dog late in the afternoon on "Dog Mountain" in Colwyn Heights and saw what I thought was a Black Labrador.
It was quite far away and my eyesight has seen better days but it was the way it leapt over the rough grass and then vanished into bramble bushes and disappeared that attracted my attention.   I looked out for the owner of the Labrador but I was the only person on the reserve at the time.
I still thought it was a Black Labrador but I kept my dog away from where the other "dog" had been just in case.
When I got home I told Mrs H about what I had seen but have never mentioned it to anyone before now.    It's just a coincidence perhaps with this recent report?

https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/couple-spot-big-black-cat-22973526 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/couple-spot-big-black-cat-22973526)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on February 04, 2022, 09:43:23 am
Mountain goats take over streets in Llandudno..........or Here we go again, I know a few neighbours who have spent a lot of money on new higher fencing, and some have installed temporary netting to keep them out, not just the damage, but the mess and stink left behind is nasty.



304d-4c50-9807-edab51f779a4]https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/19889400.mountain-goats-take-streets-llandudno/?ref=rss&IYA-reg=a05105fc-304d-4c50-9807-edab51f779a4[/url]

This year there seems to be more groups and more lone billies. Either that or they have become more speedy at going from one side of town to the other.
Agreed............. the mess and stink is awful, not counting the damage.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on February 04, 2022, 09:57:56 am
It was nice to see this fine specimen as long as it's not in my back garden!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Nemesis on February 04, 2022, 06:38:09 pm
It was nice to see this fine specimen as long as it's not in my back garden!

You wouldn't have much back garden left if it was ( worse than Teddy )
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on February 08, 2022, 11:15:07 am
Tellytubby sent me this photo of a Wood Duck that was photographed in Ruthin, it's a really beautiful looking bird

Wood Duck UK
It is one of just a few ducks with strong claws that allow it to perch in trees. ... Unlike most ducks, the wood duck nests in tree holes, and on leaving the nest the young may have to leap to the ground from great heights. This feral species is occasional but widespread in Britain.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on February 09, 2022, 04:38:33 pm
When I opened the curtains this morning, something caught my eye, that took me a while to identify, (too early in the morning to focus), but it did come closer, and I was able to see it was a Jay, I think it is over 25 years since I last saw one.

Update on the above sighting, there were three Jay's in the garden this morning , I have seen individual birds, but assumed it was the same one.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on February 09, 2022, 04:55:41 pm
You're so lucky to see those beautiful birds as they are normally quite shy.       Like all members of the Crow family their bird call is not the nicest

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h1DjzdfpncA (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h1DjzdfpncA)


Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on February 11, 2022, 04:54:42 pm
Odd things you can find at Bodnant ... a lone egret, a blackbird that is partly white, and a mallard that is getting very friendly with a goosander (we're waiting to see if we get any mallanders!).

Many sightings of the kingfisher(s) in past couple of weeks as well.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on February 18, 2022, 09:54:28 am
Tellytubby was out again taking photos of birds in his area
Title: Re: Local Wildlife....Warning for dog walkers
Post by: SteveH on February 24, 2022, 12:09:05 pm
Dog walkers and parents are being warned to be on the look-out for a creature known as the “Floating Terror” on North Wales' beaches.

The potentially deadly Portuguese Man O'War has been spotted washed up on shorelines in the wake of storms Eunice and Franklin.

They are causing particular concern because examples found are small – just two inches across – and can easily be mistaken for ocean plastic.
In some cases, one sting from the creature is enough to kill both animals and humans - even if it is already dead.

People are being urged not to touch them or walk barefoot, and to keep dogs and children well away. 

cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/warning-dog-walkers-parents-floating-23193132 (https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/warning-dog-walkers-parents-floating-23193132)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on February 24, 2022, 02:28:29 pm
We were in Trefnant yesterday, just above the dog leg bends and saw a herd of Deer in the field.     They are usually quite shy animals and were a considerable distance away from the road so we couldn't get very good photos of them.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on February 25, 2022, 08:45:17 am
On Wednesday we had a drive around the Ruthin and district area and the first stop was at Llyn Cae Ddol in Ruthin as Tellytubby wanted to see the Wood Duck that was pictured there the day before.   Anyway we were out of luck as the Wood Duck was nowhere to be seen.
It wasn't a wasted journey though as there were a lot of other birds there on this lovely maintained lake and park.   Loads of Mallards, some Canada Geese. Goosanders and three resident Swans
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on February 25, 2022, 09:05:39 am
Later on we went to Llyn Brenig to see the birdfeeders by the cafe and there were dozens of small birds there, mainly Goldfinches a few Bramblings and other small birds.    The weather was awful by this time, very windy , cold and wet so we didn't stay long outdoors and had a take away hot drink and sat in the car to have our drink and sandwiches
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on March 11, 2022, 12:15:57 pm
Yesterday I met Tellytubby at the Rhyl Brickworks Pond, it's Rhyl's Local Nature Reserve and I wanted to see it again as I had been impressed with Tellytubby's photos of the birds there
We parked in the car park and Tellytubby led me on to the pathway around the large pond.  He walked just ahead of me and I couldn't believe my eyes when I saw a female Mallard resting on the path but she then got up a bit, laid an egg and went into the water and the egg rolled down the bank until it came to rest by a tree.
She wasn't sitting on a nest just on the path and nearby was another egg albeit cracked in half, I just didn't know what to make of it
Anyway after that surprise we continued along the path around the lake which has been vastly improved since my last visit there over 10 years ago
At the end of the lake were some Anglers fishing for Carp or the many varieties of fish in the lake.   We didn't go near them as fishing wasn't their only interest as the stench of cannabis was overpowering.
Our walk finished with a drive to the Foryd where we crossed Pont Y Ddraig and enjoyed a nice hot drink and a scone in the cafe over on the Kinmel Bay side
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on March 11, 2022, 12:24:39 pm
Rhyl Brickpond
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on March 21, 2022, 03:03:00 pm
Doing my usual sitting in the garden on sunny days,I have started receiving visits from a small flock of pigeons (7), alongside the usual blackbirds etc, they look very fit and healthy, no ID rings, we shall see if it continues.........
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on March 22, 2022, 01:08:05 pm
Nice looking Pigeons Steve, I bet ME would be proud to have them.    My neighbour feeds dozens of them every day but they wait on my roof so they know when they are going to be fed.    Only trouble with that is that they poop on my TV sensor so it's no wonder the picture on the TV was poor

On a different thread I take my dog for his daily walk on the Bryn Cadno reserve and always try and avoid the stagnant pool there.  Not today though, it was so hot that he ran into the pond before I could stop him and he looked  like one of the dogs in the first photo
He's still drying out after having had a bath a bit earlier on
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on March 22, 2022, 02:38:14 pm
Butter would'nt melt............. ;)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on April 05, 2022, 09:09:11 am
I was in Rhyl yesterday so I took Mrs H to the Brickfield nature reserve as it's many years since she last went there.     Most of the birds congregate near the entrance to the reserve so we didn't have to go far before we saw the birds.
The weather was bad so we didn't go around the reserve bur we'll do it again some time.
One thing Mrs H remarked on was the size of the feet of the Coot in relation to their small body.   They do look massive.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on April 05, 2022, 04:30:12 pm
The other day there was a big hole in our lawn and I wasn't sure who the culprit was, whether it was our dog Teddy or the Badger but I'm starting to think that it was the Badger after what happened here this morning.
I've got two peanut feeders in the garden, one which is a Squirrel proof one and the other is just an ordinary wire one.  The Squirrel proof one is working well but I also keep the other one topped up so that larger birds and even the Squiirel can eat the peanuts.
This morning I was going to top up the feeder and found out that the Badger had climbed up the tree and damaged the feeder,  The photo shows just what the feeder looked like after a tussle with the Badger
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on April 14, 2022, 02:41:26 pm
A quartet of seal pups have been released back into the wild at Penrhyn Bay Beach.

The grey seal pups, who were found on the North Wales coastline by the RSPCA during the winter, had become separated from their mothers during stormy weather.

The seals were all aged under one month old, and were found disorientated and in poor health, with each of them severely underweight.

All four seals were named after board and arcade games, with two males (Cluedo and Frogger) and two females (Monopoly and Risk).

cont / photos https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/20069317.quartet-seal-pups-released-back-wild-penrhyn-bay/ (https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/20069317.quartet-seal-pups-released-back-wild-penrhyn-bay/)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on April 15, 2022, 10:28:34 am
A grey seal that was rescued during Storm Eleanor and rehabilitated has been spotted four years later.

Tolgus was among five baby seals found severely exhausted and separated from their mothers on a beach in Cornwall in 2018.

He has now been seen near Llandudno and appears to be thriving.

"Receiving news that our seal pups like Tolgus are doing well in the wild so many years later is fantastic," wildlife expert Lee Stewart said.

Mr Stewart is manager at Stapeley Grange Wildlife Centre in Cheshire, where Tolgus was taken after his rescue in January 2018 by British Divers Marine Life Rescue.

cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-61110981 (https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-61110981)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on May 09, 2022, 12:31:19 pm
Tellytubby was in Llangollen recently and was lucky enough to see a beautiful Mandarin Duck while he was there
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on June 09, 2022, 09:42:41 am
THE LLYN Brenig osprey pair have hatched chicks - a year after their nest was destroyed by a chainsaw-wielding vandal.

This time last year, the birds of prey had laid eggs at their nest next to reservoir in Denbighshire.

There was considerable effort to get the ospreys, North Wales' only breeding pair, back to a nest at the reservoir - including enhanced security measures.

And the work has paid off - with the pair successfully hatching a clutch of eggs last week.
Sadly, one of the chicks has died - with the other two thankfully "doing ok", according to the North Wales Wildlife Trust.

Video https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/20194815.brenig-ospreys-hatch-chicks-year-nest-vandalism/
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on June 16, 2022, 08:15:21 pm
Surprised to get this pic this afternoon at Bodnant Far End pond.  I did think that a heron had destroyed the Little Grebe family, but today there was Mum with 5 youngsters, two of them smaller than the other three.  She was feeding the two small ones, the older ones able to dive and catch their own fish.  Been trying for a while to get a good shot, this isn't brilliant I know, as they dive as soon as I point a camera at them, and they are very fluffy so don't come out sharp!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on June 24, 2022, 03:57:05 pm
I have been feeding a lot of birds over the last few days (photos to follow) while sitting in the sun, just now throwing some crumbs from the back door, I noticed I was feeding a Robin, but no red breast, a quick search tells me that juveniles do not get the red colouring to later in the summer......... still learning.

Juvenile Robins lack the red breast and have brown upper parts and breast speckled with dark brown. Bit by bit, the red breast starts to appear in late summer, but even in juvenile plumage the round shape, long legs and cocked head postures are characteristically 'Robin' in nature.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on June 25, 2022, 06:21:36 pm
Tellytubby was at the Big Pool reserve near Prestatyn and was lucky enough to see the Kingfisher there
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on June 30, 2022, 01:53:13 pm
Quite a while back I mentioned seeing birds sunbathing close to the house (see below) well its happening again, only this time they are getting closer, bathing on the warm back step, as I said before they are very trusting, considering the vulnerable position they leave themselves in................ PS. we have seen the Ring Ouzel twice this season so far.

"Sunbathing' is used by some birds as part of their routine feather maintenance and is most commonly seen by Garden BirdWatchers in Blackbirds and Robins. The birds invariably adopt a posture in which the body feathers are fluffed up and one or both wings are held out from the body, with feathers spread."
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SAJ on June 30, 2022, 04:34:45 pm
Sunbathing blackbirds near the house aren?t a problem. It?s when they want to come in and test the indoor temperature that we need to worry!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on June 30, 2022, 05:32:34 pm
SAJ, I should have introduced her, we call her Mrs B. and she does come in the kitchen when the food runs out, however she's in our bad books at the moment, after plundering our strawberries, she's not a problem but the pigeons can be, if they mix up the opening in the glass doors, they are now discouraged, although I do enjoy the interaction with all the local bird life.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SAJ on June 30, 2022, 06:08:42 pm
Steve, who can blame Mrs B for scoffing those strawberries? I?ve netted over mine this year but have left some self-seeded ones around the garden for the wildlife. ?Our? female can be over enthusiastic when she?s after food. I arrived home in the car one day last week and no sooner had I stopped the car than there was a ?thud? on the roof and there she was. I do like seeing them though, especially at this time of year when they?re busily feeding their young.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on June 30, 2022, 08:17:19 pm
We have a few Blackbirds in the Garden and they are really interesting to watch.     We have a couple of bird baths in the garden and when they have a bath in them it's funny seeing them as they scatter water everywhere.
They are very hardworking parents too and often when it's getting dark they are still out there looking for food  for their chicks
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on July 03, 2022, 10:22:26 am
Some of the photos from the recent good weather spent in the garden, there were many visitors during that time, including normally shy wren's and three Robin's, however the pigeons made themselves at home............
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on July 03, 2022, 10:23:56 am
a few more......the colours of this flock (about fifteen birds) are mostly in the brown/pink range, and a various mix of colours but very few standard greys.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on July 14, 2022, 12:46:01 pm
Hilarious antics from the pigeons trying to share a six inch bird bath earlier, we have now added three more bigger baths, but still trying to share the smaller ones 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on July 14, 2022, 03:28:11 pm
You'll get a lot of pleasure watching the birds going to your bird baths Steve.     If you see a Blackbird by the bath keep watching it as they really like having a bath and they splash so much water you'll need to keep refilling it often.
By the way I like those Hydrangeas they look in really good condition
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on July 14, 2022, 04:27:48 pm
Thanks Hugo, there appears to be a rota system, when the pigeons fly off, then the smaller birds come in, I do like watching the Blackbirds, and there are a lot of Sparrows this year, they also like sharing the baths.........

Another shot of the Hydrangea, with a courting couple in the background......
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on July 16, 2022, 03:10:04 pm
Now he's no longer the Terrible Teddy of last year thanks to some very good advice given to me by Mull.     Patience and perseverance and you'll get the love and respect and obedience from your dog was the advice and it has paid off as other dog owners today said how placid Teddy is now.
He's still banned from the top part of the garden though.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on July 21, 2022, 03:46:01 pm
A couple of visitors during the hot weather waiting their turn for the bird bath, including a new baby pigeon, very pale black/white....
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on July 24, 2022, 02:19:09 pm
The middle photo looks like a Wood Pigeon and the bottom one like a Blue Checker feral one
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on July 24, 2022, 02:19:54 pm
World?s longest animal found on Anglesey beach has ?beauty and bite of a lion?
The Lion?s Mane jellyfish is famed for its length - and for having a 'very nasty sting'


Watch out when you go swimming as it's not that far from Llandudno



https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/worlds-longest-animal-found-anglesey-24567472
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on July 25, 2022, 09:30:37 am
Having been unsuccessful for part couple of years to get a good pic of the little grebes at Bodnant Far End I finally succeeded yesterday!  Two were very close to the boathouse, and they seem fully able to look after themselves.

Another one seemed to be very close to a lone female mallard and I was wondering if it had been adopted.  I know the heron took quite a few ducklings earlier, and the adult grebe was not to be seen.  I also know there have been two broods of grebes, although only saw 3 youngsters yesterday.  Does anyone know if adoption can happen?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on July 25, 2022, 10:47:50 am
Lovely photos DVT, it must be great working in a beautiful location like Bodnant.      Those Herons attack and eat anything, a neighbour of mine introduced 20 Koi Carp into his pond and within days a Heron had scoffed the lot.   I've even seen a photo of a Heron catching and eating a young Rabbit, not a nice sight even if it is only nature
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on July 26, 2022, 01:19:49 pm
Two whales close to popular Gwynedd beach may have been chased there by killer orca
The pair latched onto jetski riders are they set off from Black Rock Sands

I remember a forum member posting on here that he had seen an Orca when he had been walking around the Marine Drive.    Sightings of Basking Sharks had been seen off the Little Orme coastline


https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/two-whales-close-popular-gwynedd-24583694
Title: Re: London Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on July 27, 2022, 10:11:00 am
Goats Huh........A herd of cheeky deer are pictured making themselves at home in a suburban London neighbourhood
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on August 01, 2022, 01:29:39 pm
This article reminded me of a walk I did many years ago.    Three of us were walking in the Nantlle Valley area one hot Summer's day and we were all in shorts.    We had to cross through a swathe of bracken and one person was lagging behind and was in the middle of the bracken when I shouted out  "watch out for the Adders"
He wasn't known or built for speed but he shot out of the bracken like a rocket,  I don't think that he's forgiven me for that

https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/increased-snake-sightings-welsh-beaches-24636850
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on August 02, 2022, 10:07:45 am
'Extremely rare' pink grasshoppers found in North Wales garden
Grasshoppers can turn pink due to a genetic mutation, known as erythrism, which causes a reddish discolouration

https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/extremely-rare-pink-grasshoppers-found-24644249
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on August 03, 2022, 09:47:43 am
Seagulls found dead along the A55 have prompted fears of a fresh outbreak of bird flu on Anglesey. This has been ruled out by the Welsh Government, leaving a mystery as to why so many birds have died.

One driver reported seeing ?tens of dead gulls? on a short section of the A55 last week. ?Between Holyhead and Bryngwran turn-off, going east, I counted 13 dead gulls,? she told North Wales Live. ?I counted them because, when I travelled in the other direction, I had seen numerous bodies.?

cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/mystery-tens-dead-seagulls-spotted-24655046
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on August 03, 2022, 04:03:12 pm
I met up with Tellytubby in the Rhuddlan Nature reserve and then had a walk down the River Clwyd,   It was low water so there were many birds feeding on the sandbanks.    We then went to a pond where I used to go fishing as a young man and Tellytubby saw them first, Terrapins, really big terrapins soaking up the Sun on the other side of the pond.
Neither of us had seen them in the wild before even though we had heard stories about them.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on August 04, 2022, 10:22:06 am
Looks like a good trip and great photos, I must admit I thought Terrapins where problematic in the UK ? 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on August 08, 2022, 10:03:03 am
'Shocked' Snowdonia walkers report cluster of big cat sightings and 'massive pawprints'
One theory is that more sightings are being made as the national park's popularity grows - but photographic proof remains elusive


https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/shocked-snowdonia-walkers-report-cluster-24694830
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Helig on August 08, 2022, 10:38:34 am
There may be more to this than appears. People tend to dismiss these reports but I had an experience just before I moved to Sanquhar. I went out for a walk one morning, it was a glorious day and I was looking round to see if I wanted to move there. I went down the lane which ran to the river Nith and as I passed a dry stone wall, I saw something brown and bushy disappear over it. I looked over but couldn't see anything in a piece of scrubby land. I had my walk and on the return had to cross an old bridge over the river Nith. I could see something standing in the middle of the bridge and as I approached it saw it was a wildcat. It was a beautiful creature and I didn't know what to do, should I cross the bridge? In the end I decided to go over it and imagined the cat would run off. Not so, it stood there as I walked over and didn't move. I stopped as I drew alongside it, said hello puss and asked him how he was (as you do). We both stood there looking at each other for a few minutes. It was a wonderful few moments. I saw the markings it had and wonderful eyes. I had only taken my keys out with me so I had nothing to take a photo. The cat didn't move so I decided to carry on with my walk. After I had crossed the bridge, I looked back and it had gone.

I didn't think that Scottish wildcats existed that far south. I found a site which wanted details of wildcat sightings and reported it to them. They said it wouldn't have been a pure wildcat but a hybrid. That meant it would have been bred with domestic cats somewhere along the line. The markings it had supported that. They told me that someone in Moniaive, a village over the hills from there, had a collection of wildcats and there had been problems with them so he released them into the wild. I think it must have originated from there as the area was wild country with hills for miles after crossing the river.

I told some of the locals who dismissed it all. Fortunately a lady I knew who worked for the council told me she had seen it in her garden a few days later. She had two cats and was worried about them being out when she saw it there.

I think there are people who get exotic pets and cannot cope with them after a while. They may release them into the wild as the chap in Moniaive had done. It was a wonderful experience which I am sure will never be repeated. Despite walking in the area for years afterwards, I never saw anything like it again.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on August 10, 2022, 01:26:15 pm
A seal conservation group has warned people to ?maintain as much distance as possible? from the animals after a spate of incidents in North Wales in recent weeks.

The North Wales Seal Research Organisation (NWSRO), which works to raise awareness about the threats facing seals in the North West, has been notified on multiple occurrences of seals being handled and thrown into the sea despite resting.

A NWSRO spokesperson said: ?We have had a number of serious disturbance incidents along the Welsh coast over the past few weeks including resting seals being handled and thrown back in the sea.

?Please remember that seals should never be closely approached on land or in the sea.

?Seals need to rest on land to build up critical oxygen and energy reserves so a sleeping seal doesn't necessarily mean it?s a poorly seal.

?If you do think something is wrong report your location to BDMLR on 01825 765 546 and continue to maintain as much distance as possible, don't post their location on social media, and keep people away until medics arrive.?
Title: Re: Local Wildlife sort of
Post by: SteveH on August 19, 2022, 12:34:01 pm
Village with seagull problem introduces hilarious new 'rule' to deal with them
Visitors have been greeted with a sign dispensing 'advice' - which was definitely not written by the local council
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on September 02, 2022, 02:38:29 pm
Do we have any caterpillar experts on here ... anyone know what this will become.  Approx length 1.5 inches, and was on viburnum but did not appear to be eating it!

Tried googling but nothing coming up!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on September 14, 2022, 10:25:49 am
All-white birds have been spotted along the North Wales coast in recent days. Thought to be either crows or jackdaws, the appearance of the rare genetic anomalies has prompted much fascination as well as a little bird envy.

It is not known whether the sightings are of a single bird or a cluster. Despite spanning Denbighshire and Flintshire, from Prestatyn to Talacre, and including Llanasa and Gronant, the five-mile range suggests a single bird is more likely.

Photographs on social media all show an all-white bird, making identification difficult. But it is thought the bird is not an albino, as it appears to lack tell-tale pink eyes and beak. Instead, bird expert Julian Hughes suspects it is a leucistic bird, probably a carrion crow but possibly a jackdaw.

cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/rare-white-birds-sighted-north-25011221
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on September 20, 2022, 06:52:59 pm
A few weeks ago I was sitting in our sunlounge when a Heron walked down my back garden and just stood in the middle of the garden.   It wasn't there long enough for me to take a photo.
Then it just opened its wings and flew over the hedge to my neighbour's garden obviously intent on getting some food from my neighbour's fish pond
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on September 27, 2022, 10:22:31 am
Talking to neighbors over the summer, we agreed to having less trouble from the gulls in West Shore, but put it down to them having moved away during Covid, with less tourists about.   &shake&

Mystery as seagulls vanish from 'eerily quiet' Gwynedd coastal towns
Residents and visitors have been left wondering where their seagulls have gone

cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/gwynedd-coastal-towns-fall-eerily-25109587?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on October 17, 2022, 09:55:07 am
A FLINTSHIRE photographer had the opportunity of catching Anglesey's Red Squirrels in all their mischievous glory earlier this week.

cont plus photo gallery .......  https://www.leaderlive.co.uk/news/23047672.mold-photographer-catches-curious-red-squirrels-camera/?ref=rss&IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589

One of eight photos....
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on October 19, 2022, 10:33:11 am
A BEAUTIFUL velella jellyfish has washed up in Colwyn Bay, and at first confused residents as to what exactly it was.

The velella, more commonly known by the names sea raft, by-the-wind sailor, purple sail and little sail, was found on the beach near Horizon Shine kiosk by resident Louise Webster.

cont https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/23059117.by-the-wind-sailor-jellyfish-found-colwyn-bay-beach/
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on December 22, 2022, 02:20:54 pm
Incredible footage shows stranded dolphin being driven across Anglesey in dramatic rescue
No sooner had the female been released back into the sea, reports came in of a second stranding

video and photo gallery  https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/incredible-footage-shows-stranded-dolphin-25814749
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on December 23, 2022, 10:26:14 am
Not a happy update, sorry.......

A dolphin has died after a mother and her juvenile calf were found beached.

The pair were found in two separate locations on Anglesey and were returned to the sea after a 12-hour rescue operation.

However, one of the dolphins, believed the be the juvenile male, was found dead by HM Coastguard earlier.

A post-mortem examination will be carried out to try and establish why the dolphins became stranded, which could help inform conservation efforts.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cnlg0wqvg50o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=KARANGA&IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on January 07, 2023, 03:38:59 pm
Anglesey: Dogs save tiny turtle from becoming gull's dinner.       At least the little fellow is in good hands now, let's hope that he makes it

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-64192480
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on January 24, 2023, 10:18:07 am
Stunning images capture Snowdonia's elusive wild ponies emerging from the shadows
Gas engineer Daniel Diggory captured pictures of one of the region's great survivors

More photos  https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/stunning-images-capture-snowdonias-elusive-26049247?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589

Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on February 28, 2023, 03:24:35 pm
Tellytubby sent me this photo from facebook, it  must be Angel Bay where in the past we have both counted well over 40 Seals on that stretch of beach

Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on February 28, 2023, 05:15:18 pm
Tellytubby was in Llyn Parc Mawr near Newborough on Anglesey and took some photos of the Red Squirrels that thrive in the woodland.   In fact if you're lucky you can just sit in your car and take photos
Next time he'll remember to delete the time and date setting on his camera before taking his photos,      The bird in the photo is a tree creeper
Title: Re: Sir David Attenborough ............New five part UK wildlife series
Post by: SteveH on March 07, 2023, 10:38:08 am
Sir David Attenborough says there's never been a more important time to invest in the nature in our own backyard.

Wildlife in the British Isles can be just as "dramatic and spectacular" as anything elsewhere, he says.

After travelling the world to make nature documentaries, the 96-year-old shines a light on natural history closer to home for the first time.

He has said one of his regrets is spending so much time working on overseas natural history programmes rather than focusing on the wildlife on his doorstep.

Sir David is now fronting a five-part series which aims to underscore the challenges affecting nature within the British Isles and alert audiences to the species vanishing on their doorstep.

The show's producers said Sir David had agreed to narrate Wild Isles from the start and was later approached about presenting it, because of his rare perspective on how the British countryside has changed during his lifetime of almost a century.

Read more https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-64860842
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on April 07, 2023, 09:40:06 am
Magical sighting of rare 'ghost deer' prompts search for legendary white stag of North Wales
A mountain biker was 'shocked' to see the small white deer in a larger group of fallow deer
I've heard stories about the white Stag and know the areas where it can be seen but I've never been lucky enough to see it




https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/magical-sighting-rare-ghost-deer-26641609
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on April 09, 2023, 10:30:08 am
Rare footage of North Wales beach shows lone otter frolicking in the waves
The slippery mammal can be seen enjoying its exclusive access to the beach

The sighting occurred a couple of weeks ago on Monday, March 20. Since then, a baby otter has also been found strolling through a garden in Bodorgan, Anglesey.

video https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/rare-footage-north-wales-beach-26639341?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on April 11, 2023, 10:22:56 am
Coastguard called to 'people disturbing seals' on Llandudno beach

The public have been warned to stay away from the animals

The coastguard have issued a warning after they were called to a North Wales beach following reports of people "disturbing" seals. Llandudno coastguard asked people to stay away from the animals after the incident at Angel Bay on the Little Orme on Sunday.

They said seals could injure themselves trying to get away when disturbed, or could hurt someone with a "nasty bite".

"The seals will soon be leaving for the summer but whilst there are still seals on the beach we would advise people to stay away.

"The seals are easily spooked and can injure themselves or other seals in trying to get away from people and if you get too close, they can give a nasty bite."
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on April 15, 2023, 09:33:57 am
We had an unusual, but pleasant event yesterday, a large mixed flock of small birds came into the garden, they where everywhere,
shrubs, beds, lawn even in the pots, they stayed for about five minutes, the highlight was a couple of Goldfinches, we could not get a photo, afraid they would fly off, a stock photo of a Goldfinch below, we could not see any reason for the visit.
 
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: DVT on April 15, 2023, 08:08:08 pm
Does anyone have an App called Merlin on their phone - if not, download it (free) and you can have some fun!  It is an App for identifying birds by their call and also visually if you can get a pic.  I have found it to be quite accurate on the birds of Bodnant.

Earlier today I was on the moors just south of Llansannan and could hear birds singing - I thought I knew what they were so opened to App to play the sound of the bird I thought it was.  What a result - within less than a minute this little feller came down and came to within a few feet of me!

... and it is a photo taken by me!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on April 16, 2023, 09:51:37 am
Lucky you, I cannot remember the last time I heard or have seen a Sky Lark.
Title: Re: Wildlife and farming ...Bird Flu
Post by: SteveH on April 18, 2023, 10:21:21 am
Bird flu: Calls for government vaccine as lockdown lifts

Poultry keepers say the Welsh government should make a bird flu vaccine available to avoid future outbreaks.

This year has seen the world's largest ever bird flu outbreak, and some feel more preventative action could be taken.

A vaccine is already used in some countries outside of Europe.

But the government said the best protection is through hygiene and biosecurity measures.

Bird flu is an infectious disease of poultry and wild birds that has been around for a century. It usually flares up in autumn before fading away in spring and summer.

Since October 2022, Wales has seen six confirmed cases of avian influenza.

Poultry had been kept indoors since 2 December to protect them from the disease.

But the birds are now permitted outside on a phased basis as they are reintroduced to daylight.

Poultry keepers will only release birds for an hour at a time to allow them to adapt after such a long time indoors. 

Vaccination is considered a controversial solution as there isn't sufficient evidence that countries which have introduced the vaccine have managed to control the virus.

The National Farmers' Union (NFU) in Wales claim vaccination has some positive effects but say it does not solve all problems.

Ioan Humphreys, who has 32,000 birds on his farm in Newtown unrelated to the latest confirmed case, said he is "worried" about the lifting of the housing rule.

cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-65299311


Maybe all birds should wear masks... :P
Title: Re: Local not so wild animal life.........Colwyn Bay
Post by: SteveH on April 21, 2023, 10:10:15 am
Traffic stops for cat celebrities whose decadent 'bromance' is talk of North Wales seaside town
Bud and Sparky have their own Facebook page and a legion of fans in Colwyn Bay

A story for cat and animal lovers     :)

https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/traffic-stops-cat-celebrities-whose-26743350

Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on April 25, 2023, 02:59:14 pm
Sitting in the sun this morning, I heard a noise in the shrubs, had a look, saw nothing, kept hearing noises, closer look revealed a pair of nesting Blackbirds on the ground, the male was very unhappy with me, tried to scare me off, lots of alarm calls etc, was not over keen on the pigeons arriving for breakfast either, I was concerned over their choice of nest site, at the base of a sparse Lilac shrub, I was considering discouraging them, but searched Google.........

result..
The nest, built by the female, is low down in any suitable cover. Trees, shrubs and climbers are preferred, but nests can be found inside buildings, occasionally even on the ground. The nest is a substantial cup of grass, straw, small twigs and other plant material.

Always learning, will give them some space  :)
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Ian on April 26, 2023, 08:53:07 am
We have a nest in a similar location and the young are very human-friendly, we've found.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife............Warning
Post by: SteveH on May 03, 2023, 10:14:01 am
Warning to parents and dog owners after venomous snake spotted on popular North Wales beach
Adders will not usually attack unless they are provoked or feel threatened

Parents and dog owners have been put on alert for venomous snakes across north west Wales. Adders are more likely to bite as the weather warms and the snakes emerge from hibernation.

Already there has been an unconfirmed report of a dog being bitten at Newborough, Anglesey. Walkers have also reported multiple sightings of adders on the Llŷn Peninsula, another North Wales location where the snakes tend to be more numerous.

cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/warning-parents-dog-owners-after-26825194
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Helig on May 03, 2023, 05:08:01 pm
Adders are common at Loggerheads Country Park where they like the warm, or hot, rocks. They also like sandy soil and can be found at Wepre in the woods and fields.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on May 05, 2023, 04:01:04 pm
I spotted a large bird flying over the house last week, which I guessed as a Blue Heron, and Mrs H has pointed out on the RSPB Conwy reserve FB site a couple of photos taken by Sarah Horricks.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on May 10, 2023, 10:15:35 am
Glaslyn osprey finds new lovebird and set to become dad again

An osprey who lost his mate has found a new lovebird and is set to become a dad again.

Aran returned to Glaslyn, in Eryri, also known as Snowdonia, in April.

His partner, Mrs G, did not come back and is now believed to be dead after 20 years of returning from Africa to Wales.

But Aran, named after the national park's Yr Aran summit, has partnered up with a new bird in Wales.

She has been named Elen, after the mountain Yr Elen, which sits in Eryri's Carneddau range.

Rebecca Phasey, education officer for osprey protection group Bywyd Gwyllt Glaslyn Wildlife, said: "Aran attracted a new partner to the nest, and they bonded for a few weeks.

"And now she has laid two eggs. So we're so hopeful we'll see chicks in the Glaslyn nest again."

cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-65538964
Title: Re: Local Wildlife.....Octopus in shallow waters of Deganwy
Post by: SteveH on May 17, 2023, 10:17:28 am
Resident spots stunning octopus in shallow waters of Deganwy

AN OCOTPUS was spotted in the shallow waters of Deganwy beach, and should serve as a ?good reason? to protect the seas from pollution.

The octopus was found by Liz McIndoe, a member of the Friends of the West Shore group, which is dedicated to helping to improve amenities of the West Shore Promenade in Llandudno.

The tentacled creature appears to be a common octopus (Octopus vulgaris), which is normally found on the south and west coasts of the UK but does not usually come so close to the shore.

cont https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/23522036.resident-spots-stunning-octopus-shallow-waters-deganwy/?ref=rss&IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on May 23, 2023, 10:19:46 am
The North Wales towns and villages in the grip of 'extraordinary' bee swarms

Residents across North Wales have been left aghast by the sheer number of bee swarms descending in towns and villages this month. May often marks the start of the swarming season but beekeepers and householders are reporting larger numbers than usual.

In the past week, bees have made new homes in scores of attic spaces, from Blaenau Ffestiniog to Bethesda, Gwynedd. They?ve been reported in Dwyran on Anglesey, in willow trees in Ruthin, Denbighshire, and on chimneys in Llanwst, Conwy. A man reported a swarm in a bird box in Northop Hall, Flintshire.

https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/north-wales-towns-villages-grip-26965181
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on May 23, 2023, 03:55:03 pm
A ring Ouzel has appeared again in the garden this summer, I spotted it, and of course no camera, but got it just in case, and got lucky, along with a few regulars............the pigeon colours are getting more varied than ever.

Ring ouzels are black and white thrushes, similar in appearance to a blackbird. They spend the winter in Spain and northwest Africa, returning to the uplands of the UK to breed in the summer. Nesting often begins in late April, with two broods of chicks being common. Males sing from prominent crags and boulders, claiming a territory with their beautiful but desolate song. They have a varied diet that includes worms, insects and berries.

Ring Ouzel info... https://www.wildlifetrusts.org/wildlife-explorer/birds/thrushes-chats-flycatchers-starling-dipper-and-wren/ring-ouzel
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on June 01, 2023, 10:00:31 am
A pair of ospreys in the Glaslyn Valley near Porthmadog have hatched their first chick.

Aran and his new partner Elen have been incubating two eggs in recent weeks and the first chick was hatched at 01:38 on Wednesday 31 May.

Elen is unringed and was first seen at the Glaslyn nest on 3 April. Aran?s mate Mrs G had failed to return from her migration in what would have been her 20th year in the Glaslyn Valley. Aran and Elen soon bonded, and two eggs were laid.

https://www.cambrian-news.co.uk/news/new-arrival-as-osprey-chick-hatches-at-glaslyn-617760?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
Title: Re: Local Wildlife..Snake warning
Post by: SteveH on June 05, 2023, 09:26:09 am
One of the UK?s ?only venomous snakes? seen in Conwy Valley car park

A SNAKE which is the only venomous of its kind to be found in the UK was spotted in a Conwy Valley car park yesterday (June 4).

The adder was found near Llyn Crafnant by a member of staff from Prospect House Veterinary Clinic and Hospital, based in Colwyn Bay and Llainfairfechan.

The clinic said that the snake was ?happy being left alone?.

It added: ?This adder has just been seen in the car park near Llyn Crafnant (Conwy Valley) by one of our vets.

https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/23567076.one-uks-only-venomous-snakes-seen-conwy-valley-car-park/

?These are the only venomous snakes found in the wild in the UK. They pose a risk to humans and animals, and if bitten, immediate medical/veterinary treatment should be sought.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on June 05, 2023, 12:20:41 pm
On a similar note Steve,  I wouldn't fancy having a swim on this beach even in this glorious weather we are having

https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/monster-bad-boy-jellyfish-washes-27046621
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on June 23, 2023, 10:06:03 am
The weird creatures coming to beaches as Wales becomes 'more like the Med'
Britain needs to prepare for its changing marine life, according to the owner of Anglesey Sea Zoo

Sightings of unusual and exotic marine species will become more common on Welsh coasts as sea temperatures rise, a marine biologist has said. Over the coming years, warm-water sharks, turtles and jellyfish will visit in greater numbers and for longer periods if current trends continue.

Some creatures may pose a greater risk to beachgoers, prompting a need for greater awareness of marine medicine, said Frankie Hobro, owner and director of Anglesey Sea Zoo, Brynsiencyn. One example is the Portuguese Man o? War, a floating creature with a fearsome sting usually found in tropical and subtropical oceans.

cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/weird-creatures-coming-beaches-wales-27180494?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Ian on June 23, 2023, 11:39:09 am
There's another issue as well... From New scientist

"Ocean waters around the UK and Ireland are in the grip of one of the most severe marine heatwaves on Earth at the moment, with meteorologists warning temperatures are up to 4?C above normal for the time of year in some places.

The North Atlantic ocean has experienced record-breaking temperatures for the past three months, with average surface temperatures peaking on 17 June at 23?C (73.4?F), 0.2?C above the previous high set in 2010.

Much of the heat is currently concentrated on waters surrounding the UK and Ireland, with scientists at the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration categorising the region as being hit by a category 4 (extreme) marine heatwave.

Waters off the UK?s east coast, from Durham to Aberdeen, and off the west coast of Ireland are especially warm. Off Seaham, on the coast of Durham, water temperatures on 18 June hit 15?C, well above the 12?C average for the time of year. Some parts of the UK coast now have waters approaching 20?C, according to Rodney Forster at the University of Hull, UK.

Extreme sea temperatures can kill fish and other sea life and drive more powerful storms. They may also pose a long-term threat to human health ? a 2023 report from the UK?s Environment Agency warned that more frequent marine heatwaves increase the risk of shellfish becoming infected with Vibrio bacteria, which can cause sickness in humans."
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on June 24, 2023, 09:49:06 am
Anglesey sighting of pink 'love bug' that's suddenly popping up everywhere
It's said that only one in 100 people will see them in their lifetimes - but social media is awash with recent sightings

cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/anglesey-sighting-pink-love-bug-27188074
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on June 28, 2023, 08:01:14 am
Furious outcry as Hollywood film crew descends on Llandudno beach where grey seals are protected
Some residents and seal lovers are appalled - but the filming was properly sanctioned and overseen by a wildlife charity

People were left horrified when a film crew took a Hollywood actress to a North Wales beach renowned for its precious grey seal population. As measures to safeguard the seals are in place at the beach, residents claimed different rules appeared to apply for film productions.

Photos have emerged of Queen?s Gambit star Anya Taylor-Joy filming scenes at Angel Bay on the Little Orme, between Llandudno and Penrhyn Bay. She was in the area for ?The Gorge?, a new Apple Original movie said to also involve Hollywood legend Sigourney Weaver and Top Gun: Maverick star Miles Teller.

cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/furious-outcry-hollywood-film-crew-27203309?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
Title: Re: Local Wildlife..Harbour porpoises sighted in waters off Rhos-on-Sea beach!
Post by: SteveH on June 29, 2023, 09:55:02 am
HARBOUR porpoises were spotted off the coast of Rhos-on-Sea yesterday morning (June 28).

Resident Christine Booton recorded a porpoise in the water, and said it was a ?nice surprise? to see them so close to the shore.

?I scan the water most mornings whilst walking the dogs on the beach to see if there is any activity,? she told the Pioneer.

?So it was a nice surprise to see some porpoise this morning.?

A representative of the Sea Watch Foundation for Flintshire, Denbighshire and Conwy said it seemed to be a harbour porpoise, and that the sighting would be added to their database.

cont plus video  https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/23621451.harbour-porpoises-sighted-waters-off-rhos-on-sea-beach/?ref=rss&IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on July 22, 2023, 10:38:49 am
Hundreds of dead birds wash up on Welsh beaches as bird flu outbreak confirmed
"The birds are being regularly removed although more are being washed up between the clear-ups"

cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/hundreds-dead-birds-wash-up-27366999
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on August 01, 2023, 09:48:50 am
A ?20,000 scheme to reduce the number of seagulls in a North Wales seaside resort has been abandoned.

A business group had backed a project to control the gull population without harming or culling the birds.

The Rhyl Business Improvement District ? put forward the funds three years ago for a scheme that would have targeted gull eggs before they reached the embryo stage ? after a spate of attacks on residents and tourists.

But the business-led partnership has stepped back from the scheme in the face of opposition from animal rights campaigners and potential negative publicity.

cont https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/23692268.scheme-reduce-seagull-numbers-denbighshire-conwy-abandoned/?ref=rss&IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: hollins on August 01, 2023, 05:48:35 pm
Unexpected visitor today!
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on August 01, 2023, 10:50:59 pm
Really great photos Hollins,  you were so lucky seeing that bird
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on August 03, 2023, 09:57:04 am
A MAN in Abergele has been welcoming unlikely guests into his garden ? a family of deer.

Craig Hughes, who runs Craig Hughes Upholstery in Colwyn Bay, said deer enter his garden on a ?regular basis? at his and his family?s home on the outskirts of Abergele.

Their visits vary from every few months to a daily occurrence, and has been going on for years.

In the last week they were visited by a mother and baby, and shortly before that a larger herd.

cont https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/23697084.colwyn-bay-craftsman-welcomes-deer-family-garden/
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on August 03, 2023, 10:15:01 am
It must be a lovely sight to see the Deer on a regular basis.     Some years ago Telly tubby and I were sitting on a viewpoint overlooking Llanfair Road in Abergele and while we were having our meal, Deer started coming out of the woods one by one.    In the end we counted 13 Deer in the field below us.     It was quite a beautiful sight
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on August 09, 2023, 10:29:43 am
A  FAMILY of harbour porpoises were spotted off the coast of Llandudno on the weekend.

Two adults and a calf were spotted in the waters off the Great Orme by members of the Sea Watch Foundation's National Whale and Dolphin Watch on Sunday, 6 August.

The pictures were captured looking directly down from Marine Drive.

Harbour porpoises differ ever so slightly from dolphins, and grow up to 1.9 metres long.

cont and photos https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/23708908.harbour-porpoises-sighted-waters-off-great-orme/#gallery0
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on August 19, 2023, 12:32:36 pm
Tellytubby had a day out at Tatton Park recently and sent these photos of the Deer that are in the park
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on August 19, 2023, 03:20:04 pm
Man called police after bat flew into his North Wales home and he wasn't happy with response
It comes days after another bizarre 999 call


What a wimp!     It reminded me of the time I was at a local pub quiz with a friend when I had a phone call from my wife saying that a Bat had flown in to my house and would I come home to catch it.       When I arrived home the Bat had gone into the bedroom so I shut the bedroom door and the little thing flew round and round the room until the poor little creature was exhausted and clung on to the curtains.   I carefully grabbed the Bat whose skin was like velvet to touch and released him safely through the bedroom window.
Then I returned back to the pub to finish the quiz



https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/man-called-police-after-bat-27550379
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on August 20, 2023, 10:41:22 am
Hugo, we had lots of them up at the lake, and they put on quite a display when the security light came on, but no problems from them coming into the house, the nearest we got, was young owls sitting on our kitchen barn door.

Last week I spotted a Peregrine Falcon sitting on our garden fence, it stayed for awhile, until it was knocked off by an attacking Magpie,
this according to my search later is not uncommon, we also had a visit from a long nosed Bee Fly? hovering over our doorstep Buddleia.

Dark-edged bee-fly             Ref Wildlife Trust
About. The dark-edged bee-fly, or 'large bee-fly', looks rather like a bumblebee, with a long, straight proboscis that it uses to feed on nectar from spring flowers, such as primroses and violets. It is on the wing in the early spring, when it can often be seen in sunny patches.
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on August 20, 2023, 02:38:09 pm
That Peregrine Falcon must have been a great sight to see,  the Magpie must have felt quite brave to take on the Falcon.     I see something similar from my house but it's with Buzzards, they are quite big and fierce looking but the Crows don't seem scared of them, although the Crows are in large numbers when they attack a Buzzard

A while ago the Great Orme Warden took a party of us into Pwllycrochan Woods to see Badgers, Bats and moths and it was a very interesting 3 hours or so.    We saw the Bgers come out of their setts and the Bats flying around in the woods. In fact we had a small machine that sounded like a geiger counter and it captured the sound waves emitted by the Bats and each variety of Bat has its own frequency.    The moths were seen on a white sheet that was lit up by a battery so all in all it was a nice experience
I went home and told Mrs H and she said that she had also seen Badgers, Bats and moths that evening but they were in our back garden,
Title: Re: Local Wildlife.......Llandudno
Post by: SteveH on August 23, 2023, 10:25:30 am
IT IS USUALLY the goats causing traffic chaos in Llandudno but this morning, it was two different animals causing mischief!

North Wales Police took to Facebook at about 5.30am on Wednesday, August 23 to say: "Drivers are asked to take care when travelling along the road between Craigside and Penrhyn Bay, Llandudno, as there have been reports of two donkeys on the road in the area. Thank you."

They have since been safely removed from the road and into a nearby farm.

The force posted on social media at 6.43am: "In relation to the two donkeys on the road in Craigside near Penrhyn Bay, they have now been safely moved to a nearby farm."................ ref pioneer
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on August 30, 2023, 10:14:42 am
A LIZARD was luckily found in the back garden of a home on the Great Orme of Llandudno.

Janine Cunningham spotted the reptile in her partner?s garden when clearing out an overgrown area.

Hoping to strim away vegetation at the spot, Janine luckily spotted the lizard before any harm could come to it, and placed it in a safe place.

cont https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/23753444.beautiful-lizard-found-back-garden-llandudno-home/?ref=rss&IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on September 02, 2023, 10:16:34 am
After posting on the photography thread this morning, I realised I had mistakenly reported seeing a Peregrine Falcon on 20th Aug last,
it would appear to have been a Sparrow Hawk, ......Sorry  :-[

the photo below is what I saw.........
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on September 02, 2023, 12:26:25 pm
It's an easy mistake to make Steve, both birds fly into the garden so quickly that it's almost impossible to see them  let alone take a photo of them.    We've had a few Sparrow Hawks here and they swoop down after the little birds in the garden but they also go after the Pigeons too
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on September 07, 2023, 01:24:19 pm
We ejoyed a coastal walk yesterday along the Lafan Sands.    The tide was far out when we started the walk but by the time we reached the Spinney's Nature Reserve the tide was coming in fast and the Swans, Geese and other birds feeding and making quite a racket while they were at it.    It was a lovely experience to witness
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on October 09, 2023, 12:09:08 pm
I was awake at 4.00 am when the security light came on this morning and had a look at the back garden and saw a Badger walking up by the wire fence and then going underneath the wire.     It's the first one I've seen in the back garden for about two years.    They used to visit us every night but when we got Teddy the Cockapoo I had to put a wire fence around the garden to stop Teddy escaping and also to stop the Badgers coming in.
Anyway I had a look at the spot where the Badger went under the fence and saw that he had pulled up the metal pegs that were holding the fence down.   Not only that but he had taken the Suet cake and the metal container it was in and taken it with him
I've had a busy time recently having all the hedges done and then putting back the wire fence.   The fence was finished bar a 3 foot section and I put objects across it but yesterday Teddy still found a way to get in to next door's garden so that's my job for this afternoon stopping Teddy getting out and stopping the Badger getting in to the garden
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on October 22, 2023, 10:26:58 am
When I last saw the Badger in the garden he ran away with the suet cake and the holder it was in so I had to buy another suet cake holder.
Last night he came back and pinched the suet cake but left the cake holder behind as well as a number of big holes in the lawn.   This morning I've been repairing the lawn and knocking more metal pegs   to keep the wire fence down.      I've now run out of these pegs so I've ordered some more online today but there is always a downside with these metal pegs
  I was mowing the grass for only the second time with my brand new lawn mower when there was an almighty noise and it turned out that one of these metal pegs was on the lawn and I had mowed over it
Thank goodness the mower still works  but the accident won't have done it much good either and I won't be putting that suet cake holder in the garden again
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on October 30, 2023, 09:32:24 am
Dying seal's flippers tied together by balloon ribbon released over North Wales by grieving relative
The horrific incident has sparked renewed calls for a ban on memorial balloon releases

A wildlife rescue specialist is appealing for an end to memorial balloon releases because of the dangers they pose to the environment. It follows the death on the North Wales coast of a young seal pup found with its flippers bound together by plastic balloon string.

Balloon releases have been embraced as an act of remembrance but campaigners say they can harm wildlife and leave plastic and rubber in the environment for years to come. Gem Simmons, who runs North Wales Seal Research Organisation, has seen firsthand the devastation balloon debris can cause.

cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/dying-seals-flippers-tied-together-28006503?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on October 31, 2023, 09:47:18 am
Another sad story.............

A PORPOISE that was left stranded on Rhos-on-Sea beach at the weekend was ?euthanised? in order to avoid it suffering more.

At 6:10am on October 28, British Divers Marine Life Rescue were alerted to reports of a stranded dolphin in Rhos-on-Sea by a member of the public.

On arrival, medics found it to be a male harbour porpoise at just under a metre in length, said medic Gem Simmons.

With little light and a turning tide, medics worked through the morning to stabilise the animal and perform a crucial medical assessment to help them determine the next best course of action.

cont https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/23887975.porpoise-found-rhos-on-sea-beach-humanely-euthanised/?ref=rss&IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on November 04, 2023, 10:27:59 am
A WOMAN and her partner made an unexpected discovery by Llandudno?s seafront yesterday (November 2) while holidaying in the town.

Nicola Jane and her partner, visiting North Wales from Merseyside, came across a Bull Huss, also known as a greater spotted dogfish or nurse hound shark.

They spotted it by the town?s bandstand at about 1.30pm, with Nicola admitting it was a first for her.

She said: ?We were shocked, as we had never seen one before!

?It was found by my partner, right by the bandstand. Unfortunately, we didn?t ring anyone (to report the finding) as it was dead.?

cont https://www.northwalespioneer.co.uk/news/23900317.couple-shocked-find-dead-shark-llandudnos-seafront/
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on November 08, 2023, 10:44:17 am
I found the metal suet cake holder in my neighbours garden that the Badger had pinched recently so yesterday I filled the cage up and hung it up on my Eucalyptus Tree thinking that it would be safe there.
This morning I found out that the Badger had climbed up the tree and the empty holder was on the ground.     :(
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on November 14, 2023, 10:20:20 am
Urgent warning as flotilla of venomous creatures wash up on Gwynedd coast
Many more Portuguese Man o' War are being seen these year, perhaps a sign of things to come

Vets put dog owners on high alert for a venomous sea creature that delivers horrendous stings. Over recent days there have been multiple reports of Portuguese Man o' War washing up on beaches all along the Gwynedd coastline.

Once a relative rarity on Welsh coasts, an expert believes they are becoming more commonplace as the climate changes. With tints of blues, purples and pinks, the creatures are undeniably things of beauty but beachgoers should steer well clear.

cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/urgent-warning-flotilla-venomous-creatures-28098402
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on December 08, 2023, 04:47:42 pm
Waxwings were spotted in Llysfaen this week and it must have been nice to see so many of them
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on December 15, 2023, 02:12:03 pm
Dog sniffs out another critically endangered turtle on Anglesey beach
Rhossi, one of the world's rarest sea turtles, was found in the seaweed by Meg in Rhosneigr


https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/turtle-anglesey-beach-critically-endangered-28295202
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on December 19, 2023, 11:57:01 pm
Tellytubby spotted some more Waxwings in Rhuddlan and another bird  he saw on facebook
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on December 27, 2023, 09:29:25 am
Climate change: Seasonal shifts causing 'chaos' for UK nature

The loss of predictable weather patterns is "causing chaos" for nature, according to the National Trust.

It warns climate change is upsetting the regular rhythm of the seasons, making plants and wildlife more susceptible to disease.

The effects can be seen across the estates the National Trust manages.

This seasonal "baseline shift" is disrupting the annual behaviours of animals in particular but also impacting trees and plants, it said.

"The incremental shifts we're experiencing in terms of our seasons extending may not feel like much in a 12-month period, but over a decade the changes are extremely significant", said Ben McCarthy, head of Nature and Restoration Ecology at the National Trust.

2023 saw a series of temperature records, with the warmest June and highest sea temperatures ever recorded around the coast of the UK.

An unusually warm winter allowed pests and diseases to thrive.

cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-67705812
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on January 04, 2024, 05:05:42 pm
Tellytubby was out and about this afternoon and managed to see this lovely Barn Owl
Title: Re: Local Wildlife................White-tailed Eagle, or Sea Eagle
Post by: SteveH on January 06, 2024, 09:55:40 am
Mystery surrounds the appearance of a rare eagle not native to Wales for hundreds of years.

The White-tailed Eagle, or Sea Eagle, was seen at Rhodri Jones' farm near Llanuwchllyn, Gwynedd.

Eagles have been extinct as a breeding species for more than 150 years and this type has been absent in Wales since the 16th Century.

"Where it's come from, well that's a bit of a mystery," said wildlife expert Iolo Williams.

The eagle was first seen flying at the farm on Wednesday, 3 January, and Mr Jones said he saw it again the following day.

cont https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-67900976
Title: Re: Local Wildlife...........Big Garden Birdwatch 2024
Post by: SteveH on January 26, 2024, 09:52:57 am
Everything you need to know to take part in the Big Garden Birdwatch 2024

Twitchers rejoice, the annual census of the feathered friends of the nation is back and we've got everything you need to know on how to get birds flocking to your garden or balcony

cont https://www.walesonline.co.uk/whats-on/shopping/everything-you-need-know-take-28511802?IYA-reg=49560bcd-5a9c-47f0-8fc5-ba2e71710589
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on January 26, 2024, 10:28:33 am
There are still some nice looking birds about at this time of the year
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on February 01, 2024, 09:51:09 am
Dolphins stranded on Anglesey Beach helped by rescuers
Coastguard and marine medics went to aid of common dolphins that got stuck.   Well done everyone involved in the rescue.



https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/dolphins-stranded-anglesey-beach-helped-28548370
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on February 19, 2024, 11:29:58 am
A friend sent me this photo from Facebook.     It was taken recently and shows the Seals in Pigeons Cove and looks like it was taken from the Marine Drive.
I've never seen that many there before and with all the other Seals at nearby Angel Bay it looks like a thriving Seal population live in this area
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: Hugo on February 20, 2024, 10:46:11 pm
Grey seals haul out on beach in vast numbers at Great Orme cove
They make a breathtaking sight but people should watch from a distance - and be quiet


https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/grey-seals-haul-out-beach-28670765
Title: Re: Local Wildlife
Post by: SteveH on February 24, 2024, 09:51:04 am
The important reason odd shaped blocks are part of sea defence work on North Wales beach
Sea defence work is nearly complete along the Old Colwyn promenade

"One type has a mesh over depressions in the side and a depression on top for a pool. That is for molluscs to inhabit with seaweed. They will be placed on the groynes and outfall further out.

"The other type has a rock pool in the top. They are placed in the base of the revetment near the pier.

cont https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/cool-reason-odd-shaped-blocks-28684540