Layover birding tour

This week we were joined by Rachael from California for a very enjoyable two-day tour during her extended layover, heading out from Heathrow for some excellent birding. Here is a photo blog of just some of the highlights...

In the mild and sunny conditions, Blue Tits at Richmond Park were inspecting potential nest sites for next year

Robins were very friendly in Richmond Park!

We were amazed to spot this roosting Tawny Owl by chance while watching Goldcrests in a nearby conifer

The owl had certainly chosen a cosy spot to slumber!

Marsh Tits showed nicely for us in the Chilterns

We took time to photograph Red Kites in the Chilterns

The kites were picking small prey items from a stubble field

But sometimes they picked up a clod of earth and plant material instead

The same field in the Chilterns was full of Redwings (photo) and Fieldfares

Pied Wagtails greeted us at Staines Moor

Wintering Chiffchaffs were feeding busily along the River Colne

Water Pipits were a highlight at Staines Moor, this being a rare wintering species in Britain

A male Dartford Warbler was a delightful surprise

We spent time watching Little Grebes diving in the river

Green Woodpeckers were active on the moor

Several pairs of Stonechats allowed good photographic opportunities

A Kingfisher was making the most of the floods

This male Mute Swan was keen to turf intruders out of his territory

Despite being in winter plumage, pairs of Great Crested Grebes on a calm Staines Reservoir were getting in the mood for some courtship behaviour

This immaculate first-winter Common Gull patrolled the causeway at Staines Reservoir

Staines Reservoir delivered an extra Water Pipit, calling as it flew around us before heading off