After stopping at Melmerby for a light lunch we headed to Haweswater for a spot of birding. Neither of us had been there before before and didn't really know what to expect. Very isolated and with stunning scenery you couldn't ask for much more. Not many birds today and although there is a Golden Eagle RSPB spotting post somewhere at Haweswater it proved to be very hard to find with the only directions at the car park and with so many tracks and trails we gave up. It didn't matter though as the pure beauty of the place was enough. On the lake we spotted a couple of Mallard, a few Tufted Ducks, and to my delight some Goosander. There was some Gulls near the dam but that was about it. Sat for quite a while watching the Tufted Ducks while Mike was perched on the side of some rocks trying to get the light right without shadows for a decent photo.
On the way to our acommodation we spotted a fabulous Buzzard perched on a branch right on the road side, unfortunately with nowhere to park the photo opportunity passed. Next Time!!!
Out again today - Great without the greater and lesser spotted teenagers.
Hi Michelle, about 20 years ago we use to go to Haweswater regularly. The Eagle site is a mile walk around the back of the lake. Follow the lake edge from the car park as if you are going around the far shore and you'll find yourself looking up a dead end valley. This is where the eagles were.
ReplyDeleteOn your way to Haweswater just past the Haweswater hotel is a crag next to the road with Peregrines. We once has Goshawk there too. Ravens nest on the same crag right over the road.
Hi Stewart
ReplyDeleteWe definately are planning another trip to Haweswater and will look out for the Peregrines. There was lots og Rook / Raven / Crow birds along the lake shore, but I'm not that good at teling them apart just yet. Next time I'll pay more attention.
Michelle The Ravens tend to stay high up away from people. They are the size of a Buzzard but are best told by their call, a deep woody 'cronk' or 'pruk'. When you hear it you'll know. They form a large black crucifix in the sky with long head and bill, long wedge shaped tail and long pointed wings. Listen for them at the road side Peregrine crag. Late April / Early May is a nice time to be there.
ReplyDeleteThere is just a single male Eagle left at Hawewater now, I went to see it last october and got superb views of it displaying in the valley. cheers
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