Brad led a bespoke tour for our most regular clients Tim and Anna at the end of September with a request to see Choughs and some waders. Obviously we needed to visit two different habitats for that! So back to trusty Nanquidno and the Hayle estuary to oblige.

Hayle and in particular Ryan’s Field was the first destination as the weather wasn’t particularly pleasant, so viewing form the hide was a must. This turned out to be a good decision with Black and Bar-tailed Godwits, Lapwing, Redshank, Curlew and 3 Ruff available! A Kingfisher was an added bonus. A look from the car at the main estuary also added Ringed Plover, Dunlin, Teal, Wigeon, Brent Geese, Sandwich Tern and the Osprey also put in an appearance!

Nanquidno was exposed and wild in 35mph + winds and showers and initially there was no sign of any Choughs. Two Ravens, a Peregrine and lots of diving Gannets kept our group entertained until finally four Chough shot past in the wind, at one point the Peregrine stooped on the party! Luckily the Choughs evaded the attack at two landed nearby giving great views. Eventually, there were ten birds feeding together, much to the delight of our clients.

Another quick look at the Hayle Estuary on the way back added further species to the day list including Spotted Redshank and Med Gull and as a finale, the Osprey came over a very close range!

And always nice to get some feedback! “Fantastic morning with Brad.. He was an excellent host , and took us to some lovely places. The highlight was seeing 10 Choughs on the ground feeding, fabulous.. Please let us know when you have planned some trips next year, we would obviously love to be involved” Tim and Anna.

Zoom in to count the Choughs!

If you fancy a bespoke trip get in touch!!