Black Grouse & much more at World's End

I had been determined to book a couple of Fridays off work but the slow start to spring & being stacked out with projects had made it more difficult that normal. This week I was going to be sticking to the plan whatever, so arrangements were put in place to head to Wales with the Squire. The alarm was set for a staggering 3am leaving the midlands at 4am. Motorway closures either side of the part of the M6 we used ensured a smooth passage ensuring we arrived as the sun began to rise.

The bubbling noises of Black Grouse greeted us from our parking space that we were lucky to get as more birders & photographers arrived. This was the first time Paul had seen Black Grouse and we got a wonderful display in fantastic weather. With the more dominant males in the centre of the lek, the birds on the outside dared not stray into the arena for more than a few seconds before retreating quickly. There were around 30 red blooded Grouse but it was difficult to get an exact count as birds were hidden whilst a few left the lek before returning. If you ever visit yourself you need to sit quietly in your car whilst the lek is in progress and be quiet. Under no circumstances get out of your car !

After enjoying the Black Grouse for about ninety minutes the birds had departed so we headed further north to a couple of locations I had visited before. Travelling over the moor I picked up a distant raptor and after quickly parking up we jumped out where there were two Hen Harriers, a male & a ringtail. Absolutely stunning, there really can't be many better sights. At the same location we also recorded a Sparrowhawk & a distant Goshawk, quite a start to the day.

While we could hear the Red Grouse we wanted a perfect view for Paul to record his 13th lifer of the year. Suddenly Paul slammed his brakes on as he spotted a Red Grouse sitting tight in the heather. The colours of birds neck were just majestic. 

We were determined to find our first Wheatear of the year however it took until late morning when we found four on the top of Horseshoe Pass. Other sightings Chiffchaff, Snipe, Stonechat, Curlews and at our final stop we found a flock of calling Crossbills however we only managed to see the females well. 

An epic day out and we safely back home by 5pm very tired but still ready for a good weekend of birding ahead.