Vane Farm

Saturday 14th January 2012
Having had such an interesting day last Saturday I decided once again to leave the 'Shire for Vane Farm in Fife. The weather was not quite so good this week, as we were coming out of the back end of a cold snap and as it had warmed up slightly it had brought a bit of cloud cover with it.

Still it wasn't too cold and there was little wind to talk of so with the flask filled and my new camera in the bag, it was off we went.

The weather through the 'Shire was clear and bright however it did get more overcast as I approaches the Royal Kingdom of Fife.

On arrival I was greeted by a Pied Wagtail

and some male Chaffinch helping themselves to the feed that the RSPB leave out for them. 

As always there was a quick cup of tea and a scone to be had and a chat with the RSPB staff. It appeared that the 2 x White Tailed Eagles that had been in evidence for over a month had gone into hiding, possibly because of the fact that there were shooters out on the Loch.

The Carden Hide showed very little either than 7 x Black-headed Gull and some Herring Gull. 

Not even a curlew in site, although there was still some ice in evidence from the previous nights frost.

Walking back towards the middle hide I was greeted by 2 beautifully coloured Siskin on the banking at the side of the path.

The middle hide was quiet too except for some Curlew and a Grey Heron, sitting 20m from the window.

Back off towards the Gillman Hide to spy plenty of Mallard, both male and female, Teal, Whooper Swan, and Tufted Ducks. A great discussion started between some of the other birders as to whether or not there was a Scaup in among the Tufties. It certainly met all the criteria.

Stepping outside the hut for a flask of coffee, I was greeted by a lovely Robin sitting 10 feet away. 

Whilst trying to get a decent photo, a Tree Creeper appeared, doing what it did best, which was nice and a first for me at Vane Farm and a welcome addition to the 2012 Scotland List.

The usual collection of Great Tit, Coal Tit, Green and Gold Finches were emptying the various feeders beside the hide. Then it was time for home.


As I am pushed for time next week I think I will stay in the 'Shire and visit Blackness on the River Forth to see what is about