Observing Cranes in East Norfolk (1 Viewer)

[Edward woodwood]

A rather unfortunate incident occured today at Brograve Farm.

Myself and two friends were at Waxham when we heard the cranes calling. Having not seen them for a few days we drove to where we thought they were. We parked up at Brograve as it started to rain. Two birders were on the farmer's driveway watching the cranes. As we sat it out for a minute, another birder ran past us and into the farmyard, round the corner. A very short while later he ran back. I asked him if he'd seen them and he replied yes. I then asked him if it was a public right of way. He made a couple of excuses and walked off. I told him what he'd done and he seemed little concerned.

The farmer was rightly very annoyed someone had walked straight through his property and started remonstrating with the guy and also us who i presume he thought had done the same. We moved just round the corner and found all 33 birds and enjoyed brief views before several cars pulled up on the verge. The farmer appeared and purposefully flushed all the cranes. The newly arived people (about 20) only had very poor views (if any) as the birds flew off.

If you come to see the cranes STAY ON PUBLIC ROADS AND RIGHTS OF WAY. We don't need the farmers getting cheesed off and doing this kind of thing because of a few selfish idiots. The Cranes certainly don't need it. Please park sensibly too (pull off the road, don't just stop) Apologies to the 99% who don't do this sort of thing.

Tim

 

[matt green]

very unfortunate indeed..

I'd guess this type of thing happens quite a bit in north/east norfolk,especialy when the chances of finding a rare on farmland/private property is so much more likely than the rest of the county.

as if local events (rc starling) where not enough to discourage this kind of behavior!

matt

 

[Edward woodwood]

The best spot for anyone wanting to see a crane will soon be Stubb Mill roost at Hickling

Otherwise, the birds can be seen anywhere in the Waxham, Horesy, Sea Palling area although it's often a matter of luck. Morning and evening are good, the fields around Brograve Farm and Walnut Farm can be good as can opposite Waxham Sands camp for small numbers. South of Horsey Mill is also worth a go (either side of road). Listening for the distant calls can be the first clue. (Bit like geese but very disitnctive once known - my GF picked em up today after hearing 4000 at Jos's place!)

Be sensible and everyone can enjoy them

Tim

 

[David Norgate]

Completely agree Tim
Unfortunately the farmers in this area are not particularly birder (bird?) friendly, but incidents like this will only make things worse. Why people can't combine common sense, patience and respect to their birding is beyond me. To matt green you are probably right, but local birders try very hard to keep good relationships with land owners and hopefully we can all profit fromtheir hard work when a true rarity is found in theses areas. It is not surprising that land owners often want news surpressed!

VIEW THOUGHTFULLY AND SENSIBLY EVERYONE!

 

[Karl J]

Personally i think the 4x4 / off-road alliance or whatever the *ell its called has a lot to answer for

open up the countryside for everyone

Or, see nature and park on it.

incidentally theres a new wooden platform at Stubb Mill on the bank