The reservoirs near Staines (1 Viewer)

[htcdude]

From what I can gather there seem to be a number of reservoirs near Staines and Sunbury (Queen Mary, Queen Elizabeth II, Knight, Molesey, Island Barn, Wraysbury, Queen Mother, Staines and King George VI reservoirs).
I was wondering if their were any better than other to visit, what I can expect to see if I went during the afternoon (3-5pm) and what the best times to see the birds are (in case I can go at other times ).

Thanks!

 

[delia todd]

Hi htcdude

We have an Opus article with some information about the Staines Reservoirs, which may keep you going till someone with more knowledge comes in to advise you.

Perhaps you could take some photos whilst you there to add to the article

D

 

[htcdude]

Heh I'll try my best! Not sure how to upload on the site yet (or to the Opus for that matter!) but I'm sure I'll work it out Thanks for the reply

(more replies welcome!) :-D

 

[PYRTLE]

From what I can gather there seem to be a number of reservoirs near Staines and Sunbury (Queen Mary, Queen Elizabeth II, Knight, Molesey, Island Barn, Wraysbury, Queen Mother, Staines and King George VI reservoirs).
I was wondering if their were any better than other to visit, what I can expect to see if I went during the afternoon (3-5pm) and what the best times to see the birds are (in case I can go at other times ).

Thanks!

Staines is certainly public with a causeway running through them, very good when they're drained. Queen Mother now has a permit system.
Check out the recreation /birdwatching sections of the Thames Water website, also Berkshire Birding website regarding Wraysbury and Queen Mum. Also try out LNHS (London Natural History Society) as they cover some of the inner London reservoirs. Good luck

 

[RobinD]

Staines is your best option - it has open access in the form of a footpath along the causeway between the two basins, a good selection of birds throughout the year, (it is relatively shallow which helps), a great history of rarities and usually at least one other birder will be there!

The others are pretty much no access or permit only.

 

[htcdude]

OK great thanks for that guys I'll give Staines a go

 

[htcdude]

Well I actually went down there this morning for an hour or less before work.....I realise now I will need a scope next time I go

Fortunately someone was able to lend me theirs, but not a lot there. Usual Coots, Tuftys, Common Tern, BH Gull, 100's of Swifts alongside House Martin, Sand Martin, & Swallow. A pair of Shelduck with young and 1 Common Sandpiper.

Hobby or Sprawk was seen (I'll post video later so you guys can confirm!)

 

[RobinD]

Sorry, should have mentioned the need for a scope!

Check the pylons for Peregrine as well...

Staines Moor is worth exploring for passerines as well.

ATB

Robin

 

[htcdude]

Saw this:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WDJQAGfdUDo

It's in the Bird ID section as well


Thanks for the advice