Lake Tegel as a winter birding destination in Berlin

During migration and in winter waterfowl rest in good numbers on the Tegeler See (a lake just north of Tegel airport). A visit in late January performed with damp and cold conditions at temperatures around 0 degree Celsius. The shore is lined of a crumbling ice. No welcoming weather. No snow nor sunshine will improve… Continue reading Lake Tegel as a winter birding destination in Berlin

Albino Eurasian Oystercatcher (Haematopus ostralegus) in Devon

During a visit to the hides im Dawlish Warren National Nature Reserve I was lucky to observe a partly albinotic Eurasian Oystercatcher. This was on the afternoon of 22nd of August 2013. The website of the reserve refers to abnormalies in plumages with oystercatchers which occur with some regularity most years. Otherwise, this wader is… Continue reading Albino Eurasian Oystercatcher (Haematopus ostralegus) in Devon

Great Crested Grebes on floating nest

Great Crested Grebe (Podiceps cristatus) are common birds in Germany. Its population is therefore largely constant. Following severe persecution in the 19th century a significant recovery was observed since the mid-20th century. The grebes benefited mainly from the increase in the food supply of small fish in nutrient-rich waters. However, their habitat by water sports… Continue reading Great Crested Grebes on floating nest