Nick and Sara d’Agorne, leaders of the Teignmouth & District u3a bird watching group report on a recent visit to the Passage House Inn, Kingsteignton, where being in the right place at the right time brought the right dividends, resulting in the right experience!
Nick and Sara said: ‘Once again, the weather forecast focussed the minds of the birdwatchers as they arrived in the car park at The Passage House Inn. However, the rain did not phase this intrepid group.
‘With brollies and waterproofs to the fore, the group of 12 stood observing the birds that were largely enjoying the freshwater, having an early morning wash.
‘A Little Egret, looking rather bedraggled, hunkered down right beside the car park and then suddenly the birds appeared very nervous, as a Peregrine Falcon swooped in to land on the electricity pylon, close enough for telescope views.
‘The resting gulls were then joined by a few waders, as the tide receded, with some good views of Common Sandpiper, Curlew and Bar-tailed Godwit, whilst two helicopters disturbed a group of Snipe and Lapwing.
‘Just as the group started thinking about coffee everything changed as the sun came out and a beautiful flash of turquoise and orange signalled the arrival of a Kingfisher, which landed right in plain view on the jetty, for everyone to marvel at.
‘Many thanks to member Ken Flaxman, who expertly took the photo with the able assistance of fellow member, Dave Dean, who did the photo-shopping.
‘Overall, 28 species were seen from this ideal location, with some excellent views, as the birds have become accustomed to people walking alongside this stretch of the Teign.’