It is strange to think that only the other day I was sat in one of the hides at Penny Flash, my local patch when I am at home in Manchester. Now I was on one of my local patches near my home here in Norway, the Hardangervidda. There is nothing like high Norwegian mountains in May. Looking at the picture one would think "will there be birds here"? But the answer is a big YES. On nearly every bare patch of ground there is something to be seen. In most cases it is just Meadow Pipit, which is without a doubt the commonest species during the summer months. Though it was only the 11th May several other passerines had arrived and all in full summer plumage. The faint song of the Lapland Bunting flowed out from the wilderness of snow and ice. The handsome males with their chestnut collars and black faces are always fascinating to watch. The spiralling flight of a male Shore Lark gave its presence away, up and up it rose, only to fold its wings and drop head first. On nearing the ground it opened its wings and flew horizontally across the snow to a new open patch of ground. One species that is more than at home is the Snow Bunting. As one would expect, trying to find a mostly white bird amongst all the snow isn't easy but the best way is to listen. Thier song will guide you to their whereabouts. It was also nice to see Willow Warblers looking for insects along the edges of the bare patches, It's amazing that this small summer migrant can actually survive in such conditions. Many waders and ducks are to be found on the Hardangervidda but I saw was European Golden Plover. Most of the lakes and roadside pools were still frozen. Soon however they will thaw and the yea's first mosquitoes will hatch providing food for such species as Red-necked Phalarope. The mewing call of a Rough-legged Buzzard made me search the sky's for this broad winged raptor. It didn't take long to find as it soared effortlessly past. A great view!! The Rough-legged wasn't the only raptor to be seen, a Common Kestrel had also made its way up into this winter wonderland. However, the highlight of the day was a big female Gyr Falcon who caused a stir with two local Common Ravens and sent a Rock Ptarmigan scurrying for cover in a patch of Willow scrub. In the background I could hear my first Common Cuckoo for 2008, though I don't think it was the presence of the Gyr Falcon that made it call. I soon had to leave the mountains and headed down the valley. On the way I stopped at a lowland lying lake to watch to stunning Black-throated Divers, waiting for the ice to melt on their mountain breeding grounds. A great way to end a great day and I am already planning my next trip.
