Report from Roger Lane. (8th January 2010)

"Managed a rather chilly hour at Par, despite the perishing temperature ! Met Nigel on my way in who, I gather, had been photographing the male Goldeneye, now up on your blogsite, and a handsome fellow he is too ! Nigel was looking for the Pink-footed Geese which were absent from the Pool, just as he left, they flew in with Canada geese, but left again in half an hour!
PBP had a very wintry look, being up to 90% frozen over, with one ice-free lead for all the gulls, ducks and geese. However, a prolonged look showed quite a few, none too obvious wildfowl (in addition to the 2 x Pink-footed Geese). These were 8 x Tufted D.; 20+, Teal; 3 x Gadwall and 4 x Shoveler (only one male).The male Goldeneye was still on Par River apparently (Nigel).
The western car-park produced a motley crew. In the Bay were the 6+, GCGrebes and apparently little else, due to strong sun and choppy surface. On the Beach were 5+, Turnstones and 10+, R.Plover; While in the air and flying NW were 10+, Redwings; 5+ Fieldfares and 1+, Lapwing. All looking for open ground no doubt.
An unusual and quick drive to St.Andrews Pond was hardly worthwhile with just: 20+, Redwing; 2+, Lapwing (over); 10+, Teal and 6 x Tufted D. (making a total of 14 for both Par Ponds)."

Thanks for the Report Roger.

I did manage a fast visit between errands today arriving around midday.
Very little was showing but I made my way down to the Par River and saw and photographed the Drake Goldeneye but alas at a great distance. He was somewhat upstream just as Nigel stated but swimming towards the bridge and going away from me.
Song Thrush were in the Wilderness and a Mipit or two were seen in the grassy area by the playground.
I also met Nigel by the PBP looking for the P.F.Geese. It was bitter cold out there as you well know so I did not hang about.