Yellow-browed Warbler and Firecrest at Branscombe Sewage Works

This morning was the first chance that I have had to go and look for the Yellow-browed Warbler that Phil found at Branscombe sewage works on Saturday morning. Unfortunately the weather wasn't ideal being overcast and drizzly at times but I had some superb views and even managed some photos and despite the poor conditions for photography they are definitely the best ones I've ever taken of Yellow-browed Warbler and Firecrest too. When I arrived I looked from the footpath along the side of the sewage works and could see the YBW feeding on the filter beds along with at least a dozen Chiffchaffs. All the birds seemed to be on the far side from where I was so I made my way around to the wooded area on the other side. The National Trust have been thinning out the pine trees in this area and I was able to get right down to the perimeter fence from where I had some great views of the YBW. The Firecrest was showing very well on some branches of felled pine trees and really showing off its crest too. Sue and a friend arrived to see the YBW and while I was trying to get them onto it a male Sparrowhawk flew in and landed on the perimeter fence. Fortunately the birds soon reappeared once he'd left and although he had to leave 'empty taloned' he did gave us a nice photo opportunity.

I like the way the colours really stand out against the dark background of the filter bed in this one.

It was certainly easy to spot amongst the Chiffchaffs.

Yellow-browed Warbler

Firecrest

Sparrowhawk