A relatively uneventful afternoon amble along the Canal path was punctuated by the irregular cracks of doubled barrelled shotguns being fired. The highlights were a steady trickle of Swallows heading generally south down the Meon and the canal side scrub held decent numbers of Chiffchaff again heading in a southerly direction. Other than that the path itself was rather quiet save the usual Canada Geese and Woodpigeons.  As I headed north from Hammonds Bridge, I could hear the guns going off and I guessed correctly that it was the upper Posbrook flood hosting the action, (site of the two Garganey this spring). I saw several small flocks of Teal and Wigeon heading towards the flood over a period of an hour or so. Usually a few seconds and four barrels of fire later the survivors headed south back into the Haven. Quite a juxtaposition that on one hand the birds have a safe haven in the reserve, yet if they stray a few hundred metres north it could be curtains. I do not doubt the pair of chaps firing were doing so legally and above board, enjoying their sport. Personally I’ll stick to football; c’mon you reds, 4-3 Owens a legend.

The ducks below were photographed by me, but not today, with the squally weather the camera stayed in the dry bag.

Teal Martin Mere 21 Feb 2007

Wigeon Hook with Warsash 29 Mar 2009

Teal Portchester Hbr, 9 Jan 2009

Wigeon Hill Head, 16 Apr 2009

All said though I do enjoy crispy duck at the Stubbington Chinese. (bad person I am).

Steve Copsey