starlings flocking

Hello, to carry on my new found land-based passions I'm going to try and photo the starling roost in somerset. It looks to me like Westhay Nature Reserve is the best place. Does anyone know anywhere better to try? Also when is the best time to go? I was thinking of November.

If anyone has photographed them before and could give me some tips I'd be most grateful. Lens choices, weather to avoid etc.

Thanks guys

Gav

I noticed that David Kjaer's got some spectacular images of Starlings flying into roost with rspb-images.com. Westhay is certainly the best place to be, but also Ham Wall RSPB reserve and Shapwick Heath NNR are good places too. I've found the best days are crisp, cold weather. The best example I saw was in the middle of December last year - apart from that, I'd best leave you in more experienced hands...

Slimbridge can be good (but its probably no where near you)

T

Hi Gavin

Suggest you telephone one of the reserves to find out the 'state of play' the flocks are probably still a little fragmented and mobile but should settle by the end of the month into one large and very impressive flock. My guess is late November through to mid January should be best!

David

Gavin,
I would leave it a little longer. As already said, december onwards is probably best. Still weather is a must & you need to be there about an hour before dusk. Parking is at a premium here especially at weekends (another reason to get there early!) If you want you can get in touch with me nearer the time & i can advise you better & maybe meet up & show you the best places to stand. (I work shifts so i am home quite a bit.)
All the best
Rob

Thanks guys for the advice. And Rob I may well contact you nearer the time.

Thanks again