Sunday 20th. With the wind
shifting from a nice light north westerly to a blustery north easterly it made
the birding a little more arduous this morning. Although mostly the same as yesterday
but without the Honey Buzzards, it was still a struggle to add to the note
book. I met Chiddy at the entrance just after 4.30am where we made our way to
the Ramp. Chiddy, fresh back from Lesvos only yesterday, had tales and photos
of some dream British rarities that although fairly common place out there, do
occasionally make it over here. Only one Turtle Dove noted today but Reed,
Sedge & Cetti’s Warblers, Whitethroats and Blackcaps were all present. Large
numbers of Gadwall were seen with 45 at Marsh hide and another 52 at the Ramp,
the most numerous Duck in the valley at the moment. Two of the drake Garganey
were still on the Grazing Marsh but no sign of the Ruff although a
Little-ringed Plover was on the Water Meadows while the 7 Ringed Plover had
moved to Harrison’s along with the single Dunlin and 3 Greenshank. Just one
Hobby seen today and only 4 Marsh Harriers with both male and female perching
on the dead tree/stick! next to Marsh hide allowing a few photos plus a Little
Egret feeding in front of the hide. The weather kept the hirrundines down with
several of each Swallow, House & Sand Martin present and a high number of
Swifts. That was about it as, Collard’s drew a blank and we headed for home.
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| Marsh Harrier female on the twig at Marsh hide |
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| Marsh Harrier male giving his thoughts on the day |
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| Marsh Harrier male on the dead tree/stick/twig to the left side of Marsh hide |
