An early start saw us walking Minsmere in search of Swampy without joy as it had seemingly “done a bunk” been eaten or simply decided it likes the deeper section of reeds. Anyway we didn’t give much time to scanning the pool and instead decided to enjoy a mornings birding around the reserve.
We picked up a scruffy little Wheatear at the sluice and as usual the Swallows entertained us here.
A Kingfisher was seen along with Sparrowhawk and Bittern while sitting here.
From the hides we enjoyed 40+ Little Gulls, 20+ Spotted Redshank, a Green and 2 Common Sandpipers along with the usual Blackwits, Avocets, Ringed Plovers and a few Dunlin.
We moved up the road and plotted up at Westwood Lodge hoping the Honey Buzzards would display but it was a little windy and the targets failed to show. We picked up Tree Pipit and Spotted Flycatcher here to make it a worthwhile stop but left without the Swamphen or Honey Buzzard.
Year list now 254
Brian Anderson
Essex Birder using the blog as a diary of my trips around the country chasing birds. Enjoying the places it takes me and the people I meet along the way. Great to spend time with my Dad and brother as we chase our year lists and grow our life list in the process.
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