Spotted Redshank

The evening of the solar eclipse, which from the reserve seemed to be a bit of a damp squib.
Spotted Redshank is an annual passage migrant to the area but in low numbers and always a delight to see. This one was in front of Firth.

Spotted Redshank

Greenshank

There are quite a few yellow wagtails feeding on the islands at Burrowes. This one was closer on the mud in front of Firth.

North easterlies, north westerlies and northerlies

Its been tough to keep the birding enthusiasm going now that the usual lengthy period of spring north-easterlies, northerlies and north-westerlies has set in. Sea watching can sometimes save the day although early starts to try and get the best of the day tends to take its toll after a while. For the past few days the wind has been a strong F6 to F7 north-easterly makes for challenging conditions when wandering around the RSPB reserve.

Garganey

Garganey

Adult Mediterranean Gulls with a first winter Black-headed Gull 

On one of the islands in front of Dengemarsh hide a Black-tailed Godwit was facing in to the strong NE wind.

Black-tailed Godwit

Whilst I wasn't watching it then flew on to Hayfield 1 to join this stunning individual.

Black-tailed Godwit

Also on the islands a very tatty first winter Caspian Gull joined the Herring Gulls before heading off towards Xmas Dell and New Excavations.

Caspian Gull 1st winter

Caspian Gull 1st winter

One of the three brooding Lapwing on the Hayfields at the Reserve

Despite the cold and strong winds, migrants were on the move with small numbers of yellow wagtails and white/pied wagtails at Springfield Bridge.

Male Yellow Wagtail

Male White Wagtail