Far Ings and Water's Edge

The weather forecast of showers resulted in a trip to a reserve with hides. Far Ings ticked the box. In the event, the rain didn't materialised, but it was cold and a bit breezy anyway, so access to a visitor centre with hot beverages was much welcome. Highlights included a singing willow tit in Far Ings and a water rail calling and grunting, tantalisingly close but out of sight in the reeds.

A large patch on the reed bed had been burnt.

Two of the cormorants on the tern raft.

This marsh harrier landed on the cut reeds and stayed there for quite some time

Until another one turned up...

And a chase ensued.

Marsh harrier

Dog violet, one of the few flowers about.

Male reed bunting

Tufted duck display

Rabbit

View from the new draughty hide.

Redshank by the estuary

Female Goldeneye

Singing Willow Tit

Little Grebe

Two woodpigeons sitting on their nest.

Yellowhammers, Dunnock and Blackbird.