Birding and other distractions

Great to see four Goosander at Capstone Park this morning, two birds first being reported on Saturday (28th). The lake at this park is relatively small so a nice surprise that these birds have turned up. Three are drakes. Also there is a Great White Egret, which has been present for three weeks I'm told and consequently is fairly tolerant of people at this very popular site. Five Gadwall added to the general spectacle. Four Goosander Female Goosander Male Goosander Gadwall Great White Egret As above

Two Ravens flew over shortly after arrival at 7 a.m. just as it was getting light. We walked along the undercliff to where birders were watching the Crag Martin, that was first found yesterday. The bird was roosting on the cliff face, about half-way up.  Photographs were difficult in the poor light, then at 7:29 the bird suddenly flew off, heading south. That proved to be the last sight of it on the day though we did walk along the cliff-top hoping for a fly past. Then to Worth Marshes, walking the track off Jubilee Road looking for the Eastern Yellow Wagtail that has been in the area. Unfortunately neither that bird or any Lapland Buntings were seen today, though the potential of the area was clear to see with new excavations having been dug. Two typically vocal Green Sandpipers flew over, and in a cabbage field were numerous Meadow Pipits, plus some Pied Wagtails. Crag Martin The undercliff at Kingsdown Pied Wagtail