Greylake RSPB 2/02/25

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My first visit to this reserve in Somerset. We had fortunately left the rain behind in Cornwall.

At least five Great White Egret were seen, this now a breeding species in the county.

However, the undoubted highlight was a female Merlin, initially sitting on a low tree at the back of the flood. It then flew low over the water, flushing Teal and Lapwing in the process, before catching a Snipe very close to the nearby Treehouse hide. It fed on the unfortunate wader for about 15 minutes, affording a remarkable view of the falcon.

To end the day a male Hen Harrier was seen, albeit at some distance.

Merlin



Merlin with prey, a Snipe



Great White Egret

Common Snipe

The flood


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