Birding and other distractions

A Turkestan Shrike had been present on the heath since the 2nd, so belatedly I decided to pay a visit. It was a lovely sunny day. The shrike was seen soon after arrival, a smart male. It favoured a clump of gorse and would typically sit on a high perch watching for prey. Now and then it would dash out to catch something, most probably a bee or other large insect. I believe this is the 12th UK record. From there we went to Bowers Marsh in Essex where a Red-necked Phalarope has been reported in recent days, including this morning. It was high tide and there were plenty of birds on the flood, including three Spoonbill. However, we were looking into the sun, and such was the glare it was not possible to view the area where the phalarope had been reported. Turkestan Shrike  Dunwich Heath Spoonbill on Bowers Marsh

A calm autumn morning in which to spend a couple of hours at Berengrave. I soon heard a Firecrest on the top path and had one good, albeit brief view. A second bird may also have been present. Two more Firecrests were found in the area with tall trees (where Yew is present) behind the pond. One was very vocal, calling frequently and giving snatches of song. As is usual getting pictures is never easy with these birds. However, one of two Grey Wagtails on the pond could not have been more confiding. It fed along the edge of the pond walking right up to me. There were a few Chiffchaff on the far side of the pond. Firecrest Grey Wagtail