RSPB Blacktoft Sands

 

A bright but cold day at Blacktoft Sands. Ian was on duty in reception and I helped when it was busy.

Gareth was also on duty and helped get the fire going in reception before he went to check on the ponies.

Stuart and Catherine were also on site and we passed in the small wooded area near Ousefleet hide.

All the lagoons were frozen which reduced the number of birds to be seen. Mute swans were on Reedling and Singleton.

Reed buntings were picking up small pieces of grit from the paths.

Plenty of fieldfares in the hedges.

Grey herons were hunting along the side of the ditch.

Snipe were exploring along the edges of the lagoon where the sun had helped to soften the ground.

Skeins of pink-footed geese flew over.

Marsh harriers were interacting with each other.

A kingfisher was often seen as it flew along the ditch and Jean and Andrew spotted a water rail as it slipped on the ice crossing the ditch in front of reception.

A very pleasant day with a day list of 26 birds, including 8 year ticks.