Aftermath

 There was a sunny start to proceedings this morning though this promising beginning was not destined to last too long before heavy rain moved in during the late morning and early afternoon. Alan Shorrock and I took a trip over to Eyebrook reservoir where we enjoyed an OK spell before things took a turn for the wet.

Yellowhammer and Redpoll

We heard what sounded like good numbers of Tree Sparrows in the hedge near Alecs Lane, a few ventured out to the feeders which were also attracting finches and Yellowhammers. From here we saw five Brown Hares running around and indulging in a spot of boxing, they were too far for photographs but good to watch all the same. We moved along the western side checking through the ducks for any signs of the Ring-necked or for any Scaup but did not have any luck. A distant Great White Egret on the opposite shore eventually moved to our side before it was moved on by a Grey Heron. Away from the water four Redpolls were noted feeding in a roadside birch though the light conditions by this stage were getting poor. Back on the water an eventual total of three Smews were found with one being a fine looking drake. Not much else was seen other than a pair of Pintails in addition to the more usual ducks. Leaving the res behind we moved on to look for a reported Little Owl close by but the arrival of some heavy rain brought our birding to a close.

Great White Egret and Smews