Dip Doesn't Ruin Day

 Shozzer and I ventured over the county border today in search of a Great Reed Warbler at Ouse Fen near Earith in Cambridgeshire. The bird has been present for several weeks but chose not to put in an appearance today until several hours after we had left. Despite this dip we enjoyed a productive stroll around the reserve where even the mostly grey skies and occasional spot of rain could not sour our mood.

Crane and Red Crested Pochards

We were greeted on arrival by the sight of three Spoonbills which flew in but did not linger for more than a minute or two before disappearing again. As we made our way towards the warbler's favourite area we saw Marsh Harriers hunting above the reeds and also saw the first of several Bitterns making short flights over the reserve. As noted before the warbler decided not to oblige either us or any of the other visitors during our visit but was seen at about half past three this afternoon. Water Rails were squealing as we made our way around the site while bugling calls  revealed the presence of Cranes. We saw at least two which put in a couple of brief appearances before losing themselves in amongst the reeds. Other birds noted included a pair of Red Crested Pochards, up to four Hobbies and at least one Bearded Tit. Despite the grotty conditions we also managed to see a few damselflies with Variables and Blue-taileds the most common, a Red-eyed was also noted.

Hobby and Variable Damselfly

Before bringing the day to a close we paid a call on Eyebrook where some interesting waders had been noted. Attempts to find the reported Turnstones at the island sadly failed though a fly by Osprey provided some compensation. Better luck attended our efforts to find the other waders at the sharp end where three Sanderlings were the highlight. joining them were over twenty Ringed Plovers and five Dunlins while a Yellow Wagtail added some passerine interest.  A quick stop at the Samuel Lloyd in Corby provided some welcome refreshment and also a fine way of finishing things off..

Sanderling record shots.