I can’t remember a bank holiday weekend where I’ve seen more species of bird in finer weather. Heading to the North Norfolk coast was a superb last minute decision. It’s a part of the world I remember fondly from many childhood visits and holidays, and Titchwell – well, the beach if I’m honest – was a regular feature as my mum was an RSPB member.
It’s that time of year when you’re kind of half expecting some unexpected birds. After arriving at the ample Titchwell carpark we were thrilled to hear from the extremely friendly volunteer at the welcome desk that there had been some good sightings today already. Several birds, such as Sandwich terns, grey plovers and spoonbills I hadn’t see this year, and an Arctic skua had been sighted from the beach. After a quick cuppa from the pleasant café, we headed towards the beach intent on seeing as much as we could before we settled in the dunes and had a swim.
RSPB Titchwell Marsh comprises freshwater reedbeds, salt lagoons and a stunning sandy beach. With wheelchair accessible hides, a well-stocked shop and café, and big Norfolk skies, Titchwell has become extremely popular. It’s a nationally important reserve for avocets, and an internationally important reserve for other waders that winter there. A lot of work has been put into conserving the reserve's habitats and improving the site to ensure that everyone can come to Titchwell and enjoy the nature it protects.
RSPB Titchwell didn’t disappoint. We saw 17 species of wader on our hour-long walk to the beach, and saw many other spectacular birds such as the soaring and graceful marsh harrier. Here are some shots of my bird highlights, and some of those stunning views and endless skies.
The beach approach (Photo: Jack Plumb)
I love the little stumpy beaks ringed plovers have! (Photo: Flickr creative commons, Ekaterina Chernetsova)
Flying on the coast can get pretty tiring if you're a Sandwich tern... (Photo: Flickr creative commons, Sciadopitys)
A beak full of mud for this grey plover - hopefully whatever it ate was worth it (Photo: Flickr creative commons, Tony Sutton)
And now it's time for home (Photo: Jack Plumb)
Jack
Yup it wasn't bad over the weekend
:) S
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