The good luck that was with me last weekend did hold, as I saw four cranes at the RSPB Ouse Washes than another six at WWT Welney. They're now all at Lakenheath, so when I go past there on the train to Norwich this week, I'll make sure I've got a window seat.
October has started off with record-breaking temperatures in our area, and the wildlife records have been hot too. The weekend highlight for some of our volunteers and visitors was to see two bitterns fly together to Holywell Lake, followed by more sightings of the birds throughout the afternoon.
I missed all of this excitement as I was leading a guided walk around a different area, when one highlight for me was seeing a young grass snake. I got a surprise too - I almost stood on the snake.
Today, there were more sightings of individual bitterns, and Nigel, one of our volunteers, saw four bearded reedlings. They came close enough for photographs. During the week another volunteer, Steve, saw seven in the same location as today's sighting - Steve has posted one of his pictures on our gallery.
A total of 70 bird species was recorded today - the last one added to the list was the third of the three specialists that we look for in reedbeds, a marsh harrier.
Despite the temperatures, there are indications of autumn. Every swallow and house martin seen today was flying southwards, and a couple of water rails were squealing at each other in one patch of reeds. Have they been lurking in there all summer, or have they recently arrived at their winter resort?
I'd like the fine weather to last until after our Stars at Night event on Wednesday, but I'd also like some rain and cooler temperatures to encourage a good display of fungi for our foray on Sunday afternoon