Although it makes for a miserable day out, the rain was much appreciated and the marsh looks all the better for it. And the birds didn't seem to mind too much either.
Avocet chicks have not hatched yet but any day now and the first nest should be hatching. Two Lapwing chicks however were showing on the marsh from Sandgrounders hide.
There were also good views of Hares, three Dunlin, Redshank, Ruff, Oystercatchers and Black tailed godwits.
The highlight for me today was a Little ringed plover on the islands right in front of the hide. Although I don't think either of the Avocet pairs were too happy to have it around. They were predictably seeing most birds off that came too close to their nests but met their match with a pair of Mute swans and six cygnets.
Swallows were taking advantage of the insects low over the water that the recent showers had disturbed . Some were also collecting mud from the scrape/pool in front of the hide to repair last years nests.
From Nels hide there were good views of Dunlin, Ruff and two Curlew Sandpipers.
Five Wheatears were seen around the old sand plant.