We arrived late morning at about 11am. Weather was overcast with an occasional breeze. Along Perry lane were Blackcaps and Willow warblers. On the reserve we saw and heard quite a few pheasants including two family groups. Overhead there was lots of activity from House martins and Sand martins. Closer to the coast we saw a few swallows and one or two swifts. There aren't many swifts around any longer. Quartering towards the Usk was a Marsh Harrier. After consulting a bird guide I would say it was probably a female but am ready to stand corrected. Not much else about. Little grebes are still evident but couldn't spot the Great crested grebes anywhere.
Haven't seen the Great Crested Grebes for a week or more Colin. Today a couple of Swallows, Sand Martins and Swifts.
Returned for another visit today and saw two Marsh Harriers. Had a bit of time to visit the first hide at Goldcliff. We were very pleased to see a few Whinchats on the fences. The only conspicuous waders were Greenshanks.
Thanks for the updates both. Hoping to resume normal service later this week! Great news that the Marsh Harriers are becoming a fixture. Earlier in the Summer I thought I saw a pair heading into the out of bounds area that runs from the sea wall at the bottom of Salt Marsh Lane down towards Farmfield Lane and it's possible that they've successfully bred down there