Another early start saw the first Crakers outside the gates at 0400 and by 0500 the day was underway and my team were on their way down to open up the Butts Hide. There was a good early rush with many appreciative birders from all over country heading down in the crisp morning air. At 0610 the early wait was rewarded and our stripy friend came out and performed admirably for over ten minutes over eth course of the next 30 minutes or so giving fabulous views that everyone in teh hide could see without craning and peering at odd angles!
Since then it has proved more tricky once again and did not show till just before 1400 but everyone is happy and the reserve is busy with birders, walkers, families and the like in warm sunshine and a light breeze.
The male Marsh Harrier has been seen a couple of times and Greenshank and Black-tailed Godwits are on the pools while a glorious low flypast by a Lancaster Bomber had everyone looking skywards.
Water Voles have been everywhere today with peole reporting having seen more than ten on a circuit while Grass Snakes have been seen hunting the newly emerging baby Marsh Frogs.
Water Vole (Andy Tweed)
15-9-12
I also got some photos of the Water Vole along with many others. Take a look at my Flickr page!
www.flickr.com/.../72157631543835242