This weekend's wildlife highlights have included:

The Spoonbill has been on the Target Pools this weekend - it was seen well on Friday, seen from about 4pm on Saturday and was seen flying over the reserve at 8am on Sunday.

Spoonbill at Rainham Marshes by Alan Reynolds

Lots of birds of prey - fantastic views of hobby, marsh harrier, sparrowhawk, kestrel and buzzard. This afternoon Joanne and some lucky visitors were amazed with brilliant views of a buzzard and marsh harrier having a tussle - and then a habby joined in!

Fabulous hobby picture by John Humble

 

Waders have included lapwing, bar tailed godwit, dunlinringed plover and whimbrel all on Aveley Bay.

Swifts have been whizzing round keeping everyone entertained.

Swifts by John Humble

The bearded tits have been the starts of the show today (Sunday) - showing off nicely at the Dragonfly Pools.

Cuckoos have been seen and heard around the woodland, and near the shooting butts.

Cuckoo by John Humble