Finally made it back to Rainham!

Limpy and I thought it would be the perfect way to celebrate a wedding anniversary - a lovely return visit to Rainham Marshes.  Sadly, the ravens that appeared last Thursday had disappeared just as suddenly - but we saw plenty of other stuff:

The very first photo I took shows off the beautiful colours in a magpie's tail!

I don't usually snap plants but as this particular one had a big warning sign advertising it I thought it should be included.  That big, dark berry is deadly nightshade - I learn something new every day.

I don't know what variety this is but it wasn't doing very much.

Finally managed to catch this gracefully flying corvid!  I usually have to snap these when they're stationary.

A bum party!

A horde of incoming lapwings.

A statuesque cormorant.

Starling Towers - room with a view, anyone?

I love these frogs - they've really mastered the concept of dead-pan!

Grey herons are just amazing at standing still - unlike me!

This grey lag goose was one of two which came right over my head.

Was he remotely bothered?  No.

A little grebe enjoying some peace and quiet.

A kestrel with its meal.

Off it goes!

And back again.  What a gorgeous bird.

One of many house sparrows.

Jack the Egret and a sleeping giant......

In safer waters!

Are you watching me?

I'm not sure I like this - I'm off!

Many thanks to the staff at Rainham who made us so welcome today - and the lemon drizzle cake was seriously yummy!