Minsmere - Last visit before the hides open - hopefully

Another trip to Minsmere, a bit later than last times dawn visit, but still a good day out (Minsmere rarely disappoints).

Bitterns booming and Cetti's popping up everywhere but I concentrated on the Dunes on the seafront this time in the hope of seeing Dartfords, there were none showing on my last two visits. Sedge Warblers were singing in the reeds on the way down to the Dunes but there was plenty of activity in the Gorse and Bramble on the seafront to keep me happy on a largely sunny, if breezy, day.

Here's what I saw.

Trevor

Peering round the side South Hide, an Avocet feeding.

There's always Blackcaps and Wrens

Sedge Warblers were showing very well singing in the reeds.

Down in the dunes on the seafront Whitethroats, male and female were about.

The usual Stonechat, often a sign that there might be Dartfords about.

Then a glimpse of a Dartford

Then I had possibly my best ever showing of Dartford Warblers for the next hour or so.

A take off display from a Linnet.

Where have  my wings gone, was I flapping too hard.

After the Linnet interval more Dartfords.

Finally a Red Admiral that looks like it's survived the winter here.