Penduline Tit

Lade - 0900hrs - mild, dry, sunny, sw2 - Following more rain over night it quickly cleared leaving a cracking day to be out and about. Checked both pits with the Teal count now over 300 birds. Also, 2 each of Goldeneye and Pintail, plus Sparrowhawk, Chiffchaff and Cetti`s Warbler in the willows.
ARC - 1030hrs - The Long-tailed Duck and Great White Egret could be seen at the southern end from the road. From Hanson, 2 Bitterns, 6 Goldeneyes, 7 Little Egrets, 2 Marsh Harriers and a Kingfisher. Chiffchaff and Cetti`s Warbler from the Willow Trail and another Bittern in front of Screen.
Boulderwall - 1200hrs - Had brief views of the Penduline Tit tearing into a bulrush in a reedy patch just past Boulderwall. It didn`t stay for long, and shot off like a rocket towards ARC. I assume it was the long-stayer that puts in an occasional appearance in front of Hanson. Also, 2 Stonechats here and 2 more at Cockles Bridge.
Pigwell Pits - 1400hrs - The washout pit near Lydd had 2 `redhead` Smew and 5 Avocets, plus 50 Wigeon, 20 Shoveler and 10 Shelducks. Another Stonechat by the sewage works and a Grey Wagtail.
Galloways - 1430hrs - Pretty desolate here with just 2 each of Stonechat and Marsh Harrier of note.
ARC - 1500hrs - Finished the day with a harrier count in the company of CP. Five Marsh Harriers to roost with another 5 that headed towards the reserve. Also, Buzzard and 2 Sparrowhawks. Back at the car park a Woodcock flew over to complete a decent days birding.

                                          Bittern, ARC