An influx of Bitterns

Dengemarsh - mild, sunny, sw 2 - We joined MH and CT on the viewing ramp first thing in an attempt to see the Pendulines, of which there was no sign. However, flight views of up to 5 Bitterns, including a leucistic individual, was ample compensation. Having only seen the odd one or two through the winter so far this could signify a change in the weather to colder conditions. Also noted on the stake out a pair of `cronking` Ravens, an adult Little Gull and at least 5 Great White Egrets.
Boulderwall fields were once again packed out with Wigeon, plovers, feral geese and gulls, plus several Marsh Harriers, another Bittern in flight and more Little and Great White Egrets.

                                Boulderwall fields

                                Grey Heron and Little Egrets

                                Smews, Burrowes

This afternoon we had to call in the visitors centre where a drake and redhead Smew were on show on the lake. From Dennis`s hide a single Shag remained on the tern raft, while the Long-eared Owl was tucked up in its usual roosting spot behind the discovery pond. Elsewhere a Slavonian Grebe was on the pool by the back track to Lydd and from Screen hide on ARC another Great White Egret and 5 Goldeneyes, plus 2 Chiffchaffs and a Great Spotted Woodpecker on the walk down.
There was no further sign of the Penduline Tits today, although with an influx of weekend birders they may well be relocated. At Scotney the Bean Goose and a small flock of White-fronts were still present along with a Black-necked Grebe (PB), but there has been know news of the Bewick`s Swans this week.