Wednesday, January 13, 2016

Diary Entry #4

Our local Little Owl was back at the marina this morning calling from atop one of the telegraph poles at dawn.

I paid my first visit to Wolston Gravel Pits this morning and took the public footpath as far as the River Avon and then circled back. The site almost backs on to the southern end of Brandon Marsh, which lies across the other side of the river with Brandon Wood Golf Club as the barrier. An enjoyable walk but watch out for the plant machinery and read the signs. I actually managed a year first in the form of (4) Red-legged Partridge, which were flushed by one of the workers who was taking measurements! Other species of note included (6) Skylark, Meadow Pipit and a flock of circa 100 Linnet! The site has great potential.

I had my lunch in the East Marsh Hide at Brandon Marsh, where I was told the Bittern was lurking once more in the reeds to the left. Unfortunately not seen during my stay but a Cetti's Warbler which flew across the gap in front of the hide was good to see.