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Titchwell: The Reaction

With the Little Bittern showing well (albeit occasionally) yesterday, I was in no doubt as to where I would be birding today. Arriving fashionably late, Debs and I joined the throngs that were cluttering the main track and raised bank, scouring the small pool for the juvenile Bittern. Ricky informed us there had been little action so far this morning, but a brief flight and the bird had everyone on their toes. It even had some on their backs, and bums, sliding down the bank for a glimpse. Not cool guys, the tracks are there for a reason. We did not have to wait too long before the bird moved again, and I was looking the other way, Debs with the first view as it flew low across the pool. I uttered a few expletives, fearing this could again be another dip balanced precariously on 299 BOU. Scanning the reed edge, a snake-like movement, and the Little Bittern was fishing. I had the views I was desperate for! Beautiful streaking on the breast, and a bright yellow bill. A landmark bird for me in Britain, and one I won't forget.
Able to relax, we took in some more of the reserve. Debs had not visited Titchwell before, and I promised her there was more to see than just a small pool. The sea was quiet, but a number of Waders fed along the shoreline. Knot, Bar-tailed Godwit, Sanderling, Dunlin, Curlew and a cracking Grey Plover. From the super hide, we watched Dunlin and at least 5 Curlew Sandpiper were picked up in a quick scan. No sign of the reported Buff-breasted Sandpiper sadly.
To break up the journey back to Norwich, we stopped off at Sparham Pools. I have never visited before, but this seems like a decent spot with potential. A walk away from the car-park, to the road and bridge over the Wensum, and we were rewarded with a lovely male Grey Wagtail. 
Surlingham Church Marsh yesterday was quiet, save for a Common Buzzard and Kestrel. Teal numbers have tripled, and 6 Mistle Thrush were in the grazing fields viewed from the ruins. 

Comments

  1. shaky11 September 2011 at 10:07

    Good to see u both there today mate. I didn't realise that this was an extra special British tick for yeh! ( better then the caspian that got away!) congrats!
    Until the next time ,
    Shaky

    ReplyDelete

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