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Kelling Redpoll

Took a trip to Kelling this morning to hopefully connect with the Arctic Redpoll which has been in the area since at least January. We arrived around half 10, found the feeders and quickly got onto the bird in question. Very smart, distinctive plumage; a classic Arctic! The bill was noticeably smaller, more squashed than the Lesser Redpoll feeding alongside. The white rump, fluffed up appearance and overall cold, grey-white tones made this an easy one to ID. The Coue's seemed to more than hold its own amongst the Lessers, not afraid to defend a spot on the feeder. Also of interest were how variable the Lessers were, one individual showing a large amount of white on the wing, more than I have seen on this species previously. 4 More birders then arrived and the Arctic became more elusive, so we headed to the water meadows.
Debs picked out 2 more Lesser Redpolls along the track, before arriving at the pool. 300+ Brent Geese were on the field behind, and closer in were 15 Pink Feet. Other birds of note here included 15 Dunlin, 10 Bar-tailed Godwit, 1 Grey Plover, Shelduck, Shovelor and a rabble of Wigeon! 
Leaving Kelling, we drove back past the feeders and noticed some idiot had set up a 3-foot telescopic lens so as to over-look the garden and property that the Redpoll flock were frequenting. We stood on the other side of the road, and that at times felt too close. I regret not stopping and giving this fella a mouthful, actions like this may mean the owner quite rightly gets shirty with visiting birders. This was at 12pm, bloke in full camo gear. 
Shame on him. 
Anyway, here are some pics taken by my better half!




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