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Reflect on a Pec, and a look at the new norm

In a year that has delivered more than its fair share of loss, grief and uncertainty, it is perhaps ironic that the period of national lockdown provided myself and closest family with both happiness and security. Like everyone, it was hard not to hold loved ones away from home, but the enforced measures meant we had more time together as a 3. We are lucky to live in the South Yare Valley, complete with garden, home to some chickens and as it turns out, 3 Hedgehogs and a lot of Moths. Many a happy day has been spent teaching my daughter how to tend to the chickens, explaining what makes a tomato happy and of course walks down the marsh. Only the other day we stumbled across an Otter, a piece of magic from a box of tricks that keeps on giving. With no choice but to stay at home, every day became an intimate look at parish life for the flora and fauna. Water Voles, dyke dipping, the garden Mole and passing Cranes- experiences I would have missed had we not all been at home. Historical readers of the blog will know that we are a family in touch with nature, but the lockdown experience has made us count our blessings at a time when it would have been easy to throw in the towel. The detail around that is not for here, but needless to say as we emerge into the golden light of the year, we have reevaluated for the better. I feel deeply connected to this landscape, and whilst I still seek experiences further afield, the patch continues to satisfy my appetite for the natural world.  As a birder, I like to keep my eye in and get better (see below) but as a person, it is important for me to remain a part of the community and move with the seasons.I have walked miles this summer; there is still more to see. 

Everyone is different. I do not begrudge folk the odd trip abroad, the odd twitch. But today, a journey during lockdown to see a rare Tern is utterly abhorrent. Regular long haul flights need to become a thing of the past. There is a lot of talk around at the moment encouraging change. Talk is cheap. Instead, act. Lead by example and join the #lowcarbonbirding movement. Live sustainably where you can. Join the RSPB. If you are a frequent flyer, consider fallow years. Demand change from those in power and be voice of change. Pledge to rewild some of your land. Tweeting- 'This Must Stop!' is not enough, and never has been enough. There is still time. 

Soapbox dismounted. 

Dickleburgh Moor is an inland site not far from Diss, and after a report of 9 Curlew Sandpipers I was keen to get over there and see what the fuss was about. Although the aforementioned Waders were distant, the huge puddle held plenty of interest including 30+ Little Egret, Yellow Wagtail and a Hobby overhead. I was keen to return, so dragged along cousin-uncle duo Ben and Colin Moyes and a few days later we were back at the puddle. Catching up, chatting, scanning, we had rolled out the usual lines about potential, and guessed what birds may turn up next. The 3 Spotted Redshank on view were presumably a first for the site, so what was next? I picked up a small Wader obscured by mud which after a raptor passed by overhead was flushed, and I lost it until it was high in the sky and guessed it may have been a Dunlin. Ten minutes later, Ben exclaimed "Jim, I've got your Wader". "Does it look like a Pectoral Sandpiper?!" I asked, kind of tongue in cheek but kind of knowing what the answer would be. "Yes, it does!" Ben exclaimed. The three of us were thrilled, but naturally a little nervy. I had not seen a Pec for a few years, and it was important we obtained decent views and made notes. Long primary projection, breast band stops suddenly at belly, appears long-necked when alert, clearly a juv. We were quickly able to confirm Ben's call and put the news out. A decent bird to have a hand in finding, and best of all it was with my family. Get in Moysie!

Photo: Ben Moyes


Back on the patch, a Hornet infestation put an early end to a Moth trapping session in Wheatfen last night. Returning home, the trap was adorned with Frosted Orange, Black Rustic and Large Wainscot. Early Autumn is perhaps my favourite time to be trapping. As the days warm up, the ivy hums with life. Willow Emerald is an ever later visitor to the garden. Early morning walks to Rockland broad are leaving me with dew-soaked feet, and I wonder when is the right time to break out the wellington boots. 

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