Tuesday 26 March 2013

Norfolk - 15 & 16 March 2013

We had a leisurely start to the day with a drive from home, arriving at around 11'o'clock. We started off a Cley where we made our first call the hide on the North bank. It was a real treat to see so many Brent Geese, many already paired, including a leucistic individual. We picked up a party of some 15 Snow Bunting that were foraging the bank between Arnold's March and the hide. On returning to the car we decided to drive round to the visitor centre and viewed the Purple Sandpiper, known to be present, en route.

 Purple Sandpiper

From the collection of hides, nestled together on the other side of the reserve, we were fortunate enough to see Avocet (including a colour-ringed bird that never emerged sufficiently from the water to allow the colour combination to be properly seen) among the collection of expected species and pick up a newly arrived Spoonbill.

Brent Geese

The weather was closing in by the time we went to Warham Greens and a Hen Harrier was seen before the rain, snow and biting wind drove us into the refuge of the car.

The next day dawned with rain, cloud and howling winds continuing from the previous night. The forecast for the remainder of the weekend was not at all promising so we set off for home via Thetford to try for the otters that have taken up residence.

 
A convergence of waterways just perfect for otters.

A favoured spot.

Snow drops - rather later than usual this year.

We were successful, but missed out on the Black-bellied Dipper(s) that had been around, but absent on the day previous.