We left just after 11am for a session at Stanwell Moor, but on route the rain started to come down. A planned quick diversion to King George VI Reservoir at Staines managed to produce the Great Northern Diver, and the Common and Velvet Scoters.
We went to the ringing site and watched the rain. We had a look at the potter trap to see if anything had cleared the mackerel up and as we went into the ride found a Swan sitting in the middle, which made no attempt to move. It had a head injury and when it did make an attempt to move it only hobbled on one side. Probably injuries due to a territorial scuffle with the pair on the lake. A fortunate visit as we were able to get it collected by Swan Rescue and saved it any overnight harassment from the local foxes. While at the site a Little Egret flew over.
Rain continued and any thoughts of ringing were forgotten and a return to home was made.
** sadly the Swan died overnight with injuries to the leg caused either by a fox or dog
