North Norfolk birding - 30 & 31 August 2014

We didn't manage an early get away but the day was glorious and after consultation with the birdguides update we decided to try Winterton Dunes, since the chance of three migrants ought to guarantee at least one being seen, and we had not visit the area for some years now.

 Winterton dunes

We tried for the Greenish Warbler first and were successful. We had some good views but a photograph was beyond the capabilities of my camera.

Then we headed back through the carpark and on to the farthest reaches of the dunes, in the opposite direction, in search of the Red-backed Shrike. The bird was very obliging and we were fortunate enough to see three Cranes off in the distance too.

Red-backed Shrike

A Corncrake had been claimed from the locale but we didn't even try in the long grass although we did watch 5 guys who fanned out and did a sweep of the area. It wasn't really practical doing it again with just the two of us, or maybe appropriate? On the way back we spent some time near the totem pole where a Wryneck had been seen. Chris relocated it and I was fortunate enough to see it as it flew around and into a bush.

The next day saw another late start and we went to Titchwell.

  Titchwell reserve

There were a few Eiders on the sea and some close views of waders on the scrapes.

 

Ruff

Little Egret

 Black-tailed Godwit

We enjoyed seeing some Spoonbill and a flock of Golden Plover that arrived during our visit. We also watched the bird that had been claimed as a White-rumped Sandpiper. But when it came close to the path it looked very much like a juvenile Sanderling (below).

 

Juvenile Sanderling