Just for a change we focussed on Broadlands this weekend, whereas we normally head for the North end of Norfolk. We dropped in at Lynford arboretum for a glimpse of the Hawfinch that have been so regular this winter. For us, they remained elusive and we never did manage to see them but did enjoy watching birds, mainly Marsh, Coal and Blue Tits, Nuthatch, Chaffinch and Blackbird using the feeding station at the bridge and the views around the park in general.
Lynford Arboretum lake
Next stop, Santon Downham with hopes of seeing the Great Grey Shrike, but that was no less elusive than the Hawfinch and although we took our time and walked the path along the river we had no luck. It was nice, however, to see a few Siskin and more Marsh Tits and Nuthatches.
Santon Downham
Last visit of the day was to Stubb Mill for the roost. We didn't get there until about 4.15pm but timed it just right as several Marsh Harriers and a couple of Hen Harriers came in. There was also a female Merlin and a sizeable flock of Pink-footed Geese, and the last to go over on their way to roost were 25 Cranes.
Stubb Mill roost site
Pink-feet dropping in
Moon
The sky was clear and the temperature plummeted so that the puddles were icing over by the time we got back to the car.