Met Office Spring
I notice of late that the Met Office now starts spring on the 1st of March rather than on the 20th which is the vernal equinox. Perhaps a case of over simplification (dumbing down?), however today has definitely felt like the start of spring, delightful in the afternoon's warm sun.
The Siberian Chiffchaff in full song this morning, still present late afternoon. Also at least 3 Common Chiffchaff there.
Common Buzzards were out and about with 8+ birds seen. Peregrine early on, Sparrowhawk later.
Waders included 60 Avocet, 6 Ringed Plover, 2 Dunlin, 60+ Ruff (inc breeding plumage male), 10+ Black-tailed Godwit, 10+ Common Snipe.
A couple of thousand Pink-footed Geese dropped in late afternoon, biggest flock for a while away from roosting.
Other sightings included c.60 Pied Wagtail and a few Grey Wagtail (Sewage Works), Water Rails calling on the Reedbed Walk. Little Egret and Grey Partridge, the later of Marsh Moss Lane.
