Steady as she goes.
Plenty of promise today with a combination of an early rain front, south-easterlies and of course just being the end of April. As usual it hasn't, so far, materialised anything that rare or unusual. One theory at least says winds with a westerly element are better at this time of year for inland sites here in the North West.
There is certainly birds on the move with a new Little Gull (2cy), being seen from the Ron Barker Hide. Also there, early on a Whimbrel. Other waders present included 30+ Avocet, 15+ Ruff, 2 Ringed Plover, 8 Redshank, 8 Oystercatcher, Little Ringed Plover, a few Black-tailed Godwit, and 100+ Lapwing.
Two Yellow Wagtail flew from the Ron Barker Hide towards Woodend Marsh mid-afternoon.
The usual warblers with Grasshopper Warbler reeling at the start of the Reedbed Walk, numerous Chiffchaff, Blackcap, Whitethroat, Willow, Sedge and Reed Warblers.
Tawny Owl near the Kingfisher Hide.
Wheatear on ploughed fields beyond the Reedbed Walk.
