May 25th 2008

Dave picked me up at 6:30 just as the predicted rain started and we spent 45 minutes in the valley listening for Quail without any success before moving on to Draycote Water. The north east wind and rain had increased so suitably suited and booted we walked out to toft bay seeing 400+ Swifts, Yellow Wagtail 2, Common Sandpiper, Dunlin 2, Common Tern, and a pair of Gadwall while on farnborough bank there were 15+ Linnets and a few Goldfinch. Returning to car somewhat refreshed but at least dry we had breakfast at the Long Itch Diner before moving on to Brandon Marsh. The rain became heavier as we walked out to the east marsh hide to enjoy Little Ringed Plover 2, Redshank 3, Oystercatcher, Sand martin 50+, Shelduck and Common Tern 8. Little of note from the carlton hide and we were returning pass the central marsh when Dave heard an unusual call which after a short wait was traced to a pair of skulking Water Rails using contact calls to encourage 5 (day old) chicks as they passed in front of us to follow mum & dad - only my second sighting of Water Rail chicks and Dave's first - magic. Little else seen so moved on to Lawford Heath where a very bedraggled looking Corn Bunting sang from its post then it was on to Dave's for a very welcome dinner.

Richard