My first birding outing was a short mid afternoon drive to West Somerton and back. We set off in sunshine. By the time we'd reached Happisburgh, the light switch had been turned off.
The drive to Sea Palling via the back roads is pretty birdless at the best of times but anticipation is always high.
By the end of our trip we had seen six Kestrels, 1 Buzzard, 1 Marsh Harrier, Pinkfeet, two White-fronted Geese and all three Swan species. We were happy with that.
The swans were in their traditional flooded fields between Cook's farm shop and Stalham. Mostly Tundra with a few magnificent Whoopers.
Trip two was another afternoon drive after Pam had been to the local coffee morning. No sign of any Cranes at Clippesby and far too dark to go on the planned extension to Buckenham. Close enough to drive via Martham to Winterton. We parked in the car park, immediately seeing a Great Crested Grebe on the nearby stretch of gunmetal grey sea. Eventually we added two Gannets, a Great Black-backed Gull and a few Common Scoter. The latter were distant apart from one handsome male close inshore.
The swans had re-located to the pool distantly viewable from Cook's farm shop.Just two Whoopers remained with the Mutes in the puddle fields.
No photographs, too dark - and my battery ran out. Must regain my good habits.
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