Friday April 19
The wind dropped, changed to a southerly, and the migrants came in. To the north of the County. We went to Barton Broad.
Instead of Ring Ouzels, Redstarts, Black Redstarts and Short-eared Owls, we walked the boardwalk through the Alder Carr of Barton Broad, enjoying the song of many Chiffchaff, Blackcaps, Wrens and our first confirmed Willow Warblers. It was warm enough to be coatless, even on the end platform. A beautiful, warm Spring day to warm the heart and soul. Willows sprouted their fluffy yellow catkins
Soft green leaves were making an appearance
and a madness of aimlessly dashing butterflies fleeing from an invisible enemy blossomed amongst the woodland. Mostly Brimstone and Orange-tips, a few Red Admirals and a lone Speckled Wood. Why do they never land for my camera?
Sitting on the deserted platform enjoying the Broad - as were many boat enthusiasts -
we watched Common Terns, at least six pairs of Great Crested Grebes shaking their crazy head plumes at each other.
Two Arctic Terns made a brief appearance and, eventually, the female Long-tailed Duck consorting with a Tufted Duck
and the female Scaup. Both long stayers.
A lovely place to be, especially when it's warm and the crowds are missing.
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