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Friday 18 March 2016

Rainham RSPB





March 17th





My usual circuit on a grand sunny morning at last also produced a good mornings birding, I added 3 year ticks to the list.

With spring now in sight it is just good to be out, thoughts are now turning to Wheatear, Sand Martin and Little Ringed Plover as the early arrivals, none seen but Rainham I expect will turn up one or the other very shortly.

All ticks were encountered on the river wall with Corn Bunting being the first followed by a flyover Grey Wagtail and then 2 Chiffchaff’s in the bramble.







I was also hoping for Rock or Water Pipit as these are now on the turn into summer plumage and appear very smart, especially the Water’s.

On walking round the Reserve, displaying Redshank and Lapwing seemed to be everywhere whilst overhead produced 2 Marsh Harriers, a Peregrine and a Common Buzzard.

Displaying Redshank - everywhere

Having met Russ earlier, he had then found a Jack Snipe from the new scrape hide, slightly distant and well camouflaged, it still gave good views. My previous effort was a bird in flight earlier in the year so this was very welcome.


Well camouflaged Jack Snipe

A bit more visible avoiding the Moorhen




For my next visit, hopefully some spring migrants.



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