March 13th

A walk around this morning with Jack produced eight Hawfinch and eleven Brambling . Five other birders turned up later and we managed to get everyone on at least four of the birds which showed very well. No sign of any migrants yet ie (Sand Martin or Chiffchaff). Still four Pochard on the water but no sign of any Little Grebe's. As before the Hawfinch's can be found by going left out of visitor's centre car park for about 100mts stand by the small copse and look towards the houses , the birds perch up in the silver birch trees but can be elusive. With some patience the birds will show well.Went back down again after dinner mainly to fill feeders up and check out what's coming to the feeding station. A male Brambling and male Reed Bunting were photographed but the overwintering male Blackcap eluded the camera and only made brief appearances. Also on the feeders were Bullfinch , Greenfinch , Goldfinch , Coal, Blue, Great and Long-tailed Tits. Three Hawfinch's were around the usual place also with a few Brambling . Around twelve visiting birders that I saw today all went away happy with good views of both Hawfinch and Brambling.

Reed Bunting (male).

Brambling (male).