A bonus trip to Norfolk this morning coincided with the presence of a Red-flanked Bluetail at Titchwell. Having first been found on Saturday the 25th, it was still present all day Sunday and we were hopeful it would still be present today.
On route, we stopped at Wolferton hoping to catch a glimpse of what is now likely to be the only surviving Golden Pheasant left at this site. We left without seeing it but heard it calling several times during our short stay.
Arriving at Titchwell, we headed for the Meadow Trail area and began to scan the surrounding areas for any sign of the Red-flanked Bluetail. Having wandered away from the main area news broke that the bird had been seen at the Western end of Meadow Trail. We quickly joined a small group of birders at the end of the boardwalk and were soon enjoying views of the bird as it appeared among the tangled branches and began feeding among the damp leaf litter.
Heading along the main path a small flock of Knot and seven Red-crested Pochard were seen adding two more species to my year list.
Grey Plover |
Leaving Titchwell we headed for New Holkham and Blunt's Corner where Brian quickly found the Pallid Harrier sitting in the bottom field. We also enjoyed close views of Red Kite, with at least five birds seen in the area.
A stop at Lynford on our way home failed to locate any Hawfinch but did provide good views of Crossbill close to the bridge and Brambling at the feeders along with Marsh Tit, Treecreeper and Nuthatch.