First birding trip to Norfolk in 2026

At present, birding opportunities have to be taken when they become available. So when Saturday became free, we decided on a trip to Norfolk. 

We began the day with a quick stop at Hunstanton. It was still semi-dark, but light enough to pick out several Fulmars and a single Red-breasted Merganser on the sea. Then onto Titchwell, where we found the Tawny Owl roosting in its favourite tree. Water levels on the Freshwater Marsh were much higher than expected, and as a result, the wader count was well down. The waders that were present were on the small pools on the other side of the path at Thornham Marsh. Making our way to the beach, we picked out a female Scaup on the Tidal Marsh. An hour's seawatch was rewarded with three Long-tailed Ducks, two Eiders and a single Red-throated Diver. Hundreds of Oystercatchers were present at Thornham Point, and Sanderlings were also present in good numbers.

Tawny Owl

Curlew

Brent Geese

View on the walk back from Thornham Point

Sanderling

After leaving Titchwell, we stopped at Brancaster Staithe, where we enjoyed watching Turnstones, Grey Plovers, and Bar-tailed Godwits.

Turnstone

Bar-tailed Godwit

Three Glossy Ibis had been reported at Stiffkey Floods; however, as we approached the viewing area, we heard gunshots. A quick scan of the flooded fields produced no Ibis! We were told by birders walking back that they had flown when the shooting started. News came through that two Ibis were now being seen at Morston Quay. We scanned the saltmarsh from the quay and quickly found the two Glossy Ibis; they were distant, but good views were had through the scope. Also present feeding in the creek was a single Greenshank. 

A flock of Twite had been reported at Salthouse earlier in the day, and as we were close by, we went in search of them. There was no sign of the Twite, but we did enjoy a flock of thirteen Snow Buntings. There were obviously shoots happening on the adjacent farmlands today, and when we scanned the top field, dozens of Red-legged Partridges were seen along the hedgeline.

Our last stop of the day was Sheringham. We were hoping to see the Eastern Black Redstart. Brian, having seen it at the end of last year, knew exactly where to find it. 

1st winter male Eastern Black Redstart

Although currently only regarded as a subspecies of Black Redstart, this is a stunning-looking bird and well worth the visit.