Thurs 7th Aug 25
A good number of Lesser & Common Whitethroats again this morning plus Willow Warblers, Reed Warbler, Blackcap, Greenfinch & Goldfinch.
From the hide: 1 Mute Swan, 2 Teal, 2 Mallard, 10+ Lapwing, 3 Curlew, 1 Green Sand, 1 Common Sand, 1 Coot, 75 Blk H Gulls, 2 LBB's, 1 Buzzard, 1 Kestrel, Swallows & Sand Martin.
A walk to Sandy point added 2+ Wheatear, 12+ Linnets, 3 Pied Wags, 12+ House Martins, and a few Swallows & Sand Martin heading south. PL/RJ/MO'H/MR
Wed 6th Aug 25
A good number of Lesser & Common Whitethroats around this morning, plus a few Willow Warblers, Greenfinch, Goldfinch & Blackcap.
From the hide: 1 Mute Swan, 19 Greylag, 3 Teal, 2 Mallard, 15+ Lapwing, 3 Avocet, 3 Common Sands, 1 Green Sand, 40+ Blk H Gulls, 1 LBB, 1 Coot (Juv), 2 Buzzard, 1 Kestrel.
A walk to the end of the boardwalk added 14 Curlew (up off the marsh), a few Meadow Pipits, & Pied Wag.
Reports from today
Richard Jeffree
18:02 Wheatear by the raised tee.
Tues 5th Aug 25
Another very windy day with more rain overnight, a large flock of Goldfinch were feeding on the thistles around the mounds on the way to the hide.
From the hide: 1 Mute Swan (on the pond), 6 Greylag, 3 Teal, 2 Mallard, 18 Lapwing, 2 Common Sands, 47 Blk H Gulls, 3 Herring Gulls, 1 Juv. Coot, 1 Kestrel, 1 Buzzard, a few Swallows.
Mon 4th Aug 25
Reports from today
Matt Lonsdale
09:30 Haven this morning - 35 Whitethroat, 25 Lesser Whitethroat, 8 Willow Warbler, 4 Blackcap, 3 Reed Warbler in the bushes. 2 Wheatear (dell, 2nd pillbox). 2 Common Sand and a Teal from hide. 2 Yellow Wag, 2 Sandwich Tern, 4 Sand Martin and small passage of Swallows south.
Pete Loud
09:37 Water level has unfortunately risen a little on the scrape, only 1 Common Sand, 3 Avocets and 1 Teal, Juvenile Coot on the pond to right of hide is a Haven year tick for me.1 Wheatear on greensward by Dell.
12:38 In the end 1 Green and up to 3 Common Sand on the Scrape, plus 3 Curlew and a juvenile Marsh Harrier. A few Swifts were moving through about 20 or so. A walk to the boardwalk didn’t add any interesting bird species, but did produce a Clouded Yellow Butterfly,1st of the year for me.(MR,PL).
Sun 3rd Aug 25
Reports from today
Pete Loud
11:11 Still a few juvenile Willow Warblers around this morning (8+), several Chiffchaff and good numbers of Whitethroats,1 Great sp. Woodpecker, still a few Sand Martins passing through. Scrape, 2 Green and 2 Common Sandpiper, 2 Curlew, 2 Teal , 3 Avocet, 1 Juvenile Stonechat.
Sat 2nd Aug 25
Reports from today
Pete Loud
11:17 Bit quieter than of late, 4 Willow Warblers around the bushes with a few local Chiffchaffs and a couple of Whitethroat. From the Hide, 1 Marsh Harrier, 3 Common Sandpiper, 25 Lapwing, 1 Avocet, 1 Curlew, 2 Teal. Water level is still a little high for any interesting waders, but should drop in time.3 Common Tern passed the Sluice close offshore on my way back.
Fri 1st Aug 25
Reports from today
Mike O'Hanlon
14:12 This morning at the Haven with Dave Cummings - From Hide - 20 Lapwing, 2 Common Sandpipers, 2 Avocets, 1 LBBG, 1 Juv Marsh Harrier, 1 Red kite, 2 Greylag, 1 Teal, 18 BHGs, 1 juv Shelduck, + 1 Hobby, (over GC ditch) 1 Kestrel, (by pillbox above scrape), 1 Sparrowhawk (by raised wooden platform).
Thurs 31st July 25
Reports from today
Brian Combes
07:14 Haven: Whinchat south of ‘wooden hide’.
17:27 Walk from Frinton to Haven and back via the farm this morning included: 1 whinchat, 1 stonechat (juv, golf course dump), 1 cuckoo (juv flew over scrape), 1 grey wag (over sewage works), 1 green sandpiper, 1 ruff, 6+ common sandpiper (6 together on sea defences by French Point, 4 on the scrape were probably additional), 2 reed warbler, 8+ willow warbler, 6+ chiff, 98+ swallow (including 16 south, 30+ marsh west of carpark, 30+ over farm), 8 house martin, 17 pied wag, 2 green woodpecker, 13 linnet, 10+ sand martin, 20+ whitethroat, 10+ lesser whitethroat, 90+ starling (golf course first thing), 2 greenfinch (juvs), 5+ blackcap, 4 swift, 2 curlew, 2 avocet, 1 teal, 10 whimbrel (1 golf course first thing, flock of 9 south), 1 corn bunting.
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| Three of a group of 6 common sandpipers this morning. Photo Brian Combes© |
At the end of July the number of species recorded at the Haven this year stands at 145.
Wed 30th July 25
Reports from today
Mike O'Hanlon
10:51 Ruff on Leon’s and a Hobby hunting over scrape, marsh and arable.
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| Photo Mike O'Hanlon© |
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| Photo Mike O'Hanlon© |
Richard Jeffree
11:54 Wheatear boardwalk.
Pete Loud
14:02 Very busy around the bushes this morning, with Willow Warblers well into double figures, Garden Warbler was a first for the site year list, lots of Common & Lesser Whitethroats and several each of Blackcap, Reed Warbler & Chiffchaff. On the Scrape was a fine moulting ad male Ruff, joined by a Green Sandpiper and 2 Common Sandpiper, 6Teal, 3 Avocet (1 ad & 2 juvs), 2 Curlew and a Hobby that put on a show around the Scrape for half an hour. (RJ, MO’H,PL).
Tues 29th July 25
Reports from today
Richard Jeffree
08:58 Adult Cattle Egret back of scrape juv on Leon's, 2 Common, 1 Green Sand so far.
Mike O'Hanlon
10:30 Moulting male Whinchat on the marsh near site of old wooden hide (with PL and RJ)
11:48 Juv Whinchat just north of hide.
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| Photo Mike O'Hanlon© |
Pete Loud
14:35 Quick roundup of Haven this morning. Bushes fairly quiet with a north westerly airflow, just a few Common and Lesser Whitethroat & 3 Willow Warblers. From the Scrape Hide, 2 Green Sands, 3 Common Sands, 5 Curlew & a flyover Black t Godwit. 1 Adult and 1 Juvenile Cattle Egret, that later on got in with the Cattle on the marsh. Walk to Sandy Point and back, 2 Whinchat & 1 Juvenile Stonechat, plus 1 Sandwich Tern offshore, Good Swift passage south late morning.(MO’H,RJ,PL)
Mon 28th July 25
The juvenile Cattle Egret was still on the scrape this morning before flying out late morning and dropping into the marsh over the road, 3 adult Avocet spent a very peaceful morning in the middle of the scrape, otherwise 2 Common and 1 Green Sand was about it.
From the hide: 1 Greylag, 3 Teal, 2 Mallard, 28 Lapwing, 3 Avocet, 2 Common Sands, 1 Green Sand, 1 Oystercatcher, 1 Cattle Egret, 1 Grey Heron, 84 Blk H Gulls, 1 Common Gull, 2 Herring Gulls, 3 Buzzard, 1 Kestrel.
Sun 27th July 25
At last the Avocets have finished their breeding and have all left the scrape, so we hope for a bit of calm to greet the Autumn migrants. 3 Common Sands, 2 Green Sands, and a Juv. Cattle Egret were the highlights today. 15 Cormorant were heading south offshore on the way to the hide
From the hide: 4 Mallard, 4 Teal, 10+ Lapwing, 3 Common Sands, 2 Green Sands, 1 Oystercatcher, 40+ Blk H Gulls, 2 Herring Gulls, 2 LBB Gulls, 1 Cattle Egret, 4 Buzzard, 1 Kestrel, Reed & Sedge Warbler. RJ/MO'H/MR et.al.
Reports from today
Richard Jeffree
10:32 Juv. Cattle Egret back of scrape + 2 each of Common & Green Sand.
Sat 26th July 25
Reports from today
Mike O'Hanlon
15:50 This morning’s visit by myself and Richard Jeffree - (Around the Dell) Willow Warbler, Reed Warbler, Blackcap, Common Whitethroat, Lesser Whitethroat, Chiffchaff.
(From the Hide) 2 Green Sandpipers, 2 Common Sandpipers, 4 Avocets, 9 Teal, 14 Lapwings, 2 Oystercatchers , 2 Mallard, 5 Buzzard, 100 + Sand Martins, 100 + Swallows + a few Swifts and House Martins, 80+ BHGs.
Fri 25th July 25
Reports from today
Pete Loud
12:55 Very lively round the bushes today early morning. The burnt area on the Dell was again very good with several of both Lesser and Common Whitethroat, Reed Warbler, Chiffchaff and mixed Tit flock. Very large mixed Tit flock in the bottom hedge just south of the raised platform held our first Willow Warblers of the Autumn, 1 adult and 2 or 3 juveniles, several Chiffchaff including juveniles and a few of each of Blackcap, Whitethroat and Lesser Whitethroat, Reed Warbler and lots of Long t Tits, 1 Great Spotted Woodpecker. Scrape very quiet as we wait for the water level to drop a little after the recent rains, just 1 Common Sand & 2 Avocet, 1 Marsh Harrier. Nice Summer plumaged Turnstone on the rocks of French Point.(RJ,PL,MO’H, MR).
Thurs 24th July 25
Much cooler this morning with cloud, a steady breeze and some light rain.
From the hide: 8 Mallard, 2 Shelduck, 1 Teal, 23 Lapwing, 9 Avocet, 3 Common Sands, 2 Oystercatcher, 1 Whimbrel, 66 Blk H Gulls, 1 Grey Heron, PL/RJ/MO'H/MR
Reports from today
Brian Combes
17:43 Walk from Frinton to The Haven and back via the farm this morning included: 2 Reed Warbler (passage birds in the recently burnt section of the dell - Pete and I had a very pleasant twenty minutes watching this area, full of juv warblers and tits), 3 Chiff, 4 Whimbrel (golf course first thing), 22 Curlew (golf course first thing), 4 Common Sandpiper (2 scrape, 2 sea defences), 72+ Swallow (including group of 11 south and 39+ over golf course late morning), 14 House Martin (over golf course), 10 Swift (south), 20 Pied Wag, 120+ Starling (golf course), 8 Linnet, 1 Reed Bunting (singing), 1 Hare (golf course first thing), 10 Avocet, 2 Buzzard, 1 Teal, 1 Little Owl (50m north of usual spot), 1 Great Spotted Woodpecker (farm), 2 Red-legged Partridge, 1 Corn Bunting, 1 Redshank (sea defences), 2 Green Woodpecker, 1 Greenfinch, 5 Sand Martin (south).
Wed 23rd July 25
Hundreds of Gatekeeper butterflies were along the path from the sluice to the hide this morning along with Small Heaths, Whites and 4+ Common Blues, 2 Wasp Spiders. Richard & Mike also had a Clouded Yellow.
A walk around the Dell area added another 18+ Wasp Spiders they seem to be coping with the fires and the rain
From the Hide: 3 Mallard, 2 Shelduck, 10 Avocet, 10 Lapwing, 4 Common Sands, 1 Oystercatchers, 1 LRP, c40 Blk H Gulls, 1 Med Gull (juv), 1 Grey Heron, 1 Marsh Harrier, 1 Buzzard, 1 Kestrel. MO'H/RJ/PNt/MR et.al.
Tues 22nd July 25
Bird of the day had to be a sum plumage Knot seen on French Point by Richard & Mike on their walk around this morning, also seen were Wasp Spider & Jersey Tiger ( see Haven Wildlife page) and to finish off a Hobby over the Dell.
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| Photo Mike O'Hanlon© |
From the hide: 4 Canada Geese, 1 Greylag (with 1 hybrid), 3 Mallard, 2 Shelduck, 15+ Lapwing, 9 Avocet, 5 Common Sands, 1 LRP, 1 Oystercatcher, 1 Snipe, 160+ Blk H Gulls, 2 Med Gulls, 1 LBB Gull, 2 Sandwich Terns (1 Juv.), Several Sand Martins, Swift & Swallow, 5+ Buzzard, Marsh Harrier. PL/MO'H/RJ/MR et.al.
Reports from today:
12:01 Knot on French Pt.
Mon 21st July 25
Reports from today
Mike O'Hanlon
11:38 Grey Plover flew north over marshes towards Frinton
Richard Jeffree
12:56 From the hide this morning, water levels risen considerably all the LRP,s cleared out remaining birds 4 Common, 1 Green Sand, 13 Avocet, 30 Lapwing, 3 Teal, 1 Med Gull and 2 juv Marsh Harriers, nice ffy flyover Grey plover and a few Sand Martins on the walk to GC and back with MO'H.
Sun 20th July 25
Pete Louds early start was rewarded with an extra LRP (an adult) first thing, and by late morning 6 were dotted around the scrape plus the 1 Green & 2 Common Sands. Birds of the day waited for the shower dodgers to arrive before putting in an appearance, first a juvenile Cattle Egret shortly followed by a cracking sum plumage adult. Also of note c20 Common Gulls, 5+ Med Gulls (incl. 1 Juv.) joined the large Blk Headed Gull flock. PL/RJ/MO'H/MR.
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| Photo Mike O'Hanlon© |
Reports from today
Pete Loud
08:33 Now 4 Little Ringed Plovers, an adult bird has joined the 3 juveniles, plus 1 Green Sandpiper and 2 common Sandpipers.
Sat 19th July 25
Reports from today
Pete Loud
12:28 Little change from Scrape hide this morning, still 3 juvenile LRP, adult Dunlin, 1 Blackwit, Green Sandpiper, 3 Common Sandpiper, 12 Curlew, 20 Lapwing, 2 Marsh Harrier (ad female & 1 juvenile).5 Common Tern were feeding offshore with a mixed flock of Gulls just off the Sluice on my way in, walk to Sandy point and back, 2 Whimbrel, 1 Curlew, 1 Sandwich Tern, 4 House Martins and a few Sand Martins (RJ,MO’H, PL).
Thurs 17th July 25
From the hide: 5 Canada Geese, 4 Mallard, 2 Shelduck, 19 Curlew, 11 Blk T Godwits, 9 Lapwing, 8 Avocet, 3 Common Sands, 2 Oystercatcher, 1 LRP, 1 Dunlin, 1 Redshank, c40 Blk H Gulls, 3 Med Gulls, 1 LBB Gull, 1 Grey Heron, 3 Buzzard, 2 Kestrel plus a few Swifts, Swallows & Sand Martins. PL/RJ/MO'H/MR.
Reports from today
Brian Combes
15:35 Walk from Frinton to the hide and back via the farm this morning included: 1 greenshank (on scrape, as were the other waders unless stated, then flew north), 12 black-tailed godwit, 1 green sandpiper, 4 common sandpiper, 1 dunlin, 10 avocet, 2 turnstone (French Point), 1 redshank, 2 whimbrel (fields), 14 curlew (fields/golf course), 2 oystercatcher (French Point), 5 med gull, 2 little owl (pair, usual spot), 10 house martin, 18 swallow, 8 linnet, 11 pied wag, 1 reed bunting (singing), 70+ starling, 2 reed warbler (singing, just), 2 Cetti’s (singing), 1 whitethroat (singing), 2 grey heron, 1 little egret, 1 great spotted woodpecker (dispersing juv), 5 sand martin (south), 2 swift, 2 green woodpecker (juvs), 2 corn bunting (arable, but no song - slightly early to have stopped singing).
Wed 16th July 25
Small signs of autumn movement again today with 3 Blk T Godwits joining the Common Sand and Little Ringed Plover on the scrape plus a steady southerly movement of Swifts throughout the morning.
From the hide: 2 Greylags, 1 Canada Goose, 2 Mallard, 1 Shelduck, 20 Curlew, 12 Avocet, 10+ Lapwing, 3 Blk T Godwit, 1 Common Sand, 1 LRP, 1 Oystercatcher, 75 Blk H Gulls, 1 Common Gull, 2 Buzzard, 1 Red Kite, 1 Grey Heron, 1 Lt. Egret, 3 Cormorant, 200+ Swift, 10+ Swallows. PL/RJ/MO'H/MR.
Tues 15th July 25
It was a very windy morning at the Haven with quite a lot of cloud, the LRP & Common Sand were joined by a Blk T Godwit, but no sign of the Green Sand. Five of the Canada Geese took their first flight today but sadly the sixth couldn't get off the ground and was left on the scrape on his own, hopefully whey will be reunited shortly.
From the hide: 6 Canada Geese, 2 Greylags, 3 Shelduck, 2 Mallard, 15 Avocet, 10 Lapwing, 1 Common Sand, 1 LRP, 1 Blk T Godwit, c80 Blk H Gulls, 8 Med Gulls (incl 1 Juv - 1 2nd cal yr), 4 Pied Wags, 1 Sparrowhawk, 1 Kestrel. PL/PNt/RJ/MO'H/MR et.al.
Mon 14th July 25
Reports from today
Pete Loud
08:36 Juvenile Little Ringed Plover is still here for its 3rd day which shows the Avocets are becoming a little less aggressive, which bodes well for the autumn wader passage, a fine adult Ruff on the Scrape is new in.
08:58 1 Whimbrel in with the 32 Curlew on the marsh and a few Sand Martins heading through south.
14:03 Nice morning from the Scrape Hide today, LRP, Ruff, Green Sand, 1 Common Sand, 20 Lapwing, Whimbrel, 32 Curlew, 1 Teal, 1 Adult Hobby flew through low over the back of the scrape and a few Sand Martins, 6 adult and 1 Juvenile Mediterranean Gull. 3 Southern Migrant Hawkers in the pools along the eastern boundary path to the golf course, 1 Common Sand & 1 Whimbrel on the walk back.
Mike O'Hanlon
10:46 Green Sandpiper just flew in onto Leon’s Marsh.
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| Photo Mike O'Hanlon© |
Sun 13th July 25
I managed a short visit to the hide this morning after having my grandson down for the week, the scrape was looking good and the Common Sandpipers and the LRP seen during the week were still around. Mike & Richard had a nice Southern Migrant Hawker beside the golf course (see Haven Wildlife page).
From the hide: 6 Canada Geese, 2 Greylag, 3 Shelduck, 14 Lapwing, 11 Avocet, 2 Oystercatcher, 2 Common Sands, 1 LRP, 200+ Blk H Gulls, 6 Herring Gulls, 1 Kestrel, 4 Swallow, 4 Pied Wags.
Reports from today
Simon Cox
15:15 6 Med Gulls from the hide early afternoon.
Sat 12th July 25
Reports from today
Mike O'Hanlon
12:50 From HH hide 11.30-12.30 Little Egret, Grey Heron, 2 Oystercatcher, 5 Shelducks (3 juvs), 9 Curlews, 7 Canada Geese (5 juvs), 11 Avocets (6 juvs), 2 Lapwings, 120 BHGs (just 3 juvs), 5 Mallard…that’s all folks!
Richard Jeffree
12:52 I had the LRP and 1 Common Sand earlier.
17:49 Little Owl again back of GC.
Fri 11th July 25
Reports from today
Matt Lonsdale
07:13 LRP, Common Sand and 2 Redshank on scrape. GS Woodpecker N over car park and juv Great Tit on rocks between French point and bay the best this morning.
Brian Combes
08:30 Haven: juv Stonechat by site of old wooden hide.
13:46 Walk from Frinton to the hide and back via the farm this morning included: 1 Stonechat (dispersing juv), 1 Little Ringed Plover (juv, elusive and keeping to the right edge of the scrape - best viewed by scope from next to the sea watching hide), 2 Great Spotted Woodpecker (together north of hide, dispersing juvs), 3 Yellow Wag, 1 Kingfisher (flew along ditch north of site of old wooden hide), 3 Common Sandpiper (also favouring the right edge of the scrape ), 1 Ringed Plover (over), 4 House Martin, 5 Swift, 1 Green Woodpecker, 24 Swallow, 14 Pied Wag, 45 Starling, 13 Linnet, 7 Reed Warbler (singing weakly), 4 Whitethroat (singing), 2 Med Gull, 3 Reed Bunting (singing), 33 Curlew (feeding on fields south of golf course), 15 Sand Martin (group south), 2 Redshank, 2 Corn Bunting (singing, one along footpath, one by paddocks), 2 Buzzard, 1 Cetti’s (singing), 1 Little Owl (usual place), 13 Avocet, 1 Grey Heron, 1 Chiff (singing).
Richard Jeffree
12:58 Not a lot of change on the scrape late morning no sign of LRP but 3 elusive Common Sands and just 1 Redshank, 28 Curlew and 6 Med Gulls to the right of hide nothing to report from Sandy PT and back.
Weds 9th July 25
Reports from today.
Mike O'Hanlon
10:35 HH Hide 9.30 - 10.30am with RJ - 2 Buzzards, 1 Marsh Harrier (f), 2 Green Sands flew into ditch, Little Egret, circa 100 BHGs with 2 adult Med Gulls + 2 first summer juvs, 2 Oystercatchers on flood. 25 + BHGS on scrape, including 3 juvs. 7 Avocets. 15 Lapwings on marsh + millions of ladybirds. MO'H/RJ.
Sat 5th July 25
Reports from today
Pete Loud
12:30 Short seawatch this morning produced very little except a few Swift moving and 1 Whimbrel south. From the Hide a nice flock of 23 Curlew on the marsh with 18 Lapwing, 2 Greenshank came in briefly before the inevitable Avocet onslaught saw them off, the first juvenile Med Gull of the year was in with the roosting Black/ headed along with a further 12 Adult & 1st sum. meds. Steady stream of Swifts in small numbers all morning. (RJ,PL,MO’H).
Fri 4th July 25
Another very quiet day at the Haven
From the hide: 2 Canada Geese (+6 Gosling), 2 Shelduck (+3 ducklings), Mallard, 18 Lapwing, c17 Avocet, 2 Oystercatcher, c60 Blk H Gull, 2 Med Gulls, 2 LBB, 1 Lt. Egret, 20+ Sand Martin, 3+ Swift, Swallow, 1 Buzzard, 3 Kestrel, 1 Gt. S Woodpecker.PL/RJ/MO'H/DC/MR.
Thurs 3rd July 25
Not much to say about this morning, all the nesting birds have now left the island, a lot of the Blk H Gulls were on the marsh to the right of the hide with 7 Med Gulls, the rest on Leon's Marsh or along the front edge of the scrape. Just 10 Avocet seen (of varying ages), 8 Canada Geese, (2+6), 1 Shelduck, 16 Lapwing, 2 Oystercatcher and 1 Buzzard made up the rest of the list. RJ/MR
Wed 2nd July 25
Reports from today.
Pete Loud
10:23 Green Sandpiper just flew in and out briefly, a few Swift moving through and a lot of Med Gulls around, quite a few 1st. summers.
14:07 From the hide this morning, 1 Curlew, 1 Green Sandpiper, 1 Black-t-Godwit, 2 Redshank, but Avocets are not allowing anything to settle for very long on the Scrape at the moment, 20+ Swift, 15-20 Med Gull. (RJ,MO’H,PL).
Walk to Sandy point and back along seawall, evidence of a few waders starting to move, well offshore flock of 25 Curlew south, much closer in, 1 Whimbrel, 2 more Curlew, 1 Avocet & 3 Blackwit south, also several Med Gulls, and still a trickle of Swifts.
Tues 1st July 25
The island is slowly clearing of birds as the youngsters move off the nest site with the adults, some on the marsh to the right and some to Leon's Marsh. The only new bird was a Sandwich Tern that dropped in for a few minutes.
From the hide: 2 Canada Geese (+6 goslings), 2 Shelduck (+ 3 ducklings), 22 Avocet (assorted sizes), c20 Lapwing, 9 Curlew, 1 Oystercatcher, c150 Blk H Gulls, 1 Sandwich Tern, 1 Sparrowhawk, 1 Kestrel. MO'H/RJ/MR.
Mon 30th June 25
A nice surprise as Mike and I walked to the hide this morning, near the wind pump we spotted a butterfly that didn't fit with the normal candidates and Mike thought Marbled White but it was lost to view. On our return with PL & RJ an hour later it was relocated and was indeed a cracking Marbled White. A first for me and I think only the second for the site.
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| Photo Mike O'Hanlon© |
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From the hide: 2 Canada geese (+6 goslings), 1 Shelduck (+3 ducklings), 1 Tufted Duck, 20+ Avocet (all size chicks some almost fledged), 12 Lapwing, 3 Oystercatcher, c150 Blk H Gulls (+ lots of nearly fledged chicks), 1 Grey Heron, 1 Lt. Egret, a few Swallows, 6+ Swifts, 2+ Sand Martin, 1 Buzzard, 1 Kestrel. PL/RJ/MO'H/MR.
At the end of June the number of species recorded at the Haven this year stands at 139.
Sat 28th June 25
We had a day out yesterday to see some Nightjars so we finished a bit on the late side, here is a catch up from Friday.
Fri 27th June 25
From the hide: 2 Canada Geese (+6 goslings), 4 Mallard, 2 Shelduck (+3 ducklings), 2 Cormorant, 1 Grey Heron, 1 Lt. Egret, 16+ Avocet (lots of chicks some almost fledged), 5 Lapwing, 3 Oystercatcher, c150 Blk H Gulls, 3+ Med Gulls, a Few Swallow, Swift & Sand Martin, 1 Buzzard, 1 Sparrowhawk, 1 Kestrel. PL/RJ/DC/MO'H/MR.
Sat 28th June 25
Reports from today
Richard Jeffree
13:18 Short visit this morning to the hide didn't produce much change other than a close flyby G S Woodpecker receding water levels have now been averted which bodes well for autumn waders migration.
Thurs 26th June 25
Some of the Blk H Gull chicks are nearly as big as the adults now and the Avocet chicks are not far behind. Several groups of Sand Martins were moving south during the morning which could have been the reason that a Hobby was in the area for a while.
From the hide: 2 Canada Geese (+6 goslings), 2 Shelduck (+3 ducklings), 2 Mallard, 16+ Avocet (+13 Chicks), 3 Oystercatcher, 2 Lapwing, c200 Blk H Gulls (+20 chicks), 10 Med Gulls, 1 Common Tern, 2 Cormorant, 2 Grey Heron, 1 Lt. Egret, 35+ Sand Martin, Reed Warbler (pair feeding young), 1 Buzzard, 1 Hobby. RJ/MR
Wed 25th June 25
Reports from today
Brian Combes
17:19 Walk from Frinton to the hide and back via the farm this morning included: 1 little owl (where the footpath leaves the golf course), 2 corn bunting (singing on arable, one west of footpath, one half way along bridleway), 2 house martin, 15 starling, 24 swallow, 12 linnet, 5 pied wag, 6 reed bunting (singing), 12 reed warbler (singing), 6 oystercatcher, 4 Cetti’s (singing), 7 whitethroat (singing), 3 sedge warbler (singing), 1 med gull, 1 little egret, 1 chiff (singing), 16 avocet (6 juv), 2 lesser whitethroat (singing), 2 buzzard, 1 swift, 1 grey heron.
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| Little owl this morning.Photo Brian Combes© |
Tues 24th June 25
On arrival at the hide this morning we were greeted by another act of vandalism, after a week of peace the padlock had again been damaged and couldn't be opened. As this was the third padlock in as many weeks it has been decided to leave the door unlocked, we hope that those who seem to have such a great need to access the hide will have some respect for others and leave it as they find it.
No counts made today.
Sun 22nd June 25
The early chicks of both the Blk H Gulls and the Avocet are getting quite large now and the number of gull chicks had increased this morning.
From the hide: 2 Canada Geese (+6 Goslings), 12 Shelduck (+3 ducklings), 3 Mallard, 20+ Avocet (+8 chicks), 6 Lapwing, 2 Oystercatcher, 100+ Blk H Gulls (+17 chicks), 2 Med Gulls, 1 Lt. Egret, 1 Grey Heron, 1 Buzzard, 1 Kestrel plus the usual warblers etc.
Thurs 19th June 25
Just for a change 6 Blk T Godwits made several attempts to land on the scrape this morning but were chased off by the adult Avocets being very parental, they were not bothered at all by a Common Tern that flew around for a few minutes but it decided not to land anyway.
From the hide: 2 Canada Geese (+6 goslings), 14 Shelduck (+3 ducklings), 4 Mallard, 21 Avocet (+13 chicks), 6 Blk T Godwit (in & out), 3 Lapwing, 1 Redshank, 1 Curlew, 60+ Blk H Gulls (+10 chicks), 2 LBB Gulls, 1 Med Gull, 2 Cormorant, 3 Grey Heron, 2 Lt. Egret, 2 Sparrowhawk, 1 Buzzard, Cetti's Warbler, Reed Warbler, Reed Bunting, Whitethroat, Linnet, etc. PL/RJ/MO'H/TH/MC/MR.
Wed 18th June 25
Another short visit this morning, the Avocet chicks seem to be doing OK c14 seen and some getting quite large, same with the Blk H Gulls, otherwise much the same, Canada Geese with Goslings, 10+ Shelduck 3 ducklings, 4 Mallard, c20 Avocet + chicks, 2 Lapwing, 2 Oystercatcher, 3 Grey Heron, 1 Lt. Egret, 2 Cormorant, Swallows, Reed Warbler & Reed Bunting, 1 Buzzard, 1 Kestrel. RJ/MR
Tues 17th June 25
Very little happening at the Haven again today, still 4 or 5 Avocet families around the scrape and some Blk H Gull chicks getting quite big on the island. A walk to Sandy point added 3 Med Gulls flying over the golf course and a single Curlew out on the marsh, and surprise bird of the day was a Kingfisher that flew over the mounds and along the seawall before heading back toward the brook.
From the hide: 2 Canada Geese (+6 goslings), 9 Shelduck (+3 ducklings), 4 Mallard, 20+ Avocet (+ chicks), 3 Lapwing, 2 Oystercatcher, 2 Cormorant, 2 Lt. Egret. PL/RJ/MR
Mon 16th June 25
Been away for a few days so here is a quick catch up with reports from this weekend.
Sat 14th June
Matt Lonsdale
16:20 Highlight early morning 2 Sandwich Terns flew over the scrape.
Sun 15th June
Richard Jeffree
11:30 Short visit to the hide this morning, 30 Avocets,+10 chicks usual Shelduck +3 chicks, 2 Oystercatcher with 1+ chick by pond, + 2 1st summer Med Gulls plenty of Reed Warblers not a lot else.
Mon 16th June
Pete Loud
12:13 Much the same from the hide this morning, the Avocet chicks seem to be doing well ,also Black-headed Gulls. Pair of Oystercatcher, 1 Little Egret, 5 Med Gulls, Adult pair and 3,1st Summers. Flock of 30+ Sand Martin flew over the Scrape and headed of south, 1 Marsh Harrier. several Swift high south.(RJ&PL).
Thurs 12th June 25
From the hide: 2 Canada Geese (+6 goslings), 20+ Shelduck (+3 ducklings), 5 Mallard, 24+ Avocet (+ 10+ chicks), 2 Oystercatcher (+ 4 chicks), 2 Lapwing, 60+ Blk H Gulls (+ 2 chicks), 1 Med Gull (over), 2 Cormorant, 2 Lt. Egret, 1 Buzzard, 1 Kestrel, 5 Swallow, 3 Swift, Chiffchaff, Reed Bunting, Cetti's Warbler, Linnet. PL/RJ/MR.
Graham Sutton
17:23 3 very fresh Avocet chicks this morning, plus 5 older ones (maybe a week old?). Also Avocet with single yellow ring on right, yellow flag on left (marked with a D?). Otherwise, visit from f Marsh Harrier.
Thanks to all who cleared up the hide - I didn’t notice any damage!
Wed 11th June 25
Reports from today.
Pete Loud
13:43 Much the same this morning, just 4 or 5 Swifts hanging about, 1 1st Sum Med Gull over and 1 Red Kite, 4 Oystercatcher chicks in the grass in front of the hide and 2 bigger Chicks that must be from the pair on the island that must have moved over as well ,still several Avocet chicks, 2 very small ones on right of island.
Richard Jeffree
17:20 Much the same over the Haven this morning all the young Avocets and Oystercatchers doing well the only highlights being a nice Red Kite and a 1st summer Med Gull, on the down side the hide lock has been vandalized again.
17:21 5 Turnstone on my bike ride along seawall this afternoon.
Tues 10th June 25
Another very windy day, when will it ever stop blowing a gale. Looks like we may have 4 broods of 3 Avocet chicks now plus an odd 1 just hatched with parent still sitting. The 4 new Oystercatcher chicks are still with us as is the single from the other pair and 4 Blk H Gull chicks were seen on the island.
From the hide: 2 Canada Geese (+6 goslings), 24 Shelduck (+3 ducklings), 4 Mallard, 1 Gadwall, 26 Avocet (+13 chicks), 3 Lapwing, 3 Oystercatcher (+5 Chicks), 60+ Blk H Gulls (+ 4 chicks), 1 Lt. Egret, 1 Grey Heron, Reed Warbler, Linnets. PL/RJ/MR
Mon 9th June 25
Two surprises this morning, a Little Ringed Plover that dropped into the back of the scrape for 20 mins was the first new wader for a while, and a second brood of 4 very small Oystercatcher chicks swimming across from the island to Leon's marsh being called by their parents was the other. Lets hope it works out, as moving from the island to Leon's last year wasn't a good move.
From the hide: 2 Canada Geese (+6 goslings), 23 Shelduck (+3 ducklings), 4 Mallard, 2 Teal, 1 Gadwall, 1 Lt. Egret, 1 Grey Heron, 32 Avocet (+6 chicks), 4 Lapwing (+ 1 fledged juv.), 4 Oystercatcher (+ 5 chicks), 1 LRP, 50+ Blk H Gulls (+ 2 chicks), 5 Herring Gulls, 3 Med Gulls, 1 LBB, 2 Buzzard, 1 Kestrel, 5 Swallows. SC/PL/MR et.al.
Sun 8th June 25
Just a short visit for us all this morning, very windy and a bit on the cold side..
From the hide: 2 Canada Geese (+6 goslings), 16 Shelduck (+3 ducklings), 4 Mallard, 1 Gadwall, 37+ Avocet (+9 chicks), 4 Oystercatcher (+ 1 chick), 50+ Blk H Gulls, 2 Med Gulls (over), plus the norm. PL/RJ/MO'H/MR.
Fri 6th June 25
From the hide: 2 Canada Geese (+6 goslings), 23 Shelducks (+3 ducklings), 4 Mallard, 2 Gadwall, 1 Tufted Duck, 2 Grey Heron, 2 Lt. Egret, 26+ Avocet (+9 chicks-3 broods of 3), 9 Lapwing, 2 Oystercatcher, 50+ Blk H Gulls (+1 chick), possibly 10+ Med Gulls, 2 Peregrine, 1 Buzzard, 1 Kestrel, plus the normal Warblers etc. RJ/MR
Thurs 5th June 25
A bad start to morning, when Richard arrived he found the hide open and the place trashed, the bag of grit nicely sprinkled over the seating and floor, everything else thrown out of the windows or missing, why?.
On the bright side, the first Blk H Gull chicks were hatched this morning, and 7+ Avocet chicks were on show.
From the hide: 2 Canada Geese (+6 goslings), 17 Shelduck (+3 ducklings), 4 Mallard, 2 Gadwall, 1 Tufted Duck, 2 Cormorant, 22 Avocet (+ 7+ chicks), 6 Lapwing (+1 Juv), 2 Oystercatcher (+1 chick), 50+ Blk H Gulls (+2 chicks), plus the normal Warblers etc. RJ/MO'H/MR
Wed 4th June 25
All much the same this morning, only 3 Avocet chicks seen but hopefully more behind the island sheltering from the wind.
From the hide: 2 Canada Geese (+6 goslings), 23 Shelduck (+3 ducklings), 5 Mallard, 1 Gadwall, 1 Tufted Duck, 23 Avocet (+3 chicks), 7 Lapwing (+1 juv), 2 Oystercatcher (+1 chick), 50+ Blk H Gulls, 1 Common Gull, 2 Cormorant, 5+ Swallow, 2 Swift, Reed Bunting, Reed Warbler, Cetti's Warbler, Whitethroat, Linnet, 1 Marsh Harrier, 1 Buzzard, 1 Kestrel. PL/RJ/MO'H/MR.
Tues 3rd June 25
Very windy out there today.
From the hide: 2 Canada Geese (+6 goslings), 14 Shelduck (+3 ducklings), 4 Mallard, 1 Gadwall, c20 Avocet (+7 chicks), 6 Lapwing (+1 chick), 2 Oystercatcher (+1 chick), 50+ Blk H Gulls, 3 Med Gulls, 1 Grey Heron, 6 Swallows, 1 Swift, plus the usual Warblers etc. MO'H/MR
Reports from today
Laurence Drumond
10:33 Seawatch from the shelter 06.50 -10.20,all north, 15 Common Scoter (6+9), 1 Arctic Skua, 8 Med Gull, 3 Sandwich Tern, 4 Tern sp, small very fast north possibly Black,
Simon Cox
11:36 Another 10 C Scoter after LD left, otherwise just 2 Swifts.
Mon 2nd June 25
Hopes of lots of new chicks were soon dashed when just the same 4 as yesterday were on the end of the island. No sign of any Oystercatcher chicks either with the birds on longer sitting and doing a lot of flying around, hopefully there are some chicks tucked away on the island, only time will tell.
From the hide: 2 Canada Geese (+6 goslings), 24 Shelduck (+3 ducklings), 5 Mallard, 1 Lt. Egret, 28 Avocet (+4 chicks), 4 Lapwing (+1 juv), 2 Oystercatcher, 50+ Blk H Gulls, 4 Med Gulls, 1 Buzzard, Reed Bunting, Reed Warbler, Cetti's Warbler, Linnet, Swallow. PL/MO'H/MR.
Sun 1st June 25
The first of the month brings the first of the Avocet chicks, five chick seen today from three different nests. Also one Oystercatcher chick seen with the second adult, the other bird still sitting.
From the hide: 2 Canada Geese (+5 goslings), 22 Shelduck (+3 ducklings), 5 Mallard, 3 Teal, 3 Grey Heron, 2 Lt. Egret, 23 Avocet (+5 chicks), 4 Lapwing (+1 chick), 2 Oystercatcher (+1 chick), 60+ Blk H Gulls, 4 Med Gulls, 4 Herring Gulls, 5 Swallow, reed Bunting, Reed Warbler, Cetti's Warbler & Linnets.
Fri 30th May 25
From the hide
2 Canada Geese (+6 goslings), 18 Shelduck (+3 ducklings), 6 Mallard (+10 ducklings), 2 Gadwall, 30 Avocet, 4 Lapwing (+1 chick), 2 Oystercatcher, c50 Blk H Gulls, 3 Med Gulls, 1 LBB, 1 Buzzard, 1 Kestrel, plus the normal Warblers etc. DC/MO'H/TH/MR.
Reports from today:
Brian Combes
17:56 Walk from Frinton to Haven and back via farm this morning included: 1 grey wag (sewage works), 4 corn bunting (3 singing), 4 house martins, 16 swallow, 11 Cetti’s (singing), 8 reed warbler (singing), 9 linnet, 5 swift (4 south), 8 reed bunting (singing), 9 med gull, 4 hare (2 on golf course first thing, 2 on arable), 3 sedge warbler (singing), 7 whitethroat (singing), 2 gadwall, 1 sparrowhawk, 1 fox, 3 lesser whitethroat (singing), 1 red-legged partridge, 21 avocet, 1 song thrush (singing), 4 chiff (singing).
Thurs 29th May 25
After several days of not a lot happening it was a nice surprise to find a summer plumage Gt. W Egret fishing on the pond to the right of the hide, another plus was the reappearance of the single Lapwing chick that had not been seen for the last few days.
From the hide: 14 Shelduck, 6 Mallard, 1 Tufted Duck, 1 Gt. W Egret, 1 Lt. Egret, 3 Grey Heron, 32 Avocet, 3 Lapwing (+1 chick), 2 Oystercatcher, 50+ Blk H Gulls, 2 Med Gulls. PL/HO'H/MR
Reports from today
Simon Cox
18:16 Haven scrape this pm: L Egret 1, Canada G P+6, Mallard 7, Gadwall pair, Shelduck 12+3, Buzzard 3, Oystercatcher 2, Lapwing 8 inc 1 juv, Avocet 33, Med Gull 8 on Leon’s Marsh, Swallow 8, Skylark 2, M Pipit 1, Cetti’s W 1, Chiff 1.
Wed 28th May 25
Reports from today
Mike O'Hanlon
06:08 Yellow wag over the hide. Flew south over sewer works.
12:41 This morning’s visit to the scrape - 21 Avo (6 sitting on nests), 17 Shelduck, 3 Grey Heron, 2 Buzzards, 4 Stock Doves, 2 Linnets, 2 Oystercatcher, 2 Lapwing, 1 Little Egret, 1 Yellow Wagtail, 5 Mallard, 3 Swallows, 1 Kestrel.
Tues 27th May 25
From the hide: 13+ Canada Geese (incl. the pair with 6 goslings), 3 Greylags, 14 Shelduck, 6 Mallard, 2 Gadwall, 3 Grey Heron, 20 Avocet, 3 Lapwing, 2 Oystercatcher, 50+ Blk H Gulls, 3 Med Gulls, 2 Buzzard, 1 Peregrine, 4 Swallows, 1 Grey Wagtail, 2 Pied Wagtail, Reed Warbler, Reed Bunting, Cetti's Warbler, Whitethroat, Linnet, Meadow Pipit etc.
Mon 26th May 25
From the hide: 14 Canada Geese (+6 goslings), 3 Greylags, 16 Shelduck (+3 ducklings), 8 Mallard, 1 Tufted Duck, 2 Grey Heron, 2 Lt. Egret, 18 Avocet, 3 Lapwing (no sign of the chick), 2 Oystercatcher, 30+ Blk H Gulls, 3 Med Gulls, 1 Common Gull, 1 LBB, 6 Swallows, 2 Pied Wags, Cetti's Warbler, Reed Warbler, Linnet, Whitethroat, etc. PL/RJ/MO'H/DC/MR.
Sun 25th May 25
Another short visit today, and things were not a lot different. A Spoonbill was the high point, dropping into the scrape for a while mid morning before disappearing into one of the ditches for half an hour, then flying back to the pond.
The Lapwing chick is still putting on weight as are the 6 Canada Geese goslings otherwise no change. RJ/MO'H/MR
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| Photo Richard Jeffree© |
Fri 23rd May 25
A Spotted Flycatcher (site year tick) was a good start for Mike this morning, unfortunately after brief views in the SW corner of the carpark bushes the bird couldn't be relocated.
From the hide: 14 Canada Geese (1 pair with 6 goslings), 3 Greylag,3 Greylag, 18 Shelduck (plus 3 ducklings), 4 Mallard, 20 Avocet, 3 Lapwing (+1 chick), 2 Oystercatcher, 1 Redshank, 6+ Buzzard, 2 Hobby, 2 Kestrel. RJ/DC/MO'H/MR.
Reports from today
Mike O'Hanlon
09:14 Spotted Flycatcher in the car park woods south of wooden platform.
Matt Lonsdale
10:32 Early am farm loop - Little Owl at north end of Gc. 3 Corn Bunting and a Cuckoo singing the highlights.
Richard Jeffree
12:11 WP Sanderling roosting French Pt.
Thurs 22nd May 25
From the hide: 12 Canada Geese, 4 Greylags, 18 Shelduck, 8 Mallard, 2 Gadwall, 22 Avocet, 4 Lapwing (+1 chick), 2 Oystercatcher, 1 Redshank, 2+ Grey Heron, 1 Lt. Egret, 2 Buzzard, 1 Hobby, 1 Kestrel, a few Swallows, 3 Swift, plus the usual warblers etc. RJ/MR.
Reports from today
Pete Loud
14:50 Early afternoon walk from the farm down to the Golf course along the footpath, female Tufted Duck on farmyard pond, Great spotted Woodpecker in trees were path meets golf course and 3 Swift moving slowly north.
Wed 21st May 25
A change in the wind direction and some light rain made things feel a bit different this morning, apart from that all was much the same.
From the hide: 12+ Canada Geese (+6 goslings), 3 Greylags, 2 Egyptian Geese, c20 Shelduck (+4 ducklings), 6 Mallard, 2+ Grey Heron, 1 Lt. Egret, 22 Avocet, 4 Lapwing (+ 1 chick), 2 Whimbrel, 2 Oystercatcher, 1 Redshank, 1 Blk T Godwit, Blk H Gulls (poss. 15+ nesting), 2 Buzzard, 1 Kestrel, 1 Cuckoo, Whitethroat, Linnet, Reed Warbler, Reed Bunting, Cetti's Warbler. PL/MO'H/MR.
Tues 20th May 25
On the way to the hide 2 Turnstones were on the sluice rocks, the 2cy Mute Swan was on the brook behind the sluice and a Carrion Crow was tucking into a slow worm or small snake along the track. ML/MR
From the hide: 12 Canada Geese, 3 Greylag, 2 Egyptian Geese, 20 Shelduck (+4 ducklings), 8 Mallard, 3 Gadwall, 14 Avocet, 4 Lapwing (+1 chick), 2 Oystercatcher, 1 Blk T Godwit, 1 Redshank, 2 Lt. Egret, 1 Grey Heron, Blk H Gulls, Reed Warbler, Reed Bunting, Linnet, Cetti's Warbler, Swallow. ML/PL/MO'H/MR.
Mon 19th May 25
All the normal culprits were singing around the site this morning but nothing new found, 2 Turnstone were on the rocks below the shelter and 2 Greenfinch in the Dell, the Mute Swan was on the brook behind the sluice as was a Mallard pair with 10+ ducklings
From the hide: 12+ Canada Geese, 3 Greylag, 2 Egyptian Geese, 18+ Shelduck (plus 5 ducklings), 8 Mallard, 2 Tufted Duck (fly over), 3 Cormorant, 1 Grey Heron, 1 Lt. Egret, 16+ Avocet, 5 Lapwing (+1 chick), 4 Whimbrel, 2 Oystercatcher, 1 Common Sand, 1 Blk T Godwit, 2 Buzzard, 1 Sparrowhawk, 1 Kestrel, Reed Warbler, Reed Bunting, Cetti's Warbler, Linnet, Pied Wag, etc. PL/MR et.al.
Reports from today
Pete Loud
13:35 Scrape this morning, little change, 1 Common Sand, 4 Whimbrel, 1 Black-t-Godwit, Ringed Plover, briefly on the island before it flew off. 2 Egyptian Geese still about. Pair of Tufted Duck few over and landed on brook.(MR,MO’H, PL).
Fri 16th May 25
An even shorter visit this morning before heading off to Abberton.
The pair of Tufted Duck were on the brook over the road along with 2 Grey Heron, lots of corvids, Mallard, Moorhen, Reed Warbler, Cetti's Warbler, 6+ Swallows.
On route to the hide the Mute Swan was still on the brook behind the sluice and Whitethroat, Less Whitethroat, Blackcap and Chiffchaff were singing around the mounds.
From the hide: 7 Canada Geese, 3 Greylag, 2 Egyptian Geese, 15 Shelduck, 8 Mallard (+10 ducklings), 2 Grey Heron, 1 Lt. Egret, 14+ Avocet, 4 Lapwing (+1 Chick), 2 Moorhen (only 1 chick seen), 2 Oystercatcher, 2 Common Sands, 1 Grey Wagtail. MO'H/MR
Thurs 15th May 25
Just a very short visit today, back to winter with a cold N/E wind, no sign of the Spoonbills but Common Sands back to three.
From the hide: 7 Canada Geese, 2 Greylag, 10+ Mallard, 10 Shelduck, 3 Gadwall, 2 Tufted Duck, 2 Grey Heron, 1 Lt. Egret, 20+ Avocet, 5 Lapwing (+1 chick), 4 Redshank, 3 Common Sands, 2 Blk T Godwits, 2 Oystercatcher, Blk headed & Herring Gulls, 2 LBB's, 2 Moorhen (+5 chicks), 1 Water Rail (heard only), plus the usual warblers etc. RJ/MR/PL/et.al.
