TOP START TO HALF-TERM HOLIDAYS

Picking Marc up just after 10.00 a.m. this morning the outlook was bleak and the hopes for a few hours birding was not high.  Walking from the Towers at Reculver down to Coldharbour the tide was high and perhaps there was a chance of the Goosanders that had been lurking around the area for the last week.  Redshank, Oystercatcher and Curlew were soon recorded along with Wigeon and Mallard.  A lone Marsh Harrier quartered over the Oyster farm and a single Little Egret made the notebook.  Heathy was delighted to get the camera out of the bag and photograph a Stonechat.  Having recorded 5 Shelduck Marc then called another but on close inspection it was a male GOLDENEYE ,which is a difficult species for the area.  A few decent images were taken and we continued on our way.  Over 20 Ringed Plover were roosting on the shingle along with a smattering of Turnstone  and Dunlin.  Two Greylag Geese flew overhead and then Heathy received a text from our chums the 3 SHORELARKS  that they were waiting for us.After a 10 minute chat we started our return walk satisfied. As we passed the Greenwall  27 Sanderling whizzed by and an unusual Grebe greeted us.  After a little deliberation and a few flight shots plus a call to Chris  -  SLAVONIAN GREBE  was confirmed which is a new Reculver bird for both 'Dances with Owls' and myself.  Well pleased we nipped into Hampton Pier to 'Tick and Run' 3 PURPLE SANDPIPERS and an Eider.  Great Morning, Good Fun.  Thanks for your company Marc.