TOP TIT TWO AND SIBE CHIFFY

Yesterday's weather conditions had improved marginally from last week's gloom and I decided on a return visit to the Somme for the Penduline Tit which seems quite happy in the reed mace by the artistic Bittern carving.Arriving at the same time as Steve Ashton a gentle stroll through the Alder Wood and we were faced with c25 birders.All the usual suspects were assembled and there were good views of the bird, but always just too distant for a decent photograph .These were the best I could muster from about 100 attempts.With confirmation of a Siberian Chiffchaff at Reculver I met Marc and Julian Perry at 8.30 a.m. this morning down at West Brook Valley in glorious sunshine in the hope the bird would be feeding .No chance!The mist soon descended and it was grey and cold.In conditions that would have suited Warhorse we eventually located the bird and enjoyed reasonable views,but it was always extremely low to the ground, often in brambles and skulking.Perhaps with insects to feed on in better conditions you might get a decent view and some pictures .In light today, the contrast with the C10-15 Chiffchaffs was striking as it appeared to be almost pencil grey.Thanks to Heathy and Julian for helping me through the mud.A single Woodcock was the other highlight, but no Otters!

PENDULINE TIT IN THE GLOOM!

With a Penduline Tit showing well at times yesterday I decided to visit Stodmarsh this morning in the hope it would still be showing.Unfortunately the weather conditions were poor with only a few cloudless moments.The bird showed almost continually for the two hours I was there and although many pictures were taken the above were the best I could manage in the gloom.It was good to catch up with Mark and Martyn and the last half an hour was spent in the hide drinking coffee in the rain and watching the white Mallard.By that time rain was falling and with half term only a week away let's hope for a few sunnier moments.

GREAT NORTHERN DIVER RAMSGATE HARBOUR

 With decent weather conditions predicted for Saturday I decided to take a short trip to Ramsgate Harbour for the Great Northern Diver that seems to have taken up residence there.The Harbour Master had relocated from Dover and along with Adam and Barry we spent an enjoyable hour watching and photographing the bird.