Bittern at Amwell, 11th October 2021

A glorious warm, sunny Autumn day so a trip to Amwell for a walk was required. Along the track and up to the bridge the Ivy was attracting a number of butterflies and insects. Double figure numbers of Red Admiral and a couple of Comma's.

A few Hornet Mimic Hoverflies were also in evidence. I believe they are our largest Hoverfly species.

I also got pictures of a smaller Hoverfly, but not sure of the species.

A Wasp was also enjoying the late sunshine allowing some close shots.

At the Viewpoint it was very quiet with a few Wigeon and an obligatory Grey Heron.

However, moving to the smaller Viewpoint to the right, revealed a male Kingfisher close in, using the pig fencing to perch up on.

There seemed to be a large number of Robin's around the reserve and I can never resist the opportunity to take some pictures.

The Bittern Pool yielded a Cormorant, but no sign of a Bittern!

Next stop was a walk up through Easneye Woods, and a sighting of the local Kestrel.

A Common Buzzard added to the raptor total.

And a much maligned bird, the Pheasant! Wonderful colours.

There was a lot of Jay activity with birds flying to a large Chestnut tree and taking the nuts off to store for later. I spent some time trying to see if there was a flight pattern without much success, but did manage a couple of flight shots.

Nearly time to head for home and I had to back via the Bittern Pool. Brian "Bittern Whisperer" Gleeson was there and said it had showed well, but then disappeared again! As if on cue it appeared and headed to the right, hugging the reeds. Not great views but I did manage some shots.

Amwell rarely disappoints!