Elmley Nature Reserve, 18th February 2023

A car outing to this great reserve on the Isle of Sheppey with the RSPB SE Herts Group. Before going to the reserve we visited the Capel Fleet Raptor Viewpoint and had Kestrel, Common Buzzard, Peregrine and this Raven.

A few Marsh Harriers were visible including this female.

It was then on to the reserve and using the car as a mobile hide we had great views of both Lapwing and Black-tailed Godwit.

Even the Buzzard and Kestrel wanted to get into the action!

I must pass on our thanks to one of the Warden's - Robin. He showed us round part of the reserve, but despite his best efforts we just missed the Little Owl and had no look with the Penduline Tits or Long Eared Owl. A walk to the first lookout screen gave views of a number of waders including Dunlin, Ringed Plover, Redshank, Oystercatcher and a single Grey Plover.

At least four Pintail were mixed in with the numerous Wigeon.

On to the next hide with views of Greylag Geese taking off.

These pictures don't do the justice but it was great to see so many Brent Geese!

With the weather closing in and the wind picking up we failed to connect with the wintering Short Eared Owls, but overall, a very good day.