King's Meads, 25th April 2026

A beautiful morning so a quick stroll down the hill for a look around the Meads. A few Orange Tip butterflies were showing and this male landed for a few seconds.

It was also good to see that the Swifts had returned and 7 or 8 were feeding over Park Mead.

One of the birds seemed to have a patch on its back and I am not sure if this was due to preening, ticks or a tracking device. The jury is out!

Merlin did pick up a fly over Yellow Wagtail but I could not see it. Sedge and Reed Warblers were calling everywhere as were Blackcap and Chiffchaff. I also managed to get a shot of this Greater Whitethroat.

And a common bird now, but often very difficult to photograph due to their skulking nature - Cetti's Warbler. This one sang out in the open for a few seconds.

And finally, a Reed Warbler which broke cover and instead of skulking in the Reeds, sat up low in a small tree.

A great couple of hours within walking distance of home, on the edge of Hertford!