RSPB Minsmere, 17th April 2024

Minsmere is always a great place to visit especially in Spring. The plan was to stop off at Westleton Heath beforehand for Dartford Warblers but the strong wind kept them hidden. We did manage to see a couple of Woodlarks, Sand Martin and heard at least three singing Nightingales. This Stonechat popped up with a spider snack.

So on to Minsmere and first stop was the North hide where a Marsh Harrier came in fairly close hunting and being hassled by a Crow. I thought I would get some good shots but sadly the heat haze had other ideas. It was a strange day weather wise with sun, rain and a strong wind.

Following a clockwise circuit of the scrape we had a good view up to Dunwich Heath.

The East hide gave some closer birds including this Shelduck.

As to be expected there were a few distant Mediterranean Gulls and Sandwich Terns, (pictured here) but Common and Little Terns had not yet returned.

There were not too many wader species on show apart from the expected species such as Oystercatcher and Redshank.

Most of the Black-Tailed Godwits were almost in full breeding plumage.

A small flock of Knot were also frequently flying around.

And I can't ignore the elegant Avocets!

A quick walk south looking for Wheatear failed, but this shot gives an idea of the changing weather conditions.

Some of the smaller birds were showing better out of the wind including this Dunnock.

A pair of Linnets.

And this lovely Wren in the Gorse.

Heading back to the Visitor Centre we heard a number of booming Bitterns, but did not actually see one. Barnacle Geese were everywhere however.

And a solitary Great Egret.

A great day out and a need to return for some Dartford Warblers!