Smew at Amwell, 24th November 2021

It has been at least 2 years since I have seen a Smew at Amwell, and certainly as a whole we seem to be getting a lot less, probably with warmer weather, less birds coming across from the continent. This bird was initially on Tumbling Bay, but since has been more mobile, ending up on the main pit.

Females and 1st Winter birds are very difficult to sex, but this could be a 1st Winter male.

It was sadly a dark and gloomy day, but still quite pleased with the results. A visit later in the week drew a blank, but the much better weather allowed some of the regular birds to shine, including the local Kestrels.

Always a joy to photograph a Wren as well.

Walking up to the woods behind Amwell, I couldn't resist a shot of this cheeky chap!

The local Grey Heron was by the River Ash before flying off.

But the highlight was a small bunch of rather skittish Redwing on Widbury Hill, feeding in a Holly tree. Fortunately the light was behind me and I managed a few shots.