A day trip on the Somerset Levels 15-03-2014

An early start today arriving on site at 06.30, greeted by several Booming Bitterns and several Squealing Water rail. Early views of Kingfisher with a Sparrowhawk flashing over the pathway also two Roe Deer feeding on the lush grass at the side of the track. Singing from the top of a large tree was a Song Thrush. Searching the first section of open water 2 superb Male Garganey were found dabbling around in the shallows. At our first stop excellent views of both Male and Female Marsh Harrier at close range also several Buzzard taking advantage of the thermals, between here and our next stop a couple of very obliging Cettis Warblers rattled out their song from the top of the bushes giving great views. At our second stop we could see the ground nesting Grey Herons constantly bringing in fresh sticks to build up their nests. (they must feel safe here nesting in the reeds). Other birds of interest included: Great White Egrets 4-5, Peregrine Falcon 2, Black Tailed Godwit 1, Snipe 8, Little Egret 7, Little Grebe 6, Lapwing 20+, Shoveller, Wigeon, Pochard and Teal, Coal Tit 1, and a few Reed Buntings. Still some winter visitors around with Redwing and Fieldfare flying over and also a group of summer migrant arriving with small groups of Sand Martins overhead. Small numbers of Butterflies around with Small tortoiseshell and Peacock seen also a couple of Dragonflies darting around. All in all a great day with 60 bird species seen. DT