East Kent

Water Pipit

 A still bright morning at Grove Ferry was only spoilt by the lack of birds. Although some good birds were seen numbers of them and the common ones were poor or non existent.  An hour sat in Marsh Hide produced 1 Pied Wagtail, 1 Redshank, 1 Greylag Goose, 1 Water Pipit, 1 Marsh Harrier in front the hide. Harrisons Drove had 1 Grey Heron. David Feest hide held 40+ Teal, 6 Gadwall, 12 Shoveler and 4 Tufted Duck. 4 Cetti's warblers were heard, 3 Bearded Tits, 1 Ring Tail Hen Harrier and 3 Marsh Harriers were seen from the paths between the hides. From the viewing ramp 2 Ruff and 100+ Lapwing.

 The afternoon was spent at Oare Marshes where good numbers of Black Tailed Godwits, Golden Plover, Lapwing, Snipe, Redshank, Dunlin a few Avocet and Ringed Plovers were roosting along with many Wigeon, Teal, Shoveler and Pintail. From the sea wall 200+ Avocet were on the Swale, on the wall and salt marsh 50+ Reed Buntings, 30+ Skylark, 20+ Meadow Pipits and 2 Rock Pipits. From the sea wall the adult Rough Legged Buzzard could be seen with 2 Common Buzzards and 2+ Marsh Harriers over Mocketts Farm. At the east end of the reserve 2 showy Water Rails performed.