Sunday 14th December

I thought it was supposed to be better weather today but it remained murky all day - but at least it wasn't raining.

I parked by Alders Lake and scanned the ducks here. Huge numbers of Coot and a smattering of Gadwall, Pochard, Shoveler and Tufted duck as well as at least 6 Great Crested Grebe. Nothing rarer I am afraid. Walking from here there was a male Stonechat perching up typically in the scrubby area at the top of the scrape as well as a single Redwing. I then waited around the end of the Millstream Pit hoping the Bittern would make a reappearance after last night - it didn't show up tonight but a Cettis, calling Water Rail, a couple of very confiding Goldcrest and a few Fieldfare over.