Garganey - Salthouse

The Garganey is not a bird I see very often, and it is usually a case of right time right place, or a dedicated trip to see one. On this particular occasion at the end of April, I was very much in that right place at the right time. I was up early, and visiting my usual sites along the North Norfolk coast near my parents. I  don't know why, but I decided to look at a new site that I'd had always strolled past and never given the time of day. On this morning there was a lot of water on the pools, and as luck would have a cracking male Garganey. This was the first time that I've actually found one myself, and it was superb feeling. 

These are quite small and very shy ducks, similar to a Teal in size, and they love to dabble in the wet grasses. This particular site was spot on for what it needed and I was fortunate enough to be there on that morning to see it. 

Male Garganey, with that lovely white eye stripe.

With a Lapwing flying overhead of the Garganey.

RSPB Frampton Marsh

A late April visit to RSPB Frampton always offers so much. With waders on the move, warblers arriving and the first juveniles leaving the nest, it is an exciting time. There were a few birds that were high on the list to see. A returning Black-winged Stilt that fledged from here last year was the main target and was picked up quite quickly despite the rain that was coming down. 

Close to the car park and in the lagoons were a Spotted Redshank, Ruff, Lapwings, and several Yellow Wagtails. What a great start, without putting in any effort. It almost felt like cheating. Usually you have to walk some distance and then also get lucky in finding your birds. Not at Frampton! There was even a Spoonbill that was awake and actually moving towards us rather than away. That is not normally the scenario with this bird. 

First year female Black-winged Stilt.

Spoonbill

Yellow Wagtail

Juvenile Lapwing

My first Swift sighting of the year, is always a great moment.