Arrived at Blashford and was greeted immediately by Tracy who told me that the Bittern was showing from Ivy North. I assumed it would have crept off into the reeds but, lo and behold, it was still showing and carried on putting on a great performance just left of the hide, in company of Kingfisher, Water Rail and two calling Cetti's. Luckily, with just three birders (two off to see S'oton play later - a fine 3-2 win over Arsenal!!) and no other togs, there was plenty of opportunity to fire off a few shots of the Bittern and Water Rail. Sadly, the former caught a decent sized fish (a Rudd of Roach maybe) and swallowed it down hidden behind a block of reeds before stalking away to digest its brunch in peace).
A brief look from Tern Hide produced just singles of Goosander, Black-necked Grebe, Grey Wagtail and Green Sandpiper plus a nice flock of Linnets (50 or more). No sign of Water Pipits nor GWEs. Caught up with KK who was off to Millersford for a winter bird survey.
On the way home, into the second eastbound layby on the A31 where loads of cars and, two hundred yards away, all their owners! The White-tailed Eagle was not immediately on show so I returned for another layer of clothing and the tripod. On return it was being watched very distantly perched up high but eventually flew a couple of hundred yards east and re-alighted. With no hope of closer views the crowds drifted off and I followed suit as the next band of rain arrived. Hopefully, being 'fed' on deer carcase may keep this bird nearby and giving better views once the weather improves.
Finally, a Sparrowhawk dashed across the the M27 adjacent to J12.
