Plenty of frisky Mallards but no young since the doomed family back in January. I guess the Coots will have started off with more than two young a few days ago.
Migrant wise one or possibly two new-in Willow Warblers were singing sweetly although destined to move on to more suitable habitat. A small but definite increase in Blackcaps ( five or so) and Chiffchaffs (four at least) plus the first Whitethroat of the year not yet in song which just leaves Reed Warbler to arrive. Curiously for such a nice day no Buzzards nor indeed any overlying birds other than gulls. Not even a new for year butterfly despite the nice conditions.
This was an unusual purchase for me as I rarely buy 'Birds of...' books other than two home counties worth of avifaunas - Sussex and Hampshire. However this is as good as anything written elsewhere, a thorough delight to read with nice, pertinent photos and plenty of the late Laurel Tucker's artwork. With an extensive bird list and a good number of rarities this must be a great place to have as a local patch - I'm green with envy. Mark Avery's review here and Birdguide's review here
