Thirty to thirty-five of us came to the New Year’s Day Slimbridge walk. It was a very cold dry sunny day. Everyone went off in different directions and walks. This was my account of the day: Firstly, a group of us walked on the Estuary Path towards the hides looking over the wetlands where Teal, Pintail and Lapwings were in plenty along with three Curlews and a couple of Redshanks. At the Willow Hide were more Teal, Moorhen, and a variety of small birds on the feeders. Firecrest had been spotted at the Decoy hide where there were fabulous views of two flitting about in the Elder trees. At the Zeiss Hide and Kingfisher Hide were Kingfisher, Crane, and a Bittern camouflaged in the reeds. Here some more BOC members re-joined. Five of us went to the cafe for a needed hot drink and food. I did another loop of the wetlands and asked other members what they had seen. Teresa had seen a rare glimpse of a Water Rail, Olwen reported a Grey Heron swallowing a rat whole. Fieldfare, Redwing, Buzzard and Marsh Harrier were also spotted, as well as a Peregrine that flew over the wetlands and swooped down as the sky immediately filled with 1,000 frightened birds, spectacular to see. I was also drawn to the one American Green Winged Teal in amongst 500 Northen Teal. I’m sure I can say on behalf of everyone a great day was had. Thanks to Di and Graham for leading.
Caron Thornton-Trippit