27 well clad birders met at Portbury on a cold and dull morning. Some favourites to begin with were Redwing, Robin, Goldfinch and Long-tailed Tit. At the top of Wharf Lane the Little Owl showed well and delighted everyone as it glared at us from the barn. Approaching the first hide a Greenfinch showed and a flock of Lapwings flew over. An eagle eyed observer spotted a Merlin. Then were heard the whistle of Widgeon and trill of Dabchick and a Bullfinch made a brief appearance. From the second hide overlooking the main pool Gadwall and Shovelers were seen as well as a male Goosander, which was unusually out of the water. Coffee break was in the third hide, (though some complaint about the draught and lack of heating)! From there we scanned the foreshore and Dunlin and Turnstone were seen. At the end of the sea bank a male Reed Bunting posed very nicely and in the creek were seen Redshank and Teal. Nearing the end of our walk we saw Green Woodpecker and Sparrow Hawk. My choice for bird of the day is between Merlin, Goosander and Little Owl. I will go for the Little Owl, which was enjoyed by everyone. 54 species were recorded.
Roger Hawley