Big Blue Chicken (at last)

After dipping the Western Swamphen at Minsmere at the beginning of August it was welcome news of it being discovered at Alkborough (presuming it to be the same bird) on Tuesday, not being able to go for it that day I was all set to go after work on Wednesday then the bloody thing disappeared for the day, I ended up at Blacktoft, well there was always chance it may turn up there, a few Waders there included a Curlew Sandpiper there was also two or three Cetti's Warblers singing but surprisingly no Harriers, most intriguing sighting though was a family of Weasels running along the path in front of me. Although a bit disappointed I thought there was a distinct possibility that the Swamphen may still be there, it's a big reedbed at Alkborough, and sure enough a phone call from Mark this morning confirmed the bird was still present and showing again from the first Hide, I shot off there after work and although it was initially out of sight in the reeds it wasn't too long before it popped out, a bit distant but good scope views and pleased to get a second chance for this potential first/second for Britain.

the Curlew Sandpiper at Blacktoft

and a family of Weasels

a few Herons flying around

initial views of the Swamphen at Alkborough

running for cover after being spooked