5th May - sunny, 22C, very light southerly

Willey; a Green and Great-spotted Woodpecker were in the same Oak Tree to the west both calling this morning.   We have our Swallows back and for the last few days a two pairs have been entering the sheds, so hopefully they will nest.  I have added a purpose built nest this year, so it will be interesting to see if they use it, prefer an old one or make a new one.
The Red-legged Partridge pair were in the garden again at breakfast time.

A Purple Heron was reported on early Friday close by at Brandon Marsh, apparently for the 3rd day,  however it was not reported later that day or this morning, so I’m not sure if it was correct, no details or photo have emerged yet.  I waited, but as no news I decided to head off in the direction of Eyebrook Reservoir which is a nice place, however on route news came of a Black-winged Stilt at Rutland Water, so I had to carry on and have a look.

The Stilt was still present on lagoon 4, also 6 Wood Sandpiper, a Dunlin, 2 Ring Plover, 2 Avocet, then 3 Whimbrel came in.  Plus all the other expected birds, Eygtian Geese had young following them on the water.

Best was a Nightingale that was singing well from cover, it is the most magical song to hear.