23rd Sept - rain am, brighter later, 14C, fresh SW

Welney WWT;  heading back from Norfolk I wanted to drop in here in the hope of seeing a Pallid Harrier which had been frequenting the reserve a few days. Arriving in rain things good only get better as brighter weather could be seen in the distance and arrived.  Sure enough the Pallid Harrier, a juvenile, flew on to a post before giving some flight views and then settling back on the ground in view, so lucky to see it, some quick record photos.

I like this reserve anyhow, always interesting things to see. At least 7 Whopper Swans were present, apparently the first winter returning birds occurred yesterday.  The usual ducks, Snipe, Swallows, a Sand Martin or two, several Kestrels and unexpectedly a Green Woodpecker added to the interest today.