I was planning to visit Stanford reservoir this evening and about to head off when news from Chris that a Greenshank and Hobby was present, so hoping they would be present when I got there.
I arrived in a wintry rain/snow shower and gusty cold wind. Viewing the inlet area the Greenshank was not visible, however 7 Ringed Plover and 5 Dunlin were. A considerable flock of Pied Wagtails, 25+, were also feeding in the same area. Moving along further to view the narrows area the Greenshank was feeding here and then preening, it looked splendid.
Moving a little further to view over the main reservoir was a good move, over the water 300+ Sand Martin, c100 Swallows, c 20 House Martins, then from behind a Hobby flew over at high speed and tried to catch a hirundine, these all rapidly climbed high in to the sky to avoid the Hobby. It was impressive to see the speed and agility of the Hobby, although it did not catch any prey on this occasion. A Red Kite was seen flying east and a Sparrowhawk flew north over the reservoir.
Along the shore line a Common Snipe was resting, it started 'bobbing' similar to a Jack Snipe, but they do this occasionally. At one time 12 yellow Wagtails could be seen along one stretch of the shore. The Shelduck pair were present resting.
It was no ideal for small birds to be singing, but Chiffchaff, Blackcap and Willow Warbler were giving it a good go, the a Whitethroat performed its flight song.
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