18th October - high cloud, almost still, 12C

Willey; Redwings were helping themselves to Holly, Yew and Hawthorn berries this morning around home. 25 House Sparrows were at the feed station, along with the usual visitors, including four Chaffinch.

While checking the area an interesting insect landed on my telescope, I need to check what it is.

Mere Lane Lake; not been here for awhile.  at least 3 Little Grebes, a Wigeon, 4 Reed Buntings feeding, Goldcrest (2) and Tits in the bushes.

Rutland Water; this afternoon off Old Hall the Red-necked Grebe, at least 15 Goldeneye and other usual ducks were showing well. 

With practically no breeze I have never seen the main water flat calm before - eerie

Birds around the Egleton reserve (lagoons 1, 3 and 4) included five Redshanks, six Curlew, a Black-tailed Godwit, eight Snipe, c300 Golden Plovers,  two Stonechat, Great and Little Egret, Grey Heron, Water Rail, Pintail, Gadwall, Teal, Pochard and other common ducks.

A Cormorant was quite puzzled by a Great Egrets feather!