The forecast was for heavy showers with thunder, but we were rewarded with sunshine and a cool breeze throughout our visit.

We arrived at Minsmere at 10.15. As we collected our permits, the notice board announced that an Osprey had been seen at the Island Mere at 09.40, we had missed it by just over half an hour.

We set off in various groups to explore the reserve. My group decided to head for the open area by the sea in case of later rain. Before we reached the path between the reed beds we were treated to a Nightingale singing & showing well.

The reed beds were full of singing Sedge & Reed Warblers, with Reed Buntings singing from the tops of the reeds. The Bearded Tits were keeping their heads down in the wind. Common & Little Terns were flying overhead.

As we entered the first hide overlooking the scrape, there were Avocets everywhere, some very close to the hide. Many Ringed Plovers were running about, a Turnstone & Sanderling in breeding plumage were unusual sightings.

We continued along the dunes towards and re-entered the reserve. A little Egret was in the meadow.

From the next hide, while watching a Mediterranean Gull on its nest, a Bittern was seen flying over the reed bed behind us, I just caught site of it. Marsh Harriers & Hobby falcons were also showing well.

Continuing towards the Bittern hide, we saw a large flock of Black Tailed Godwits, also a Cetti’s Warbler burst into song. A family of Treecreepers was seen flitting through the trees. From the hide, we had good views of the Hobby falcons hunting dragonflies and Marsh Harriers quartering the reed beds. We had distant glimpses of Bearded Tits flying low over the reeds.

The next hide was the Island Mere, the water was a little choppy, with the sun shining directly into our eyes, although we did managed to see Great Crested & Little Grebes.

Retracing our footsteps towards the visitors’ centre, a Redstart was showing well. We then returned to the centre for a welcomed cup of tea.

Dave Jones (photograph by Dave Jennings)