Ferruginous Duck, Red-necked Grebe and Shag: north coast fill-up!

A reasonably early start found Martin & me on the North Coast by 9.00am: the weather wasn't perfect, but at least it was dry!

At Wells Quay the long-staying Shag put on a show-stopping display, often with a Cormorant. A fly-by Kingfisher was good to see.

From there it was a short drive (but longer walk!) down to the lake at Holkham. After spending half an hour scrutinising several dodgy hybrids with white UTCs, we eventually located the Ferruginous Duck lurking under a fallen tree: a terrific little bird. Nearby were a couple of dozey drake Scaup and a Barn Owl feeding on a rat! The park held a fine herd of Fallow Deer: some of the bucks had beautiful antlers.

We moved west to Brancaster Staithe, where we quite quickly located the Red-necked Grebe. It was always distant and the light was appalling, but it was good to finally catch up with this long-staying individual. Other birds on the channel included three Mergansers and a few Goldeneye.

After coffee at Cley, our last stop was Kelling Quags: several Stonechats and lots of Curlews, but afterburner antics by a pair of Typhoons was somewhat counterproductive for birds!

A great day out and a pleasant escape from my car-less week at home!