Slavonian Grebe at Martham Broad

Linda and I left home early for a walk around Strumpshaw 'before the crowds'! In fact the car park was already full at 8.00am, because of the continued presence of the long-staying Penduline Tit. An hour spent along the riverbank produced fleeting glimpses of this elusive little creature, but better ones of Blackcap, Cetti's, Barn Owl and Kingfisher. A pair of Bullfinches was nice, as was making the reacquaintance of the delightful Rob Holmes and old birding colleague Richard.

Following a bit of a stake-out of the reported Firecrest we decided to call it quits and move on to Somerton, where we followed the path round to the south of Martham Broad. Straight away we enjoyed somewhat distant (but gratifying) views of a summer-plumaged Slavonian Grebe. Occasionally it flew nearer when harassed by Great Crested Grebes or spooked by Buzzards or Sparrowhawks. A terrific bird! Other bits included our first Swallow of the year, lots of Marsh Harriers and a few Bearded Tits.