Finally! Interesting waders at the Fen and lots of Water Rails!

Strumpshaw Fen is currently the best place I know to see and hear Water Rails and Kingfishers: lots of both today! Additionally, the muddy fringe in front of Tower Hide pulled in a pair of Black-tailed Godwits (albeit briefly)... now if only there were a muddy island further out!

Also present were several obliging Little Egrets and a Shoveler with a 'Blue-winged Teal' face pattern. I've seen this before on Eurasian Teal - perhaps it's some recessive gene. Lots of Migrant and Southern Hawkers as well as a late Norfolk Hawker by the new dipping Pool. This spot is fantastic for glimpsing a family of delightful Water Voles at the moment: just patience and a bit of quiet observation required!