Buckenham Marsh: Whinchats and Red Kites and a 'funny' Mallard at the Fen

After a brief stroll around Strumpshaw (which produced the expected Marsh Harriers, Great White Egrets (2+) and Buzzards) I decided to take a look at the scrub along the path at Buckenham in case any migrants had dropped in. A Hare was feeding right by the Low Road...

A pair of Red Kites were in their favourite tree, while at least another three were hunting over the woods and marshes. The walk down to the hide provided excellent views of at least three Whinchats, all looking very bright in the early morning sunlight. Other passerines included lots of Linnets, Goldfinches and Reed Buntings.

The 'funny' Mallards were in front of Reception at Strumpshaw: I don't think I've ever seen such striking face-markings on Mallards.