Black Kite (and Montagu's Harriers)

22 July - an early morning visit to Nocton Fen in Lincs, where the long-staying Black Kite was first watched preening in a tree then flying around and gliding in typically buoyant flight. Surprisingly contrasting between rufous body and greyish head. A couple of Marsh Harriers also seen here. A quick visit also made to the Digby Fen RSPB watchpoint, where the male Montagu's Harrier seen flying and perched preening, one juvenile also seen (photo).

Summer?

18 July - at last, blue sky and sun, almost like July... a quick visit to CWP after work produced a Nightingale and Kingfisher (in flight) at Swillbrook 46/48. Pit 95 held a flock of 15 Curlew that flew off, and 3 Little Egrets, one of which posed for the 300mm lens. Few dragonflies, just a couple of Brown Hawkers at Swillbrook.

The last few weeks have been very quiet, almost continuous rain reducing birding opportunities. I managed a quick evening visit to Tidenham Chase, Forest of Dean, on 11 July and had good views of a Nightjar churring and in flight. Hobbies have been more in evidence last week or two - feeding young now?