Slimbridge Greenshank

1 July - This superb picture of a Greenshank at Slimbridge (see my entry for July 8) was taken by Bob Shiret. Surely one of the most elegant waders.

Garden Hobby

14 July - A good view of a Hobby flying over the garden as I left for work this morning - the first this year over the house. Photo taken in CWP.

Slimbridge waders

8 July - I called in briefly at Slimbridge at midday, and good numbers of waders present in the showery weather. 5 Greenshanks, 2 Green Sandpipers (1-2), a Redshank and a Little Ringed Plover from Robbie Garnett hide - and excellent close views from South Lake observatory of 80+ Black-tailed Godwits, some in chestnut summer plumage (3-6); 35+ Redshank and 120+ Lapwings. The adult Spoonbill also still present, and awake and preening. Photos JM.

Swifts etc

1 July - Another good evening flying display over the garden, especially by screaming Swifts (1,2) - my maximum count this year is 12. House Martins (3)and Swallows (4) also very active and fledged Swallows are learning to fly.

Otmoor

1 July - A morning trip to the RSPB reserve, the highlight being my first-ever good view of a Grass Snake sunning itself (2) in a ditch near the car park. Birds included a Turtle Dove, 3 Hobbies (7-8), 3 Red Kites, Buzzard, Sparrowhawk, Kestrel, an obliging Common Sandpiper by the first screen (3-5) and Lapwing (6), Redshank and Curlew. All photos JM.