Autumnal Shorncote

26 Oct - Autumn is one of the most productive periods of the year at Shorncote (my previous finds at this time include Bearded Tit, Firecrest and Great Grey Shrike) and the slightly misty atmosphere always suggests that the unexpected might be lurking. On this occasion the highlight was a confiding flock of at least 28 Lesser Redpolls feeding on the weed seedheads with 70+ Goldfinches and 15 Linnets. My best ever views at CWP. 2 male Stonechats were feeding alongside the path, confiding as always. Other migrants included 4 Grey Wagtails, a dozen seeping Meadow Pipits, 9 Song Thrushes and my first 4 UK Redwings of the autumn going high west. Cetti's Warblers appear to have had a good breeding season with at least 8 singing, 3 Water Rails called from the reeds and a Kingfisher flew by. Just one Little Egret, also a flyover Green Sandpiper. No rarities but an atmospheric and enjoyable walk.