Gloucester Penduline Tit .......

21 Dec - I'm not sure what it is about Gloucester, maybe the proximity to the River Severn? but after the 2 Penduline Tits at Horsbere last winter, another has been found, this time a single bird at Plock Court wetland reserve, a tiny pool with a few reeds on the northern side of the city. I picked the bird up in flight low in the reeds after waiting for a few minutes, it then gave good views especially in the adjacent hedgerow before returning to the reedbed. Distinctive black face mask and chestnut back, very active, and loud callnote helped in locating it. No more than 4 observers at any one time, so all very civilised as the bird fed happily (after the reported hassling from photographers earlier in the week). A few photos taken, but the light fairly poor. A quick stop at Slimbridge was excellent as usual - a Peregrine hunting the massed waders, and the Little Stint very close to the Rushy hide, as well as the usual Snipe, Water Rail and Bewick's Swans. Mild and fairly bright, so not bad for the shortest day of the year ............