Blashford HWT

8 Jan - Taking advantage of a sunny forecast, an early arrival at Blashford Lakes for 9am opening. Several people watching the reedbeds expectantly from Ivy North hide - after a few minutes the Bittern walked slowly across the channel in full view then disappeared into the reeds again..... an hour later its head appeared like a periscope in front of us, at least 20 yards away, amazingly it had moved that distance, at close quarters, without disturbing the reeds at all. After scanning and turning its neck several times, the Bittern flew a few yards to the other end of the reeds and once again disappeared from view. Probably my best ever Bittern encounter at close quarters, excellent views, amazing to see this elusive bird so close. Water Rail, Cetti's Warbler and a flyby Great White Egret also seen, as well as several very obliging Siskins at the nearby feeders. En route home, an hour at Lower Moor revealed a bonus Snipe feeding close to the hide, and a brief perched Kingfisher that flew before I could raise the camera. A very successful day.....