Shorncote evening

21 Oct - A fine evening, so a visit to Shorncote (still somewhat flooded) and staying til dusk. Viewing from the first hide, Water Rails and Cetti's Warblers called but scanning revealed no sign of the very elusive Bittern that is presumed to be in residence. My vigil was rewarded however when a Barn Owl appeared from the old willow trees and headed towards the quarry, then walking back towards South Cerney 2 Barn Owls were quartering the field nearest the crossroads - so 2, and perhaps 3, birds present ? Also seen, a party of 40 or so Redwings and Fieldfares that descended on the reedbed to roost. Cetti's warblers were singing and at darkness a Tawny Owl was calling from the Willows, so two Owl species present.