A visit to Leighton Moss

We had rather a late start this morning as Mrs W had to go into work early to make some rock buns, so it was 9-30am by the time she got home. The Westies still needed a walk before we could set off , then just as we were about to leave my mate John (from Oxford) rang for a chat and was updating me on the bird life in their garden. They live right by the side of the Oxford canal so get quite a variety of wild life. The latest news being that they now have a pair of Spotted Flycatchers nesting, which is great news.
           Anyway it was getting on for 10-30 by the time we got out of the house and finally heading off to Leighton Moss. The weather was a bit iffy with heavy showers during the day, though for most part when walking around we managed to stay dry.

Spotted Redshank nearest to lens Common Redshank behind, Its good to compare the two.

The first set of pics are taken from the Eric Morecambe hide, and while there the weather stayed fine.

Black-tailed Godwit, will have to see if anyone knows anything about the rings.

They have a beautiful plumage.

Time out for a spot of preening.

                                                And more preening this time a Dunlin
Back at the centre we had a spot of lunch before checking out some of the other hides, although bird wise there wasn't a lot going on. A Marsh Harrier put in a short appearance, and a couple of  Little Egrets showed for a while.

                                                     Red Deer stag from Tim Jackson hide

                                                And also hind, just about to take a rest.

Coming home on the M6 the weather turned very nasty, very heavy rain, and driving conditions were atrocious, fortunately we arrived home safe and sound.