We had a reduced contingent of 4 members, Terri, John, Lyn and Alan.  Originally, we planned to go to Two Tree Island but had been advised that the area was a complete quagmire and there were still around 10 campers vans situated on the car park (there has been trouble with some of the occupants).

It also threatened to rain, so we wimped out and decided to go not very far to the West Canvey Marsh -this turned out to be good decision.  Surprisingly, the morning started bright and sunny although it did cloud over later.

This reserve has reasonable paths, so the previous rain and resultant mud wasn’t a barrier.  We visited two hides on the lake at 12 Acre Point and Kesterman’s Point.  Whilst we had some wildlife on the lake , most was residing in the fields on the opposite side – so some of the photos are a little distant.

Birds seen:  Cormorants (fishing); Mallard Ducks; Carrion Crows; Dunnock; Oyster Catchers; Canada Geese; Curlew; Grey Heron; Great Crested Grebe; Little Grebe; Pochard Ducks; Tufted Ducks; Coot; Herring Gull, Black Headed Gull.

Birds heard but not seen: Skylark.

In addition, we were treated by seeing two less common species:

• Mediterranean Gull:  often seen through the summer but this was a little earlier than usual.  Identified by deep red beak, fuzzy black line through eye and white wing and tail tips (most gulls are black).  See photos
• Greater White-fronted Geese:  not rare but not common.  Identified by a white rump and prominent white feathers at the top of its bill.  See photo.

There were also reports of a Pink-footed Goose in the area, but it was hiding itself very well.

Some rain did eventually descend on us but only when driving home.  How lucky!

Best wishes, Alan

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