More Prep

I had a late start this morning and didn't get to the obs until 0620. I had clear skies with a light west-southwesterly breeze. I didn't expect much, and my expectations were realised, but it was just good to be out on the patch again.

First up was a Kestrel carrying prey and heading towards the box where we ringed five chicks from in mid-June, so hopefully they are all thriving. I didn't have any other raptors, in fact I had very little at all, and the only things just about worth mentioning were 11 Woodpigeons heading north, a singing Willow Warbler, three singing male Reed Buntings, two Linnets, 14 Goldfinches and two Sedge Warblers.

I had a look on the sea but had nothing at all. Well I gave it ten minutes, had nothing and carried on walking. As I had my tools with me I foolishly decided to prepare three of the net rides without the strimmer! I got the job done and in the heat it gave me one hell of a work out!

The forecast is good for tomorrow so it will be one heck of an early alarm call for a ringing session in the reedbed. I'll let you know how we get on.