Flock of 20+ linnet near RSPB carpark followed by a
Green Woodpecker in an Oak tree near by
with a Peregrine Falcon showing well on the pylon overlooking
the Marsh. Plenty of Canada geese, lapwing, Curlew with Skylark singing high
at the lower end of Exminster Marsh. 75+ Brents in fields
between Powderham Folly and Estuary with Meadow Pipit feeding
near the ditches.
On the Estuary side at low water, 5 pair of Red Breasted
Merganser, 4 Great Crested Grebe 2 Little Egret, 3 Grey Heron
all fishing and viewed from Turf Lock area with several Shelduck, 12
Grey Plover, Dunlin, and 5 Redshank, feeding close
by.
Along the Canal, reed bunting, chaffinch, and Bluetits were busy in the
hedgerows. While viewing across Exminster Marsh from the canal side 12+
Pintail 16+ Shoveler 100+ Teal and Widgeon were seen at a distance through the
scope.
On the way back to the Carpark the American Widgeon was
showing well on the pond nearest the road with 2 Greylag Geese
and a lonely Barnicle Goose amongst the Canada geese proving it
pays to view every bird in the flock you may well have a nice surprise.
Finally leaving the RSPB Carpark a Sparrow Hawk watching
from the top of a fir tree near the Swans nest making 48 species seen during the
day.
A great early Spring day.
[Derek Carter]