May 2026

3rd May 2026 - Frampton Marsh

A weekend taking in a couple of RSPBs finest reserves. On Saturday 3rd May, a trip to Frampton Marsh with Tonguey, where we attempted to wring out something interesting. But for a modest scattering of waders, it was a decent start to the southbound migration season. My second American golden plover of the week was still present on the grassland that took a little bit of time to track down. A nice bird although it wasn't a gaudy summer plumage male like the Old Hall individual.

Other wading birds were represented by a decent haul of little ringed plover, around 20 dunlin, three whimbrel and a little stint. A spoonbill was also present on the grassland.

4th May 2026 - Rainham Marshes

Then on Sunday 4th, a real treat as I decided to head down to Rainham Marshes. It felt great being back while also considering why it had taken so long for a repeat visit as it is only an hour away from home. I guess the unavoidable journey along the M25 is partly responsible for the apathy.

Of course it was great, the weather was quite grey and gloomy, but still and warm. A black-winged stilt was present on the Target Pools. Although distant, the waterbody did look great for something rare. A great egret was also present there. En route, a cattle egret flew over, and an adult hobby flew over Wennington. Two marsh harrier were quartering behind Aveley pools where a really smart black tern twisted and turned chasing down insects over the waterbody. A small gathering had assembled to watch the aerobatics of this widely popular waterbird. A single bearded tit popped up and flew across the reserve. It was great to be back and the assemblage of species observed today on the short visit is testament to the quality that this reserve attracts.

10th May - Old Hall Marshes

Feeling more like March than May, a hasty afternoon trip intended to target a range of migrant waders. It was chilly but the wader quality definitely lived up to its spring status. A gaudy adult male American golden plover associating with grey plover was seen on the opposite side of Salcott Channel, the first time I'd seen this species in full breeding plumage. On the pools, wading birds included two wood sandpiper, a Temminck's stint, and six ruff. A drake garganey took its time to reappear. 

16th May - South Cambs

It was encouraging to witness the return of the faithful pair of turtle dove to their perennial breeding site in South Cambs. It required an anxious wait of almost an hour before the birds gave themselves up and then continued to show for a period of time along the tops of the mature scrub. These days, this species cannot be taken for granted so to have a breeding pair a short drive from home is quite a treat.