A summer evening at Swanton Morley Gravel Pit – Thursday 5^th July

The forecast hadn’t seemed too bad but as 7.30 approached the sky darkened and the rain began falling.  Nevertheless eight stoical members joined Charles and Fran Neale for a summer evening’s stroll around Swanton Morley Gravel Pits.

Understandably birdwatching was a challenge as the smaller birds skulked silently in the undergrowth but happily the water birds continued with their activities despite the weather.  A great Crested Grebe was observed squatting on its nest possibly hoping the water levels would not rise any further.

A large creche of 61 Greylag Geese accompanied by two adults formed a large flotilla gliding across the pit.  A very active female Pochard was undeterred as she dived continuously in search of food items.  Very briefly a Little Egret flew into the upper branches of a tree but unfortunately only one of the party managed to see it despite efforts to attract everyone’s attention.

The Common Swifts were sweeping low over our heads in search of their insect food, a difficult task in such weather.  A party of Long-tailed Tits moved through the willow trees constantly calling.  So, despite the heavy rain we did see some birds.  The evening was enhanced by Bernie Marsham sharing his local knowledge and the group’s camaraderie more than made up for the abysmal weather conditions.

Thank you Charles and Fran for all your efforts in preparing and leading the evening