Actually, no. I have decided not to worry too much about a year list for 2017, so didn’t make an effort to go for the red-crested pochard, snow goose, Bewick’s and black swans etc that were available close to our route today, focusing instead on a nice walk around Mere Sands Wood.

Highlights en route were the Fieldfares near Curlew Lane, with red-legged partridges also present.

The highlight at Mere Sands Wood was surely the Siskins in the tall alder near the visitor’s centre. Colette picked up the first kingfisher of the year, and the redwings were very confiding, providing lovely close views.

We didn’t see the bittern that has been around recently, although I’m fairly certain I did find one of its feathers.