Rutland Ramblings

Freeda (our Nissan Micra) took me to Rutland Water for the first time for at least 2 years today. It was a bit chilly and I had to dodge a few showers but I had a few worthwhile sightings. The last spot was a Sedge Warbler to add to my 2019 list. I’ve paired it with a striking picture of a male Great Spotted Woodpecker showing of his plumage to great effect, which was my first spot of the day.

I hoped to see some waders and I was not disappointed. Two pairs of Avocets, a Greenshank and what I was told was a Green Sandpiper (which I think is a Common Sandpiper) gave me a trio of waders – which is a good bag.

Finally a hunkered-down hare. It was still in place when I revisited this spot but had shifted round, presumably to put its back to the weather.

PS I did hear a Merlin – not the rare raptor but rather the distinctive sound of a Rolls Royce Merlin Engine powering a vintage Spitfire flying repeatedly over the reserve, presumably from nearby RAF North Luffenham.