Little Cressingham

Chiffchaff 20/08/13 Little Cressingham, Norfolk

The rich and varied habitat in the area of Little Cressingham windmill played host to some good numbers of Warbler species this morning.  I concentrated most of my efforts on this visit to the dense cover of mixed small woodland and hedgerow habitat alongside Watton Brook.
I had several good sightings of Blackcaps feeding in Elder and Bramble, these comprised adult male, female, and juvenile birds. As is typical with Warblers at this time of year, these birds consumed fruits in order to build energy reserves for their autumn migration.  2 or 3 Chiffchaffs, 2+ Whitethroats, and a Willow Warbler were also noted in this area.
Finch species were well represented with a number of Goldfinches (mostly juveniles), a family party of Greenfinches, and 3+ Linnets, all seen in the immediate area.
A brief view of a Kingfisher gave a brilliant flash of blue as it disappeared at speed in front of me and off along Watton Brook.
House Martins and a few Swallows were seen, however, their numbers appeared reduced now, this indicating others have already departed.  All of my local Swifts appeared to have departed as well.
As I prepared to leave, a number of House Sparrows occupied the hedgerows on Fairstead Lane, these birds comprising both adult and juvenile birds.