Lynford Arboretum, Norfolk

Another very windy day with strong south-westerlies.  Despite this the weather remains unseasonally mild and sunny.

Lynford Arboretum 19/10/14

Lynford Arboretum is a truly beautiful location with its wide variety of tree species.  Numerous Pine species include very large Corsican, Maritime, and Scots Pines, Larch and Spruce.  Several deciduous species occur including Hornbeam, Oak, and Birch species.  The fringes of the lake has Alders, a species which attracts small Finches like Siskin and Redpoll.
Lynford Arboretum, from a birders perspective, is probably the best site in Norfolk for seeing the elusive and magnificent Hawfinch.  It is also very reliable for the stunning Firecrest, however, both of these species eluded me today. 
Crossbills are another sought after species by birders visiting the Arboretum.  Sometimes, this enigmatic bird occurs here in good numbers.
My route this morning took me through the park to the lake, it is from here that Hawfinch can be seen in the paddocks, however, today I only saw Wood Pigeons and Jays here.  I heard Siskins in the Alders, and hidden in thick cover, a Water Rail called.  A few Redwings were heard.
Walking back through the Arboretum, the most numerous species seen and heard was Goldcrest and Coal Tit.  High in the trees, Mistle Thrushes gave their harsh rattle call.
For several minutes I stood and watched good numbers of Hornets, some came close and I could hear the deep hum of these beautiful insects.
Back in the car park, and I was preparing to leave, Goldcrests were heard and an overhead Redpoll gave its familiar "djit djit" flight call.