Great Cressingham (Watton Brook valley)

A dry bright dawn with light winds and a temperature of 9 degrees Celsius. The SW wind picked up to a moderate SW by mid-morning.

• Early Song Thrush arrival 
• Single Lesser Whitethroat seen on the move

Song Thrush in Watton Brook valley 12th Sept. (One of 17+ seen)

An interesting record this morning of 17+ Song Thrushes seen along the valley all within a relatively small area of mixed woodland habitat.  A flock of 5 birds overhead gave their familiar "tic" call.  The numbers of Song Thrushes seen clearly indicates they are of continental origin and constitutes an early record.  Continental Song Thrushes are said to appear greyer on the upperparts; close inspection of this photographed bird shows this bird as having a grey nape.
Also seen in this same area was 30+ Mistle Thrushes and Blackbirds which were attracted to Hawthorn and Dog Rose fruits.
Overhead a small count of 5 Meadow Pipits seen.
A Kingfisher was seen flying along the course of the brook.
A single Lesser Whitethroat was seen flying into cover alongside the brook, it was soon relocated in a Sallow, showing off its bright white underparts.  The stunning grey head and ear coverts strongly contrasted with the white-throat and brown-grey upperparts.  This passage Lesser Whitethroat shared the Sallow with Blue Tits, Long-tailed Tits, and a small flock of Goldfinches.
Nearby woodland held 1 Willow Warbler, Chiffchaffs, 3+ Goldcrests, Bullfinch, Treecreeper, Great Spotted Woodpecker, 4 Jay, and a male Sparrowhawk flying through.