Surlingham Marsh, Norfolk, 7th July

Today I had a longer than usual work break, I therefore decided to drive the 14.5 miles from Wymondham, where I was working, to Surlingham Marsh, a beautiful reserve south-east of Norwich in the River Yare valley.  I only had a couple of hours to spare, so a gentle walk around the marsh was just right for the time I had available to me.
Following my arrival, I descended along the narrow track which leads down to the river and saw Song Thrush, and heard both Blackcap and Reed Warbler.  At the end of the track, a lovely row of Guelder Roses were beginning to show many bunches of berries, a larder for winter Thrushes no doubt.
Walking alongside the river, it was clear from the mostly dry state of the path that we are in need of a good rainfall.
Reed Warblers continued to be heard in song, probably six males in total heard on this visit.  In waterside habitat, 5+ Greenfinches were both seen and heard, whilst on the far bank, 5 Oystercatchers probed the land for food.  A single juvenile Robin flew between bushes.
A short visit to the hide overlooking marsh and broad produced a couple of Gadwall, Mallard, and a passing overhead Cormorant.

Surlingham Marsh and Broad. Gadwall were present on the water.

An idyllic Norfolk marsh scene

With more of the marsh beginning to become more visible, thoughts turned to Marsh Harrier, and indeed, a male bird was seen hunting the marsh, flying back and forth over reeds and occasionally hovering whilst searching below for prey.

Marsh Harrier (male) Surlingham Marsh 7th July

Note the tri-coloured pattern on this male Marsh Harrier.

Also seen on the marsh where the Harrier was hunting was Kestrel, male Reed Bunting singing, a pair of Mute Swans dabbling in a dyke, and singing Sedge Warbler.
The male Marsh Harrier is easily distinguishable from the female by its smaller size and the lovely tri-coloured wing, gingery coverts, grey secondaries, and the black hand. The tail is grey.
My very worthwhile walk ended back at the car with a Chiffchaff calling in a hedge.  A great visit.