Little Cressingham (early afternoon)

Today saw 100% cloud cover, there was no sign of any sunshine and the light was mostly always poor.  A significant difference to the weather today was the easterly wind, a change from the prevailing south-westerlies which we have been used to for some time now.  The wind direction appeared to have an affect on movements of Starlings as you will see.

Buzzard at Little Cressingham 29/01/14

Starting at Watton Brook bridge on Fairstead Lane, this afternoon's walk took in Green Lane, Fairstead Lane, and the windmill at Little Cressingham.
Upon my arrival, this Common Buzzard was seen in the Watton Brook valley downstream from the bridge.  The abundance of the white in this bird makes this individual readily identifiable and he/she is a frequently seen bird in this area.  I think the markings on this Buzzard are stunning.
Continuing along Fairstead Lane, large number of Starlings were seen flying from one side of the road to the other, these, and a scattering of Fieldfares were seen feeding where Sugar Beet had recently been harvested.  The wet and recently disturbed land would have provided good feeding in the form of various invertebrates.
Walking along Green Lane I was intent on finding a roosting Tawny Owl, I did not find one however I flushed a Woodcock from edge of the path....a stunning cryptically coloured bird which blends in perfectly with its woodland floor habitat.
Once back on Fairstead Lane, I noticed someone approaching me from the Great Cressingham area, it was Mick Saunt, a fellow birder who I occasionally meet when out birding.  Mick and myself walked along Fairstead Lane towards Little Cressingham village, we discussed the interesting movement of good numbers of Starlings this afternoon.  With the wind briefly coming from the east before they move round again to the more familiar south-west, could these Starlings be part of a movement from europe to escape the colder weather there. A small flock of about 15 Lapwings passed over.  A quick check of fields produced a single Mute Swan in an area always susceptable to flooding.
Finally, a quick visit to Little Cressingham mill produced 2 Common Buzzards, 2 Grey Herons, Moorhen, calling Teal, and 2 Snipe which Mick picked up flying low having probably been disturbed by the Buzzards.
Good to see you again Mick and look forward to meeting you again soon.