Thompson Water 15 July 2026 (with Caroline Falvey)

At 0600 on 15 July I met my friend Caroline Falvey for some early morning's birding at Thompson Water. We met on the Peddars Way/Redbrick Road junction and walked the short distance to Thompson Water where we spent some time overviewing the water from the raised bank, from here we walked the path through the woodland carr habitat to as far as the bridge crossing the woodland stream. 

An initial overview of the water produced good numbers of Mallard in open water and at least 4 Grey Herons, which when at rest had a rather stately demeanor.  A single Black-headed Gull was present and in nearby woodland a Garden Warbler was alarm calling.  A Sparrowhawk passed low over the water whilst other raptors seen included Kestrel and one Red Kite soaring over woodland.

As we walked the path through the woodland carr we came upon an open area of reedbed and willow scrub, the immediate habitat around us was Hemp Agrimony where it was evident that a number of Reed Warblers were creeping about within the plant frequently uttering a "truk" note.  One Reed Warbler was also in song.

1. Thompson Water 15 July 2026 (Hemp Agrimony in the foreground)

As well as some lovely close encounters with Reed Warblers, the above views of the water produced numerous Mallard and 4 Great Crested Grebes (display seen).

Caroline and I then continued through the woodland where we commented upon the number of Rowans bearing fruit.  The dominant tree species is Oak, Ash, and Beech with much Holly understorey, this woodland was very reliable for Golden Pheasant, however, these have sadly long gone.

We then retraced our steps back through the woodland carr and to the viewing bank for a final overview of the water, but before reaching the bank we again stopped at the location pictured above where several Reed Warblers were present, being a calm day we could see slight movements of the weed as the birds skulked in cover, our patience was rewarded when a juvenile Reed Warbler appeared in front of us for about 30 seconds, this bird showed pale gape flanges and may have been tailless.   At the bank we hoped for Hobby, however, there was no show on this visit, we did see at least two Sand Martins over the water searching for insect prey.

Caroline provided expertise on her plant identification, most notably with Hemp Agrimony and the benefits it provides for butterflies and other insects.   Butterflies seen included Gatekeeper, Red Admiral, and Holly Blue.

This was a lovely visit to Thompson Water with Caroline, it was great seeing you again and I look forward to our next meet. 

Hockham (Hockham Heath) 12 July 2026

The forests at Hockham are dominated by large compartments of commercial Pine crops of varying ages, from mature woodland down to clearings with pine regeneration.  It was one of these regenerating clearings I visited this morning, these habitats hold a greater diversity of life for a number of years until pine trees grow tall enough to become the dominant habitat, the comforting factor here is that these pine compartments are rotational, therefore, there will always be clearings to accommodate important Breckland species.

1. Hockham Heath 12 July 2026

The habitat shown above is at an early regeneration stage and the plentiful scrub seen here this morning typical open country birds, these included two Stonechats, a couple of singing Yellowhammers, Whitethroats (young heard), one Garden Warbler, Chiffchaff, and several Linnets which included a bird with food and a very attractive male Linnet holding territory in an area of scrub.  The mature woodland periphery held Blackbird and a calling Nuthatch

2. Linnet (male) close to nest site 12 July 2026

3. Linnet being very obliging

Linnets were the dominant species within the clearing today, which was not a surprise given the available habitat for breeding.  The male Linnet pictured here was perched quietly above a patch of scrub where a nest is probably located.

Also noted in the clearing was a number of Ruddy Darter dragonflies (male and female), and several butterfly species including Small White, Peacock, Gatekeeper, and Large Skippers.   

Forest walk at Didlington 11 July 2026

A distinctly cooler start to the day with full cloud cover, however, the cloud eventually broke up to give another very warm day with a maximum temperature of 81° fahrenheit.  Despite this reasonable temperature, it is significantly lower than recent temperature highs.

This morning I walked the forest trails at Didlington, these trails comprise mostly Pine woodland of various ages from regenerating clearings to mature woodland including various Pines, including Scots Pines, Oak, Birch, and some fine areas of mature Beech woodland.

1. The descent into the forest at Didlington

2. A wide firebreak in the forest

The initial stage of the walk was very quiet for birds with common species noted including Chiffchaff, Wren, and Great Spotted Woodpecker.

I entered a large area of regenerating woodland with young Pines and Birch present with lots of ground covering bracken. The wide rides here held lots of Ragwort, Viper's Bugloss, and Mullein, also, this low level young woodland held many Chiffchaffs, including a family party where an adult was seen food carrying.  Also heard only was a calling Willow Warbler. with both this species and Chiffchaff present and calling it was possible to hear the difference between the species.  The Chiffchaff call is a weakish "hweet" note whilst the Willow Warbler call is strident and clear "hooweet". 

3. Ragwort. A common plant in clearings and forest rides

4. Viper' Bugloss. A striking plant

5. Mullein

6. Beech woodland. A nice break from the dominant Pine plantations

Not too many bird species seen or heard on this walk as one would expect with post breeding dispersal although an overhead calling Siskin may have indicated local breeding.

Watton 7 July 2026

I have little positive things to say about new housing developments and their impacts upon wildlife and their habitats, however, a series of ponds created at the Wayland Fields development where rainwater collects has proved beneficial for species, especially passage waders and for hirundines which collect pellets of wet mud for nest building, for drinking, and for hunting insects.  The immediate surrounding area is full of knapweed, weeds, and wildflowers, the downside with the development however is the loss of Skylarks, an already threatened species.

Wayland Fields 7 July 2026

7 July (Visit)

As I approached the ponds the most obvious species seen was House Martin with many birds over the ponds, some taking a drink from the surface of the water and others collecting pellets of mud from the wet shore.  A single Swallow was seen.

The weedy surrounds of the ponds held many Goldfinches and in time the seed heads of knapweed will provide good feeding for these birds. Also seen on this visit was a number of House Sparrows in weedy areas, some were seen visiting the ponds to drink.

I was about to leave to walk into town when I heard many House Martins alarm calling, I had a pretty good idea what caused this alarm and my suspicions were confirmed when a Hobby appeared over the ponds, the falcon flew over houses for a while before departing over fields.  A stunning raptor, this bird showed all the salient features, the contrasting black hood and white facial area, the blue grey upperparts, and white underparts streaked black.  What a fantastic bird the Hobby was, a bird capable of high speed and incredible agility in the chase.    

    

Little Cressingham (The Arms and Clermont) 6 July 2026

 We are now entering the third hot spell of weather now, the end of May was hot, and of course, the end of June saw temperatures breach 100° fahrenheit, and the forthcoming days are expected to reach 95° fahrenheit.  It is fair to say that this will become normal in future summers in Britain.

Although very warm today the most notable weather feature was the fresh, occasionally strong north-westerly wind.

This morning I visited 'The Arms' road passing along the Clermont estate and then on to the STANTA access road.  The roadside trees are mostly large Oaks, also a mixed woodland habitat comprises Oaks, Ash, Beech, and conifer types, and the STANTA access road has a mixed Larch and Oak woodland alongside. The land is a mix of arable and pig units.

The roadside margins held areas of scrub along with some colourful plants including Rosebay Willowherb, Viper's Bugloss, and St. John's Wort.

1. Rosebay Willowherb 6 July 2026

2. Viper's Bugloss 6 July 2026

3. St. John's Wort 6 July 2026

My walk along 'The Arms' road saw a number of common species, these included Skylark, Chiffchaff and Blackcaps in wooded areas, a female Chaffinch, singing Coal Tit, and further along the road a Nuthatch was calling. I checked the sky overhead and almost immediately connected with a Goshawk which drifted to and fro above the woodland canopy, a calling Buzzard appeared and both raptors engaged in a brief tussle. 

A corner of a field held some wonderful scrubby areas and colourful plants which in turn attracted several butterfly species including Large Skipper, Peacock, Small White, a 'blue' species, Small Copper, Gatekeeper, also Hoverfly species included the large bee-like Pellucid Hoverfly.

4. Small White 6 July 2026

5. Comma 6 July 2026

6. Large Skipper

7. Gatekeeper

8 . Pellucid Hoverfly

Continuing my walk along the STANTA access road, the mixed Larch and Oak woodland held singing Blackcap, and juvenile Blue Tits. Overhead a couple of soaring and calling Buzzards seen.

9. Hummingbird Hawk Moth feeding from Viper's Bugloss

 

10. Hummingbird Hawk Moth

The large field alongside the STANTA access road saw a Red-legged Partridge with 7 recently hatched chicks.  A single Song Thrush gave a brief alarm call and out of sight beyond woodland, the familiar call of at least one Raven was heard.

Casual observations in the local Breckland 4 July 2026

 I was working today in the Hingham and Mattishall areas of Norfolk and during breaks I collected a couple of very noteworthy records.

Driving through the Hardingham area I was aware that I had seen Ravens in recent times, when I saw a single bird leave a roadside Oak, I got out of the car and set up the scope and could hear Ravens at various localities around me.  There was at least 16+ Ravens ahead of me in the large field of crops and pig units, some of which were juvenile birds.  The numbers of Ravens was undoubtedly larger as I could hear calling birds beyond visual range. Within the Ravens on the ground was a small number of Rooks, it was easy to appreciate the size difference between these crows, the Ravens were much larger and bulkier birds.    

It is without doubt quite remarkable to see how the status of Ravens has changed in Norfolk in the last decade or so, from being a very rare vagrant to an increasing breeding resident.

Raven. An increasing resident in the Brecks and in the wider Norfolk landscape.

Garvestone

A large field of wheat alongside the Hingham Road held a single Hobby low over the crops where it appeared to be hunting.  This bird may have been attempting to flush a small bird or sweeping the crop for invertebrate species. 

Butterflies and Moths in the garden 3 July 2026

This has so far been a reasonably good year for Lepidoptera in the garden, most notable was seeing many Painted Lady butterflies visiting.  Today has been a good day with several Red Admirals and Peacocks, also, Common Blue, Comma, and Brimstone all being seen.  A single Hummingbird Hawk Moth also visited our buddleia, a stunning moth which looks, behaves, and even sounds like a Hummingbird.

Hummingbird Hawk Moth in the garden. A stunning visitor.

Stow Bedon and Lower Stow Bedon 2 July 2026

Stow Bedon and Lower Stow Bedon are two beautiful Breckland villages located about 5 miles from my home in Watton.  The countryside here is dominated by agriculture in a very rolling landscape.  My visit today began at St Botolph's Church in Stow Bedon from where I walked the length of Gravelpit Hill to Lower Stow Bedon, I then turned left and walked Rockland Road to the Mere Road/Stowlay Lane crossroads, I then climbed the short but steep hill on Mere Road to my starting point on Gravelpit Hill. Both Gravelpit Hill and Mere Road are long single track lanes with a couple of decent climbs and the immediate roadside habitats comprise good length of mature hedgerows with Oak and Ash trees dominating.

Gravelpit Hill

I started my visit from St. Botolph's Church on Gravelpit Hill.  The long but gentle ascent to the brow of the hill is sided by tall hedgerows with wide roadside margins and mature Oaks, and at the brow of the hill is a small mature woodland with deep, long disused excavations.

1. Gravelpit Hill, Stow Bedon

The first section of my walk along Gravelpit Hill saw common species with singing Blackcap, Goldfinch, Wren, Chiffchaff, and singing Stock Dove too.  At the brow o0f the hill a few Swallows were sweeping between hedgerows in search for food

The descent along Gravelpit Hill saw evidence of breeding success with Whitethroats, a male was singing and performing display-flight, also alarm calls were heard as well as begging calls from juvenile birds.  The large weedy field adjacent to Gravelpit Hill held a few Goldfinches (including juveniles) hanging on tops of tall weeds in their search for food.

2. Gravelpit Hill (descending towards Lower Stow Bedon) 2 July 2026

The picture above of the descent along Gravelpit Hill saw Whitethroats in the hedge to the right and Goldfinches in the weedy field to the left.
 

3. A very fine old and knarled Ash at Lower Stow Bedon 2 July 2026

Lower Stow Bedon (Rockland Road to Mere Road)

Rockland Road is a wider road with several bends and blind bends, care should be taken here due to faster moving traffic.

The Rockland Road/Gravelpit Hill area of the village held several House Martins over and between houses, and another Whitethroat gave an alarm call in a thick hedge.  Leaving Lower Stow Bedon on the Rockland Road a number of Swallows were seen over fields and nearby farm buildings.  A flock of 10+ House Sparrows were seen.  A pair of Stock Doves were seen together on wires.

4. Rockland Road, Lower Stow Bedon 2 July 2026

  

5. Roadside habitat on the Rockland Road, Lower Stow Bedon

Walking along Rockland Road (shown in picture 5) I checked the habitat on the roadside between the two Oaks where a pair of Linnets were seen, one with grasses for nest-building), also, one Whitethroat in song, and a pair of Stonechats seen initially here before flying onto a large field of mixed weeds and bramble scrub, a likely breeding site.

Stow Bedon (Mere Road to Gravelpit Hill)

The last section of this walk is about a mile long single track road which at the beginning sees a long, sometimes quite steep ascent before levelling out, then later a long descent takes you into Stow Bedon.

Mere Road, Stow Bedon, 2 July 2026

The long ascent along Mere Road from Rockland Road is lined with quality hedgerows and wide grass margins, and once again, Whitethroats featured with birds crossing between the hedgerows ahead of me.

On the north side of the road there is this year numerous pig units in place, close to these was 2 Black-headed Gulls, 2 Lesser Black-backed Gulls, Stock Dove, one Lapwing, and a singing Yellowhammer alongside the road.

Muck heap at Stow Bedon 2 July 2026

Now that we are in July, I am attracted to beautiful, smelly muck heaps, these man-made habitats are important staging posts for migratory wading birds, the liquid seepage from these heaps provides an irresistable feeding station for passage waders where invertebrate food abounds.  Although no waders were seen today, check these valuable sites for Green Sandpipers and Greenshank, these are the most likely wader species to be seen at such habitats. Wagtails also benefit from these muck heaps with Pied Wagtails, Grey Wagtails, and Yellow Wagtails visiting to feed.

Green Sandpiper at a muck heap near Deopham

The descent along Mere Road and into Stow Bedon once again saw a Whitethroat singing and in display flight, also, Swallows were seen near outbuildings here.

Finally, as I neared the end of my walk, a stunning Holly Blue butterfly was seen in the roadside verge.

Holly Blue at Stow Bedon 2 July 2026

 
 

June 2026 - A summary of Records

June 2026 entered the record books with the highest ever temperatures recorded in Norfolk in the month of June, in fact, three consecutive days towards the end of the month saw each days records being broken culminating on the 26 June with a high of 100 degrees fahrenheit (37.7°C). A gradual easing of temperatures seen on 27 June with a high 87 degrees fahrenheit (31°C), and on 28 June a pleasant 80 degrees fahrenheit (26.6°C).

By the end of May 2026 our Blue Tits had fledged, however, it is sad to report that there appears to have been limited success with regards to survival. I never ascertained how large the brood was, a number did fledge but three young birds had sadly perished. The deceased birds I suspect, suffered in the high temperatures experienced at the end of May.  As we entered June parties of Blue Tits passed through the garden, these were readily identified by their pale yellow faces amd overal washed through appearance.

June 7 (Seamere Marsh)

A short work break at 1000 to Seamere Marsh was quite productive, especially for raptor species when 2 Buzzards, 1 Red Kite, 1 Kestrel, 1 Sparrowhawk, and a hunting ♀ Marsh Harrier were all seen.  On the marsh at least 4 Reed Buntings were seen (including singing ♂) and a pair of Whitethroats seen (♂ singing and performing song-flight), also, the ♀ Whitethroat was food carrying and at least one juvenile bird present and following its mother. 

A single Common Tern overflew the marsh.

Whitethroat (juvenile). Note the dark eye which readily ages the bird.

June 13 (Bradenham)

Late morning and I decided to pick a random site to visit and chose Bradenham Lane, a lovely narrow, and quiet country lane with tall hedgerows, wide roadside margins filled with grasses and wildflowers, a large field of tall weeds including Red Fescue, a roadside pond, and a particularly nice looking Black Poplar.

The lane held Whitethroats at three localities and a singing ♂ Lesser Whitethroat, also Blackcap noted at two localities, one Chiffchaff heard.  Finches were represented by singing Linnet, Goldfinch, and finally, two singing Yellowhammers noted.

June 15 (Garden Obs.)

Successful fledging by Robins seen in the garden with 5 birds present (pair and 3+ juveniles), and overhead, at least one Mediterranean Gull passed over.

June 21 (Thompson) 

A pleasant late evening walk around Thompson produced a singing Quail, one Hobby, 3 Curlews, Woodlark, and a single Barn Owl, also, there was bucket loads of Cockchafers.

June 22 (Garden)

A juvenile Sparrowhawk was on the lawn having caught a male House Sparrow which it plucked and ate.  A small Sparrowhawk with coarse barring on the underparts

Sparrowhawk (juvenile) 22 June

Sparrowhawk (juvenile) 22 June

26 June (Hardingham)

Two Ravens were seen early evening departing roadside trees on Low Street.

28 June (Little Cressingham)

A walk along the Watton Brook valley was very productive beginning on the Great Cressingham Road where Whitethroats (adults and juveniles) were present in dense and lush cover alongside the river. At least two juveniles seen in a bramble patch, one of which gave an occasional "chit" call, this was repeated now and then with a "chit cht cht".

Continuing alongside the river an excellent record of an overflying and calling Wood Sandpiper, a very scarce passage migrant to the area.

Also in the valley, a further record of Whitethroats in lush habitat, both parents were present along with juveniles giving their "chit" from within cover.

At least 20 Skylarks were both seen and heard, also two Woodlarks were seen in flight.  A family party of 6 Pied Wagtails seen, this included 4 juvenile birds.  On wire fencing in the valley two Reed Buntings were seen as were 3 Stonechats.

At least 3 Blackcaps were present in mixed woodland along with Goldcrest.

This was also a good morning for butterlies with 20+ Meadow Browns and at least 3 Small Copper seen.

A summary of observations for May 2026

By the end April, the majority of bird migration has ended and migrant species are on territory and engaged in breeding behaviour.  Migration still occurs in May but with common species this has slowed to a trickle, however, May can see rare and exotic species passing through Norfolk, species including Bee-eaters, and if we are very lucky, the extremely vibrantly coloured Roller.

I saw my first Swifts of the year on 22nd April when 3 birds fed above treetops at Thompson Water, I suspect these may have been migrants passing through. A few Swifts were seen over Watton in the last days of April but the first screaming party of Swifts were seen over the rooftops in Watton town centre on the 1st of May.  

I began the morning of the 4th May with a visit to Cranberry Rough, highlights from this visit included seeing and hearing Garden Warbler, Blackcap, Sedge Warbler, Little and Great White Egrets, and overhead a Goshawk passed over carrying prey.

In a nearby clearing a party of 22 Crossbills arrived in a tall conifer where they spent time preening, this flock comprised several ♂♂ and a number of♀♀too, at least two juveniles were seen. After some 10 minutes the Crossbills flew off together calling.

Following my visit to Cranberry Rough I made the short drive to Wretham Heath where lots of evidence of breeding behaviour was seen beginning with upon my arrival, House Martins visiting the artificial nest sites on the wardens house. Further evidence of breeding was seen with two pairs of Egyptian Geese with young and in the woodland and clearings, singing Garden Warblers, Blackcaps, and Willow Warblers were all noted. A pair of Stonechats were seen nervously alarm calling with the ♀ bird carrying food for their young.  Overhead, a male Siskin was performing its song-flight and in a nearby clearing, two Tree Pipits were singing and performing their song-flight.

Willow Warbler on Wretham Heath 4 May. A beautiful sweet and descending song.

On 10 May I visited Stow Bedon and walked a regular route I like to take from St Botolph's Church along Gravelpit Hill to Lower Stow Bedon then following Rocklands Road to Mere Road for the long walk back to my starting position.  This is a 3 mile walk over largely undulating country and through vast expanses of open arable land. My walk was focussed on finding common species, both migrant breeders and resident species, and without doubt the most abundant migrant was the Whitethroat with at least 14 singing ♂♂ Whitethroats located and a single singing Lesser Whitethroat at Lower Stow Bedon.  Just one singing Garden Warbler was noted, this was in suitable breeding habitat on Gravelpit Hill.  A small flock of 10+ House Sparrows seen at Lower Stow Bedon.

Mere Road/Rocklands Road junction 10 May 2026 (Always a good site for Whitethroat)

The walk back along Mere Road saw a pair of Grey Partridges in crops whilst nearby a large muck heap held just two Pied Wagtails.  Muck heaps are one of my favourite habitats to check in April and May and again from July throughn to September as these habitats are very attractive to migrant wading birds such as Green Sandpiper and Greenshank. 

Ashill Common is a site I like to visit at least once in spring and on the 16th my visit was rewarding. The ancient manmade feature here is the c.7 century Devil's Ditch, an archaeolgical scheduled monument which runs south to north over the common. The ditch holds a wonderful old hedgerow which is always attractive to birds, my visit this morning saw singing Whitethroats and Greenfinches, Goldfinch, Blackcap, and Lesser Whitethroat.  

Whitethroat on Ashill Common 16th May (An annual visitor to the common)

The wider common held at least 5 Whitethroat territories with one pair making frequent visits to an isolated Hawthorn, however, the most abundant species was Linnet, the habitat here comprises much Gorse, a favoured habitat for this species to breed in. A single Turtle Dove was singing, a delightful purring which is the epitome of an warm English spring day. 

Turtle Dove - the beautiful purring song is the epitome of an English summers day.

On the 17th May I led a walk for the Norfolk Wildlife Trust at Cranberry Rough, the walk was well attended, however, a section of the walk was quite wet and muddy and not passable for one or two of my group so they took enjoyment from other areas we had previously covered.  Being mid May I was confident that I would be able to point out several species, especially summer migrants, either visually or by their song.

The walk began well at our meeting point with both Blackcap and Garden Warbler singing, this was a good opportunity to point out the differences between these similar sounding species.  Both Garden Warblers and Blackcaps were encountered along the route, but also a very close and singing Cetti's Warbler, an amazing song for a small bird.  Overhead, two Hobbies soared very high, a good spot by one of the group.  Two Cuckoos were quite mobile, one was a calling male, also present was a female giving her beautiful bubbling call.  What was particularly rewarding for me was learning that some of the group were unfamiliar with the female Cuckoos call and were delighted to learn this.

Further along our walk another two Hobbies were seen, this time these birds were quite low and it was possible to appreciate the distinctive shape of this beautiful falcon.  Although quite distant a single Yellow Wagtail was seen on a fence and a single Siskin passed overhead.   Back at our original meeting point we once again were treated to the songs of both Blackcap and Garden Warbler.

On the 21 May at Little Cressingham, evidence of successful breeding by Stonechats seen with a family party of 6 birds present, also, Whitethroats were busily feeding young at the nest and luckily I was able to sit reasonably close to watch this wonderful behaviour.  Also present on heathland was a Curlew displaying song-flight.

Whitethroat at Little Cressingham 21 May with food for young in the nest

   

Stonechat (juvenile) Little Cressingham 21 May. Note the spotted appearance which ages the bird.

On the morning of 22 May I visited a beautiful area of grazing meadows near the Griston Road, here, I located two singing Stock Doves, singing Blackcap and two Grey Partridges (pair).  A  single Little Owl was seen flying over open country between trees, the flight is fast and undulating (odd for an Owl).

On the 24 May a single Raven was seen from the garden overflying low over houses, a couple of Rooks nearby provided a good size comparison between the species.

On the 25 May a walk along Watton Brook at Little Cressingham produced Whitethroats (adults feeding young), a singing Lesser Whitethroat, Reed Bunting, a Curlew performing song-flight, and a family party of 6+ Stonechats.

Plenty of evidence of breeding successes seen on the 30 May at Stow Bedon, this included Spotted Flycatchers on territory, Goldcrests and Treecreepers in suitable breeding habitat, and at least 3 Garden Warbler territories which included a bird carrying food for young in the nest.  Whitethroats were also noted which included an adult bird carrying food for young in the nest which was in a large bramble patch.   Singing Cetti's Warbler, Willow Warbler, and Blackcaps also seen and heard.  In nearby woodland both Goshawk and Tawny Owl were heard calling.

Garden Warbler at Stow Bedon with food for young in the nest 30 May 2026

For the final day of May I once again walked the Watton Brook valley near Little Cressingham, and as is often the case my first bird seen was a Whitethroat carrying food for young which seemed to have dispersed more widely in the valley.

Whitethroat (male) at Little Cressingham 31 May

Whitethroats were noted at a further three localities along the valley where a single Sedge Warbler was singing in rank vegetation alongside the brook. This bird also displayed song-flight, also, when in flight, the Sedge Warbler showed a lovely warm brown, unstreaked rump. Several Stonechats were seen on fencing of which many were juvenile birds, and finally, a Curlew displayed song-flight. 

April 2026 (A summary of Observations)

March saw an early arrival of Chiffchaffs and indeed this trend continued into April. Chiffchaffs are one of the earliest of our summer migrants to return to breed, my first this year was heard on 2nd March on Wretham Heath, by April, many woodlands resounded to the onomatopoeic song of this Warbler.  Another early Warbler is the Blackcap, a beautiful songster which began arriving in numbers during the early days of April.

On the 1st of April over marshland near Hingham a Snipe was seen performing its display flight, sadly a rare sight and sound these days.  The display by Snipe is known as drumming, this drumming sound, sometimes likened to the bleating of sheep, is produced by the bird as it dives over its territory, the outer tail feathers are held out from the rest of the tail and the rushing air causes the feathers to vibrate, thus causing the drumming sound.  Victorian Ornithologists originally thought the Snipes drumming was a vocalisation. 

On the 5th April, notable Breckland species were seen on the patch including Stone Curlew, a pair of Curlews, two Stonechats on heathland, and overhead, two male Woodlarks seen very well performing their beautiful song-flight display.  Also of note was a Raven seen overflying farmland and calling.

Stonechat (Male) A familiar and beautiful Breckland species

A visit to Hockham on the 7th saw further increases of summer migrants arriving to breed, notably Chiffchaffs in good numbers, but also Blackcaps seen and heard.  A bit of exotic colour seen with a pair Mandarins seen, these are tree nesting ducks with a few pairs in the Brecks.  Overhead, 3+ Crossbills passed over calling and in a north-east heading.  Perhaps the highlight of the morning came in the form of two Mediterranean Gulls passing over, these are stunning gulls with white underparts, a black hood, and a blood red bill, these plumage features, especially the white underparts and black hood, gives us a gull with contrasting  features.

Another long distance summer migrant was located on the 9th at Hockham, two Tree Pipits, a species which arrives with us in early April from its sub-Saharan wintering grounds.  The Tree Pipit is a scarce breeder in Britain and here on our local  Breckland patch they can be found displaying their beautiful song-flight within forest clearings where scattered tall trees within the clearing are used as song-posts.  Also present in this clearing was a singing male Stonechat and an overflying Swallow.

Tree Pipit at Hockham. A scarce summer migrant

A walk along a section of the Peddars Way at Great Cressingham on 10th April saw my first Whitethroats of the year, both were singing males in suitable breeding habitat.

One of the most familiar harbingers of spring is the Cuckoo and on the 13th April I located two calling males at Hockham. Very sadly, this bird, like so many other species has declined significantly in recent decades, the most reliable habitats to look and listen for the Cuckoo is around reedbeds and marshes where host species such as Warblers frequent.

A visit to Thompson Common early on 14th April produced another calling Cuckoo in suitable breeding habitat and overhead a male Goshawk was closely shadowed by a Crow, which is a potential prey species.  A Pingo on the common held one Green Sandpiper, a passage wader species, and a single Grey Wagtail feeding around the edges of the water-filled Pingo. 

A short work break visit to Seamere Marsh near Hingham on the 15th saw my first Lesser Whitethroat of the year, a singing male in typical breeding habitat comprising an old broken hedgerow with tall trees at intervals.  The Lesser Whitethroat is in Britain, at the limit of its breeding range in north-western Europe with most birds occurring in the south and east of Britain although range expansion has seen some birds breeding in the lowland areas of Wales and Scotland.  The Lesser Whitethroat is rare in Ireland.

Lesser Whitethroat - a stunning Sylvia Warbler

On the 19th April I enjoyed a full mornings visit to Wretham Heath, as well as visiting the heath I also had lengthy stops at both Langmere and Ringmere.  My arrival at the car park saw a number of common species including House Martins visiting the artificial nest sites on the wardens house whilst in the surrounding bushes Great Tit, Chaffinch, Goldfinch, and Goldcrest, were all singing.  My first static watch was from Langmere hide where numerous species were seen including a pair of Oystercatchers, one Curlew which arrived to feed along the muddy shores before flying off, 6 Gadwall, 3 Shelduck, a pair of Egyptian Geese with 5 goslings, singing Chaffinch and Blackcap, Lapwing, and a pair of Teal.  A ♂ Cuckoo was wandering about calling.  The beautiful mature Scots Pine plantation held further singing Blackcaps, Coal Tits, and at least two Ravens which were frustratingly out of sight but frequently calling.  As I left the woodland for more open heathland habitat I recorded two singing Tree Pipits in a forest clearing and in the top of a tall Birch tree a ♂ Willow Warbler delivered its sweet song.  My next static watch was at Ringmere where further evidence of successful breeding seen beginning with a pair Egyptian Geese with 6 goslings.  Also noted here was 3 pairs of Tufted Duck, 5 Shelduck, 4 Little Grebe, and a pair of Mistle Thrushes which visited the muddy shores to collect invertebrate food which was taken to waiting young in nearby woodland.

On the morning of 20th April I decided to visit the new Woodland Trust site at Thompson, what a fantastic habitat which will provide a permanent home for so many species of birds, mammals, reptiles, and a wealth of invertebrates.  Even at this early stage in the creation of this large habitat, Skylarks appeared numerous on this visit and a singing and displaying Whitethroat was watched in bramble scrub.  Evidence of breeding success seen with a pair of Stonechats with the ♀ food carrying.  A couple of Lapwings saw off Crows, a clear indication of eggs or young present.  

Another exciting day of birding on 22nd April with a visit to Thompson Water where many Reed Warblers and Sedge Warblers were singing in the vast reedbed habitat, also present was at least 3 singing Cetti’s Warblers and singing Garden Warbler.  A pair of Great Crested Grebes were present with one bird on a nest.  Overhead, 3 Swifts were flying to and from over the woodland canopy where they fed upon winged invertebrates.                           

On the 23rd April I walked a section of the Pingo trail at Stow Bedon where I walked through a variety of habitats from conifer woodland, Oak and Birch woodland, heath, woodland swamp, and open fen and marsh.  As we approach the end of April the countryside is filling with the song of both our resident species and summer visitors and on this visit to the Pingo trail I located several singing Garden Warblers, Blackcaps, and a couple of Willow Warblers too.  One Cetti’s Warbler was singing its loud, explosive song and overhead Crossbills gave themselves away with their distinctive “glip glip” calls.  Also overhead and at height, 4 Mediterranean Gulls headed east and calling.  And finally, on my return walk two Woodlarks were displaying their beautiful song-flight.

Spotted Redshank at Thompson Water 27 April

 

On the 27th, I had a call from my friend Sarah Harris (British Birds Editor) who told me of a Spotted Redshank at Thompson Water, as I was going out that evening I decided to pay a visit to the lake and soon located the stunning summer plumaged Spotted Redshank feeding at the edge of water soldier, after about 10 minutes the bird departed high to the east.

Also present on the water was a stunning male Mandarin and a ♂ Grey Wagtail feeding from floating surface weeds.

 

Thompson Common 8 March 2026

 Spring has come early this year with some very warm days at the beginning of the month accompanied by warm southerly winds.  These conditions saw a number of early Chiffchaffs on the patch with my first singing bird of the year on March 2 at Wretham Heath.  I did think that this may have been an overwintering bird, which it may well have been, however, with numerous records of Chiffchaffs in the first few days of the month, then the bird on March 2 could have been a genuine migrant.

On the morning of 8 March I visited the beautiful Thompson Common, a large area dominated by numerous pingos, dense thickets, Willow scrub, and open common.  The moment I arrived the small parking area saw two singing Stock Doves, two singing Song Thrushes, Coal Tit, Wren, singing Great Tit, Chaffinch, and two drumming Great Spotted Woodpeckers.

Thompson Common 8 March 2026

As I set off through the wooded area and onto the common another Great Spotted Woodpecker was watched drumming.  Common species on the common included 6+ singing Song Thrushes, a singing Mistle Thrush, Blackbirds, numerous Robins and Wrens, and a singing Yellowhammer.  At least 4 Chiffchaffs were located in song.  At least 3 Greenfinches were noted in song, also, 2 birds were seen overhead performing their song-flight. A total of 3 Nuthatches were recorded and a total of 5 singing Stock Doves noted.

Much of the common is dominated by patches of Gorse, here, as expected, a number of pairs of Linnets were seen in typical breeding habitat.  At least 3 Reed Buntings seen, these included a singing ♂ and a pair in suitable breeding habitat.  3 Grey Herons were seen.

Goshawk (female) overflying Thompson Common 8 March.

I heard a number of Crows in what appeared to be a state of panic, as expected, moments later a ♀ Goshawk appeared through trees and then overflew the common, whilst a second Goshawk was heard calling in woodland.

A pair of Ravens appeared over the common with either one, or both birds, attempting to rob the contents of an active Crows nest.  A third Raven overflew the common.

Two calling Water Rails were in good breeding habitat comprising dense reeds in a pingo and rank vegetation.

As part of the reserve management plan the Norfolk Wildlife Trust uses the hardy, and beautiful, Polish Konik ponies, these ponies graze the common and keep encroaching scrub down which in turn benefits ground nesting birds. I watched one pony eating Gorse without any concerns.

Two of the beautiful Konik ponies on Thompson Common 8 March.