Lapwings and other birds
A calm start before some wilder weather blew in. Biggest count of the winter with 3100 Lapwing, a fantastic sight as they take to the air to avoid raptors. More Oystercatcher arriving with 9 birds around the Mere. Also 80+ Ruff and a single Dunlin.
At least 1200 Whooper Swan roosting on the reserve. A single Bewick's Swan on the Mere this morning also present with Whoopers just off the reserve later on.
Raptors included 2 Marsh Harrier, 3+ Common Buzzard, Sparrowhawk and Kestrel. A male Hen Harrier was seen a few miles away. Tawny Owl near the Kingfisher Hide.