Migrants coming back

So I headed off to Hatfield Forest this morning.

The local birds were all in good voice (Blackbirds, Song Thrushes, Chaffinches) and there were a lot more Chiffchaffs about.

I was really pleased to see 6 Great Crested Grebes on the lake and there were two sitting on nests! I was also pleased to see some Swallows over the lake.

I do like this Grebe....



I was about to head to the cafe when I heard some birdsong I hadn't heard for ages a quick scan and BLACKCAP!!!

I sat by the lake with a drink and a sausage sandwich and this chap sailed past...






Mallard sitting in a tree.


As I headed to the car park I saw another Blackcap

Longtails




And so to Rye Meads.

I hadn't gone far when I saw another Blackcap.

Into the Draper Hide, there were a few Swallows through and a Sparrowhawk spooked the gulls. There was a Green Sandpiper and a Little Ringed Plover.










At one point on my stroll a Cetti's perched up and I watched him sing before he flew off.

There were loads of Chiffchaffs and finally....

The Herald of Spring makes an appearance.






I was wandering around the Herts & Middlesex part of the reserve when I heard a bird sing, I thought I recognise that! I looked into the reads and ... SEDGE WARBLER. I hadn't expected to see one this early.

and finally a Tufted Duck



an excellent spell of local birding.