SNR 1400-1600hrs MJP
mainly sunny & mild, odd sharp showers; mod W.
Black-necked Grebe - 1
After much of the last three months in the highlands of Scotland and Scandinavia, a Black-necked Grebe on the East Resevoir somewhat softened the blow of having to return to Mother Hackney. The bird, probably present since yesterday, fed in the centre of the reservoir and could be seen from the new river path.
Hirundines were present in good numbers, with around 50 House Martins, 30 Sand Martins and 12 Barn Swallows; wildfowl numbers are also high, and weekly counts (along with entries at least every few days) will recommence from next week. Other migrants included several Willow Warblers and eight Goldcrests, and a Kingfisher has returned to the East Res.
Little Grebes are feeding three chicks, and Great Crested Grebes are still on the nest.