For the yearly joint Winter Birding Day event with local wildlife tour company Swallow Birding it was great to see so many people come out despite a far from favourable weather forecast for the day, and join the two guided walks with tour leader Steve Grimwade around the nature reserve.  

Over 40 people enjoyed views of waders and wildfowl that included Goosander, Red-breasted Merganser, Knot, Dunlin, Redshank, Curlew, Bar-tailed Godwit, Avocet plus Buzzard, Marsh Harrier and Kingfisher which delighted everyone!

The visitor centre was buzzing with people and by the end of the day, there were just a few crumbs of cake left in the catering area with the Cherry and Almond Scones, freshly baked that morning being a particular favourite.

Thanks to the staff and volunteers and all those who visited, for making the day a great success. We look forward to repeating the day again next year.

We are currently looking for short papers on Essex birds for the 2016 and 2017 Essex Bird Reports. The paper can be on identification, a particular site or indeed anything bird related provided that Essex is involved. For examples of previous papers, please see old Reports. If anyone thinks they have something suitable please contact Simon Wood through the following email essexbirdwatchingsociety@gmail.com