Today at Sandwell Valley

Hi readers, today I decided to go out birding to Sandwell Valley so I got my bins and drink and my bus pass. This would be my first trip to the place in a few weeks so I was looking forward to it. I have to admit things were very quiet today. I first went down to the hide and the highlight bird had to be then Common Sandpiper that was about throughout my time in the hide. 

We also saw a couple of Reed Warbler flying near the reeds (isn't that weird), also a lot of adult and young Whitethroat were about today which was nice to see. Good numbers of Teal were taking refuge in the marsh which is a nice returning winter duck for the reserve. A Little Grebe was calling throughout the morning and was apparently deep in the reeds in a nest which of course means we have likely chicks on the way (yippee). Also a Green Woodpecker was calling from various locations on the reserve and I saw it fly by at around half 2. 

After a quiet look in the hide we began walking back up,matter Colin went back me and Peter the snipe were left to do a bit of sit down birding, and I have to say its surprising what you can see when sitting in a single spot for an hour. We were sitting at a screening point on the oath leading to the hide that overlooks the marsh, in front of us lay the marsh to the left and bushes and trees to the right. In these bushes and trees we were presented with quick but good views of a couple of Willow Tit. 

The birds were going down on then ground out of view and then they were going straight back to the same place, which would bring out the theory that the Willow Tits are nesting in the area which would be great news. Also a third much darker bird turned up and offered very brief views and it is possible that it was a Marsh Tit which are seen on occasion on the reserve. 

Anyway a goods afternoons birding here's my main sightings, 

RSPB Sandwell Valley- Reed Warbler x2, Whitethroat (multiple), Black headed Gull 20+, Lapwing 60+, Common Sandpiper x1, Willow Tit x2, Possible Marsh Tit x1, Grey Heron x1, Green Woodpecker x1, Mute Swan 5+, Canada Goose 5+, Little Grebe (calling), Tufted Duck x1 (5 ducklings), Mallard 5+ (4 ducklings), Teal x11, a Kingfisher was reported x1, Cormorant x1. 

Thanks for reading there will most likely be a post on Sunday if all goes well. 

Thanks for reading- WMBB