Heading across the Fen and along the Washes we saw Bullfinch and hedgerows and fields full of winter thrushes, a Corn Bunting rattled and wild Swans were clustered in favoured fields. Marsh Harrier were making the most of the breeze and at least 7 were seen during the morning. At Welney we saw another Peregrine at the waters edge on Lady Fen and several Buzzards, including the pale bird. Golden Plover shimmered in the dark fields and were joined by a few Ruff and Dunlin. On the reserve there were birds everywhere, a real spectacle. A Snow Goose fed busily with the Greylags and a carpet of Godwit covered the nearest island on arrival.
Returning to Lady Fen a Little Egret showed well and drew both Ben and I into a photo frenzy as the light got better and the bird's character changed with every movement. We had another drive out to look for the Rough-legged Buzzard and probably found it but gliding towards us it dropped below the bank of a small reservoir, didn't appear the other side and despite our best efforts could not be relocated. On the way back along Queen Adelaide Way the Garganey was still on the Beet Pits and a Merlin sat out in the freshly ploughed black soils. Home then for Tea and medals.