In the reeds.

As the Teal chirp and gather at the reed edge, other birds appear in the periphery. The frost melts on the reed heads and for the first time this year, Reed buntings show themselves. Down below, in the shade, a narrow grey thing eagerly slips along the edge. The Water Rail ducks into cover and moments later its shrill call squeals from the tangle. A Cetti's Warbler darts across the small channel, too quick to record.