Test Tube Ticking

6th November 2018

A 'Sibe' stonechat had been present in Norfolk for a couple of weeks and mooted extensively as a possible/probable Stejneger's Stonechat - a recent split. As is currently the way, definite identification was not possible without DNA samples, which had been collected and sent off for analysis. Most birders still needed to see a 'Stej', so over the last couple of weeks many made the insurance trek. I was otherwise occupied with major personal life changes, so had put this to the back of my mind to concentrate on far more important things.

However, the bird lingered and Andy was due a visit to the office, or at least to see me, so we hatched the idea of a day's birding in Norfolk. And so it transpired. Andy came down on Monday afternoon and we managed to get just beyond Stoke before opting for a few beers and night in a Premiere Inn. Norfolk could wait just a little longer.

Next morning, slightly sore of head, we were up and out early, stopping only to briefly string a rough-legged Buzzard and then for a much needed fry-up before arriving at Salthouse at the crack of 10.30am.

The Stejneger's Stonechat was straightforward enough to see and fortuitously close (many had seen it only distantly). ID was not resolved at this stage, but the consensus was this was 'the business', which was confirmed by Doc Collinson a couple of weeks later. A full fat tick then. It was actually a rather lovely bird, somewhat whinchat like in character and often flycatching.

Steve Gantlett's much better efforts @cleybirds

Steve Gantlett's much better efforts @cleybirds

After the quick success we popped over to nearby Kelling where 5 Waxwings were looking dapper as ever.

Waxwing

We then opted to spend the rest of the day doing some gentle birding along the north Norfolk Coast, taking in Stiffkey Fen and the always wonderful Titchwell RSPB reserve. Highlights included a ringtail Hen Harrier, Red Kite, multiple Marsh Harriers, Barn Owl and a multitude of waterfowl waders including a single Purple Sandpiper, also Ruffs, Avocet, both Godwit species and so on. But the real joy is in the abundance of birds here, just magic.

Brent Geese. They make a lovely sound too.

Grey Plover, Titchwell

Common Redshank, Titchwell

Little Egret, Titchwell

Common Teal, Titchwell

Barn Owl, Titchwell. Why do Norfolk birds fly around in daylight whereas at home they're so nocturnal?

And so we headed homewards, happy with our hall and having both provided the other with much needed therapy in a difficult time. I'll forever be grateful to Andy for his support in recent weeks.

There was, however, a post script. News from Cheshire, yes I did say Cheshire, changed plans for tomorrow and so we again found ourselves in a Premiere Inn and a bar....