15th January 2017

Headed down to the exe with Lewis today. First stop was Topshom Rec where we had the female Long-Tailed Duck, a pair of Goldeneye and a Mediterranean Gull.

Long-Tailed Duck - Topshom Rec

Next stop was Matford Marsh near Countess Wear where, after another short walk, we were watching the American Wigeon. Thankfully it was a bit more co-operative than last winters bird at Exminster and I managed some reasonable record shots. Also present were 2 Chiffchaffs, singles of Great Spotted Woodpecker and Bullfinch and an early singing Blackcap.

American Wigeon - Matford Marsh

Made a diversion to Alphington but we missed the waxwing flock. We decided not to stick around and headed on to Dawlish Warren. A quick scan of the sea produced a flock of Common Scoters, a few Gannets and a Shag but little else. From the hide we had fairly distant views of the adult BONAPARTE'S GULL as well as another Med Gull and a nice selection of waders.

BONAPARTE'S GULL - Dawlish Warren

Stopped off at Cockwood on the way back and had the 2 Slavonian Grebes and a pair of Red-Breasted Mergansers. Also got closer views of the BONAPARTE'S GULL from here, and had good flight views through the scope.