Myself and Dave couldn't resist the lure of Norfolk so we had an early trip yesterday 2/1/12. We arrived in good time at Cley and quickly located the long staying Western Sandpiper and also had good although distant views of a Water Pipit. The're were thousands of Dark bellied Brent Geese although we did spot one Pale bellied Brent Goose as well. The numerous Marsh Harriers put in a good aerial show. We then travelled down the road to Holkham Gap and saw a large flock of 60-70 Snow Buntings before connecting with the 4 Shorelarks which looked fabulous in the low sunshine. We then went to Titchwell and viewed the Arctic Redpoll feeding in the Alders alongside a Mealy Redpoll. As the light faded we saw plenty of geese heading to roost including Eurasian White fronted Geese, Pinkfooted geese and Greylags. A stunning male Merlin was observed hunting and by the marsh we could see a Chinese water deer. On the journey home we also saw a Barn Owl. In all 62 species were seen and there's no doubt that we will return to Norfolk very soon for some outstanding birding
