Lesser Yellowlegs at Frampton

 Although the day began with fog over the Lincolnshire Wolds, as we approached Boston it cleared to give a mild and largely sunny day. As is so often the case here, the overriding memory is one of wheeling flocks of waders and geese and the echoing calls of birds over the marsh: the whistling of wigeon, peewit calls of lapwings, bubbling song of curlew and the more gutteral calling of brent geese. The first bird seen and photographed was a superb kestrel hovering over the car park.

The day began, as usual with coffee in the excellent cafe and an unsuccessful attempt at locating the, by now, famous lesser yellowlegs. Giving up on this American vagrant we made our way to the 360 Hide before returning at 12.30 to satisfy the grumbling in stomachs. The bacon bun was excellent and this time the yellowlegs turned up trumps giving plenty of close-up opportunities for photography. I am ambivalent about these odd rarities; the chances of this bird finding a made or its way back to America are neglible. For the moment, however, it appears to be fit and well. 

Following lunch we headed down to the sea wall where we made our way to the East Hide and returned to the visitor centre via the 360 Hide. During this walk we were able to feast our senses on the wealth of birds present. Arriving back at the centre we were ready for a cup of tea during which we were treated to the sudden arrival of a flock of whooper swans which landed just in front of us. The light had nearly gone now but there was just enough to secure a record shot.

Avocet

Avocet

Lapwing

Lapwing

Pintail

Teal

Teal

Whooper Swans

Wigeon

Wigeon

Wigeon

Wigeon

Wigeon

Wigeon