Amwell

This morning went to Amwell. Weather is a lot better today, nice bright sunshine, but a lot cooler, and there is still a bit of a sharp breeze.
Nice bonus as I drove in from Cauthery Lane-a Kingfisher was on the railings by the war memorial lake.
Rather quiet as expected. Water levels very high still, and as a result little for waders and gulls to loaf on. Seem to be a lot of Shoveller, a few Teal and plenty of Gadwall. Couple of Goldeneye, but the recent drake Smew only stayed a couple of hours unfortunately. Its the worst winter for Smew at Amwell for many years.
Walked through the wood with Mick and Tony Hukin. Seem to be a lot of Redwing around, plus a few Blackbirds and Song Thrushes. The alders held the usual Goldfinch flock, but Siskin numbers are up. We only found eight, but there are around 20 present. No Redpolls this year though. Struggled to locate Marsh Tit. Phil has removed the Hollycross feeders as he was fed up feeding the sheep, which have damaged many of the trees, so birds are a bit thin on the ground there now. We did hear one or two around the James hide, and we also picked up two female Bullfinch as well.
Bumped into Dave from Royston-have not seen him for quite a while, so had a bit of a chat as he is keen on astronomy among other things.
Phil told us to keep an eye or ear open for Raven. Did not find them, but just heard that four were seen this afternoon.
No sign of the Bustard today, so don't know what we will be doing on Sunday.