Red-rumped Swallow, Holkham

Another trip to Norfolk this morning, stopping firstly at King's Lynn Docks hoping to locate the juvenile Iceland Gull that has been present all month. As we approached the parking area the bird was found perched up on the rocks at the waters edge. It remained there until fish waste started emerging from the outflow pipe of the local shellfish wholesalers. We re-located the bird on the muddy slopes close to the pipe, where it remained until harassed by the larger gulls. 

Breaking news that the Red-rumped Swallow had been seen again West of Lady Anne's Drive at Holkham saw us make our way towards the area. Pulling in several times as we approached the area to scan the surrounding fields, we failed to locate the bird. Having dipped both the Thamesmead and Gunners Park birds by seconds in the last two years it wasn't looking good. However our luck turned when the pager bleeped into action to report the bird "showing well" just along the road at the ruined farm building!

As I crossed the road the bird appeared close by and remained in the area giving all present superb views. Finally Red-rumped Swallow had made it onto my list. 

Red-rumped Swallow

Dragging ourselves away from the Swallow, we headed for Thornham. Taking the path out towards the dunes a small flock of Twite were found. I managed a quick shot of one individual before they took to the air again.

Twite

Leaving the boardwalk at the end of the path, we managed to locate the three Shore Larks at the point. They remained distant and  out of reach of the camera. 

With the weather improving we decided to drop in at Brancaster Staithe for another look at the Red-necked Grebe. The tide was out leaving only the central channel of water for the Grebe to feed in. Good scope views but again far too distant for the camera.

Titchwell proved to be a rather brief visit as while there news broke that the Pallid Harrier had been seen again at Flitcham. Unfortunately the bird had disappeared shortly before we arrived, and it never re-appeared during the hour we were present. Plenty of Common Buzzard were on show along with a hunting Barn Owl and a nice covey of eleven Grey Partridge. With the light almost gone it was time to head for home.