Geese, Anser albifrons, dotted about. Two darker individuals were deemed to be of the flavirostris race from Greenland, in which the bill colour is normally more orangey/yellow. But, in the strong sunlight, this proved to be an elusive diagnostic feature. We then headed off west past Marsh Cottage to look over the geese again, noting a couple of calling Bearded Reedlings on the way. This time we located the Lesser Canada Goose, origin unknown, but alone without any other Canada Goose for comparison - as the size matters greatly in identification. Although this was almost certainly the bird in question, it was a long way off and it caused some debate amongst our party. Waders, ducks & raptors Over on the marshes good numbers of Blacktailed Godwits, Teal and Wigeon were noted. Continuing our walk along the old railway line to North Warren reedbed we at last noted the first raptor of the day, a male Marsh Harrier before ending back at Thorpeness Mere.
14
THE HAR R I ER – M a r ch 2 0 1 4
Gi Grieco
Hemley River Deben 1st February 2014 Leader: Justin Zantboer
After the wet, windy weather so far this winter it was nice to arrive at Hemley Church for the start of the trip in relatively calm conditions and some bright sunshine. What was even nicer was seeing Ivan, who was greeted warmly by the assembled members, on his first SOG trip since being unwell. Around the church several House Sparrows called from some bushes and a Blue Tit was very vocal. Everybody, bar one, had sensibly worn wellington boots and, as we walked down to the river, the sole non-welly wearer had to be careful skirting the puddles.
