Sightings at Hickling Broad (17th April 2017)

It was our first visit to Hickling Broad and it easily met our expectations. The management of the reserve is exceptional and I can now see why it enjoys such an excellent reputation.

The approach to Cadbury Hide.

The weather was slightly warmer than expected, forecasts predicted temperatures of around 8°C, but the large amount of cloud cover did cause temperatures to drop sporadically.

The following was seen since our arrival at 9.10am:

Blackcap x 1

Chiffchaff x 3 - One individual was seen building a nest alongside the path near Deary's Pool.

Little Egret x 2

Snipe x 1 - It appeared momentarily, directly opposite the Cadbury Hide, but then disappeared from view.

Willow Warbler x 1 - Several were heard throughout the morning but the only individual seen was close to the Cadbury Hide.

Bearded Tit x 1 - A single male seen briefly flying above the reeds, on the right hand side, as we walked away from Secker's Hide.

Scaup x 3 - A single male accompanied by two females, seen from the first view point.

Great Crested Grebe x 4

Grey Heron x 1

Sedge Warbler x 2 - The two individuals were both seen close to the Observation Hut.

One of the Sedge Warblers seen close to the Observation Hut.

Wren x 2

Kestrel x 1 - It was first seen hovering close to the Observation Hut, then directly opposite the Cadbury Hide in the early afternoon.

Crane x 5 - They were all seen flying towards Bygrave's Marsh, but then headed in a north easterly direction.

Marsh Harrier x 1

Pied Wagtail x 2

The following butterflies were seen during our visit, but no sign of the Swallowtail (unfortunately):

Speckled Wood x 2
Small White x 4
Holy Blue x 1