What have you seen

Went to Carlton marshes to see the American but no luck.  Heard 2 Cuckoos and took a photo of this one:

Down in Germany after a couple of days travelling. Cycled from site along the towpath of the Danube. There are a couple of ox-bow areas that are good for birds etc. We were lucky, seeing Red Backed Shrike, 4 Wood Sandpipers, Terns, a Nightingale, saw a Cuckoo, Garganey and there is a mad Icterine Warbler behind our pitch (sounds like Sweep on speed!)

Oh, and also saw our first Sedgies and a Male Hen Harrier when on route yesterday.

Lots of Swallowtail butterflies today.

I've sent an e-mail to the RSPB and anticipate a reply in a couple of days. Will let you know what they say when I can.

See the Dotterels are back at Choseley so will have to make the effort to get up there

Went to one of our favourite German reserves today. No-one else there at all! We were watching a female Wryneck on a bare branch when she heard a male calling behind her, so she swivelled her head a full 90°. Brilliant to see. Saw a male later on as well. Plus GS and LS Woodpeckers, Garden Warblers, Golden Oriole, Penduline Tit and a smashing Hobby who had plenty of Dragon and Damselflies to choose from.

The meadow leading into the reserve was awash with Buttercups, Ragged Robin and startling Pinks. A beautiful sight.

We abandoned the watching just after lunch as it became too hot, so will have to go back later this week.

Sounds good WN, which reserve are you at?

Have been outside in the garden this evening, a nice time for bat watching although not so good for moths and other insects. 

It's an NSG found at Isarmunde, where the confluence of the Rivers Isar and Danube meet. Nearest town is Plattling and there is also a campsite at Deggendorf just off the A3. We tend to stay at Straubing and drive down to the reserve, which has an information centre (closed Mon/Tues) but you can just wander around it. Spring is obviously best time. If you are ever in the area in May then head south through Plattling, turn off for Moos, go past small brewery then follow signs for Isarmunde Infohaus. There's a guest house/inn opposite entrance and adequate parking.

If you have time then there is an eye opening experience to be had at Plattling. Coming from Deggendorf area you pass the Globus supermarket and as soon as you reach the Plattling town sign turn left and go over a small bridge. Park out of the way immediately then walk back (without crossing bridge) Globus way and you come to some excavations of which some are still being worked. Avoid being hit by the machinery and the staff really don't mind you scoping the pans which sometimes have great birds on them. You can continue through the works and this area becomes an NSG (reserve). It's weird but rewarding. If more info needed let me know.

What sort of bats do you get Brue?

Thanks for info WN