Somerset Levels

We were out with the local bird watching group today on a visit to the Somerset Levels.  It was an incredibly hot and a very productive day, with over 60 different birds spotted.  We had a great time slowly wandering around the area along the edges of small water channels and pools, sheltering in the cool of the wooded areas and getting glimpses of Glastonbury.  

The Marsh harriers put on a magnificent display and one is shown, I believe, in the center of the photo.  Bitterns were heard and a male and female seen in flight, Hobbys flew overhead and several Great White egrets made an appearance.   I watched as one young swan had great fun turning in circles in the water and dipping in and out of the water.  A few minutes later a Great crested grebe quickly passed behind, see extras, and then dived under as the swan continued its antics.   Reed warblers, Reed bunting, Woodpeckers and even a Cetti's warbler was just spotted.

It was a lovely day out.