It was overcast for most of the day, temperatures not rising above 20°C. Water levels were the lowest ever seen. Consequently bird, butterfly and other insect numbers were low, presenting a major challenge to the spotters.

A circular walk from the cars via the reedbed hide and returning via the inland path for lunch got us off to a good start. A few Ruff, two Avocet and several Black Tailed Godwit were quickly picked out before two cracking Little Stint gave great views from the Reedbed hide, plus four juvenile Little Ring Plover and two Yellow Wagtail. On the return Shaded Broadbar and Latticed Heath moth were enjoyed by most. A wonderful feature of this circular was the magnificent display of sunflowers, which attracted many bees including Common Carder Bumblebee, Buff-tailed Bumblebee, Honey Bee and Sea Aster Bee.

Lunch over, we headed to the coast and located the resident Whooper Swan, Meadow Pipits, pus Lesser Black Back Gulls, Herring Gulls and Black Headed Gulls on the salt marsh.

Our final visit was to the fresh water lagoon, where Spoonbill had been reported earlier in the day, and we were not disappointed. A mixed group of adults and young were located tucked away in a corner plus a single Common Sandpiper. 1530 hrs and time to head back to the visitor centre before the journey home. In all we had walked about 5 miles at insect watching pace, seen 32 birds, and 17 insects. Great!!

A most enjoyable outing attended by, David & Veronica, Rob & Margaret, Sarah & Tim, Ivan, Liz, Lesley, Barbara, Jack, David & Tony.