NORFOLK BREAK

Visiting friends in Norfolk, I called in at Finningley in Nottinghamshire this morning and managed to connect with a black winged pratincole that has been present for the last couple of weeks.

This was only my fourth black winged pratincole I had seen in Britain; the last one was on the 4th May 2012 at Burton RSPB in Cheshire.

Over the next few days whilst out walking, I connected with a Glossy Ibis at Cley 

and Black Tailed Skimmer and Banded Demoiselle, whilst on my travels.

Black Tailed Skimmer 

Banded Damselfly

I also visited Hickling Broad whilst in Norfolk, but there was no sign of any Swallowtail butterflies. Too late again for me! While walking around, though, I did see a wood sandpiper, a marsh harrier, and stunning views of Hobby hawking over the reserve.

Marsh Harrier

Hobby

Wood Sandpiper

There were also a good variety of butterflies and odonates on the reserve.

Ruddy Darter

Large Skipper

Variable Damselfly

Norfolk Hawker

Red Admiral

Peacock 

On leaving Norfolk, I called in at Thompson Common and had a walk along the Pingo Trail in search of dragonflies and damselflies.

Good views of Common Darter, 4 Spotted Chaser, Southern Hawker, Scarce, and Common Emerald Damselfly were seen.

Four Spotted Chaser

Emerald Damselfly 

Scarce Emarald Damselfly 

Southern Hawker

The Pingo Trail

A great few days away in Norfolk!What a county!