Firecrests

A walk down through Kingsteignton, around Hackney Marshes and back again this morning produced two Firecrests; one in holly bushes in the churchyard, and the other in the woods at the back of the Marshes. Both birds allowed prolonged, close-up views. It's amazing to think that barely a decade ago this species was a relatively scarce winter visitor in Devon; now it can almost be expected in suitable habitat near the south coast. With confirmed breeding in the Dart Valley and Torbay in the last few years, a breeding territory on patch in the near future seems a distinct possibility.

Also noted around Hackney Marshes: Chiffchaff, Bullfinch, Reed Bunting, a singing Song Thrush and a couple of squealing Water Rails.