I had been to Stolford just a few days earlier and not known that there were snow bunting about.  I've only photographed them in large flocks before on the Lincolnshire coast and was keen to get some individual and more detailed shots.  This time, armed with up to date directions I went back with the intention of making just a quick visit.  Unfortunately I hurt my back yesterday lugging my kit about and getting in and out of the car so I thought a brief visit would be all I'd manage.  As I'm always telling other people that backs get better faster if you remain active, I thought I should practise what I preach!

The bunting had last been seen about 200 yards along the shingle sea wall and that's exactly where they were again today.  They were feeding on grass seeds in a bit of scrubby grass on the edge of the common at the inside of the shingle bank and near to a small waterway.  As I approached they continued to feed although they did occasionally crane their necks up and have a look at me.  There were just two in this position and as they were quite unafraid and in nice light, I managed quite a few shots from on top of the shingle bank.  About 6 others had been seen further on but I didn't make contact with them or the Lapland bunting which had apparently been about.  More snow bunting shots here.

There was a group of about 12 brent geese bobbing about just a little offshore and they actually swam in a bit closer apparently to have a look at me.  Someone I spoke to thought he had seen some eider about an hour earlier in the day and there were reports of a skua after I left.

As the back was easing up a little I had a trip in the afternoon out to Ham Wall where I got wet for no reward and then moved on to Greylake.  Here I was treated to a little egret coming close enough for full frame pictures both static and in flight - what a treat.  Although they are common on my patch, it is seldom easy to get close enough for a decent shot and to have them in good light was a real treat.  Please have a look at all the images here.

While I was in the hide there were merlin, peregrine and a ring-tail seen.  There were certainly plenty of lapwing, snipe, golden plover and ducks to keep them busy.  Just outside the hide there was a little warbler darting about.  Probably a chiffchaff but it was too quick (or I was too slow) to get a proper look.

All in all, considering the forecast a couple of days ago had been for heavy rain on Sunday, and considering I could hardly stand first thing in the morning, it was a rewarding day out and about.