Axe Spotted Redshank, more pics of this lovely lingerer

I was out at 06:30 this morning and didn't realise quite how late it was dark until... It eventually lightened up enough for me to identify 2 Goosander on the estuary from Tower Hide but I then had to leave at 07:30 for work. In hope of them still being present by the time I finished work, I headed back out late afternoon but couldn't find them despite a thorough check of the River between Black Hole Marsh and the mouth. I did see the lingering Spotted Redshank from the Hide at Seaton Marshes though. Stunning bird:

Curlew

Merlin & Peregrine, Axe Estuary !!!

It was just a couple of days ago when I was messaging Steve Waite and mentioned how I'd love to see a Merlin (and Short Eared Owl) as I'd never seen either anywhere, let alone on the patch. So when Tim Wright sent a message out that there was a Merlin over the Estuary I ran straight over to Tower Hide where it was being watched from. Yes, I ran; I was at Seaton Marshes watching a Peregrine at the time and it was PIS*ING it down. I managed to get to the car without too much damage, then dashed over to the car park near Black Hole Marsh, and again ran, down to Tower Hide. To those of you who are aware of the weight of my camera gear (camera bag around 30 lbs), as well as my heart condition, you'll appreciate that running wasn't easy for me... to be honest it was downright stupid but I was determined not to miss a Merlin. Firstly, here's some of the pics of the Peregrine (and Curlew):

And now onto the Merlin...
The bird was very distant from Tower Hide so after a few dismal attempts at photographing it, I opted to run once more and head to the other side of the Estuary. I got fairly close to the bird but frustratingly it wasn't visible from Axmouth side; it was on a low branch the view of which was blocked by other vegetation. I took a rubbish shot of it as it headed upstream:

Hopefully it'll stay for a few days and give better opportunity for photos and viewing!

Spotted Redshank & Yellow Legged Gull

Here's a few pics of the Spotted Redshank, taken on Friday of last week in pretty gloomy conditions but such a stunning bird.

And here's a few pics of a Yellow-Legged Gull, taken from Tower Hide through the dark and rain this evening:

Marsh Harrier, Axe Estuary (lots of pics)

After missing out on the Bearded Tits which were seen at Stafford Marsh and then Colyford Marsh, I was gladdened to see the Marsh Harrier which has been around for a couple of days. Please forgive the poor image quality; the bird didn't come close and it was pretty dark. I also took lots of pics of the Spotted Redshank but will post these at another time.