I'll be at the North of England Raptor Conference at Rishworth. Excellent programme if anyone wants to make a late booking.

This year's NW Birdwatching Festival at Martin Mere takes place this coming weekend - 20th & 21st Nov. I know it's not Rutland Water but it's still a decent day out.

More info on the WWT website, or via a link from the front page of the BTO website (which I have just noted features a photo of me and Neil Calbrade with a more attractive member of BTO staff). I'll be there on the Saturday only if you want to avoid me

Steve

The festival started today for me
Great Grey Shrike from the "In focus" shop. Distant but viewed through the latest super Kowa scope.
A good day for raptors, Male Marsh Harrier hunting and a female sat on a post. Cracking views of a male Merlin from the UU hide, sat on a grass tussock about 2 feet above the water and another(female or juv) hunting. At least 6 Buzzards and a juv Sparrowhawk, again sat on a post.

Thousands of Pink Feet coming in late afternoon, what a site
Plenty Grey Lags, about 45 Whoopers.
Teal, Wigeon, Pintail, Gadwall and a decent number of Ruff(50) in varying plumages.

And picked up a copy of the Greater Manchester County bird report

A good day all round.

Cheers Dean.

Distant views of Great Grey Shrike 12:00 today from Ron Barker Hide.
also male Marsh Harrier, 3 Buzzards and a Stoat.

Last minute reminder for all who are resisting the delights of Scilly - Birdwatching Festival at Martin Mere is THIS WEEKEND (both Sat & Sun)! Highlight, of course, will be the BTO stall, but you can also look at all those books and optics, etc to put on your list for Santa at the other stalls. Event is a month earlier this year - blame Bill Oddie! See you all there? Steve