Keith and I met in Gravesend for our regular walk. We started along the riverside and sorted through the gull flocks on the mudflats to see if there was anything different from the regular visitors. Initially we only found Black-headed, Common and Herring Gulls present.
As we approached the marina, Keith found 2 Mediterranean Gulls, which took to flight and called as they flew by us. Further on we found 3 more, so we estimate there 3-5 birds present. This species now breeds in Kent and these were probably birds returning from their wintering grounds to breed on the Thames Estuary.
A little Egret was by the entrance to the marina, but the only waders that could be seen were 2 Oystercatchers. We circled through the park and the moat area of the fort, but these were very quiet. After lunch we returned to the riverside but were only able to add 2 Shelduck to our sightings from the morning.
Pete's Favourite Things 