A Brilliant Spring Day at Farlington Marshes
Farlington Marshes never disappoints, and my visit on the 4th of May 2025 was no exception. With spring in full swing, the reserve was alive with activity, and I was fortunate to witness a remarkable variety of birdlife throughout the day.
One of the standout moments was watching a black-tailed godwit foraging in the shallows—its deliberate movements and striking plumage were a joy to observe. Nearby, a common whitethroat perched in the hedgerow, singing its heart out, a true sign that the breeding season is in full effect.
The diversity didn’t stop there. I spotted common linnets flitting between low bushes, along with reed buntings making their presence known with bursts of song. Tucked away in the undergrowth, a hedge accentor (dunnock) gave me a brief but rewarding glimpse.
Out on the water, gadwall and shelducks were busy feeding and flying. A group of shelducks even gave an elegant fly-past in perfect formation—a lovely moment to witness and photograph. Over the meadow, a meadow pipit gave a characteristic parachute display, while the unmistakable shape of a northern lapwing soared overhead.
One of the real highlights for me was spotting a pied avocet. With its elegant, upturned bill and bold black-and-white pattern, it's always a special bird to see—especially through the lens. The lighting was kind throughout the day, particularly when it hit a nearby starling, revealing a beautiful iridescent shimmer in its feathers.
To round off an already rewarding visit, swallows and swifts darted through the skies above, bringing a sense of energy and motion to the marshes. These aerial acrobats are always a joy to watch as they skim and swoop over the water.
Farlington Marshes remains one of my favourite springtime destinations. There’s always something new to see, and this visit offered both peaceful moments and exciting encounters.
Photos from the day will be posted soon—I'd love to hear which one stands out as your favourite!
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