East Tilbury 20/1/14

Had a high tide survey today and was expecting the river to be full of wildfowl, as temperatures overnight fell well below zero - freezing most of the water bodies.

The only noticeable increase though was of Teal, with many feeding close to the margins.  Usual wader numbers were seen and not a single grebe or diver came up river!

Passerine wise, a single Yellowhammer over east and the usual 30 strong flock of Corn Bunting on the saltings of note.  At least three pairs of Stonechat added with a particular showy pair halfway along the seawall, allowing very close views - often too close for the camera to focus on.