Purple Heron, October 2023

Travelling from Witney to Seaton presented the opportunity to try for a Purple Heron at Whelford Pools, WWT Slimbridge and finally a Squacco Heron near RSPB Ham Wall.

There was nothing of close interest at Slimbridge and the Squacco Heron was as elusive as it was the last time I looked, but the Purple Heron was magnificent.

I have been lucky enough to have seen one before at Seasalter, although it was a distant view and partially hidden by reeds.  They are much more secretive that Grey Herons or Egrets, almost at Bittern levels of sneakiness.

The hide a Whelford was perfectly set up and after 15 minutes of waiting, the bird appeared.  Fortunately it was not disturbed by the loud chatting by two of the local birders!





 

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