Well it had to happen one day – the weather was somewhat grey and damp to say the least. Still 50 or so people braved the elements and while waiting at Saltash several of the party watched a Peregrine on the bridge. We began our usual  route up the River Tamar. As we were on neap tides the birds were rather distant in the lower reaches of the river and the large mussel banks normally exposed at low tide remained covered. However this was compensated by the fact we were able get further upstream than normal and we had great views of Avocets, some feeding on the mudbanks and some in the water, upwards of 150 in total. Other highlights were good numbers of Shelduck and a large flock of Lapwing. On the River Lynher, three Spoonbill were on the north shore near to where we saw them on the last trip. However on this occasion they chose not to fly down to roost on Rat island preferring to fly onto the saltmarsh. As they were 2 adults and a juvenile it is probable that they were the same birds as those seen in November. The dull weather limited the opportunities for photography so no images on this occasion. Thanks to all involved – lets hope for better weather next January.

Notable counts recorded on 15^th December 2013 by Derek Julian