First Swallows of Spring

Thursday 11th April 2013
Suprisingly dull cold day. After checking the old slag heaps near the M42 moved on to Cliff pool Kingsbury Water Park where a flock of Hirundines included the first Swallows (3) and first House Martin of the year with about 30 Sand Martins. There was a Green Sandpiper and Kingfisher on the river. At Coton there was further evidence of 'a fall' of hirundines with up to 50 Sand Martins and several Swallows. However no Martins were seen in a brief stop off at Shustoke Res. The Tame or should it be tame Kittiwake was still in residence.