This is a verbatim report from one of our local birders - thanks, Colin.
"My first Merlin (a female) of the autumn at HOM lunchtime! The biggish tide pushed a few more birds onto the reserve including 12 Little Egrets, 15 Greylags, 8 Teal, 10 Greenshank, a Grey Plover, 7 Dunlin, Green and Common Sandpipers and the usual Avocets were still there. The imm' Marsh Harrier was about as well as 5 Kestrels hunting the NNR and 49 Golden Plovers flew over before heading back to HOM east. Adult Lesser Whitethroat calling from the big hedge accompanied by what looks like a recently fledged young bird."
So, it's time to check for high tides again and the first Pink-foots returning. There is one already at neighbouring Marshside reserve.
I really hope it isn't nearly autumn - am only just getting into the swing of summer!