Trip reports

Seaton

Thursday, 6 October 2011

Sixteen God-fearing souls and a gentleman (Don) set forth on a birding adventure to Seaton. Prompt pick-ups and an early start were sabotaged by motorway closure with a diversion which took us via Mongolia. Rod did a sterling job on roads fit only for tractors. A short diversion en route had the security guards on the industrial estate reduced to nervous wrecks with the arrival of a desperate minibus full of adversaries.
Onward and upwards we sped with Don airborne for most of the trip.
At last we reached Seaton, you might guess Tesco had closed the toilets (every little helps!). We chanced the beach latrines. Therein we were entranced by the handwashers (we must get out more!). Simple fun.
Through the narrow cemetery gates, barely room for a hearse, more noise from the passengers this time I fear.
The reserve lay ahead: enchanting, dismal mizzle gave way to bright sun. Excellent views of waders, bullfinch, linnet, duck and gulls. Splitting our force we attacked on all fronts. No hide was left undiscovered - spotted red shank tracked down, beautiful sparrowhawk (according to the Hawk & Owl Trust contingent) along with buzzard and kestrel, raptor special with displays. Waving at the TRAM folk, disturbing the locals and meeting with old friends we partied through the morning.
A ride back to town, upgraded to a coach, we parked above our station. Hardy souls made it back to the hide, for others the call of the sea or an ice cream proved too much. Even here in the harbour amid mullet schools (that's the fish, not the hair cuts of the locals) kingfisher posed, redshank galore. The hide revellers returned with tales of the same, descending on the tea houses to devour the seaside delights.
The 4.30 p.m. return came only too soon, especially for Don as he now knew he would have to pay for the trip.
A good time was had by all.
Thanks to Graham for organising the trip, Rod for driving and Don for his humour. I found it a memorable experience, both enjoyable and informative and in good company. Ron McCann