On the reserve, there is, what is referred to as the drinking pool hide. Seemed rather strange to me as it is sited right next to a stream but food was put out to attract the birds. It is a two person hide with the usual glass front and in a wooded area.

We were collected from the hotel at around 3.30pm. By now, the sun was starting to show. Dappled light is not the easiest light to contend with but we made the best of it.

We were surprised just how many Cuckoos there were on the reserve and one made a rather distant appearance.

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Unlike the UK, there were Tree Sparrows in abundance with one dropping in

and others following.

Under the drinking pool, there was a small family of Brown Rats that kept making rapid forays to collect the food.

and finally, what we were hoping for. A Grey-headed Woodpecker flew in. This is a species not found in the UK and a first for both of us.

Finally as it quietened down we were treated to a quick visit from a male Common Redstart in breeding plumage - quite a sight - but it did not perform well for the cameras.

Finally, we were collected from the hide at 7.30pm ready for dinner at 8.30pm and an early night.