Another early start but this time in a smallish boat with 5 of us and the not inconsiderable bulk of Francesco, our guide. We headed across the lake into the reed beds where two floating hides were located.

Immediatley, the problem became apparent. No light at that time in the morning but we were deposited in the hide, the feeders were topped up and then left. So, with birds coming and going, and the natural instinct not to waste any opportunity, I took hundreds of photos that I have just systematically deleted bacause of the light.

After a couple of hours, the light improved as the sun came round, but illuminating the reedy background with the subjects still in heavy shade - an editing nightmare. So most of the shots were deleted again but the odd one worth keeping. First species to call was a Spanish Sparrow but did not stay long and never returned.

Great Reed Warblers came and went

but the constant visitors were the Bearded Tits (Reedlings), males

and females,

and one showing the classic pose

and with the light improving, the chance of a flight shot.

and then, a surprise appearance of a pair of the very rare Marbled Ducks

but, after clocking us inthe hide, did not stay long.

so, as with this trip, mainly due to the very hot weather, a mixed morning with successes and failures as several expected species did not show.