We made out first point of call Lady Anne's Drive at Holkham where there were loads of Pink Footed Geese and Wigeon along with a Barn Owl on route to Thornham - our next stop.
We had hoped to find the reported Shore Lark but apart from one or two waders, did get a bonus in a flock of Twite - first year lister of the day.
Jono got a brief glimpse of a Black Redstart shortly after leaving but we could not locate so pressed on to Titchwell.
We had a quick glance at the feeders with the normal birds in view but no Brambling so headed straight for a sea watch. It was really chilly and coats and hats were a blessing.
Nothing much on the sea but added Knot to my year list on the beach. Jono took the opportunity to get some close up shots of a Black Headed Gull which befriended him. As you can see, the long lens was a bit of overkill!
A Turnstone also gave us confiding views
Off to the Parrinder Hide and a Snipe flew quickly which we managed to relocate. However, nearby was another year lister - Water Pipit.
Still no joy at the feeders so a quick coffee and a sausage roll for me before we headed to Cley via Choseley.
Both Partridge were seen but the highlight was a massive amount of Pink Foots which were disturbed by a tractor making a magnificent sight as they all flew off.
After making the most of the visitor centre facilities we decided to head for the East Bank.
The normal array of ducks and waders on Arnold's Marsh though Kingfishers flying past gave another year lister but decided to give a sea watch another go.
It was really busy with birds. Guillemot were quickly noted along with Black and Throated Divers (former being another year lister). Great Crested Grebes, Common Scoter, Gannets and Shelduck all flew by and an incoming flock of Snow Bunting were the first of the year too!
We had already decided that towards last light we would head to Warham Green for some roosting Raptors. A brilliant though distant view of a female Merlin gave yet another year lister, However, the sky was getting heavy and rain was moving in quickly. Though we decided to call it a day we did get wet on the walk back to the car.
A coffee at Wells Co Op did the job and as it was now getting clear we finished off back at Lady Anne's Drive.
The Pink Foots were slow coming in but the sunset was beautiful
A fabulous day with over 80 species seen!
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