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the acrobatic Siskin much in evidence. For
members keeping full records the following were
also observed: Cormorant, Coot, Great Crested
Grebe, Tufted Duck, Magpie, Mallard, Heron,
Moorhen, Fieldfare, Crow, Wren, Great Tit, Blue
Tit, Long-tailed Tit, Greenfinch, Canada Goose,
Wood Pigeon, Pochard, Blackbird, Robin,
Dunnock, Thrush, Pheasant, Dove, Mute Swan,
Black—headed Gull and House Sparrow.
At Rye House Marsh twelve members were
impressed with the new Ashby Hide 'kindly
provided by Peggy and Arthur Ashby of Loughton,
Essex to promote bird conservation in the Lea
Valley' (opened December 1989). Teal, Snipe
and Shoveler were observed from this hide.
From the East Hide we saw a great number of
Snipe at close range; also more Teal with
Cormorant and Black—headed Gull. Kestrel and
Little Grebe were among our other sightings.
Thirty-seven species were therefore observed
during this pleasant but undramatic day in the
Lea Valley.
MARGARET VERNON
BIRD GROUP MEETING - STOUR WOOD AND COPPERAS
BAY, 25TH MARCH, 1990
A biting north-west wind whipping up white
horses on the estuary greeted nine members, but
sent most birds to seek cover as we followed