Saltholme (getting to know the area)

I arrived early so I could explore Dorman's Pool. Great area for reedbed warblers, Water Rail screaming and my first Green Sandpipers of the year.

Then across to the Phil Stead Hide. It is open earlier that the Saltholme reserve. These two spots mean it is possible to drive down before the worst of the traffic and fill a couple of hours with birding before the RSPB reserve opens.

Distant Red-breasted Geese

Spoonbill even further away.

The Dragonfly Pools are a good addition and are now giving great views of Four-spotted Chasers and Emperors

Once a major rarity, the Great White Egret is now a regular visitor to the North East. Up to four seen at Saltholme this year and Birds in Northumberland at a regular site.