Happy Hour on the Edge

Bolton Ings early PM- Occasionally, when it's cold, raining or windy( sometimes all three together and that's just summer), you think " Is it worth traipsing  on the ings  to see a few birds amongst the coots?". But you do it anyway.Then you get one of those brief spells of birdwatching heaven. At 12.30, wanting to watch a closer view of two Kestrel and a Sparrowhawk vie for aerial supremacy over Bolton Tip, Seev began to adjust his scope , stopped  and exclaimed "My word a Bittern"(the nearest printable translation). On  the edge of the reeds ,in the left hand corner of the pool in front of the hide, was an adult Bittern.  Following its line of sight as it gazed upwards,  I noticed two raptors skirmishing over Bolton East End. As the contest got  closer, we got excellent views of  a cream crowned Marsh Harrier and a Buzzard as the test of flying ability moved westwards over the ings. Having watched the distraction, the bittern stayed out in the sun for a further 10 to 15 minutes before disappearing from view in just two short steps. Shortly afterwards the Buzzard returned pursued by a Kestrel, and to top it all, a Hobby joined in the chase of the larger raptor( Was it trying to Sub Buteo in the game?). During the disturbance  250+Lapwing, 4 Golden Plover and 2 Ruff sought sanctuary on the Ings.  Feeling elated we started our journey back, stopping  on the five arches bridge  where we saw a Grey Wagtail on the Dearne and 2 Blackcap, 2 Chiffchaff, 1 Willow Warbler, a flock of Long Tailed Tits and a Goldcrest in the same elderberry bush. Not a bad hour birdwatching.