Armed with clipboards, we scanned the trees and bushes diligently. Not many birds were out braving the strong winds this morning but we did see quite a few seagulls & pigeons, a few crows & sparrows , a couple of magpies and a blackbird.

We were very lucky to finish just before the skies opened up!

We had bird books, we had binoculars, we had the internet and we had a smattering of bird knowledge.

Basing ourselves near water and trees at Hilsea Lines, we managed to spot a broad selection of birds.

Best spot by John & Abby - a kingfisher, which flew from one perch to another over the water, with its spectacular bright blue colouring.

And we learned that moorhens look as though they're wearing yellow wellies, and coots snuggle together and preen each other. Cute coots!