An Hour in the Purfleet Hide

24th February 2026

I had an hour to spare so what better way to spend it than in the Purfleet Hide at Rainham Marshes on a bright sunny day. As I walked up the steps to the visitor centre I was welcomed by the resident House Sparrows and a rather smart Starling.

The Starling in particular was rather magnificent with its iridescent plumage positively glowing in the afternoon sun. They really are an under-rated bird. This is an adult male due to the very fine arrow-shaped streaks on the breast and the blue at the base of the bill.

Once in the hide it was soon evident that after the recent rains the water levels were very high which together with a low tide meant there were no waders on the islands. This except for a couple of Snipe hunkered down in the vegetation, trying their best not to be seen.

Two species of diving ducks today, Tufted Duck and Pochard. There was a pair of Tufted Ducks but just a single male Pochard with that amazing red eye.

Of the surface feeders first up was the Teal and lovely to see all the ducks in their smart breeding attire.

Also plenty of Wigeon around today and starting to pair up for the breeding season.................

.....................and the males out in the middle fighting amongst themselves.

Wow, just look at the male Shovelers now.

The females of course are much duller so they are camouflaged on the nest in vegetation.

One of the males decided to have a bath with spray going in all directions..................

....................followed by the compulsory wing-flap.

Just look at the colours on the wing.

And finally my favourite duck the Pintail and here is your often initial view. You can see why they are called Pintails.

What an enjoyable hour.