Snake on my foot

A bit like a rat in the kitchen but far better. Cricket was cancelled today as Brandesburton failed to raise a side and thus Nafferton made it 7 from 7 this season. I decided to head to Tophill Low for a burton at the new North Marsh hide and very impressed I was too. Good views of the marsh. Sadly not a lot on view - juv Grey Heron and a few Reed Warblers. Lots of juv birds all over the reserve and a very nice Spotted Fly sitting on her nest in the eaves of the visitor centre. A mistle thrush family rattled along the fences of the pumping station and a Sparrowhawk shot into the trees. South Marsh East held 8 adult Common Terns and an assortment of chicks. Was almost like winter on the Marsh with 9 species of duck present inclujding a drake wigeon and two drake teal. Saw a couple of pairs of GC Grebe starting the weed dance but giving up after the head turning bit. Undoubtedly the highlight was a recently shed Grass Snake just free of its skin and allowing close approach - this was left alone to cogitate as i headed round O res. Returning to the snake to see if it had pushed off and to retrieve the skin it was still present but no problem - i will leave it in peace..or not as it shot under the fence over my foot and into the undergrowth - nearly time to change the old y-fronts! Rather gingerly I retrieved the recently shed skin which, only managing to pick up under half which was a foot long. I have donated the skin to Richard, the warden and hopefully it will by useful in scaring school kids. Was very nice just to get out and about. Hopefully going to see Redstarts in East Yorkshire tomorrow plus a pub lunch. Might even get the camera out.