Drake Smew at Draycote

Having never seen a Drake Smew before and actually dipping on an individual in the midlands on our way to Norfolk (which frustratingly was actually reported after we’d left!) I was keen to try for the drake that had been hanging around at Draycote water.

Arriving at the site and with rain threatening, we hurried to the bank where it had last been reported, stopping to admire a female Common Scoter that was also present. Turning the bend, the shining white drake was apparent even at a distance, and we approached where it was stationed on the water, relatively close by to the bank and providing some great photo opportunities.

This was my first drake, having seen 3 females, and was a much sought after bird for me. This individual was also particularly obliging, not tending to dive down too much as Smews usually do, and he seemed content to sit on the water and show off his spectacular white and black plumage!