Apologies for the lack of updates recently but the truth is we have not had a lot to write about! 2009 is certainly very different from 2008.Best birds recently have been two Wood Sandpipers, lovely subtle waders. The first was a good find at Frodsham Marsh in Cheshire. Arriving early for a meeting in Chester only one thing to do to fill the time, no not shopping in the city, but birding. A Black-necked Grebe had been reported recently on the pools here so good chance for a look. At the west end of the Number six tank, a settling tank for dredgings from the nearby Manchester ship canal, plenty of waders. Most were Dunlin and Redshank but a slightly larger wader was sleeping with four Dunlin on the waters edge. Focussing the telescope it was clearly a lovely Wood Sandpiper! Luckily the bird soon woke-up and began to feed. A graceful wader with yellow legs, dark brown upper-parts with plae markings and a bold eye-stripe, a scarce bird in these parts. After enjoying the sandpiper a scan of the open water was called for and there was the Black-necked Grebe showing off nicely, great stuff.The second Wood Sandpiper was closer to home down at Conwy RSPB Reserve. It had been present for several days but we had not had a chance to get down. Finally an opportunity arose, but would this local rarity still be around? An early morning visit and just as it got light the lagoon looked empty, no waders at all, oh dear, not looking good. Moving down to the board walk and the new screen this was where the birds were! A gang of Redshank slept and six Black-tailed Godwits fed but no Wood Sandpiper. Keep looking. Then a movement at the back of the lagoon on a small puddle and there it was! Distant views but a lovely bird so close to home.We are looking forward to the British Birdwatching Fair at Rutland Water 21st - 23rd August where we are again talking about The Biggest Twitch on the Friday and Saturday so do come along and have a great time!