Train birding

Travelling by train on Thursday 27th October, as I passed Mutford Lock I saw a dark bird on the water just beyond, either a diver or a goose. Approaching Manningtree rail station, the Stour estuary was passed and the train disturbed a fine immature Merlin that flew away, just after the station, again it disturbed a ringtail Hen Harrier that flew away. Whilst walking to the accommodation at Gants Hill, west along eastern Avenue (exit is 5 Eastern Avenue West from the Tube station underpass) I heard to familiar screeching "Kee- kee- kee" and 2 very green Ring necked Parakeets flew east over the busy road. Great train/ journey birding!