BIRD spotters in South Essex got a treat this week when a group of Canada Geese visited the Rochford reservoir.

The family of six birds comprising both parents and 4 young birds were returning home to Canada from Central Europe as part of their annual migration when they made their short stop over in Rochford.  

The large geese with their long distinctive black necks and white heads are currently nesting on the island in the middle of the lake in Bradley Way which was formerly occupied by Nelson, the famous seal who sadly died a few weeks ago.

Echo: Rare sight - Canada Geese Rare sight - Canada Geese (Image: Simon Murdoch)

They have become quite a popular sight with local residents visiting the lake to photograph them during their short stay and catch a rare glimpse of them. 

Echo Camera club member Simon Murdoch managed to capture them during their rare visit to the Essex Fishing Lake this week and they certainly 'made my day'. 

The fishing lake owned by Marks Hall Fisheries currently still remains closed to anglers