Coots and moorhens dived and hid in the reeds.

The lesser grebe sank at the sound of the paddle like a stone.

A strong northern diver raised a wave as he hurried away under the water, his course marked by the undulation above him.

Sedge-birds chirped in the willows; black-headed buntings sat on the trees, and watched him without fear.

Bearded titmice were there, clinging to the stalks of the sedges, and long-necked herons rose from the reedy places where they love to wade.