Hey guys,
Well I feel drained now but nevermind.
I suppose the clash is bound to happen when you get avid 'birders' and people that just like looking out the window to see what flys past and using an old birdwatching book.
Its a shame that we might never know one way or another about these guys. I don't think there is a right and wrong just experience and beginner.
It was great to have so many people interested and nice to see much enthusiasm and suggestions from people. I will use the forum again if I get stuck again (perhaps with mure research first).
But must agree with Madelinew who said:-
''Whilst the knowledge of experts is of great value, please don't get offended if someone points out that the manner in which these facts are presented could perhaps be improved upon. To someone who has a passing interest in birding and is excited by a possible rarity, such a manner can be quite damaging.
Sorry, but I felt I had to say that. I'm sure no-one means to offend but we all started somewhere and some us have more knowledge on the subject and others less.
There are also children using this website to build on their interests and such an approach would send them packing.''
It can be scary or even embarrasing if you are new and know that you don't know much about birds and people are turning down what you saw with 'facts' and dismissing you as perhaps a wind up.
I don't want to convince people of anything I saw. I could be totally wrong. After looking through more books I think the best I could think they would have been, were juvenile grey herons that were really, really dark. I did remember that they weren't glossy but matt coloured (if that makes sense or a difference).
Like I said some people claim they have seen a panther in Norfolk running around the woods. If it keeps them happy then fine, but I will believe it when I see it.
Thanks to everyone. Its nice to find a forum that encourages people to share pics, thoughts and opinions and are happy to all chip in. I am happy I found it.
Ps I've emailed the county recorder and await their reply.