Hi,
The week proved to be a good one for birds of prey with 1x Osprey (1st), 3x Marsh Harrier, 3x Common Buzzard, Sparrowhawk, Kestrel, Peregrine Falcon, Merlin and 1x Short-eared Owl (4th).
One of the greatest spectacles during the week involved hundreds of geese. The birds seem to have developed a routine of feeding on nearby arable land during the night and returning to the reserve in the morning. Look out for the whiffling movements as birds try to lose height before landing.
Waders present on the reserve during the week included 300+ Golden Plover, c.10 Dunlin, 1x Curlew Sandpiper, 1x Little Stint, 1x Wood Sandpiper, 1x Common Sandpiper, 11x Black-tailed Godwit, c.30 Snipe and Ruff.
Given that the reserve is predominantly wetland sightings of a Green Woodpecker (3rd) and Coal Tit were noteworthy. Less unusual although equally notable was a Kingfisher seen from the Visitor Centre (29th).
This Green Woodpecker photographed by Ian F was present on the reserve last year.
A Wryneck was discovered over at Dormans Pool on the 30th September however the bird didn’t hang around for long.
The estate team had a fantastic time whilst working in the dragonfly ponds. The highlight for me was two stunning Emerald Damselflies, a species which I have not knowingly observed before.
I’ll complete this week’s blog with a nice shot of a Grey Heron taken by Renton Charman during the week.
Cheers,
Adam