The RSPB Community

NEWSFLASH - THE DEADLINE HAS BEEN EXTENDED!!! - Wildlife of Canvey Island Photography Competition

Leila — Thu, 16 May 2013 11:51:21 GMT

**** THE DEADLINE HAS BEEN EXTENDED!!!*****

We have had some wonderful entries into this years photographic competition and as a result have decided to extend the deadline to Wednesday 22nd May so even more of you can join in. So send us your photos!! We can't wait to see them!

In the lead up to Canvey Wildlife Day on 25th May, we are organising a free entry photography competition with the theme of ‘Wildlife of Canvey Island’. The competition is divided into 3 categories, for under 12yrs, 12 - 18yrs and over 18yrs and there are lots of lovely prizes up for grabs. The deadline for the entries is May 22nd and judging for the finalists will happen on the 23rd May, All finalists will get a chance to see their photo's on display at Canvey Wildlife Day and the winners will be picked on the day by Mr Mike Dilger himself!

For an entry form and to find out more about the competition please contact Vicky Chambers at SE.Education@rspb.org.uk

We can't wait to see all your lovely entries and to find out what wildlife you've been snapping on Canvey Island!!

The Breeding Season is Well Under Way

Leila — Wed, 15 May 2013 14:46:32 GMT

The breeding season is well under way, the first ducklings and goslings can be seen diligently following their parents around out on the lagoons across the reserves. The air is filled with Skylarks, Whitethroats, Reed warblers and other small birds defending their territories, flitting around catching insects and finding food, it’s a great time to get out and enjoy the sights and sounds of spring.

Reed Warbler Singing by David Lee

The last of the migrants have now arrived, Swifts are one of the last to arrive and can now be seen flying over the lagoons catching flies. Listen out too for the enigmatic sound of a Cuckoo, there’s several to be found across the reserves.

Cuckoo in Flight - Uncredited

Another of the late arrivals is the Hobby; look out for them over on West Canvey Marsh and over Pitsea Scrape, these falcons can occasionally be seen giving chase to Swallows, Swifts and Martins, certainly a great spectacle!

In our Visitor Centre in Wat Tyler Country Park, you can come and see how our nesting Blue tits are getting on through a live video feed. The female is currently sitting on ten eggs, there’s about a week to go until they should start hatching out.

International Dawn Chorus Day - 5th May

Leila — Thu, 02 May 2013 09:45:43 GMT

My alarm goes off at 4am. I desperately want to turn it off. Then suddenly I remember why it's set so early. I can already hear the twitter and chatter of birds waking up outside and I start to get excited. This morning I'm getting up and getting out to listen to one of the most amazing sounds in the world. It beats any musical talent hands or should I say wings down! Yep, I'm getting up to listen to the Dawn Chorus. The awesome and inspiring sound of all the early birds singing away, letting the world know they exist and are ready for the day, whatever it has in store. You just can't beat it!

Reed Bunting Singing - Uncredited

In fact May the 5th is International Dawn Chorus Day, the worldwide celebration of Nature's daily Miracle. And in celebration we are running Dawn Chorus Walks here at Wat Tyler Country Park on 5th, 11th, 17th and 23rd May. With a 5.30am start and experts on hand you can't fail to hear some of the wonderful songs that our british birds have to share. It is well worth that 4am start, it will lift your soul giving you the prefect start to the day! If you would like to book a place on the walk or find out more give us a ring on 01268 498620 or email southessexmarshes@rspb.org.uk

For more information about Dawn Chorus Day check out the official site http://www.idcd.info/

Spring has Sprung across the South Essex Marshes

Leila — Sun, 28 Apr 2013 09:21:00 GMT

Spring has well and truly sprung across our reserves with lots of wildlife to see and hear. As the summer migrants arrive, the reedbed at Vange Marsh is starting to come alive with Reed warblers, while Swallows, Sand martins and House martins all swoop over the main lagoon catching insects.

Reed Warbler by David Lee

Visitors to West Canvey Marshes have been greeted by singing Skylarks marking their territories. Butterflies are also starting to appear with Peacock, Small tortoiseshell and Comma all seen on the reserve. As the weather heats up, the reptiles are starting to make an appearance, West Canvey is a great place to see Adders, Slow worms and Common lizards, or if you’re really lucky maybe even an elusive Grass snake. Also keep a look out for large bumblebees in the grasslands, at this time of year the queen bees are out picking new nest sites for the summer ahead.

Common Lizard by David Lee

Highlight of the spring so far however, has to be the two Black-necked grebes which stayed for a couple of days on Pitsea Scrape, they gave some fabulous views in their full summer plumage.

Black-necked Grebe by Steve Arlow

The signs of spring can also be seen in our Visitor Centre in Wat Tyler Country Park, our aquarium is currently full of tadpoles, and our nest cam is giving live footage of our Blue tits as they build their nest, why not come down and see how they’re getting on.

NEWSFLASH - Wildlife of Canvey Island Photography Competition

Leila — Tue, 23 Apr 2013 09:19:00 GMT

In the lead up to Canvey Wildlife Day on 25th May, we are organising a free entry photography competition with the theme of ‘Wildlife of Canvey Island’. The competition is divided into 3 categories, for under 12yrs, 12 - 18yrs and over 18yrs and there are lots of lovely prizes up for grabs. The deadline for the entries is May 18th and judging for the finalists will happen the week of the 20th May, All finalists will get a chance to see their photo's on display at Canvey Wildlife Day and the winners will be picked on the day by Mr Mike Dilger himself!

For an entry form and to find out more about the competition please contact Vicky Chambers at SE.Education@rspb.org.uk

We can't wait to see all your lovely entries and to find out what wildlife you've been snapping on Canvey Island!!

We thought the Winter was never going to end!

Leila — Sun, 14 Apr 2013 13:21:59 GMT

We thought the Winter was never going to end!...However, we are a ‘glass half full’ type of team at the South Essex Marshes and there has been an upside to all the cold wet weather this winter; it has allowed us for the first time to achieve maximum water levels across much of the Marshes. This attracted thousands of overwintering Lapwing and Widgeon to the reserves during this period. Our aim now is to start lowering the water levels slightly using a combination of pumps, sluices and water control structures such as tilting weirs that we have installed across the sites. We will be doing this to leave exposed mud on the waters edge of the network of lagoons and channels we have created across much of the Marshes which will provide vital feeding areas for birds such as Redshanks, Lapwing and Avocets and (hopefully) plenty of their chicks!

Redshank by Andy Hay

Spring is finally here!!

Leila — Thu, 11 Apr 2013 14:03:07 GMT

Yesterday marked our first sighting of a Swallow on one of our South Essex Marshes reserves. It was spotted on West Canvey Marsh by one of our volunteers, much to the upset of the others that were with him and managed to miss it!! We've had some frog spawn spotted in our wildlife pond at Wat Tyler Country Park, lots of spring flowers are coming through in our Wildlife Garden and there have been some Blue Tits checking out the Visitor Centre birdbox. It seems that Spring has finally arrived and hopefully (fingers crossed) it is here to stay at least until Summer turns up.

Swallow by David Lee

What signs of Spring have you spotted and where did you see them? We'd love to know.

You can let us know here by leaving a comment, you can post on our Facebook page RSPB Essex or you canTweet us @RSPBEssex using the #spring

The Great Escape

Leila — Tue, 05 Mar 2013 11:24:27 GMT

Yay, the sun is shining and it's about time!!!

I don't know about anyone else but I've been desperate for the spring to arrive and to use the sunshine as an excuse to escape the confines of my office. The cold wind, rain and grey skies have been getting boring so it's wonderful to feel the warm sun on my face and smell that wonderful smell that only spring has.

So why not join me and Escape the office, home or wherever else you have been hiding from the winter weather.

We have a special offer on across our reserves in the East of England and if you visit our Facebook (RSPB Essex ) and Twitter (@RSPB Essex) pages you can download the voucher to claim your offer. Here in South Essex at the RSPB Visitor Centre, based in Wat Tyler Country Park, we are offering free binocular and kids back-packs for hire. It's a great opportunity to get close to nature and enjoy the joys of spring.

I'll see you out there, I'll be the one with the big grin basking in the sunshine :-)

Terms and Conditions

The Great Escape voucher is valid from 25 January 2013 until 31 March 2013 and is the property of RSPB.
This may not be used in conjunction with any other offers.
Offer valid at the specified reserve only and can only be used once at each location.
Only one voucher per family, youths under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
There are no cash alternatives.
The RSPB reserves the right to refuse redemption if we believe the offer is not being used in the manner intended.
Any RSPB employee or anyone directly connected with the organisation or their immediate family are excluded from the promotion.
Please check each reserve for their opening times.
Photocopy vouchers will not be accepted.

Participating Reserves:

Minsmere

Offer: 2 for 1 and kids go free Entry for up to two adults and four children for the price of one adult.

Redeem during Visitor Centre opening hours: The car park, hides and countryside walks are open from dawn to dusk every day, except 25 and 26 December. The visitor centre and shop are open daily, 9 am to 5 pm. The café closes at 4.30 pm. From November to January, the visitor centre opens daily, 9 am to 4 pm.

Customers to redeem voucher at the Visitor Centre Reception during the opening hours.

Strumpshaw Fen

Offer: 2 for 1 and kids go free Entry for up to two adults and four children for the price of one adult

Redeem during Visitor Reception opening hours: From October to March open 10am - 4pm (except Christmas Day). Open from dawn until dusk the rest of the year.

Customers to redeem voucher at the Visitor Reception during the opening hours.

The Lodge

Offer: Free Car Parking for one vehicle for you or a friend

Redeem during Shop Reception opening hours: The reserve is open from 7 am to 9 pm (or sunset when earlier). The shop is open from 9 am to 5 pm on weekdays and 10 am to 5 pm at weekends and on Bank Holidays.

Customers to redeem voucher at the Shop Reception during the opening hours.

Titchwell Marsh

Offer: Free Car Parking for one vehicle for you or a friend

Redeem during Visitor Centre opening hours: The reserve is open every day of the year. The visitor centre and shop are open daily from 9.30 am to 5 pm (closing at 4 pm from November to February). They're closed Christmas Day and Boxing Day. The cafe is open daily from 9.30 am to 4.30 pm (closing at 4 pm from November to February). It's also closed Christmas Day and Boxing Day.

Customers to redeem voucher at the Visitor Centre Reception during the opening hours.

Lakenheath Fen

Offer: Free Car Parking for one vehicle for you or a friend

Redeem during Visitor Centre opening hours: The reserve is open from dawn to dusk every day. The visitor centre and toilets are open from 9 am to 5 pm every day. The visitor centre is closed from Christmas Eve until New Year's Day. During the winter months, the toilets may close earlier.

Customers to redeem voucher at the Visitor Centre Reception during the opening hours.

Frampton Marsh

Offer: Free Binocular Hire or Kids Back Pack Hire

Redeem during Visitor Centre opening hours: The reserve, car park, footpaths and hides are open at all times. From October to March, the visitor centre and toilets are open from 10 am to 4 pm daily (except for Christmas Day and Boxing Day). From April to September the visitor centre and toilets are open from 10 am to 4 pm weekdays and 10 am to 5 pm at weekends.

Customers to redeem voucher at the Visitor Centre Reception during the opening hours.

There are limited numbers of binoculars and Kids Packs so once they are out on the reserve you may have to wait for one to return. In the mean time you are allowed one FREE hot drink.

Customers will need to leave their car keys or bike lock keys as a deposit and return the binoculars or Kids Packs by the end of the opening hours of the Visitor Centre for that day.

South Essex

Offer: Free Binocular Hire or Kids Back Pack Hire

Redeem during Visitor Centre opening hours: The RSPB Visitor Centre and Discovery Zone are open from 10 am to 4 pm in winter and 10 am to 5 pm in summer.

Customers to redeem voucher at the RSPB Visitor Centre Reception during the opening hours.

There are limited numbers of binoculars and Kids Packs so once they are out on the reserve you may have to wait for one to return. In the mean time you are allowed one FREE hot drink.

Customers will need to leave their car keys or bike lock keys as a deposit and return the binoculars or Kids Packs by the end of the opening hours of the Visitor Centre for that day.

Bitterns about

Leila — Sat, 23 Feb 2013 10:16:00 GMT

The recent Bittern sightings have continued, with some excellent views from the hide overlooking Pitsea Scrape, including on one of our Thursday guided walks. If you’d like to join one of these walks, come along to the RSPB Visitor Centre in Wat Tyler Country Park, the walks start at 10:30am each Thursday and last for around two hours. They’re free, and are a great way to discover the wealth of wildlife found in the park. The Bittern has also been seen over on Vange Marsh, and has been seen travelling between the two areas, giving some great flight views.

Photo by Andy Hay

Other highlights across the reserves include single Pintail on Vange Marsh and West Canvey Marshes, and sightings of Water Rail from the hide overlooking Pitsea Scrape and in the ditches over on Vange Marsh.

Big Garden Birdwatch in the Visitor Centre

Leila — Tue, 29 Jan 2013 11:06:27 GMT

This weekend our Wildlife Explorers took part in the Big Garden Birdwatch from the South Essex Marshes Visitor Centre at Wat Tyler Country Park. They had a fantastic time and spotted a total of 36 birds!!

The list included 2 Blackbirds, 14 Blue Tits, 3 Chaffinches, 2 Goldfinch, 2 Great Tit, 1 Greenfinch, 2 House Sparrows, 4 Robins, 2 Jays, 1 Dunnock, 2 Magpies and 1 Pigeon

Robin by David Lee

Throughout the weekend we were joined by lots of lovely visitors who helped to add to our count and enjoyed some of the lovely homemade tea and cake on offer.

A massive THANK YOU to everyone who took part, either with us or at home. The only thing left to do now is submit those results!!

http://www.rspb.org.uk/birdwatch/?gclid=CLqprLOyjbUCFe_MtAodej0AKQ

A Busy Christmas

Leila — Wed, 09 Jan 2013 12:45:26 GMT

It’s been a busy Christmas for birds on the reserves; the wet weather is great news for wintering waders and wildfowl. Across the reserves, there have been over 2000 Lapwing, as well as good numbers of Curlew, all feeding on the wet grasslands. Wildfowl also benefit; as well as the usual Teal, Wigeon, Shoveler, Pochard, Tufted Duck, Gadwall and Mallard, Vange Marsh has attracted nine Bewick’s Swan and two female Goldeneye in recent weeks. This time of year is when our ducks are in their best plumage, a great time to get out and get some photographs. An elusive Bittern has also been in the area, showing occasionally from the hide overlooking Pitsea Scrape in Wat Tyler Country Park. Visitors to the hide may also be rewarded with sightings of Water Rail dashing across the reeds in front of the hide, and great views of Marsh Harrier, which can often be seen quartering over.

Bewick Swan by David Lee

Other highlights have included six Bearded Tit in the reedbed at Vange Marsh, and an adult Mediterranean Gull, which is often sat on the reservoir at West Canvey Marshes. Short-eared Owls have also been seen again on West Canvey Marshes, after not being seen for awhile, up to two birds have been giving great flight views in the last week.

Male Bearded Tit by David Lee

Although none have been seen on the reserves yet, many Waxwings have been seen in the area in the last couple of months, so keep a look out for these stunning birds, especially in trees with lots of berries, supermarket car parks are often a favoured place!

Waxwing by David Lee

New Year, New You?

Leila — Tue, 08 Jan 2013 12:41:29 GMT

Do you need a new challenge for the New Year? Do you want to learn something new or meet new people. Volunteering with the RSPB could be just the thing.

Is your thing being outdoors, getting muddy and working up a sweat? Then our Thursday Work Party could be just the thing. Each Thursday our Wardens take out a group of volunteers onto our nature reserves to help with the practical conservation that needs to be done to keep our reserves in tip top conditions. It's a great opportunity to meet new people, learn about conservation and see some amazing wildlife. You get the added benefit of knowing you made a real difference as well. If you think you might be interested give our assitant warden Michael a call on 01268 498611 or e-mail southessexmarshes@rspb.org.uk

Photo credit - J Rapley

Do you live in Stanford-le-hope and enjoy a leisurly stroll? Want to give something back to the community? We need an RSPB Stanford Wharf Trail Walker to have a wander round London Gateway's new nature reserve Stanford Wharf once a week. We'll need you to keep an eye on the reserve, making sure everything is in tip top condition and that all the paths etc are nice and safe for people who use the site, we will aslo need you to do a quick litter pick to keep everything looking nice and to make sure no wildlife gets caught up in something nasty. If you think this might be the opportunity for you then give our assitant warden Michael a call on 01268 498611 or e-mail southessexmarshes@rspb.org.uk

Do you want to work with kids? Maybe you need some work experience for a change in career or just want to inspire the next generation to get excited about wildlife. We have two youth groups that need leaders. The first is our RSPB South Essex Marshes Phoenix group (ages 11 to 17) and the second is out RSPB Wat Tyler Woodpeckers (ages 4 - 11). You will need to commit a minimum of one Saturday every month to the group, be enthusiastic and willing to get muddy!! If you want to find out more about these opportunities please contact Leila Balin or Maria Spiller on 01268 498624 or se.education@rspb.org.uk

And if you are really keen we are looking a new RSPB Community Engagement Intern. We are looking for someone enthusiastic with a passion for wildlife and people, to join the team for a six month community engagement internship from 11^th March to 11^th September. The closing dates for applications is the 4^th Feb and interviews will be held on the 11^th March. If you are up for the challenge and would like to find out more or would like an application pack please contact Leila Balin on 01268 498624 or SE.Education@rspb.org.uk.

We go si bak

Leila — Sat, 22 Dec 2012 15:25:13 GMT

This week we said a fond farewell to our Education Officer or more recently our Visitor Services Manager Hannah Chisholm. Hannah has been with us in South Essex since 2010 has made a massive impact to all our work here. She started her journey with us as a Seasonal Education Officer, running the much loved preschool group RSPB Little Owls, looking after visiting schools and running holiday activities and has gone on to cover our Education Manager whilst she was on her maternity leave and then more recently she stepped up to the role of Visitor Services Manager.

Some of her great successes include setting up the RSPB Little Owls, running the Youth Nature Officer Project, supporting Warden Days and helping to run big events like our Open Air Cinema. She has been instrumental in all the work we do here for families and children and we are all going to miss her hard working and fun 'can do' attitude. We all think she is a superstar!!!

Thankfully, she isn't leaving the RSPB. In January 2013, she will be heading out to Sierra Leone to volunteer for six months on an education and community engagement project alongside the Gola Rainforest National Park. If you want to keep posted on what she's getting up to you can follow her on Twitter @HannahRSPB

We go si bak (farewell) Hannah and Good Luck :-) Sierra Leone are luck to have you!!

Hannah's leaving has left a vacancy in the team. If you think you can fill her very big boots and are up for a challenge then take a look at http://www.rspb.org.uk/vacancies/details/336503-visitor-services-manager We're looking for someone fun and enthusiastic with a passion for wildlife and people.

Christmas Opening Times

Leila — Thu, 20 Dec 2012 09:58:06 GMT

The RSPB South Essex Visitor Centre will be open every day over Christmas except Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Years Day.

On Boxing Day and New Years Day we are running Christmas Walks to help burn off those extra calories gained over Christmas lunch. Find out more on our events page http://www.rspb.org.uk/reserves/guide/s/southessexmarshes/events.aspx

Wonderful Wader Watch

Leila — Thu, 06 Dec 2012 10:46:00 GMT

Come and see the winter wonders with the RSPB at the London Gateway's new Stanford Wharf Nature Reserve. Overlooking the Thames Estuary, and located right next to one of the best sites in the country for wintering birds, visitors to this exciting new reserve will be in for quite a treat. But don't just take our word for it: come and see for yourself on our Wonderful Wader Watch, where our experts will help you to identify a fascinating array of birds on the mudflats.

Photo - Redshank copyright DP World

Comprising 35 hectares of mudflats, scrubland and grassland, and complete with ponds and nature trails, the reserve willl play host to some of the 65,000 waders and wildfowl that frequesnt the nearby Mucking Flats, including colourful Shelduck, Wigeon and Teal; graceful Acovets and Black-tailed Godwits; whirling flocks of dainty Dunlin; plus also Ringed Plovers, Grey Plovers and the very aptly-named Redshank.

Visitors can also learn about the intriguing history of the site, which dates all the way back to the Iron Age. And let's not forget the panoramic Views of the Thames Estuary itself.

So come and learn about this exciting new reserve and its amazing wildlife at our Wonderful Wader Watch - Saturday 15 December. Experts will be on site from 11am until 2pm so drop in any time.

There is no charge for this event but donations are welcome.

Meeting place: We will meet on the sea wall at Stanford Wharf Nature Reserve, at the end of Wharf Road, Stanford-le-Hope. Access: from the A1013 Stanford Road, turn into London Road, and at the roundabout take the fourth exit onto Wharf Road. After passing under the railway bridge, take the second turning right and follow to the end.

Call us on 01268 498620 for more information.

Winter waders and wildfowl on the up

Hannah Chisholm — Mon, 26 Nov 2012 15:28:28 GMT

Short-eared Owls continue to show well over on West Canvey Marshes, often posing nicely for photographs, they must like the attention! Winter waders and wildfowl are on the up, with around a thousand Lapwing, 50 Curlew, 50 Black-tailed Godwit, 300 Wigeon and 150 Teal across our reserves.

Pitsea Scrape is also attracting lots of birds with over 40 Snipe feeding in the mud, also look out for Water Rail dashing across the recently cut reed in front of the hide overlooking the scrape.

Lapwing by David Lee

Article by Michael Poole, Assistant Warden

RSPB Wildlife Explorers enjoy explosive puddles

Hannah Chisholm — Mon, 26 Nov 2012 10:25:56 GMT

This weekend our local RSPB Wildlife Explorer group, the Wat Tyler Woodpeckers, have been out and about enjoying the wet weather. Nothing puts this lot off and the rain became a great excuse for some puddle jumping. In fact the Woodpeckers were learning about Wat Tyler Country Park and all about it’s explosive history. The puddles really helped demonstrate how an explosion happens and the effects they have. Later on they went on to exploding mentos in fizzy cola and popping party poppers, all great fun and all outdoors in the rain.

Clearly being outdoors, getting wet and muddy, breathing in the fresh, cold air and spending time with their friends is a must for these Wildlife Explorers. It gets them excited about nature and helps them make sense of the world in a way being indoors just can’t! The RSPB are passionate about getting kids outdoors and reconnected with nature and we've been working with the University of Essex to develop a brand new approach to find out just how connected to nature children are. The results will help us create a baseline measure for the UK and allow us to develop ways to inspire and connect children with nature right through to adulthood.

If you’re interested in our work or you’re just looking for ideas that will get you and your family outdoors exploring then why not try our survey How connected are you? http://www.rspb.org.uk/getoutdoors/

Recent sightings in our Wildlife Garden and around the South Essex Marshes

Hannah Chisholm — Mon, 12 Nov 2012 10:13:27 GMT

As the weather gets colder it becomes even more important to help our birds and put out food in your garden. At our Wildlife Garden in Wat Tyler Country Park, our feeders have been bustling with birds, with great views of many garden species including Jay and Great Spotted Woodpecker. We’ve even had a Tree Sparrow and Bullfinch drop in for a brief visit, so why not pop down to our Visitor Centre and see what’s about.

Tree Sparrow - David Lee

Elsewhere on our reserves, wader numbers are beginning to increase with decent flocks of Lapwing on Vange Marsh and Curlew on West Canvey Marshes. West Canvey has also recently been attracting flocks of over 100 Stock Dove feeding in the fields near the Pantile. The real stars of the show however, have been the returning Short-eared Owls. Up to four birds have been seen at West Canvey, mainly from the sea wall and in the fields near the Pantile.

Article by Michael Poole - Assistant Warden

Short-eared owls return to West Canvey Marsh for second year

Hannah Chisholm — Fri, 09 Nov 2012 12:04:55 GMT

http://www.echo-news.co.uk/news/local_news/10032861.Short_eared_owls_return_to_West_Canvey_Marsh_for_second_year/

Photo by Russell Sherriff

BIRD lovers are in for a hoot-iful sight as a “wonderful” owl has made Canvey its home for the winter.

Short-eared owls have been spotted at the RSPB West Canvey Marsh for the second year in a row and it looks like they are set to stay for the winter months.

Unlike some owls, the feathered friends, who are extremely distinctive with their buff-brown plumage and bold piercing eyes, are happy to hunt during the day so visitors will be able watch them in flight while they search for prey in the long grass.

Marc Outten, site manager, said an area of land at the marsh was purposefully left long again this year so there are small mammals available for the owls to hunt.

He said: “Some of our management has encouraged them to the site, so when you see them using it as you intended it’s great.

“It’s fairly scarce to get good views of them, but people can get really quite close to them here, they’re quite obliging and will sit on posts while they hunt - they’re a wonderful owl.

“It is a draw to the marshes as it’s only the second year we have had them, it’s an unusual sight for the south Essex countryside.”

Short-eared owls generally breed in areas of Scotland, northern England and Scandinavia, where their success depends on the availability of voles, and where the male bird will attempt to woo the female with his spectacular “wing-clapping” display.

However, unless you’re lucky enough to live near one of their breeding grounds, the best chance of catching up with this species is in winter when they move to areas of grassland and low-lying coastal marsh, such as Canvey.

Head to the Redhill and Pantile areas of the marsh where you may be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of one of these owls.

So far three have been spotted along with a common favourites, barn owls.

Making Waves in South Essex

Hannah Chisholm — Thu, 08 Nov 2012 17:09:13 GMT

The RSPB is making waves in South Essex … by allowing the waters of the Thames to flood an area of farmland, thus creating a brand new nature reserve. And being located right next to one of the best sites in the country for wintering birds, visitors to this exciting new reserve will be in for quite a treat. But don’t just take our word for it: come and see for yourself on our Muddy Marvellous Walk.

The Stanford Wharf Nature Reserve was created by DP World London Gateway, as part of its commitment to the development of a sustainable port within the Thames Estuary, and is being managed by the RSPB for the benefit of both wildlife and the local community.

So come and see the reserve and its wonderful wildlife on our Muddy Marvellous Walk on Saturday 17 November. The walk starts at 10.30am and lasts for 2 hours.

Meeting place: We will meet at the end of Wharf Road, Stanford-le-Hope. Access: From the A1013 Stanford Road, turn into London Road, and at the roundabout take the fourth exit onto Wharf Road. After passing under the railway bridge, take the second turning right and follow to the end.

Suggested donation:

Adult £3 (RSPB Member £2)

Child £1.50 (RSPB Wildlife Explorer 50p)

Numbers on each guided walk are limited, so please book in advance to avoid disappointment

Call us on 01268 498620 to reserve your place

RSPB Wildlife Garden hosts plant sale

Hannah Chisholm — Mon, 29 Oct 2012 16:38:31 GMT

The Friends of Wat Tyler Wildlife Garden are hosting a plant sale to encourage more people to make their gardens wildlife friendly and to raise money for future projects in the garden. The plant sale will take place on Sunday 4^th November from 10am-4pm at the RSPB Visitor Centre in Wat Tyler Country Park.

The South Essex Wildlife garden is now a space where people and wildlife can flourish. It is managed by volunteers and seeing the overall project come together has enthused everyone involved to keep going and to widen the overall concept of community engagement for the future.

If you visit you can follow our newly widened paths as they meander between flowers, trees, herbs and past our newly refurbished wildlife ponds. Wheelchair and pushchair friendly, the whole family can enjoy picking out a spot to run, roll or picnic.

As you wonder round, look out for garden favourites including gold finches, spotted woodpeckers and fiches. If you’re lucky you might even spot a visiting sparrow hawk, hovering above the tree lines or a slow worm curled up enjoying the sun.

Our nectar rich flowers also encourage bees, butterflies and bats to visit, with the ponds offering a place for darting dragonflies and great underwater beasties.

Whatever the time of year, join us in the garden to relax, play and see how wildlife and people can live side by side.

Plants for sale include Phlomis (Jerusalem Sage), Teasel, Lemon Balm, Sempervivium, Rose Campion, and Umbrella Bamboo.

Teasel, Andy Hay (rspb-images.com)

For more information call 01268 498620

Wallasea Island Wild Coast Project official launch

Hannah Chisholm — Fri, 26 Oct 2012 08:34:05 GMT

With our project officially launched by the Secretary of State Owen Paterson, with the ensuing media coverage and razzmatazz , life on Wallasea Island now settles into its natural rhythm once more. The public footpath will remain open along our northern seawall, allowing visitors to take a look at the construction process taking place, but also to experience the vast open space and natural beauty of the marshlands.

This time of year brings autumnal colour to the saline tolerant plants on upper levels, and as the migrant birds arrive for their winter stay the air is full of the cry of brent geese, widgeon and lapwing amongst others. Thousands of birds will overwinter on our shores and can be seen best as the high tide drops and they follow its ebb across the mudflats to feed.

Our early stages mean that facilities on site are limited, but we do offer guided walks over the autumn/winter period. Our Wallasea Wanders are led by an experienced local birder and RSPB volunteers, explaining the work going on as well as talking of the wildlife which may be seen on Wallasea. They last approximately 2 hours and are timed according to the tide of the day to make the most of the bird spectacle on the day.

Details are available on our website www.rspb.org.uk/Wallasea or on 01702 257179– Booking is essential.

Blog by Hilary Hunter, Wallasea Island Public Engagement Officer

What's hiding in the flock of finches?

Hannah Chisholm — Wed, 24 Oct 2012 15:47:00 GMT

As the temperature starts to drop, its time to start looking for winter visitors out on our reserves. Winter thrushes are often one of the first signs that the nights are going to start drawing in, Fieldfares and Redwings will start to pile in over the next few weeks, also keep a look out for late migrants such as Ring Ouzel. Other birds to look out for include Siskin, Redpolls and Brambling, who may all be hiding amongst the many finch flocks. The last of our summer visitors will also be on their way out, watch out for the last few groups of Swallows and Martins as they gather together for the long trip to Africa.

Siskin - Chris Gomersall (rspb-images.com)

The foggy, murky weather can make a walk out on the reserves a little less appealing, but those who have braved the weather have been rewarded with some great wildlife sightings, so don’t be put off! Recent highlights on our reserves include a stunning male Hen Harrier flying low over West Canvey Marshes, being mobbed by crows as it went. Winter sees large Gull flocks descend on our reserves; it’s worth taking a look through the flocks though, in the last week, two Yellow-legged Gulls were seen from the hide overlooking Pitsea Scrape. The winter wildfowl and wader numbers are also starting to build, at the last count there are over 300 Wigeon and 150 Lapwing across our reserves.

Hen Harrier - Andy Hay (rspb-images.com)

Blog by Michael Poole - South Essex Marshes Assistant Warden

Get out in nature over October half term

Hannah Chisholm — Tue, 23 Oct 2012 11:40:18 GMT

There is so much going on over the October half term holidays to get families out and about in nature. This is such a wonderful time to explore with the leaves turning golden and with birds visiting feeders and offering beautiful close up views.

At the RSPB Visitor Centre in Wat Tyler Park we will be running nature themed Halloween craft activities all week. Come along to make a bat mask, a spider coaster, or to complete our spooky animals nature trail around the wildlife garden.

On Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday we will also be running our bookable Discovery Days. In the morning (11am-1pm) we will be catching creepy crawlies, and in the afternoon (2pm-4pm) exploring the beautiful world of birds.

You can also celebrate Halloween by joining the RSPB for a night-time exploration of Wat Tyler Country Park. We will go on the prowl for bats, keep our eyes peeled for owls and take a closer look at moths. This event takes place on Friday 2^nd November at 6pm, and is ideal for families who want to get out and explore what nature gets up to when the lights go out.

According to Hannah Chisholm, RSPB Visitor Service Manager, “There is so much out there that we don’t normally get to see or hear. We will be using bat detectors, a moth-trapping kit and owl pellet dissection to bring this exciting wildlife closer.”

To book a place or for more information about these events please call 01268 498620 or email SE.education@rspb.org.uk

Alternatively if you’re in the Colchester area there are family activities taking place at RSPB Flatford Wildlife Garden. These Autumn themed activities include leaf-rubbing, making bird food and looking for toadstools. Great fun for kids. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Or pop down for a ‘wild’ evening on Halloween, when they’ll be detecting for bats, light-trapping moths, and going for an owl walk!

All details on the website: http://www.rspb.org.uk/flatford

Local wildlife garden wins honours

Hannah Chisholm — Mon, 22 Oct 2012 15:01:43 GMT

On 27 September the RSPB’s Wildlife Garden at Flatford was awarded first place in the Recreation category at the annual Biffa Building Communities Awards. The ceremony took place at Chatham’s Historic Dockyard in Kent, and was attended by representatives from 25 shortlisted projects.

Shirley Boyle, Project Officer for the garden said “We’re delighted that the garden has received such recognition. It’s a great project, which aims to inspire people to help wildlife by caring for their own gardens in such a way as to help struggling creatures such as honey bees, hedgehogs, butterflies and song thrushes. It’s not particularly difficult to do, and it gives everyone a chance to make a difference for our fellow creatures!”

The project, led by the RSPB as part of their Homes for Wildlife scheme, relies on a dedicated team of local volunteers, who not only maintain the garden, but also welcome visitors to the tranquil spot, which is nestled on the banks of the Stour, in the heart of Constable Country.

The garden consists of wide, flowing flower borders, designed to provide plenty of nectar & pollen, an area of wildflower meadow, providing longer grass as shelter for insect life; dense shrubby areas to provide cover and fruit for wintering birds, and many other ideas that are easily transferable to back-gardens everywhere.

The garden is open between 1 April and 31 October every year, and on Thursdays during the winter months, when the gardening volunteers are on site. Entry is free, and opening hours are 10:30 until 4:30/dusk. Parking is at the National Trust car park, and there is a cafe and toilets very close to the garden.

Article and photography by Shirley Boyle, Flatford Wildlife Garden Project Officer