Trip reports

Ashcott Corner - Thursday 18 June 2009

Sunday, 21 June 2009

The large areas of reed beds and the equally large areas of open water are a haven for all types of birds and patience is required to thoroughly search the reeds and water to see some of its rarer species that are often found there.
Some of the species noted were mute swan, moorhen, tufted duck, cormorant, coot, great crested grebe, little grebe, lapwing, black headed and lesser black backed gull and heron.
Others included Cetti's warbler, willow warbler, greenfinch, chaffinch, swift, whitethroat, reed warbler, long-tailed tit, swallow, carrion crow and chiffchaff.
However, most notable birds of the day were an outstanding purple heron, a female bittern, hobby and a count of twenty-five little egrets. A thrilling event was when a little bittern was heard calling. It was known that the bird was at Catcott and hearing it was a real bonus even though noboby got a view of it.
There were several wardens on site logging the movements of the bitterns. It has been a real success story at Ham Wall, which was specifically created to attract bitterns. Last year there were two successful nests and this year there are six which means that a stint at the viewpoint at Ham Wall is very likely to offer a chance to see these wonderful birds. There are also two other nests this year, but, so far, not a lot of detail is known about them.
What a superb day for the group. Purple heron, bittern and little bittern - almost any birdwatchers dream.