After a mini heat wave more sensible temperatures are back and there is plenty of activity around the reserve.
Late August early September is a classic time for arrivals of Common Snipe and this year is no exception with a minimum of 35+ birds around the site with 5 close outside our shop window this morning.
Common Snipe feeding in front of the Lookout
Wildfowl arrivals are occurring too, with the first 10 Wigeon coming in earlier in the week. Up to 33 Shoveler, 12 Teal, 12 Tufted Duck as well as local Gadwall and Mallard present. Most of the ducks are still in eclipse plumage, meaning the males resemble the females to some extent. In the next month or so these birds will moult into their full 'breeding' plumage, making them easier to pick out.
Osprey still present - great shot by Craig Smith
A good run of raptor sightings with 4 Hobby seen together this week. At least one Osprey still around although other birds are also likely to be moving through. A Peregrine was disturbing the peace yesterday putting the 350+ Lapwing into the air over Meadow Lake. At least 3 Common Buzzard present, 2 Kestrel and Sparrowhawk.
Great news that 2 pair of Willow Tit have bred down river of the reserve. There has been a big decline nationally of this species.
Kingfisher - Craig Smith
Other sightings included Redstart (still on the move), multiple Kingfishers, Chiifchaff, Willow Warbler, Blackcap, Whitethroat, Reed Warbler, Nuthatch, Great-spotted Woodpecker.
A Water Rail has also been showing occasionally from our window.
Dragonflies have been active with Migrant Hawker, Southern Hawker, Brown Hawker and Common Darter all present
