Another Goosander
The Top New Piece flood hosted a female Goosander this morning, this record hot on the heels of the trio seen last week. The Bottom New Piece held grazing Canada Geese this morning but the ever increasing flock of Egyptian Geese, now up to nine wasn't quite a surprise thanks to the rapidly expanding feral UK population. A Ruddy Shelduck also accompanied them.
Estuary Tower
Wintering birds put in an appearance during the day, the Pink-footed Geese finally gave themselves up this afternoon, a pair of Stonechat were out on the Middle Point fences and a female Marsh Harrier made a visit to the New Pieces but at least one gave prolonged views as his hunted over out Northern fields, it could be seen from the hide. At least part of the Russian White-fronted Goose flock could be seen in both the Goose House Ground and Ox Piece fields. At least 1000 Golden Plover settled for a time with Dunlin, Lapwing, Redshank and Ruff on the floods and scrape during the day. 178 Curlew were counted including a ringed head started bird.
The Barnacle/Canada Goose flock held two Bar-headed Geese and the Snow x Bar-headed Goose.
South Lake
Two Oystercatcher were present today + the Black-tailed Godwit flock, 6 Snipe and flocks of feeding Teal and Shoveler.
Rushy Hide
Again no sign of the Goldeneye today but 88 Bewick's Swan on site. A party of 6 Snipe and Redshank on the lower pond.
