Come and see the winter spectacle
Our winter bird numbers are continuing to build as we approach the peak next month
Our winter bird numbers are continuing to build as we approach the peak next month. January sees the highest counts for many wintering species, before spring migration begins in mid-February.
Kingfisher Hide
At least 1,096 Dunlin were busy feeding on the Bottom New Piece amongst a large Lapwing flock. A Kestrel was also noted sat on the Barn Owl box.
Estuary Tower
The high tide roost was again small, with birds now inland for most of the day feeding in the wet fields. Just three Curlew roosted on the riverbank with the 13 Grey Plover. Also present were 41 Great Black-backed Gull, a Grey Heron and 5 Dunlin. Duck on the river over high tide were 108 Wigeon and 45 Pintail, with more likely hiding below the riverbank. Two Peregrine were sat on the Dumbles.
A Great Egret was again roosting on the Long Ground Pool. Duck here included 34 Pochard, 41 Tufted Duck and 17 Shoveler, along with a Grey Heron and a Cormorant.
The Tack Piece is getting busy now with thousands of birds present. Enjoy the view from the Estuary Tower, or from the other hides along the walkway - Robbie Garnett Hide, Stephen Kirk Hide or Martin Smith Hide. Counts this morning included five Knot with a flock of 613 Black-tailed Godwit, 32 Pintail and 1,193 Wigeon amongst several hundred Teal, with waders represented by a single Curlew, 13 Redshank and four Ruff with several hundred Dunlin, Lapwing and Golden Plover.
Willow Hide
The Water Rail was again under the feeders this morning. Good numbers of Teal are also visiting too.
Rushy Hide / Peng Observatory
At least 110 Bewick's Swans this morning including three new arrivals. The first-winter drake Greater Scaup is also still here.
South Lake
The group of seven Avocet were roosting on the wader scrape, with only three Black-tailed Godwit here. Duck on the deep lake included 34 Pochard and 41 Tufted Duck, with a Water Rail foraging along the shoreline under the large willows on the north shore. A single Great Black-backed Gull was also present, along wtih 15 Cormorant.
