Curlew Sandpiper
The small wader flock that was feeding on the Severn off Middle Point held a stunning breeding plumage Curlew Sandpiper
Middle Point
Lots of activity over and after high tide today, the small wader flock roosted on the saltmarsh shelf over high tide but moved to the mudflats to feed later. Although they were very flighty, with patience and a scope it was possible to get some good views, a few smaller groups came to feed in the pool at the point and could be seen with binoculars. At least 283 Dunlin, 9 Sanderling, 49 Ringed Plover, 2 Turnstone, 1 Grey Plover, 2 Red Knot, a Whimbrel and the Little Stint all viewable this afternoon, soon after the tide dropped this morning a party of 6 Turnstone and a further two Grey Plover flew NE.
On the salt pasture a male Greenland Wheatear was along the fence, two Whimbrel and two Curlew fed in the grass as well. Territorial Meadow Pipits and Skylarks were very obvious. In the reeds and tall grass of the point a Grasshopper Warbler was singing with 3+ Reed Warbler and a pair of Reed Bunting also showing.
On the Tack Piece a female Greenland type Wheatear fed with a Yellow Wagtail among the cattle and four Lapwing. Up to 9 Avocet were on the scrape with 3 Redshank and an aberrant plumage male Teal and pair of Shoveler.
Estuary Tower
A smashing flock of 77 Dunlin in the scrape this afternoon, also Little-ringed Plover this morning and six Cranes included an un-ringed bird.
Top New Piece
50 Avocet and up to 24 Black-tailed Godwit, two Shoveler and a few Lapwing o the field.
Rushy
A 2cy Mediterranean Gull dropped in this afternoon, the Little-ringed Plovers and pair of Oystercatcher remained. A gathering of 26 Avocet were present this morning.
Large numbers of Swallows (100s) and dozens of Swifts, Sand and House Martins fed over the site today.
