Latest Sightings
Over the weekend, 15 Snipe were observed on the mere. Snipe are small wading birds, identifiable by their long bill, mottled brown colour and buff stripes on their head and back. Their plumage is perfect for camouflage - you can spot them from the viewing platforms, hidden in the vegetation on the bank.
1 Buzzard, 9 Marsh Harrier, and 2 Great White Egret were seen on the mere. There are also Ruff, Cormorants, 2 Greater Black-Backed Gulls, 1 Lesser Black-Backed Gulls, Black-Headed Gulls, Herring Gulls, Tufted Ducks, Shovelers, Coot and Moorhen.
The large flock of Lapwings create a spectacle in flight, and their glossy dark green plumage and long head crest are something to be admired.
The Whooper Swans are present in good numbers, and you can witness these impressive birds up close from the Discovery hide. Be sure not to miss our Wild Bird Feed with commentary, carried out every day at 3pm. You will also get a view of hundreds of Shelduck, Pintail, Wigeon, Mallard and Greylag Geese enjoying their afternoon meal.
30 Black-Tailed Godwit were just counted on the mere islands, and around 1,000 Pink-Footed Geese have just landed on ploverfield behind the mere. We have had a high count of ~10,000 Pink-Footed Geese so far this winter. 10 Canada Geese have also been seen today.
3 Water Rails and 1 Grey Heron were spotted on the Reedbed Walk. The Water Rail is a shy relative of the Moorhen; it has a noticeable long, red bill, a grey body and brown back, and white barring on it's side. They are more often heard before they are seen, and make a noise like a 'piglet squealing'.
At Ron Barker hide, 1 Fieldfare, 1 Little Egret and 1 Little Grebe were observed. 1 Merlin and 1 Sparrowhawk were seen from Rees hide.
Photograph of a Water Rail.
