Recent Sightings - 20th August
Where to start with this last week's sightings? A good place would probably be the red necked phalarope that graced us with its presence on Saturday afternoon (possibly brought in with the strong wind) and was still hanging around on the whooper pond on Sunday. An incredible bird that has stopped off on its migration south to the Arabian sea.
Red necked phalaropes are very rare in the UK and a red listed bird, with their population only at c64 breeding on the Northern and Western Scottish isles and 30 passage, so it was quite a chance encounter. This species, unlike other waders has lobed toes, enabling them to be strong swimmers. Their feeding behaviour also differs from their type as they spin around to create a whirl that brings invertebrates to the surface.
The males are less colourful than the females and typical breeding roles are reversed, with the female competing for nest site and holding territory, whilst the male incubates and cares for young. This also gives reason for them having duller plumage so as to provide better camouflage.
This week has also been great for birds of prey. A short eared owl was seen on the merse on Thursday, as well as an osprey flying over with a fish. On the same day and the day after, a ring tailed (female) hen harrier was spotted. Sparrowhawks, kestrels & buzzards have also been regular around the site.
Green sandpipers seem to be popping up occasionally on the Folly pond, joining large numbers of black tailed godwits, curlew, lapwing and teal. A ruff was also sighted midweek.
Somewhat overshadowed by the phalarope, a coot also showed up on the Whooper pond over the weekend. Although a fairly common rail in the UK, they are not often seen on our reserve, possibly because they tend to favour deeper water.
Feature photograph- Red necked phalarope by WWT
