Reserve recording area species total
Up to the 30 April were have recorded a total of 160 species of bird within the reserve recording area. No new species for the reserve so far this year but we've plenty of time to add one through the year. Further spring migrants are expected during May and into June, a summer surprise is always possible and the return passage period from July to November and winter arrivals from Nov to the end of the year can also add a few more species to the total. May is a good month to assemble a very respectable day total on the site, we've still got a few wintering birds remaining about the site, most of the breeding birds are back and migration can deliver some amazing birds on any given day.
A wet and windy start to today very much in contrast to yesterday, a few sightings from a quick hide check follow.
Middle Point
The male White-spotted Bluethroat again singing in the reeds this morning.
Tack Piece
Common Sandpiper, 63 Black-tailed Godwit (they relocated to Top New Piece), 3 drake Wigeon, 7 Teal, 2 drake Shoveler and the usual collection of geese, Shelduck, Black-headed Gull, singing Lesser Whitethroat near Goose House.
Estuary Tower
Whimbrel with 6 Curlew (one with yellow and white rings) on the Dumbles + 2 pairs Oystercatcher, a few Lapwing and the Canada and Greylag Geese.
South Lake
Adult non-breeding plumage Mediterranean Gull with the Black-headed Gulls, 2 Black-tailed Godwit, 9 Avocet, 6 drake Shoveler, 7 Tufted Duck and the Cranes (Ruby and Wilde) are due to hatch.
