White-fronts arriving
Big increase in the number of White-fronted Geese overnight with at least 28 now on site, up from 5 yesterday. More good news is the arrival of our first juveniles, 12 in all. The tides are starting to increase now and the South Lake has been reaping the rewards with a nice selection of waders present this morning.
South Lake Hides
Amongst the flock of 215 Black-tailed Godwit were a single Spotted Redshank, 20 Redshank, 26 Knot and 85 Lapwing. Two Snipe were feeding close to the hide giving excellent views. A Little Grebe was on the lake amongst the flock of Tufted Duck and Shoveler.
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Holden Tower
A group of 11 White-fronted Geese were present this morning amongst the Greylag Geese, including 2 juveniles. Also present were 198 Barnacle Geese and 2 Reed Bunting in the hawthorns in front of the hide.
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Zeiss Hide
A flock of 13 Golden Plover were mixed in with the Lapwing this morning along with 3 Ruff. Teal numbers have dropped slightly to 842 and also present this morning were a few Wigeon, 7 Shoveler and 2 Pintail. The main Wigeon flock has taken to the Bottom New Piece and is best viewed from the Kingfisher Hide.
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Kingfisher Hide
Around 800 Wigeon are busy feeding on the Bottom New Piece, but this morning were a little unsettled as a Crow took exception to their presence and was harassing the flock. Thankfully not enough that the birds were forced to leave. A flock of 17 White-fronted Geese (including 10 juveniles) dropped in briefly and then flew out towards The Dumbles. In front of the hide were 4 Shoveler, 4 Teal and a Kingfisher whilst a Cetti's Warbler was very vocal from the reedbed.
