Common Scoter, Fieldfare, Woodcock, and a quartering Hen Harrier
Could you find a needle in a hay stack? What about a Bar-Tailed Godwit in a Black-Tailed Godwit stack?
The evenings are brightening as spring draws ever closer
Wildlife Sightings at WWT Llanelli from 3rd – 9th February 2025
Highlights: Common Scoter, Fieldfare, Woodcock, Hen Harrier
A pair of Common Scoter were seen out on the estuary from the British Steel Hide on Monday morning, standing out among the many Brent Geese. These sea ducks are winter visitors to the UK, with only a small number breeding in Scotland. Unfortunately, these numbers have gotten even smaller in recent years with a 50% decline in numbers placing them on the RSPB Red List. They feed primarily on shellfish, diving up to thirty metres to get a taste!
Meanwhile, on the banks of Freshwater Lagoon, three Fieldfare foraged for winter berries among the trees. Fieldfare are not commonly seen around the wetlands, so are a delight to spot as they loudly call while sampling the selection of fruit.
Captured stunningly by Neil Fermandel in our ‘Photo Club’ Facebook group, a male Hen Harrier was flying low on the Western Scrapes this Thursday. He was accompanied by other birds of prey throughout the week, notably a female Sparrowhawk on Wednesday, plus a Marsh Harrier and Merlin on Friday.
While conducting a survey in search for Willow Tits early Thursday morning, the Reserve Team scared a couple of Woodcock out of their hiding places on the Northern Loop of the Millennium Wetlands. These nocturnal birds make a produce a very interesting call and have been filmed “dancing” to lure worms to the surface of the soil for them to feast on. All round, these are some funky little waders.
The Saline Lagoon has hosted a pair of Bar-Tailed Godwits and a Spotted Redshank this week, so be ready for a game of spot the difference! (Skilled players of ‘Where’s Wally?’ are also welcome).
Finally, a pair of Pochard were spotted paddling along on Deep Water Lake, as well as a Kingfisher on Thursday. We can’t forget to mention the Goldcrest, Treecreepers, Siskin, and Mistle Thrush out on the Reserve this week as well!
