Wildlife sightings for 19th December 2013
1 Bittern - main lake
1 Shelduck
20 Snipe
15+ Water Rail
1 Yellow-legged Gull 1st winter
2 Jack Snipe - grazing marsh
15 Fieldfare - flew W
7 Redwing - around the carpark
2 Peregrine - perched on hospital
December bird highlights: Goosander, Brent Goose, Bittern, Peregrine, Jack Snipe, Dunlin, Green Sandpiper, Tawny Owl, Bearded Tit, Brambling, Mealy Redpoll, Lapland Bunting.
The Bitterns (a maximum of 6 were counted early in the month) have been spotted mostly on the north and south shores of the main lake, with movements into the main reedbed at dusk for roosting. But try looking at all the reed fringes on all water-bodies for these often elusive birds.
A Bearded Tit re-appeared in the first week of December, spotted in reeds close to the Headley Hide as well as out on the marsh, hiding amongst the tall, dense Purple Loosestrife plants. Listen out for the distinctive ‘pinging’ calls.
Woodcock has been recorded this month, dropping down on to the marsh fields at dusk. These birds roost every winter now in the security of the woodland blocks and dense hedgerows around the reserve.
Redwings, Fieldfare, Skylarks, Meadow Pipits, Chaffinches and Song Thrushes are all on the move, visible from any part of the reserve where there’s a good view of the open sky. Crossbills, Pipit sp. and Bunting sp. are all possible migrants if you’re lucky.
Look out for some unusual winter ducks this month – Scaup, Goldeneye or Smew are real possibilities if the temperatures drop. Also watch for a roosting Little Egret that has been seen a few times lately in the sheltered lagoon trees at dusk.
