Grasshopper Warbler
New for the year a reeling Grasshopper Warbler towards the end of the Reed Bed Walk. A few pair probably breed on the reserve but once they stop reeling it can be a difficult species to locate.
More warbler news with the first sighting of Cetti's Warbler since January. The bird was seen just before the first viewing platform on the Reed Bed Walk next to the path before diving into cover and calling.
Plenty of Chiffchaff, Willow Warbler, Blackcap and a few Sedge.
An Osprey flew North about a mile from the reserve this morning. Raptors on the reserve included 4+ Common Buzzard, Marsh Harrier and Sparrowhawk.
Waders were represented by Common Sandpiper, 'tundrae' Ringed Plover, 50+ Avocet, 30+ Black-tailed Godwit, 10+ Oystercatcher, 10+ Lapwing, 6+ Redshank, 8 Ruff, a few Common Snipe and a single Dunlin.
Six Mediterranean Gull including two pairs.
Other birds recorded today included Yellowhammer singing near the Sewage Works and a pair of Bullfinch again. Three Wheatear in fields beyond the Long Hedge past the end the Reed Bed Walk.
Sorry no map or pictures today due to a major phone malfunction, however if you are visiting the reserve and would like to know the best spots for any of the recent sightings please pop in at the in focus shop next to the new Discovery Hide.
