Latest Sightings
As we head for some settled but colder weather over the next week there should be some excellent birding to be had on and around the reserve. It is quite possible we will see further influxes of birds in particular Pink-footed Geese and maybe one or two Bewick's Swan.
Speaking of which a single Bewick's Swan was seen briefly yesterday afternoon on Top Mere. A local farmer has just brought in some waste potatoes so there is every chance this bird will follow Whooper Swan and spend more time in this favoured area.
A flock of 1000+ Pink-footed Geese with one leucistic bird arrived mid afternoon. Many of these are undoubtedly new in.
Waders included 2000+ Lapwing, 50+ Black-tailed Godwit, 50+ Ruff, 2 Oystercatcher and Common Snipe.
Barn Owls morning and early afternoon onwards. Tawny Owls in the usual spot. Raptors over the past few days have included 3 Marsh Harrier, 6 Common Buzzard, Merlin, Peregrine, Sparrowhawk and Kestrel.
Other birds of note; Raven and 2 Stonechat out near Plover Field. Redpoll and Goldcrest in the same area as the Firecrest has been recently seen near the Common Crane Enclosure.
