Merlin and other birds
A wet start to the day making observations difficult. Wildfowl numbers are building up with good numbers of Teal, Wigeon, Pintail and Mallard on the reserve. In among these birds smaller numbers of Pochard, Tufted Duck, Gadwall and Shelduck are arriving.
The Whooper Swan numbers were around 100 today. It's possible more birds were out feeding locally or that some birds have moved on to Welney. No reports of the Bewick's Swan for a few days.
Pink-footed Geese numbers are still good with five figure numbers roosting on the reserve.
Female Merlin showed well from the United Utilities Hide mid afternoon. Four Marsh Harrier, 4+ Common Buzzard, Peregrine, 3 Sparrowhawk and Kestrel. Barn Owl can be seen from the Harrier Hide.
Waders included 2 Golden Plover, 400+ Lapwing, 40+ Ruff and Common Snipes.
Other reports included Kingfisher from the Ron Barker Hide, Grey Wagtail in the Waterfowl Garden and on the Mere.
The Starling murmuration is looking very impressive with at least 15,000 birds flying around the Reedbed.
