Raptors and Kingfishers
Good weather for ducks this morning with a couple of hours of misty rain reducing visibility across the reserve. Once the rain had passed the raptors were out in action. Three Peregrine throughout the day, having a go at assorted birds and also claiming territory by chasing off Common Buzzards and Marsh Harrier. Some interesting behavior noted with an immature female Marsh Harrier investigating a weak looking Pink-footed Goose which looked a little more lively as the harrier came close.
The Whooper Swan numbers have dropped back with ~50 on the reserve. There won't be a big influx while this mild spell continues. At least 15,000 Pink's roosting.
Waders included 500+ Lapwing, Green Sandpiper, Dunlin, 20+ Ruff and a few Snipe.
Two Kingfisher from the Ron Barker Hide showing well throughout the day.
An interesting report from yesterday of a warbler in the reeds in front of the Harrier Hide. Most likely a Chiffchaff but a late Reed Warbler isn't impossible.
