Waders
Water levels on Vinson's and Sunley's Marsh and Woodend are dropping back slightly as the the drainage cut that runs through the reserve beings to drop. Recent rains have made the local fields fairly waterlogged which continues to run off for some while. The levels on the Mere will take a little longer and the forecasted rain won't help.
At least 2 Wood Sandpiper present on Woodend Marsh. Juvenile Ruff are now making an appearance with at least 2 birds joining 6 adults on Woodend Marsh. Big numbers of Black-tailed Godwit present but no counts. Two Avocet on the reserve, August tends to be the last regular month for Avocet with the odd stragglers seen in Sept, Oct and Nov. At least 500 Lapwing, 10+ Snipe, Oystercatcher and Green Sandpiper.
Kingfishers are showing daily from the Ron Barker Hide and out on the Canoe Safari.
Interesting to note the feral Greylag flock is expanding at this time of year with around 300 flying onto the reserve early afternoon.
Painted Lady butterflies are unmissable at the moment. The Harrier Hide area is good for Wall Butterfly.
