Today's sightings
A nice selection of waders on offer at present right across the reserve with a few new arrivals too.
South Lake Hides
An adult Little-ringed Plover was at the northern end of the scrape, nearest the Discovery Hide. A mixed wader flock of 116 Black-tailed Godwits, 36 Redshank, 43 Lapwing and 12 Ruff were roosting against the far bank trying to keep out of the wind. At least 5 Green Sandpiper were feeding across the scrape and 3 Oystercatchers were tucked up on the causeway. A single Avocet was near the Hogarth Hide and a Kingfisher made a fly-past.
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Rushy Hide
Quieter than in previous days but still at least 7 Green Sandpiper feeding around the lower pond along with 3 juvenile Little-ringed Plover and 9 Redshank. A single Black-tailed Godwit and 7 Lapwing were also present. The large creche of Shelduck continue to grow and are venturing out across the upper and lower ponds. A Crane was at the back of the upper pond, probably Monty who is currently moulting and flightless.
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Holden Tower and Walkway Hides
As the water receded from the high tide, waders returned to the mudflats. At least 130 Dunlin were flying around trying find a suitable feeding site whilst around 20 Curlew were already tucking into breakfast. A pair of Oystercatcher were on the island and a Peregrine was sat on the Dumbles. A Little Egret and 4 Green Sandpiper were on the pool to the left of the tower, also viewable from the Knott Hide.
Another juvenile Little-ringed Plover and 4 Green Sandpipers were on the Tack Piece from the Robbie Garnett Hide were a swarm of around 100 Sand Martin were busy feeding over the cattle. A pair of Stock Dove were feeding with Wood Pigeon on the edge of the scrape.
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Zeiss Hide
A flock of 67 Dunlin were feeding around the edge of the scrape amongst 43 Lapwing and a single Redshank. A flock of 37 Avocet, a mixture of adults and this year's youngsters, were roosting on the southern island.
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