Wildlife reserve update 21/11/13
Due to the recent rain fall, we have been able to mimic what happens to many natural wetlands at this time of year. We have started flooding and collecting water by adding extra sluice boards to some of our lakes and wetlands. With the volume of water increasing this should create ideal wet areas for waterfowl to rest and feed over the winter months.
Bird numbers are starting to increase at Hawthorn Wood wild bird feeding station as continental birds begin to arrive for the winter, adding to the resident bird population numbers.
A Green Woodpecker was spotted flying low over the visitor building which was a recent highlight. Wader Lake bird species can often be low at this time of year, especially when the river tidal water is low. However, numbers quickly pick up when the tide is high. Approximately 500 Curlews are also using the lake as an evening/night time roost.
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- Goldeneye (c) Dominic Heard
Goosander and Goldeneye have started to be spotted regularly on the river and sightings should increase as the winter continues. Also on the river, be on the look out for our family of otters which have been spotted at least 4 times already in November.
Reserve manager John Gowland
