Glossy Ibis, Curlew Sandpiper, and a rare Turtle Dove from above
A rather wet and windy week blessed us with some welcome surprises.
It's been another brilliant week for wildlife at WWT Llanelli, with some very welcome feathered visitors stopping by to shelter and refuel during their epic long-haul flights.
Wildlife Sightings at WWT Llanelli from 13th September to 21st September 2025
Highlights: Turtle Dove, Glossy Ibis, Great White Egret, Grey Phalarope, Spoonbill.
The Saline Lagoons have been bustling with bird activity again, with a fantastic mix of waders and wetland specialists. Among the regulars, the team and birdwatching visitors spotted:
- 2 Glossy Ibis — always a treat to see these shimmering and exotic-looking birds.
- 2 Curlew Sandpiper and 4 Ruff alongside the flocks of Redshank, Knot and Curlew.
- 5 Spoonbill.
- A Marsh Harrier was seen quartering the lagoon for a meal. A Red Kite was also recorded.
- A stately Great White Egret.
On the Dafen Scrapes, one of the recent Grey Phalarope has stayed and is showing well. A rare visitor that's been delighting birders for days now, it's not often we get to enjoy such prolonged views of this dainty wader.
On Saturday 20 September, we had an incredibly unusual sighting — a Turtle Dove! These beautiful birds have declined dramatically in the UK, so to see one here at Llanelli is a real privilege. This bird is likely refuelling before continuing it's epic migration all the way to Sub-Saharan Africa for the winter — a perilous journey that makes its visit to us even more special. It’s a poignant reminder of the importance of protecting habitats for migratory species.
On Sunday 21 September, we were also treated to a brief Osprey encounter out over the marsh, and a rare Yellow Wagtail showing on Top Pond — the last sighting was reportedly five years ago!
Featured Photo Credit: The Turtle Dove by Neil Fermandel
Whether you're looking to visit for the rarities or just to enjoy the seasonal changes, it's a fantastic time to explore.
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