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Swans reach Lithuania!

The Bewick’s are emptying out of the country with numbers dropping sharply on the Ouse Washes the most important wintering site for the species in Northwest Europe. The area had been humming with just over 1,000 birds until recently but westerly breezes and clear skies have prompted spring migration for around 900, with just 100 remaining (L. Marshall). Swans have also continued to fly from Slimbridge with 24 leaving over the weekend. So now is your last chance to see the remaining 44 before they also head off, Russia-bound!

Bewick's swan ringed by WWT in 2008 in Russia now in Germany (Juergen Steudtner)
Bewick's swan ringed by WWT in 2008 in Russia now in Germany (Juergen Steudtner)

Mass migration is now well and truly underway and swan spotters across Europe have been sending us news of their progress! we have just heard from ornithologist Julius Morkunas that there are now 100 Bewick’s in Lithuania! More news  of their epic journey to follow....

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