Brief Lesser Emperor
The South Finger dragonfly ponds were cut last week to open up viewing and attract more dragonflies and damselflies, the water level was brought up and it is paying off, a brief visit from a male Lesser Emperor was only the second record for the reserve after one was seen last year. Brown Hawker, Common Darter and Blue-tailed Damselfly were also on the wing by 0930 on this hot day, the next few days look great for dragon watching.
Other news..
Rushy Hide
7 Green Sandpiper, 4 Oystercatcher, 5 Avocet and a number of moulting duck including the hybrid male Wigeon.
Tack Piece
2 Common Sandpiper, 2 Greenshank, 4 Green Sandpiper, 1 juvenile Little-ringed Plover, 4 Avocet and 2 Grey Heron.
South Lake
At least 8 Ruff this morning with 268 Black-tailed Godwit and 30+ Redshank. The Little-ringed Plover family are still active at the Hogarth Hide, the adults are defending against Green Sandpipers and visiting juvenile LRP's. Two released Curlew were also present. On the deep lake a large flock of 112 Gadwall also held Shoveler, Tufted Duck and Mallard among their ranks. Three Little Grebe were also on the lake.
Top New Piece/Zeiss Hide
Two Common Sandpiper, 20+ Avocet and the godwits, Redshank ad Ruff that left the South Lake.
