Birdwalk News September 2015
A fine warm sunny autumn morning for the first walk of the new season, and there were plenty of birds to enjoy. The estuary was full of waders newly returned from their high Arctic nesting grounds. Some, such as a particularly smart Grey Plover, still retained their summer breeding plumage, although most of the Knot, Black-tailed Godwits and the scattering of Dunlin, had moulted into their duller winter attire. Amongst the commoner waders we had good views of three rather dapper Ringed Plovers, much smaller than the Grey Plover and with a smart black “ring” across the white breast.
Whilst watching the waders a seal swam past and later on gave a good performance as it fished the shallows. Overhead a Buzzard was mobbed by crows as usual, and a few late Swallows headed south, while nearby a Reed Bunting gave good views.
Further along the trail a Great-spotted Woodpecker played hide and seek around the bare branches, in a sunny corner some Linnets perched up, Goldfinches sang, and a couple of warblers,(Blackcap and Lesser Whitethroat) proved had to see well.
Returning to the river there were more waders, a fishing Common Tern, several Little Grebes and the usual Little Egrets.
Recent sightings:The super moon has been impressive the last fews days, and has coincided with the arrival of the first Goldcrests and Redwings of the Autumn.
The next couple of weeks should see the first returning Brent Geese, Wigeon and Teal.
Next walk 17th October 10am £8 call 01206 826753 to book