This morning a Curlew flew over the site, calling twice. It circled the Wader Scrape before continuing north. The drake Pintail was still on the Slurry Lagoon and an Oystercatcher was across the river on the flash. PS.
Tag Archives: 3rd April
Willow Warbler – 3rd April
This morning there were about twenty Sand Martins by the railway bridge, which were briefly joined by a lone Swallow. Beside the Slurry Lagoon a Willow Warbler sang briefly and a Little Ringed Plover flew over. There are now at least fifteen Chiffchaffs singing around the site. PS. SC.
Migrants Return – 3rd April
During the last few days many migrant species have been returning to the lagoons and helped to provide a quite exciting morning’s watching in very pleasant bright weather this morning. Amongst others, the Sand Martins are now present in considerable numbers on the river bank. Willow Warblers were noted in several locations, as were Chiffchaffs and one or two Blackcaps. A single Reed Warbler was heard in the Deep Pit and a Whitethroat in the brambles on the Slurry Lagoon. The highlight of the morning was a Wheatear, which perched very close on fence posts, and the close second was the appearance of three Buzzards, which displayed well, including an aerial fight. The Cetti’s Warbler was in good voice also.
Meanwhile two Common Terns were struggling with Black-headed Gulls for space on the tern platform.
Butterflies, including Small Tortoiseshell, Peacock, Comma, and Red Admiral were noted and the Blackthorn Blossom was a sight to see (and smell). A Yellow Wagtail was also seen over the Large Gravel Pit and six Shelduck flew into the Slurry Lagoon.
PS/NM/RW/AR/ DG/LD/AE