Recent Sightings Highlights 29.01.24
(scroll to end for Reserve News and Events)
Reserve Fully Open
Raptors
Marsh Harrier
Merlin
Buzzard
Kestrel
Sparrowhawk
Barn Owl
Waders
Curlew
Black-tailed Godwit
Snipe
Dunlin
Lapwing
Green Sandpiper
Water Rail
Passerines
Bullfinch
Bearded Tit
Tree Sparrow
Water Pipit
Meadow Pipit
Stonechat
Siskin
Kingfisher
Song Thrush
Mistle Thrush
Fieldfare
Redwing
Cetti’s Warbler
Long-tailed Tit
Goldcrest
Reed Bunting
Goldfinch
Great Tit
Blue Tit
Chaffinch
Pied Wagtail
Wren
Blackbird
Robin
Starling
Dunnock
Water Fowl
Whooper Swan
Goldeneye
Pink-footed Goose
Shelduck
Shoveler
Wigeon
Teal
Gadwall
Tufted Duck
Pochard
Mallard
Mute Swan
Greylag Goose
Canada Goose
Little Grebe
Moorhen
Coot
Gulls and Waterbirds
Black-headed Gull
Greater Black-backed Gull
Cormorant
Herring Gull
Herons
Little Egret
Grey Heron
Others
Carrion Crow
Wood Pigeon
Magpie
Pheasant
Mammals
Konik Ponies
Weasel
Roe Deer
Reserve News & Events
We’re pleased to report that our year list is going well! As we approach the end of January we’ve reached 88 species so far – we were hoping to make it a round 90 so we are keeping our eyes peeled over the next few days in the hope that we can ‘hit target’.
Well, the freezing temperatures causing the lagoons to freeze over has gone. The lagoons, now thawed, are ‘bearing fruit’ once again with lots of waterfowl and a smattering of waders feeding again. It was great to see goldeneye this morning adding to our species total. Black-tailed godwits, dunlin, snipe, lapwing have also been abundant with Ousefleet flash being most productive.
There’s been lots of ‘pre-mating’ activity around the reserve too. Marsh harrier females have been interacting and chasing each other, being territorial with the males showing lots of interest. There’s lots of head bobbing amongst the mallards and even some signs of mating. Although it’s pretty early is this a sign of climate change?
Here at the RSPB we work closely with all our partners around the Humber Estuary protecting species and enhancing habitats for important wildlife. We’re working closely with Yorkshire Wildlife Trust on Spurn peninsula protecting little tern, ringed plover and oyster catcher. Could you help? We’re looking for volunteers to help us monitor breeding attempts, human disturbance and predators at this internationally important site!
Find out more :-
https://volunteer.rspb.org.uk/opportunities/56791-species-protection-humber-beach-nesting-bird-warden-2023-11-28
Or contact liam.andrews@rspb.org.uk
Community Talks in 2024
One of the services we’ve always been able to offer are our community talks. Of course during the pandemic we’re weren’t able to reach out into communities in the traditional ways.
We’re pleased to say that we are now able to offer community talks again. No matter how big or small your group is, we’d be happy to come and present to you! We are able to travel to you (or present online) extolling the virtues of the Humber and beyond. All we ask is a small donation to help us cover travel costs etc.
To find out more contact:-
blacktoft.sands@rspb.org.uk
01405 704665.
Here’s a few of our favourite recent pics.
Marsh Harrier (Pic Andy H.)
Water Pipit (Pic P.Short)
Tree Sparrow (Pic D.Johnson)
Barn Owls (Pic Andy H.)
Black-tailed Godwits (Pic D.Johnson)
Curlew (Pic D.Johnson)
Sparrow Hawk (Pic Andy H.)
Redwing (Pic Andy H.)
Stonechat (Pic D.Johnson)
Kingfisher (Pic Andy H.)
Buzzard (Pic Andy H.)
Blackbird (female) (Pic D.Johnson)
Pochard (Pic D.Johnson)
Sunrise Marsh Harrier Exclusive at Blacktoft Sands
Saturday 10th February - 7.30am - 10am
Pull on your winter togs and join us for an exhilarating experience watching harriers leave their overnight roost.
This VIP event is a must for photographers and new enthusiasts alike.
Our friendly and experienced guides will help you spot, identify and capture magnificent wildlife as it emerges from the reed bed, before taking you on a personal tour around the reserve. Take in the amazing sunrise vista across the marsh, weather permitting of course!
Enjoy:
Please note:
This guided walk will last for approximately 2.5 hours - please arrive 15 minutes before the event is due to begin.
Yorkshire weather can be unpredictable. Please wear appropriate clothing and footwear to be outside in all weather.
Whilst the majority of the reserve is very accessible for all, Ousefleet trail may not be suitable for seated or limited mobility visitors. Please check our accessibility website for full details -
www.accessibilityguides.org/content/rspb-blacktoft-sands-2
Contact: blacktoft.sands@rspb.org.uk or 01405 704665
Happy birding everyone
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