With summer now upon us, we have seen several late summer migrants return to Broadwater Warren. Nightjars can be heard churring on the heath and spotted flycatchers can be seen catching insects near to decoy pond.
The Dartmoor ponies are now back on site, with 9 on the main heath and 6 on the western heath. They continue to carry out conservation grazing to ensure the structure of the heath and acid grassland is perfect for our heathland priority birds such as woodlark.
Other sightings from the last month include 8 crossbill (7/6), grey wagtail, lesser spotted woodpecker, woodlark with fledged young, tree pipits, woodcock and siskins on the feeders in the car park.
In the woodland marsh tits have been seen near the zigzag boardwalk and blue, great and coal tits have all been seen with young. 3 mandarin ducks were seen flying out from the stream in the woods as well as a grey heron.
Other wildlife sightings this month include green hairstreak butterflies, four spot and broad bodied chasers, beautiful demoiselle, adders, grass snake and we had several dormice on our first survey of the year (see pic below)
Please let us know any sightings you may have on the reserve.
Matt