Siberian Chiffchaff in the Willows

The bird of the weeks is a Siberian Chiffchaff found on the 23rd by the Carneddau hide. This Welsh rarity has been describes as sounding like a cross between a Dunnock and a Bullfinch. It calls frequently from the willows joined by a Common Chiffchaff on the 24th. The Firecrest was seen to at least the 23rd. It is possibly still out there.

Sparrowhawks are seen almost daily and a Merlin was reported on the 21st.

Duck numbers have dropped again now the water has de-frosted. We now have 4 Pochards, 2 Goldeneye, 6 Red-breasted Mergansers and 2 Tufted Ducks.

A flock of 120 Lapwings were counted on the 25th. Other waders include 3 Black-tailed Godwit, 13 Ringed Plover and 17 Dunlin.

Bridge pond trail
The supports on the old bridge over the Bridge Pond have started to rot, so we're going to be replacing it with a brand new design of bridge. While the work is going on we will have to close the Bridge Pond trail, and there will be a minor diversion in place to take you round the other side of the pond instead. The alternative route may not be suitable for unaccompanied wheelchair users, so if you are thinking of visiting in the next few weeks, please give the Visitor Centre a call on 01492 584091 for advice. We're expecting the work to last another two weeks. We're very sorry for any inconvenience, but hopefully in a few weeks time we'll have a lovely new bridge!