Dungeness update 13th May

Today our eyes and ears of the reserve scouted a black necked grebe showing breeding behaviour on Burrowes pit and a red kite flying over Denge Marsh. I was out on the reserve today, checking our trails and hides. I was lucky enough to spot a sedge warbler and had fantastic views of common and black terns on Denge Marsh. They have taken a liking to the rafts there, so hopefully they will breed successfully!

 

In the wildlife garden, the pond is full of smooth and great crested newts and our juvenile marsh frog that I caught last week is still loitering there too. It's open all the time, next to the visitor centre so come and take a look.

 

There are loads of hobbies about the reserve at the moment, with 12 different ones being sighted today!

The glorious sound of the cuckoos can be heard around the reserve with one seen at Denge Marsh today too.

Bitterns are still booming and coots are still attempting to build nest on Burrowes pit.

 

I also saw three grass snakes under the corrugated iron in  the discovery area today, so if you’re passing then take a peek underneath!

 

2 Garganey in the hayfields, a black necked grebe in his summer plumage on Burrowes pit, with great views from the visitor centre.

Lots of birds of prey seen about the reserve including; peregrines, common buzzards, sparrowhawks, hobbies and kestrels. A Montagu's harrier was seen yesterday over Denge Marsh and a red kite was seen there today too. 

Lots of waders are about on our slowly appearing islands including bar- and black-tailed godwits, grey plovers, ruffs and avocets.

Smaller birds seen a lot this week include whitethroats, lesser whitethroats, yellow and white wagtails as well as spotted flycatchers and plenty of warblers!

.

Fingers crossed the weather stays fabulous for the weekend as it is a perfect time of year to get out and about to see wildlife.

If you are feeling up to an early morning walk, then next week we are hosting another of our Dungeness Dawn Chorus events. A 6am start is definitely worth it for an exclusive guided walk around parts of our reserve, finishing it off with a light breakfast at the visitor centre. Give us a call on 01797 320 588 if you fancy coming along. Adults are £8, children are £4. 20% discount for RSPB members.