Unlike the multi-coloured fabric on string that the title suggests, we've had a few interesting birds of prey visit our reserve over the weekend. Both a Red and Black Kite were spotted over the reserve which provided some fantastic views for our visitors. Today, we had a Honey Buzzard over the ARC which is a summer visitor to the UK.
Red kites - Ben Andrew
One rarity that has also popped in is a male Ortolan Bunting. It was seen in front of Firth Hide yesterday and across the reserve today. We are also pleased to announce the return of two Great White Egrets to the reserve. They seem to perhaps be an unsuccessful pair returning from an area they tried to breed in.
1 of 2 returning egrets - Martin Casemore
Although other bird sightings have been fairly quiet on the reserve, there has been a notable increase in our moth population!
Fox moth - Edith Collins
Eyed hawk moth - Edith Collins
Burnished brass moth - Louise Kelly
Moths are incredibly beautiful creatures and are often completely overlooked as, of course, they are only active at night. If you want an easy way of spotting moths in your garden hang a white sheet or large piece of paper against your wall at night and shine a bright light on it. Leave it for a while and come back to see what might be sitting on the sheet. Moths are attracted to bright lights which is exactly what we use to catch ours here. Who knows what you might find! Encourage the little ones by joining in on our Magic Moths and Brilliant Butterflies events during summer to find out more about these fascinating creatures.