A very warm, sunny day greeted us at the launch of our new pond-dipping platform attended by very enthusiastic adults as well as children. Captured specimens included: blood worm, water fleas, water boatmen, whirligig beetles, pond snails, pond skaters, water scorpions, a great diving beetle, young newts at different stages of development plus a young Perch.
There’s life in these waters and also a chance for everyone to sample findings at another free event on Saturday 24 August between 10.30am and 12.30pm. So come along and investigate what lurks beneath but be sure to book on: 01392 432691.
Elsewhere on the marshes . . . vocal Canada Geese have been flying over in large V-formations this week and although song birds seem quiet, there are juvenile robins, tits, goldfinches, sedges in the hedges and reed warblers chuck-chucking away in the tall reeds along parts of Turf Path. Kestrels have been seen hovering and a peregrine has been looking out from its vantage point from one of the pylons.
A swallow family chose to nest just outside the top of the workshop shutter, so they have been delighting us with their to-and-fro feeding flights. Another family made its home in the opposite buildings’ security lighting.
Whilst working at Bowling Green Marsh site one day, high numbers (100s) of dunlin and black-tailed godwit and curlew were seen and fairly soon, it won't be long before the avocets make their return to the area.
Vandana Lake
Residential Volunteer
RSPB Exminster Marshes