We're getting more and more sightings of summer migrants as the weather gets warmer, with Blackcaps, Chiffchaffs and Willow Warblers being heard on a daily basis now.
There's still a few birds on the feeders but most are concentrating on making thier nests around the reserve. A pair of Willow Tit are nesting around the boardwalk and we've also got a pair of Reed Bunting that have taken a liking to the area around the visitor centre and the feeders. Coal Tit reported on the Riverbank Trail.
As I opened the reserve today I was greeted with the sound of Oystercatcher calling as they flew over, also reports of 2 Oystercatcher from Pickup hide yesterday. There's also lots more Red Kite sightings in the area of the reserve, I watched a pair swooping about 4-5 metres above the road- what an amazing bird they are! 2 Red Kite seen on Thursday over Main Bay.
Yesterday we had our first sightings of the Peacock and Speckled Wood Butterflies and also the beautiful Brimstone Butterfly which has been around for a few weeks now.
We've started pond dipping again too so come along for a dip! And of you fancy a bit of star gazing whilst listening out for the wildlife that ventures out in the night then check out our newest event- "Secret Lives and Starry Skies " We've teamed up with Leeds Astronomical Society to give you a one off star gazing expereince at the reserve aswell as a guided night walk to see what wildife lurks in the dark. Saturday 17th April 7.30pm-9pm, booking advisable 01977 628191.