WOW! What a couple of weeks at Fairburn Ings. We have had a great mix of species about, including three cuckoos, one very elusive spoonbill, and a black tern!
Black tern, Mike Langman (rspb-images.com)
The swifts have been displaying nicely on the coal tips, showing off their aerial acrobatics and swooping low overhead. I discovered last week that they spend almost their entire lives on the wing, even while sleeping.
Swift overhead, Andy Hay (rspb-images.com)
There have also been several sightings of bitterns across the reserve. About a week ago I was lucky enough to see this secluded bird twice in one day; the first time was on a guided walk led by one of our volunteer rangers, the second was later that evening, when I managed to see my feathered friend flying over this picturesque sunset.
Coal Tips sunset, Rachel Gooday
We have also had some wonderful views of little egrets out on the flashes, looking down from the Coal tips and Arrow Lane. They have been accompanied by the return of our ever elusive spoonbill, which made a magnificent return for a few days.
Little egret, Paul Chesterfield (rspb-images.com)
As usual, do keep letting us know your sighting in the book and on social media.