After periods of flooding in December and January, February got off to a relatively dry start. This didn't last long and despite some warm, sunny days that saw the year's first butterflies (Brimstones), the reserve was once again flooded for the majority of the month. Duck numbers remained high as they took advantage of all the newly created wetland habitat in fields along the river with large numbers of Wigeon, Teal, Shoveler and Pintail across the reserve. The highlight of the month was surely the large Black-tailed Godwit flock, numbering up to 2000 birds, that could regularly be seen in flooded fields on both sides of the river. Due to colour ring records of birds in the flock, we know that many are the same individuals that have spent time here in previous flood years as they winter in the UK before heading back to their Icelandic nesting grounds. 

Black-tailed Godwits - Simon Freedman

With limited access throughout the month, fewer visitors were on site and sightings were down. Some good birds were nonetheless recorded:

  • Oystercatcher - 3 pairs returned from their winter away and are mobile around the site
  • Merlin - flew through Ferry Mere on 4th
  • Grey Partridge - 2 along the entry road on 4th
  • Brent Goose - along the river by Ferry on 4th. First reserve record since 2018
  • Goosander - 3 redheads on Elney on 4th, followed by 2 on Ferry on 11th
  • Dunlin - with Godwits on 5th
  • Mediterranean Gull - 2nd winter bird on Moore on 6th and adult into Ferry roost on 14th
  • Ferruginous Duck - Returning bird on Elney on 6th and 7th
  • Redpoll - small groups seen periodically throughout month
  • Siskin - small groups seen periodically throughout month
  • Peregrine - through Middle Fen on 16th
  • Woodcock - Drayton loop on 22nd