Things are picking up pace. With the flow of spring migrants arriving and winter migrants starting to head off, March was an exciting month on the reserve. Flooding was the main feature which forced parts of the reserve to be cut off. It also flooded out the washes forcing the large Black-tailed Godwit flock to move up to Fen Drayton Lakes, a traditional movement in high water times. The flock peaked at 3400 individuals, an amazing sight. They also included one rather special visitor, a 27 year old bird, which holds the world record for oldest Black-tailed Godwit. Hopefully there's a few years left in the old bird yet!
Oldest known Black-tailed Godwit in the world! Photo: Richard Bradbury.
Elsewhere on the reserve it was very busy for birding including:
The first butterflies were out during sunnier spells with Brimstones, Green-veined White and Peacock seen. Also there have been some Stoat and Weasel sightings along the entrance road.
Henry Cook Assistant Warden – Fen Drayton Lakes