A few goodies around at the weekend. Curlew sandpiper on the reedbed, male garganey, pectoral sandpiper still hanging around. but over the last few days the highlight has been with our black terns.
Black terns are freshwater terns, as opposed to marine terns like the common and arctic terns. They used to be a common bird in the fens, but the widespread drainage of such places coupled with egg collecting really had a huge impact on them. They now do not breed in the UK, more is the pity. but we do still get birds visiting us during the late spring and early summer. Whio knows, through the RSPB's work in recreating wetland habitats, maybe in the future they will nest again? Smaller than other terns, they have a black body, slate-grey upperside to their wings and white underside. They often have a rather lazy dipping flight, and do not dive into the water to catch fish. Instead they delicately pluck food from the surface of the water.
Up to three birds have been seen around the freshwater scrapes. Something to keep your eyes open for!
Black tern by Neil Smith
Reedbed, freshwater scrapes, saltmarsh and wet meadow. Frampton Marsh has it all! Come and pay us a visit soon.