Exciting ‘smews’ this week as two have been sighted on Tindale Tarn. First spotted on the 12th Feb our sightings coincide nicely with a national influx of Smew.
With the onset of cold weather the stunning pair will have migrated away from their breeding grounds in Finland or Russia. Hopefully they will remain on the reserve for a month or two, before making the return journey.It’s best to view the smart little ducks from the screen. The stunning male is easy to spot due to his brilliant black and white plumage. The female has more subtle white cheeks, and looks similar to a small female Goldeneye.
There has been a large passage of lapwing this week as birds begin to move inland following the winter. There are around 80 on the meadow today which is a good sign that spring is on the way. Five curlew passed over yesterday (16th) and we should start to see a few birds stopping off next week.
Other recent sightings include,
Black grouse, Goldeneye, Goosander 14 on 14/02, Pintail. At least two different white stoats have been seen not too far from the visitor centre.