We’ve enjoyed some lovely frosty mornings recently; an ice covered reserve glistening as the winter sun shines down on it. Unfortunately today has seen a slight change in the weather and whilst it’s a little warmer it’s also a little wetter!
An icy washland on Sunday morning - Image credit Emma Cuthbertson
I ventured down the reserve this morning to check on a few things and was halted by the sight of seven marsh harriers gliding about in the wind at Joist Fen view point. As David mentioned in his last blog, the harrier roost is most definitely worth experiencing at the moment – there’s up to 27 birds roosting in the reedbed!
As I headed back towards the office I was greeted by a flock of at least 50 goldfinches in the trees outside the visitor centre. I can see why they’re collectively called a charm, it was lovely to watch and hear them chattering amongst themselves.
Reports from the Washland over the last few days have included 11 common gulls, four lesser black-backed gulls, great white egret and a pair of stonechat.
Washland view point - Image credit Emma Cuthbertson
Our bearded tits have been very elusive recently but in the last few days we’ve had increasing reports trickling in. During Sunday mornings Wetland Bird Survey (WeBS) myself, Katherine and Paul had at least eight bearded tits showing extremely well along the Botany Bay footpath. Walking along the river bank footpath also seems to be a good place to keep an eye out for these stunning birds.
Bearded tit - Image credit Matt Walton
As we finished the afternoon’s reed burning in New Fen on Tuesday we were treated to not only a stunning sunset, but a flyover from 14 corn buntings – a great way to finish a day off!
Last, but certainly not least...owls! Barn owls are resident here at Lakenheath Fen, but over the last couple of days they have been joined by a short eared owl.
Brandon Fen, mid to late afternoon, is the best place to spot both species of owl. I’ll leave you with some photos taken of the owls by John, who didn’t realise at the time he had captured the barn owl carrying prey!
Barn owl - All images by John Wightman
Short eared owl - all images by John Wightman