Mild weather continues here at Langford and consequently, lower numbers of wildfowl. However, we can’t complain as there have been some nice reserve highlights from the past few days – and of course, at least it isn’t too cold for us outdoor workers! Here is the best of the week so far….
3 whooper swans roosting on either silt lagoon 5 or 6 (the last two on the left as you walk northwards along the eastern public footpath). Usually the birds leave fairly early in the morning to go off to feeding sites elsewhere. However, recently they have been hanging around later on into the morning on the silt lagoons. This is giving great opportunities to see them. They tend to fly off north at around 10.30-11.00 each morning and then return at dusk.
A male goldeneye displaying to four females on Phase 1. This is a lovely display and a sight I always look forward to in late winter.
14 common snipe and 2 jack snipe on Phase 3 – thanks to volunteer Graham Gamage for this. Jack snipe records have been thin on the ground this winter so far – just one record in November – so to have two in one day is good news. This is also a pleasing number of common snipe too.
A wintering chiffchaff in the Phase 1 scrub was seen on Monday and then heard calling this afternoon. This follows a record in early December by volunteer John Ellis.
An oystercatcher and 2 shelduck back on site. Spring must be on it’s way with the return of these Langford breeders.