Yesterday was the first volunteer Sunday of 2014 and 9 people arrived bright and early on a lovely, clear sunny day for some scrub clearance around silt lagoon 6.
Silt lagoon 6 is temporarily the largest continuous expanse of reed we have on site and will remain so for some time yet, whilst Phase 2 develops more reed cover. Therefore, it is currently one of the best places to see various species including bittern (very elusive), Cetti’s warbler (listen for their explosive song), reed and sedge warblers and also holds roosting whooper swans. It is also one of the favoured areas for the starling roost – assuming the birds return either this winter or next.
With this in mind, yesterday we set out to clear some small areas of scrub alongside the public footpath to enable views into the lagoon from the path and to open up some areas on the other side of the lagoon for viewing from the public trails later on in the year when the northern end of the site is opened.
Throughout the day the group did a great job, there are now 4-5 viewing areas that allow views across the lagoon from the public footpath and work on the opposite side is progressing well – hopefully this will be a nice addition to the visitor experience when we do open.
With visibility improved in this area, please do let us know of any sightings, particularly of bittern and do look out for bearded tit too. This species hasn’t been present on site since January 2012, after wintering here the previous three winters, so we are keen to keep an eye open for any records.
Wildlife highlights included 2 whooper swans on silt lagoon 6, at least 2 water rail calling also from silt lagoon 6, an active common frog (thanks to volunteer Julie Straw for this) and a weasel by the viewing screen (also thanks to Julie!).
Once again, a big thank you to everyone who attended another productive and enjoyable volunteer Sunday.