Another mixed week weather-wise has meant that we’re not really seeing the best that spring can bring. Given the imminent forecast, that looks to change in the next few days. We’re still seeing (and hearing) newly arrived migrants but in rather low numbers. More willow warblers and blackcaps have now joined the many chiffchaffs around the reserve and we have continued to see the occasional swallow in amongst the relatively few sand martins but it definitely still feels like early days. On the periphery of the reserve, single redstarts and sedge warblers have been noted.
Spoonbill by Charlotte Cassidy
Despite the lack of expected migrants we did have a surprise flying visit from a dapper adult spoonbill last weekend. This one-day-wonder was quite mobile and spent time on Grisedale Pool and at the Eric Morecambe Pools, commuting between the two areas. This cracking photo was taken by Charlotte Cassidy, who had earlier joined us on a Wildlife Explorers’ dawn chorus walk.
Ospreys continue to stop by daily. In fact one dropped in and caught a fish right in front of Lilian’s Hide this week while a wedding ceremony was taking place in the hide; the happy couple and their guests were treated to this fabulous sight as the vows were being taken! (Yes, you can tie the knot at Leighton Moss).
Marsh harriers too are wowing the crowds with regular courtship displays and nest building. At least seven of these large, impressive raptors are currently on site. Peregrines frequently drift over from Warton Crag and a fortunate few have spotted red kites over the reserve.
Red kite (copyright Chris Gomersall rspb-images.com
Duck numbers are still dwindling but it’s nice to see that we still have a few goldeneye out on the Causeway and Lower pools. Pintail, wigeon, gadwall, tufted duck and pochard can be seen on various meres but we still haven’t had any reports of that personal favourite, garganey (early next week?).
Up to three great white egrets are still parading around in their breeding finery while multiple little egrets add to the continental feel. It still amazes me to think how scarce both of these now familiar white herons were not all that long ago. Our booming bittern is maintaining his position as dominant male on the site and can be heard on and off at all times of day. If you’re really keen to hear this extraordinary sound (and who wouldn't be?) an evening vigil is almost certainly guaranteed to deliver the goods.
Up to 3,000 black-tailed godwits, many decked-out in their fiery copper breeding plumage, can be seen at the Eric Morecambe Pools where birders can also view good numbers of knots and in excess of thirty avocets. The black-headed gull colony is really getting fired up there too.
Black-tailed godwit (copyright David Mower)
Otters, as always, are a treat to see and we’ve had reports of up to three cavorting in the Lower and Causeway pools in the past few days.
If the weather forecast is right, we can hope for some notable changes here in the next week or so. I know that I’ll be grabbing my binocs and heading out at every available opportunity! And talking of binoculars, we’ll be hosting a Binocular and Telescope Open Weekend this Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 April. So if you’re thinking of buying some new optics, why not come and give them a try in the field before you decide? Our team of friendly staff and volunteers will be on hand to offer impartial advice and expertise.
Jon Carter, Visitor Experience Manager