Spring migration has been the main highlight of the past week.
The Black-tailed Godwits are still around in numbers, with 28 being seen on the 29th (April) and 22 on the 3rd (May).
Black-tailed Godwit feeding on Carden Flood (courtesy of David Veitch)
After the Ringed Plovers from last week, two Little Ringed Plovers were present around the Carden Flood on the 2nd.
Little Ringed Plover {Ben Hall (rspb-images.com)}
In addition, a Common Sandpiper has been present around the Flood, from the 30th.
Common Sandpiper (image by Lars Falkdalen Lindahl )
Pink-footed Geese have still be hanging around in large numbers, approx. 1700 being counted on Kirk Hills and Carden Point on the 29th. Also, 5 Whooper Swans have been dawdling around. As for the regulars, Redshank were seen regularly on the Flood; 4 Snipe were on the west side of the reserve on the 26th and a Water Rail was heard on the 2nd. The number of Lapwing nests on the reserve now stands at 25, and guides to viewing these can be found in the Café and in the Waterston (2nd) and Carden (3rd) hides.
As for the passerines, Lesser Redpolls are still visiting the feeders regularly. White Wagtails have been common around the pools and scrapes. The abundance of insects, at least when the wind is absent, has meant lots of Swallows, with a pair now beginning to nest in the passageway.
P.S. Don't forget the Scottish Bird Fair next weekend at Hopetoun House.