It's been a busy month for the warden, Vicky, and her delightful assistant, Tommy, as they carried out the annual survey of Lapwing breeding, by monitoring nests and chicks.
Visitors can get a taste of the effort involved, by taking part in the daily Find the Lapwing Chicks competition. No prizes, unfortunately, but lots of feel good factor. Eagle eyes and a lot of patience are required.
Lapwing Chick (image copyright Vicky Turnbull)
The Little Ringed Plovers have been very prominent on the Carden Flood. This year, we have had four birds present; two birds have nested on the island to the left of the hide, giving visitors some great close up views. The second pair have been active at the back of the flood, but no nest spotted as yet. Additionally, a pair of Oystercatchers with two chicks can be seen on the island at the back of the flood.
A pair of Pied Wagtails have nested beneath the bridge at the Carden hide, so keep a look out for young wagtails around this area.
Peeking Pied Wagtail (image copyright Vicky Turnbull)
Other recent sightings include the Glossy Ibis, still hanging around, though it has moved to the west of the reserve, along with a solitary Black-tailed Godwit; these are probably best seen from the new viewpoint.
Eleven Whimbrel were seen in this area at the beginning of the month, so it's always worth a trek along to this end of the reserve on the Heritage Trail to see what's about.
Finally, the usual reminder to visitors to the Centre at this time of year to watch out for low flying Swallows.