Another day, another WeBS count - what did I spy yesterday?
The loch is a little on the quiet side - many of the birds are hiding away while they moult, but good numbers of mute swans are very obvious as they gather on the loch to moult. A large raft of greylag geese remain on on the loch - regularly seen to the north of St Serfs. Good numbers of great-crested grebe were seen on the south shore, dotted in amongst the tufties and wigeon.
On the reserve there remains at least 4 lapwing broods, with 7 chicks visible from the middle hide. Redshank chicks continue to roam closeby but are awfully good at hiding. A common gull and juvenile were spotted hanging out on the flood - possibly a surviving chick from the flooded island nest. A handful of curlew are feeding on the new wetland, while large flocks of tufties move between the loch and the flood.
The highlight of the day was excellent views of the water rail - an elusive creature. The rail popped out for a stroll on the mud before dashing back into the rushes once again. The water rail seems to flit between the raised bog and the area to the left of the 3rd hide - keep your eyes peeled.
Really interesting blog. More like this would be good. Great photo too!