Recently we have had some exciting species visit RSPB Loch of Strathbeg. Below is a list of what has been spotted across the reserve over the last few weeks.
Osprey
Mid April the reserves first osprey of the year was spotted from the visitor centre fishing in the loch, let’s hope they take notice of our newly built osprey nest.
Osprey flying over the reserve, Image – RSPB
Common Crane
Up to four common cranes have been spotted from the visitor centre.
Three common cranes in flight, Image – RSPB
White Stork
An individual appeared on the reserve in mid April for a brief spell giving us some lovely views from the visitor centre.
White stork viewed from the visitor centre, Image – Katie Bell
Marsh Harrier
There have been at least two females and two males spotted on the reserve from the visitor centre and hides.
Marsh harrier flying over the reserve, Image – Nick Piccozi
Other species seen over the last few weeks include:
Cuckoo
Willow Warbler
Grasshopper Warbler
Wheatear
Green Winged Teal
Greenshank
Whimbrel
Little Grebe
Slavonian Grebe
Ruff
Little Ringed Plover
Great White Egrets
Garganey
Bonaparte’s Gull
Little Gulls
The pair of adult little gulls that have been seen regularly on the reserve have been showing some interest in the area of the tern island that they nested on last year, so we are keeping our fingers crossed that we get another pair of little gulls successfully nesting here again this year!
Katie Bell
Assistant Warden