Goldcliff is almost always packed with waterfowl and waders throughout the year, especially during Autumn and Spring migration. Species such as Wigeon, Teal, Lapwing and Curlew are here in large numbers throughout the Winter but after a few months absence it was nice to see a large flock of Avocets returning for their annual breeding attempt. I have just put together a collection of some of the birds I have seen over the last couple of visits. I hope it will be useful for NicknackyNoo and anybody else considering visiting Newport.
Gold cliff Point looking towards the Somerset coast.
Green and Grey Plovers
Avocet at the far end of the lagoon by the new viewpoint.
More Lapwing
Oystercatchers
A nice mixture of species living in harmony.
Greylag Geese, a change from the many Canada Geese which overwinter here.
Shoveler and Teal
Male and Female Shoveler
A handsome Tufted Duck
Shelduck and Lapwing
Tufties
Curlew
Common Redshank
Shelduck
Wigeon
Spotted Redshank?
A Buzzard and Crows attend a dead sheep.
Little Egret
Of course the reserve also has hedgerows and here are a few of the species I found there.
Finally over the sea wall there is another world of shoreline birds to explore, I'll post those separately!
Nice one John, also this year there have been quite a number of snipe and recently a few pintail. Haven't been for a few days but last time it was still advisable to wear wellies. That new platform has improved sightings quite a bit and is a welcome addition.
Brilliant info thanks John - I know of Goldcliffe from the road around the train station/county hall but this looks right on the channel ? so how would i find this area ??
Here is a map, hope it helps.
Just found directions thank you John, just been reading about the archaeological footprints on the low water mark and the old lighthouse - again how have I never happened on this place before, sounds amazing - looking forward to a full easter weekend of exploring the gwent marshes now
definitely does thanks David
John, What a gorgeous collection-wish we were there!
Kind regards, Ann
Thanks Ann, it's a shame that distance prevents a quick trip. Maybe one day!
So lucky to have these facilities within a short drive although it's amazing how many local people are unaware of its existence!
John, We are hoping to visit at the end of May/early June again as we have done for several years now. I know it is not the best time for birding, but it fits in to our other plans, and we will still see some lovely birds there--just not the full list you see now, but never mind--we will still enjoy ourselves!
Forgive me Anne for not remembering, I'm pretty sure now that I've read your last post that this was something that you've posted previously and also something that I've replied to. Is that what they call a 'senior moment'? Regardless very good to hear you're visiting and I'm sure you will see plenty, although the Wigeons depart for the summer the Avocets and many other waders will still be here. At the moment there is a Glossy Ibis in the wetlands although I've yet to see it.