Unofficial WeBS count 28/10/13

I managed to complete a WeBS count this morning in the wind and rain, although it had eased significantly from when I woke at 4am to lashing rain and howling wind. A lot of the ducks were in hiding, so creeping around the edges of the reedbed and looking down all the channels was required. Wigeon numbers have increased from 5 two weeks ago and teal from 22. Mallard are also increasing with large numbers on most fields. Most of the wigeon have taken up residence on the lagoon out on Ashgrave but I couldn't find any pintail amongst them or, maybe rather annoyingly, the great white egret!

What I did get though is my first ever sighting of an otter! In the ditch along the southern edge of Greenaway's, right at the start of the count and this made my day.

Do take care moving around the reserve for the next few days and please report and dodgy looking trees to the office on 01865351163. I have checked the paths today and all appear ok, but branches can decide to break a few days later if the wind gets up again.