The Hudsonian Whimbrel continues its extended stay in the harbour to the delight of many of our regular visitors. As mid summer approached much of the bird activity is reduced or so it seems but the important job are rearing young is underway with many juvenile birds flitting around to confuse the unwary birder.
Juv Black Headed Gull (Above) and Juv Chiffchaff (below)
Juv Goldfinch
Out at sea the main interest is the terns as they make the most of the small fry been brought to the surface due to the warm weather Little, Common and Sandwich Tern can all be observed helping themselves to this bounty.
Little Tern (Above) and Sandwich Tern (Below)
Common Tern
Ferry Pool continues to draw in some waders including some superb summer plumage Spotted Redshank, Greenshank, Green Sandpiper and Little Ringed Plover. Also Avocet with fledged young are ever more visible across both Pagham and Medmerry
Juv Avocet
However despite being well in to the breeding season for most species some are just starting to sit on eggs with one of the latest nesting ducks the Tufted Duck.
Tufted Duck
But summer is the time to watch out for the invertebrates. Particular noticeable at the present are the large numbers of Meadow Brown and similarly Gatekeepers but also keep your eyes open for Small Skiper, Small Copper and even the odd Painted Lady. Around our pools on warm still days the prehistoric looking Dragonflies can be seen hunting with Emperor, Broad Bodied Chaser and Common Darter all present.
Meadow Brown (Above) and Gatekeeper (Below)
Although most of the Orchids are now finished flowering at present a few late Pyramidal Orchids can be viewed at the North Wall adding a splash of Colour.
Pyramidal Orchid
The Warden, RSPB Crook of Baldoon