Monthly Summary May 2013

May 2013 Summary:

A fantastic month for waders with 26 species recorded out on the marsh including two Spotted Redshanks, up to 14 Whimbrel, (6^th), Wood Sandpiper (8^th and 14^th), six Little Stints, Temminck’s Stint (14^th), a peak of six Sanderling, Curlew Sandpiper (14^th-15^th), seven Turnstone and Knot. Lapwing and Redshanks are having an excellent breeding season. The male Scoter stayed till the 7^th and two Black-necked Grebes were on Aveley pool on the 20^th. A Little Gull (16^th) and several Med Gulls were seen and four Kittiwakes headed upriver on the 19^th. A drake Garganey arrived on the 15^th and a Great White Egret flew through on the 17^th.

Marsh Harriers and Buzzards were very regular and up to ten Hobbies hunted. Two Honey Buzzards (19^th) and three Red Kites were seen. Ring Ouzels were seen on the 4^th and 7^th with Tree Pipit (7^th), Raven (25^th) and Spotted Flycatcher (29^th) being the only notable passerines. The mixed singing Willow Warbler stayed till mid-month.

Unfortunately the Kingfishers were predated on the 26th... perhaps they will try again?

All alone now... (Brenda Clayton)

7-6-13