December kicked off good sightings of the Bittern from the Gadwall Hide which became less frequent throughout the month until the beginning of this week when it reappeared. We have also had good sightings of Water Rail, Kingfisher, Green Sandpiper and Goldcrest.
Raptors made a nice appearance this month with the usual host of species seen (Kestrel, Buzzard, Sparrowhawk, Red Kite) plus Peregrine and a Marsh Harrier towards the back of the Draper scrape.
Redwing, Reed Bunting, Chiff Chaff, Snipe, Little Egret, Shelduck, Teal and Shoveller have been seen often. We’ve also had a Fox reported, plus a couple of Water Vole sightings!
Whooper Swan in flight (Photo Credit: Stuart Fox)
The highlight of the month must be the Whooper Swan first seen on 17th and again on 18th which is a nice sighting for the reserve.
Thank you to all those who have visited Rye Meads this year. We look forward to seeing you back in 2020 to start those new year lists!
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Just a reminder that we will be closed from 24 December but open again on New Years day ready to start the year off.