The Squacco Heron came back on Saturday and fled the unwelcome attentions of a Lesser Black-backed Gull. It moved to Haverton Hole before leaving altogether. There is now some debate as to whether it is the Squacco that turned up in Lincolnshire.
The Squacco Heron takes flight. Photograph taken by Ian Forrest.
While the poor spring seems to have had a disastrous effect on Four-spotted Chaser Dragonflies, there are now numerous Black-tailed Skimmers around. As this species is a colonist of new water bodies, they like to bask on bare ground. Look for them along the reserve paths. They will get up as you approach but settle down again a little further along.
A White-winged Black Tern arrived on Monday and was still here on Wednesday. One of the Marsh Terns, they catch insects above the water and have a 'fluttery' flight.
We currently have two Wood Sandpipers at Dorman's Pool and a Mediterranean Gull at Saltholme. Also at Saltholme is a family of Yellow Wagtail which can be seen from Saltholme Hide, with two juveniles being fed by the parents.
Yellow Wagtail by Ian Forrest.