The wildlife on view for everyone around the reserve can be easily located on the ‘what’s here today?’ board found as soon as you come into the reserve visitor’s centre on the left as you enter through the main doors. Throughout the day it is updated with wildlife you have a chance to see during the day. The picture below is the view from the wildlife watchpoint hide, with a little egret in the foliage.
Today the birds you could see include the kestrel and marsh harrier both seen at the Phil Stead hide. At the Haverton hole gate this morning a green sandpiper and by mid-day near to the Saltholme pools hide a Ruff was sighted, at the same time two pintails which were visible from the hide ( going through moult) Little ringed plover, Dunlin and greenshank as well. Around the reserve you will see lots of mute swans as the families gather to feed and socialise at this time of the year.
With all the recent sunshine the dragonflies and damselflies are spotted along the dragonfly path (which is on the way to the Saltholme pools hide.) A brown hawker dragonfly, southern hawker dragonfly, common darter, emerald damsel and emperor dragonfly.
Every time you pass the visitors centre during the day, if you go to check the board near the main entrance, you might find a new sighting to look for.
-Josh McGowan