Return migration often begins mid to late June and is most evident at this time with our wading birds. At Vange Marsh yesterday five spotted redshanks in their stunning full black summer plumage were present along with seven redshank, one greenshank and three green sandpipers. The first returning wading birds are almost always non-breeders, with failed breeders arriving in July and early August, with most birds passing through late August and September. Also seen were 13 lapwings, 27 avocet, 137 coots, 13 teal and still two wigeon. From the reed beds a cetti's warbler and four reed buntings were seen. At Wat Tyler Country Park the male cuckoo is still singing, our two cygnets are growing well and being well protected by their parents. We are still not sure how many kestrel chicks there are, but the male is providing a regular supply of food. Around the ponds the scarce emerald damselflies are now on the wing, along with both four-spotted and broad-bodied chasers. From the RSPB visitor centre up to three jays are regularly coming to the feeding area in the wildlife garden.
The next dusk walk at Wat Tyler is on Tuesday 22 June, starting at 8.30 pm, places are filling fast so call 01268 498620 to book your place. On last weeks dusk walk a barn owl was seen hunting from the marina!