The end of August/beginning of September is the prime time for finding spotted flycatchers as they stop off to feed on their long journey south. Spotted flycatchers have declined by over 50% during the last 25 years and is now a species of serious conservation concern and as such is red listed. Spotted flycatchers were regular breeders in south Essex, but sadly not any more, they are now becoming a passage migrant here.
One was seen and photographed on West Canvey Marsh towards the end of August and another was found on Vange Marsh yesterday.
Spotted flycatcher at West Canvey Marsh by Dave Blackwell
Also on Vange Marsh yesterday were two juvenile curlew sandpipers along with six spotted redshanks, two greenshanks up to six ruff and one immature spoonbill is still present. A hobby also put on a fantastic hunting display over the marsh at lunchtime yesterday. Chasing and catching dragonflys over the marsh and then devouring them in flight, superb, unless of course you are a dragonfly!
Events This Week
Saturday 4th September: Late Summer on the Marsh walk at RSPB West Canvey Marsh 10am – 12noon.Join our monthly walk around the reserve and see how we are creating a place for wildlife and for people too. Guided walks cost £3.00 for adults and £1.50 for children. RSPB members and RSPB Wildlife Explorers receive £1 discount. Booking essential, call 01268 498627.
Monday 6th September: Healthy Living Walk at Wat Tyler Country Park 12.30.Come for a brisk 30-minute walk around Wat Tyler Country Park on a regular basis to improve your fitness in peaceful surroundings. Free event, no need to book.
Tuesday 7th September: Arrivals and Departures walk at RSPB Wallasea Island 10am – 12noon.Another chance to say goodbye to our summer visitors and look out for birds that are on passage to other parts of the world – who knows what we might see! Guided walks cost £3.00 for adults and £1.50 for children. RSPB members and RSPB Wildlife Explorers receive £1 discount. Booking essential, call 01268 498627.
Wednesday 8th September: Little Owl Club at Wat Tyler Country Park 10.00am – 12noon.Come along for some outdoor fun and activities aimed at the under 5s. Free event, no need to book.
Thursday 9th September: Thursday Wildlife walk at Wat Tyler Country Park 10.30am – 12.30pm.Come for a FREE guided walk each Thursday around Wat Tyler Country Park, discover the wildlife of the park and see the changes that each season brings. Free event, no need to book.
Saturday 11th September: Bat talk and walk at Wat Tyler Country Park 7pm – 9pm.Come along and discover the secret world of bats with our resident bat enthusiast Leila Peacock. Booking essential, call 01268 498627.