Titchwell Marsh

Plovers in Peril: Nesting season has arrived for beach nesting birds. Let's make it their best season yet!

2023-04-04T10:04:00Z

The passionate team of volunteers delivering ‘Plovers in Peril’ are full of hope that 2023 will be another successful year for a very special beach nesting bird in decline.

Image: Les Bunyan (taken with a telephoto lens to avoid disturbance to the birds)

This RSPB led project in partnership with Wild Ken Hill and funded by the Borough Council of Kings Lynn and West Norfolk, is helping vulnerable birds like ringed plover and oystercatcher to raise their tiny families safely on a small stretch of beach from Snettisham to Heacham in North-West Norfolk. With the support of the local community and the dedication of local volunteers, the elated team saw the numbers of chicks taking to the skies in 2022 almost double that of the previous year.

It was heartening to see so many local people coming forward last year with words of support and offering their valued time to giving nesting birds here the extra protection they so desperately need. It has given this small but special bird a much- needed voice and shines a light on what we can achieve for nature when we work together. Nesting on the ground, on one of Norfolk’s most popular beaches comes with many challenges for these birds and it’s not easy on our nerves either! They need a little TLC from those who visit these beaches to keep them thriving here for years to come.

If the support of our local communities can double the number of chicks fledging here at this site in just one year, it gives us hope for what can be achieved in the months and years ahead!

The 2023 season is already in full swing for these small shorebirds, with breeding pairs displaying over their nesting grounds on the upper shore as early as February. Fencing has been going up on site through March, and the team have their fingers crossed for the first eggs to appear on these beaches very soon!

Image: Phill Gwilliam (taken with a telephoto lens to avoid disturbance to the birds)

Dedicated volunteers are at the heart of this project, committing their time to help these declining birds find their footing in a modern world as they navigate threats from land, air and sea.

Image: RSPB

One volunteer tells us “These birds put so much effort into breeding, despite the crowded beaches, changing weather and rising seas. I can't but help admire their stoic determination to succeed, despite all the hardships thrown at them”. Another volunteer adds “There are many obstacles to overcome if they are to be successful here, and this is where we can help.”

Volunteers are out on the beaches through the season, speaking to beach goers, helping them to spot these secretive birds and their tiny families and inspiring visitors to take a few small actions that make a big difference to beach nesting birds at their most vulnerable time of year.

Image: RSPB

So, as we step into spring, having put our clocks forward in readiness for the longer, lighter summer days ahead and start dreaming of beach adventures to come, what can we do to help beach nesting birds thrive on our coasts over the spring and summer months?

Ringed Plover Project Officer Wynona Legg shares some small things that make a big difference for beach nesting birds during nesting season.

Read signage on arrival and during your visit to find out about restrictions and key information.
Keep dogs on leads when requested at nesting sites (from March – End of August) to protect parent birds, their eggs and flightless chicks.
Keep your distance from fenced areas to keep nesting birds safe while they keep eggs and chicks warm.

Be an advocate for beach nesting birds! By helping to raise awareness of beach nesting birds in your everyday conversations. They need our support now more than ever.
Volunteer with us! As the project prepares for the start of another nesting season, the team welcomes support through the season from those local to the site who may have a few hours to spare and who might be keen to help give beach nesting birds a voice at this important site. So if you’re inspired about joining the team can click on this link to find out more and how to apply.

Join the conversation by reading our community blog at rspb.org.uk/Snettisham or by following @RSPBTitchwell on Facebook or Twitter, Tagging #PloversinPeril.

Get in touch! Email titchwell@rspb.org.uk to find out more about the project.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for all your support for these special birds.

See you on the beach!

The Plovers in Peril team

#PloversinPeril #SnettishamBeach #RSPBSnettisham

Titchwell’s March Sightings 2023

2023-03-28T13:59:00Z

Spring has definitely arrived at Titchwell Marsh, so it's time to restart our sightings blog, written by our Membership Development Officer, Sue Bryan.

Just a quick bit of housekeeping, we're spending more time out on the reserve with habitat management so this blog will be monthly. For much more up-to-date sightings, you can see a picture of our latest board here: twitter.com/RSPBTitchwell

March is always an exciting month for birdwatchers as winter begins to loosen its grip and spring slowly emerges, bringing with it a few early migrants as the month progresses. However, this year March has been cold with a predominance of northerly winds, affecting migration and slowing the arrival of our summer migrants that stay and breed at Titchwell. Some winter birds have lingered which has pleased our visitors as some unusual birds have been sighted.

Car park, Visitor Centre, woodland

It was a quieter year for brambling this year with only a few seen intermittently throughout the month around the Visitor Centre and Welcome Hub. Siskin sightings had also decreased with a maximum of 10 seen in the Alder trees. A pair of great spotted woodpeckers and a grey wagtail were seen in flight on the 8th and 13th respectively. A green woodpecker and a blackcap were added to the sightings on 23rd. Other flyovers included 2 barnacle geese on 23rd.

Reedbed

Often very difficult to see, a bittern was heard to boom on 2nd enlivening our hopes of it finding a mate and breeding. Unusually within the reedbed a female goosander was spotted on the 20th and 6 marsh harriers emerged from the roost on 20th. The marsh harrier roost count has been much lower this winter but as the month progresses numbers would be expected to drop as the harriers set up territories to breed. Disappointingly, sightings of bearded tits have been low as the cold windy weather is not to their liking.

Freshmarsh

Always a popular sighting, a water pipit (picture above, Phill Gwilliam) graced the Freshmarsh on 2nd; it seemed to like the freshly cut reed area along the edge of the Parrinder bank. It was good to see 40 curlew on the Freshmarsh on 4th as this fast-declining species is a now a cause for concern. Avocet numbers are beginning to rise and 42 were counted on 8th. Mediterranean gulls started to arrive at the beginning of the month with over 100 into roost on 22nd and common gull numbers rose to 40 on 10th. A lone goldeneye was a pleasure to see on the Freshmarsh as well as a surprise visit by a female red-crested pochard on 18th. One of the delights of spring is to watch courtship displays as this is an indication that spring is indeed on its way. As one of our key birds, ringed plovers were watched displaying on 7th. Ruff numbers continued to build with 6 counted along with 10 grey plover.

(Picture: Whooper Swan, Lance Fisher).

With winter on the wane, flyover redwing were noted flying over the Freshmarsh heading northwards towards their breeding grounds in Scandinavia as well as a northward heading whooper swan that spent some time with us.

At last spring migrants started to arrive with a Sandwich tern noted on the 20th, house martin on 23rd , 3 little ringed plover on 28th ,common sandpiper on 28th, a fly-by cattle egret on 28th and 8 spoonbills coming into breeding plumage and using this to their advantage in a courtship display. Will they stay and breed? Let’s hope so!

Beach and sea

Sea watching was poor this month with the strong northerly winds making life difficult for the ardent sea-watchers. Numbers of birds seen was also very low with a great northern diver seen on 9th along with long-tailed duck that was seen to fly by, disappointing many who hoped it would stay to be added to their year lists. This was also true of a black-necked grebe and a red-necked grebe that flew by on 20th.

Picture below: Ringed Plover, Cliff Gilbert.

Tidal Pool

The first little ringed plover of the year arrived on 14th but quickly moved on, as did a merlin that flew over.

Picture below: Little Ringed Plover, Tony Gray. Note the distinct eye ring.

Meadow Trail

A merlin flew over on 19th followed by a sand martin on 28th.

Fen Trail

A brief respite in the weather meant that 4 chiffchaff sang along the Fen Trail delighting many visitors that reported them to the Welcome Hub.

East Bank

One of the benefits of a being a warden is that whilst working hard on conservation, sometimes birds are flushed unintentionally, and this was true on 24th as a woodcock was sighted at East Bank.

Willow Wood

An interesting sighting during the month was a pair of red kites displaying over Willow Wood during the month.

Picture below: Barn Owl, Phill Gwilliam

Grazing Meadow/Marsh

A few winter-lingering geese were on show on the grazing meadow. Amongst the 110 pink-footed geese were 5 tundra bean geese, a nice surprise for the finder. The grazing marsh was also host to 8 stonechat on 3rd. Even working in the office doesn’t prevent the team from watching 2 barn owls from the office window on several dates during the month over the grazing marsh!

Thornham Point

A late Hen Harrier was seen at Thornham Point which then flew over Choseley Road that a member of staff saw whilst driving to work on 28th.

Other wildlife

226 Scarlet Elf Cups were counted along the entrance path which brightened up many visitors’ day (Picture, left: Lucy Ferrer).

International Women's Day 2023

2023-03-05T14:04:00Z

Hello there,

On #InternationalWomensDay we’re celebrating the women in our team.

The RSPB was founded by women, yet it wasn’t that long ago women wouldn’t have been considered for the some of the roles we have now.

Today, we’d like you to get to know a bit more about some of the women who are part of our devoted team of staff and volunteers, taking care of and welcoming people to the special nature reserves at RSPB Snettisham and RSPB Titchwell Marsh.

Hayley, Senior Sites Manager

First up it’s me! I’m Hayley, the Senior Sites Manager looking after our portfolio of nature reserves in North West Norfolk. I’m a qualified and experienced project manager and I head up our team with kindness, energy, tenacity and a huge love for the Norfolk Coast, its wildlife and its people.

Lucy, Visitor Operations Manager

This is Lucy. Lucy is our Visitor Operations Manager. With an MSc in Wildlife Biology and Conservation, Lucy brings her knowledge and passion for wildlife and her previous commercial experience together ensuring the reserves are great places for people to connect with wildlife and have a fantastic visit.

Louisa, Assistant Warden

Here’s Louisa, our Assistant Warden. After university Louisa volunteered for the RSPB as a residential conservation volunteer at both Old Hall Marshes and RSPB Titchwell. Louisa grew up locally and is an incredible ambassador for women in practical conservation roles.

Clare, Food & Beverage Manager

Clare next, our Food & Beverage Manager and resident bird whisperer! Clare makes some of the best cakes in the world, performs miracles in our tiny kitchen and can be relied upon to write hilarious poems for any occasion.

Wynona, Ringed Plover Project Officer cutting a cake made by Clare

Now on to the great plover lover, Wynona, our Ringed Plover Project Officer who manages the fantastic Plovers in Peril project. Wynona is an experienced conservationist, fantastic communicator, and gifted artist who brings her sparkling energy and relentless enthusiasm to every challenge thrown us as part of the important Plovers in Peril project.

Sally, Retail Manager

Our Retail Manager, Sally next. A lifelong birdwatcher, long distance walker, Lego builder and the best listener, Sally combines a love for wildlife with her concern for people. We’re proud that, under Sally’s care, the shop RSPB Titchwell provide first class customer service.

Carrie, Visitor Experience Manager

Here’s Carrie, our Visitor Experience Manager. Carrie is a passionate environmentalist and creative spark. Leading on our events and communications Carrie ensures visitors have the best experience possible across RSPB Titchwell and RSPB Snettisham.

Sue, Membership Development Officer

Sue is next. Sue’s job is to welcome visitors to RSPB Titchwell. Sue is an ex-teacher, expert birder and butterfly enthusiast. Sue is passionate about nature conservation and has a remarkable gift for enthusing people about the role we all play in caring for the natural world.

Nic, Facilities Manager

Here’s Nic. Nic is our Facilities Manager. Without Nic NOTHING would work. She keeps the toilets flushing, the bills paid, the emails answered and the buildings maintained. With her love for the beauty of nature she’s our unflappable problem solver and order creator.

Trish, Cleaner

This is Trish. Trish is one of our incredible cleaners and, as our visitors say, "What a credit to the reserve." Trish is skilled at juggling many demands, presents our facilities to a high standard and literally gets her hands dirty every day. Trish is incredibly committed to her family, is an admirable advocate for children with special needs and is very excited to be a proud nanny later this year.

Freya, Centre Assistant

Freya is one of our Centre Assistants, our youngest staff member and a skilful climber. Freya’s turns her hand to many things from welcoming visitors, advising on binoculars, to making RSPB Titchwell’s famous scones.

Glyn, Volunteer Retail Assistant

This is Glyn, one of our retail volunteers. Glyn has been visiting RSPB Titchwell for more than 35 years! Glyn brings first class customer service to the shop, is a keen runner, ballet dancer and LOVES being part of the community in this corner of the world.

Aimee, Food & Beverage Assistant

Here’s Aimee. Aimee is one of our Food & Beverage Assistants, budding photographer, sustainable transport advocate and cappuccino barista extraordinaire. Aimee is brilliantly funny, has a super sharp wit and always has a story to tell!

Elizabeth, Residential Conservation Volunteer

Elizabeth is our residential Conservation Volunteer. She’ll be leaving us soon to work for the RSPB in Cumbria. With her scientific and analytical mind, and excellent practical skills Elizabeth is a remarkable ambassador for women in conservation. We’ll miss her enormously.

Julie, Volunteer

Last, but never least, here’s Julie. Julie is one of our moth experts, Roving Ranger and guide. Her passion for wildlife began in the Young Ornithologists’ Club. Julie brings a wealth of knowledge and is incredibly skilled at helping visitors to get the most out of their visit from showcasing the huge array of moths to helping visitors see as many species as possible in a 3 hour session.

If you’ve enjoyed reading about the team and fancy joining us, check out our volunteering opportunities https://volunteer.rspb.org.uk, or get in touch at: titchwell@rspb.org.uk.

We’d be very glad to hear from you.

All the best,

Hayley, Senior Sites Manager North West Norfolk reserves.

Plovers in Peril: Volunteers needed to protect beach nesting birds in Norfolk

2023-02-10T14:17:00Z

A call for beach ranger volunteers for the 2023 season!

The beaches still feel rather chilly on the Norfolk coast, with bubbling calls of wintering waders and skeins of geese still enthralling us and holding our gaze. Very soon though, our beach walks will echo with the chimes of a new tune as other birds start to make their voices heard across our landscapes. Amongst them, my favourite call of all, a soft, rhythmic “toodle-toodle-toodle” will be wending through the air as the charismatic ringed plover start to arrive from their wintering grounds and look to partner up for the season.

It’s early days yet but with some of the richest feeding on offer, the ringed plover can’t waste any time getting back to business in preparation for the months ahead. If they make good choices now and bag themselves a loyal mate and a top territory, the summer ahead may be just that little kinder when the drama of a busy beach begins to unfold.

For now, we are embracing the stillness as nature starts to wake up from the grips of winter but our minds too are on the months ahead and how we can help give these birds the best start to 2023 and perhaps even a breeding season to rival the last!

To do this we need some help.

Ringed plover with chick, South Heacham Beach. Image: Phill Gwilliam.

We are looking for volunteer beach rangers for the upcoming season to help protect, monitor and spread the word about vulnerable beach nesting birds which breed on the sand and shingle beaches between Snettisham and Heacham in Norfolk.

Beach nesting birds like ringed plover and oystercatcher are struggling to find safe places to raise their families on the Norfolk coast for reasons that include a significant rise in visitors to coastal places, habitat loss and sea level rise. In 2021, RSPB launched Plovers in Peril – a partnership project with Wild Ken Hill to halt (and with hope, reverse) the worrying declines we have been seeing in the beach nesting birds breeding on a stretch of beach between Snettisham and Heacham. The project has received vital funding from the Borough Council of King’s Lynn and West Norfolk’s Habitats Monitoring and Mitigation fund to continue this work until 2026 and as beaches become busier, these birds are going to need our help!

What will I be doing?

You will be a friendly face on the beach, chatting with visitors and nurturing support for beach nesting birds.
You will be our eyes and ears, helping us to monitor the birds, limiting disturbance to their nests and assisting with site tasks.
You will help us to gather data that will deepen our understanding of the needs of both people and wildlife, to ensure both can continue to share this special place for years to come.
You will have opportunities to support us with or lead small project events and contribute directly to project campaigns in any way you feel you can – giving a stronger voice to beach nesting birds.

What skills will I need?

This role will require some key general skills, but a full induction, training and on-going support will be provided.

We would love to hear from you if:

You have an infectious enthusiasm for nature and the ability to communicate efficiently with people from all walks of life with differing knowledge and interest.
You are approachable, an active listener and you take a calm and curious approach to addressing opposing viewpoints if they arise - your feathers aren’t easily ruffled!
You will need to be able to walk reasonable distances on sand and shingle and be happy to work outdoors in all weather conditions.
Bird identification and monitoring skills are not essential as full training will be provided but an interest in nature, good observation skills and a keenness to learn is important.
You are happy to record information using simple forms (training is provided).
You are happy to work alone, as a pair or as part of a small team.

Your support will help to:

Provide better on-site protection for vulnerable beach nesting bird species facing global declines.
Foster a greater awareness of beach nesting birds and the threats they face that will empower all those who explore the Norfolk coast to take positive action - locally and beyond!
Bring together a community of people are creating change and inspiring action to protect Norfolk’s special wildlife and give them a more secure future.

Why should you volunteer with us?

Be part of an important species conservation project and make a real difference to a globally declining species.
Meet people from all walks of life and connect with your local community.
Develop your engagement skills and empower positive action for local wildlife.
Fine tune your identification skills for coastal birds and wildlife.
Develop bird monitoring skills and play an important role in gathering vital data.
Be a voice for beach nesting birds by contributing to project communications and campaigns.
Deepen your connection with the special places on your doorstep and the incredible wildlife we share these with.
Make friends & become part of a supportive team of like-minded people who share the vision that wildlife can thrive alongside us.

This role can at times be a challenging one where the threats facing beach nesting birds can be hard-hitting, but being part of the change they need can also be incredibly rewarding and this role offers the opportunity to make a real impact for nature and the environment from within a supportive team.

Volunteers Phil and Anne looking for new nests. Image Wynona Legg.

As a Species Protection Volunteer you will be contributing to our Saving Nature work programme, so we are able to better protect these key species and their habitats long into the future. We like to think we're a friendly and welcoming team, so you'll have the opportunity to make new friends too.

Here's what a few of our volunteers said when asked what they most valued about volunteering with #PloversinPeril:

“It felt good to give up a little time to help nature to do it's thing in the face of so many challenges”

“Seeing the sheer determination of these small birds try to breed successfully on these beaches; & meeting those people willing them to do so.”

And their advice:

“Give it a go! You’ll be part of a fab band of ordinary folks taking positive action for nature”

How to apply

If you think this opportunity might work for you and you are able to spare some time this spring and summer (from 1^st April – 31^st August as a rough guide), then click here or email wynona.legg@rspb.org.uk to find out more.

We look forward to hearing from you!

The Plovers in Peril team

Plovers in Peril is a partnership project between RSPB & Wild Ken Hill and has been generously funded by The Borough Council of Kings Lynn & West Norfolk through their Habitats Monitoring and Mitigation Fund. We have also received generous funding from Natural England to make this work possible.

#PloversinPeril #SnettishamBeach #RSPBSnettisham

Wetland restoration

2023-02-03T15:54:00Z

Watching footage of vast swathes of trees being demolished by bulldozers or decimated by fire is without doubt a worrying sight. And while deforestation and the demise of woodland habitats is often headline news, the loss of wetland sites is sliding under the public radar. Would it surprise you to know that wetlands are disappearing three times faster than woodlands? And it is a trend that’s not slowing down; in fact, it is accelerating. This makes wetlands the most threatened habitats on the planet.

Wetlands such as Titchwell and Snettisham support a variety of wildlife including migratory waterbirds. Many birds are wetland dependent, using these environments for breeding, nesting, raising their young and social interaction. These important areas provide food in the form of plants, vertebrates and invertebrates. Species such as knot, hunt for food in the substrate. Goldeneye and pochard dive far beneath the surface of the water in search of small fish, insects and aquatic plants. Mallard, teal and other dabbling ducks feed on the water’s surface. Herons and bitterns feed on the small fish and eels that use the surrounding watercourses to swim between landscapes.

In addition to being vital habitats for birds, wetlands are an ally in the fight against climate change. Larger regions act as natural sponges, absorbing rainfall and reducing flooding and coastal salt marshes provide resilience against tidal surges.

Despite everything wetlands do for us, more and more continue to be lost, along with the wildlife they are home to. UK ecologists estimate that only 10 per cent of our ancient wetlands still survive. However, it’s not too late to respond to threats from drainage, chemical pollution and waste. We can all use water more sparingly, avoid using toxic products that might enter our watercourses and refrain from dumping waste in wetland habitats.

Many conservation organisations are working not only to protect local wetlands but to restore degraded ones. Advocacy and bold decisions are needed at national and local levels if we are to save these stressed, but hard-working ecosystems. Ventures such as the Hanson-RSPB Wetland Project and Titchwell’s Fresh Water Habitats project, are providing innovative and inspiring solutions for threatened wetland regions.

If you’d like to know how you can support wetland conservation, please go to www.rspb.org.uk

Titchwell Reserve Update - January 2023

2023-01-10T16:29:00Z

Hi everyone

It’s been a while! We have a lot to catch you up on with what has been happening on our reserves. First things first, there have been a few staff changes in the last few months – Lizzie the warden has gone on secondment for a year (until November – a see you later rather than goodbye!) to manage some beach-nesting bird projects with Life on the Edge. In the meantime, I have been appointed to warden to cover while Lizzie is away (I’m braced for many chats about water levels!) and I am loving it so far. Finally, we are delighted that our residential volunteer Louisa Claxton has been appointed as our new assistant warden. We also have Elizabeth working with us as our new(ish!) residential volunteer.

Elizabeth and Louisa – say hello if you see them out on the reserve (Louisa Claxton)

So, what have we been up to? It’s been all go for the reserve team this winter, between planning for upcoming work, to ploughing through the winter work program of habitat management to help ready the reserve for the spring and the beginning of the rapidly approaching breeding season.

Woodland coppicing

Those who have visited the reserve recently will have seen that we have completed a new section of woodland coppicing on Meadow Trail. This is part of our ten-year rotational plan for the woodland, which involves cutting back small sections of the woodland each year in order to end up with a woodland that is full of areas of different ages and structure. This helps provide a wider range of woodland habitat, both for nesting and feeding, as well as allowing better views into the woodland. In previous years, come springtime the recently coppiced areas have been real hotspots for passing migrants, including pied flycatchers, willow warblers and redstarts as they take advantage of the open glades that we have created. So keep your eyes out!

New woodland coppice – excited for springtime! (Ryan Doggart)

Reedbed cutting

We have had the Truxor (incredible amphibious reed cutter!) in for a week in December, to keep the channels clear in the reedbed. We also had them cut several new areas, most excitingly a large section in the south-west corner of the reedbed, which has opened up some amazing views into some of the newly created pools from the Freshwater Habitats Project. Since this work has taken place, up to two bitterns have been seen using those new pools – including two seen ice-skating during the recent cold snap, what a treat that would have been to see!

Bittern in the reedbed (Ryan Doggart)

Scrub removal

To go alongside the recent Truxor cutting in the south-west reedbed, the reserve team has been in removing several large clumps of willow growing along the banks through the area. Not only does this help keep the reedbed healthy (willows are very thirsty and if left unchecked can completely dry out areas of reedbeds), it has also opened up the views even more. We have not removed every single willow, as they do provide important habitat for species like Cetti’s warbler, sedge warbler and water vole – As in life, everything in moderation.

Cutting fresh marsh islands

This week we have begun cutting the new islands on fresh marsh, to ensure there is plenty of bare ground for our breeding ground-nesting birds including avocet, common tern and black-headed gulls.

Hope to see you out on the reserve soon!

Cheers

Ryan

Warden – NW Norfolk Reserves

Spoonbill breeding habitat creation at RSPB Titchwell Marsh

2022-10-27T08:42:00Z

Between November and August we are trialling a wildlife only zone on the east trail, past Pasty’s Reedbed Screen.

What does this mean?

This means between November to August the east trail past Patsy’s Screen will be closed to visitors. We will open this trail as part of the autumn trail between August and October.

Why?

Our aim is to establish a new heronry in Willow Wood which in time, we hope will encourage spoonbills to nest as well.

Willow wood is already a successful roosting site for up to 100 little egrets in the winter months.

Little egret pre roost at RSPB Titchwell Marsh, Phill Gwilliam

Currently as spring approaches grey herons and little egrets are not staying here to nest. We think one of the reasons for this could be disturbance caused by people walking along the east trail while the birds are prospecting in late winter/early spring and throughout the breeding season.

Birds such as grey herons, little egrets and spoonbills can be disturbed by people closer than 250m away, particularly when they are breeding.

Why do you need to close the path as early as November? Couldn’t you leave it later than that?

Grey herons and little egrets will start to prospect for a suitable breeding site in late winter. We also hope to persuade the birds that roost with us over the winter months to stay to breed, so we need to give them as much time as possible without disturbance so that they consider Titchwell a safe place to nest.

Why is it ok to open East and Autumn trail between 1 August and 31 October?

We know how much our visitors value being able to access this part of the reserve to be able to view wildlife from different locations. This time of year the birds will have finished breeding, but are not yet congregating is big numbers to roost. This is therefore the least sensitive time for the birds and the best time of year for visitors to be able to access this part of the reserve.

Why do you want to encourage spoonbills here?

Spoonbills were extinct as a breeding species in the UK for hundreds of years, with the last recorded nest in Trimley, Suffolk in 1668. In 2010 spooonbills established a colony at Holkham, and are gradually forming colonies at other sites in the UK.

Almost 500 birds have now fledged from Holkham (7.2 miles away from Titchwell, as the spoonbill flies!) and, as they are still considered a rare bird, we are keen to ensure the habitat is available to them in north Norfolk to continue to increase their numbers.

What is the spoonbills conservation status?

Adult breeding spoonbill, Phill Gwilliam

The species is of European conservation concern and a very rare breeding bird in the UK. They are listed on Schedule 1 of The Wildlife and Countryside Act.

How long will it take for the herons to colonise?

We hope that the birds will show interest in the area in the next year or two. It is likely to take a few years to develop into a successful heronry.

What if the herons aren’t interested after a couple of years?

We’d have to assume something else is not right for them here and we’d continue to work with our ecologists to understand why this might be.

As part of the recent habitat enhancement works in 2021/22 we have already started planting some of the islands in the reedbed with hawthorn, willow and some oaks to provide further habitat - so if Willow Wood doesn’t work, this area could.

How long for the spoonbills to arrive?

Other sites have shown spoonbills can start to show interest in a site soon after herons have established, but this is not an exact science, so we will have to keep our fingers crossed and binoculars at the ready

Will this work benefit any other species?

There is a chance that other colonists such as glossy ibis could nest here in future years, but as a starter we would be very happy to see egrets and herons and spoonbills nesting at Titchwell for the first time.

How will you know if closing the path during these months is effective?

We will continue to survey the little egret roost and monitor the birds’ behaviour. This should tell us if the path closure and platforms, fake nests and decoy birds are having a positive impact.

I’ve seen staff and volunteers in this area, won’t they cause disturbance?

Staff and volunteers will only be in this area if they absolutely must be, for example for habitat management or to carry out surveys. The way in which we carry out any work will be carefully considered before starting.

Where there are schedule 1 nesting species staff and volunteers will have the appropriate disturbance licences in place.

If this trial proves successful, will you always need to close this path between November and August?

Yes, if the herons and then spoonbills breed here, to protect them, we will need keep this area closed between November to August. If this is the case, we’d be looking to create much better viewing infrastructure to the east of the reserve.

So you’d build a new hide so we can view the heronry/nesting spoonbills?

Subject to all the usual caveats (e.g. planning, cost, our neighbours’ views) our intention would be to get you closer to nature.

Where has this been done successfully before?

Havergate Island has successfully attracted Spoonbills in to breed using nest platforms and decoys, and this has also been successful at sites in continental Europe.

How can I support this project?

By keeping out of the areas marked.
Reporting your sightings via: https://www.bto.org/our-science/projects/birdtrack
Joining us as a volunteer. We’re always on the lookout for passionate volunteers to inspire visitors.
Joining us a member: https://www.rspb.org.uk/join-and-donate

I have more questions, how do I get in touch?

Drop us an email at: titchwell@rspb.org.uk or give us a call on: 01485 211970

Plovers in Peril: A small story of big bravery.

2022-10-25T19:00:00Z

We are in awe of a family of ringed plover who have defied the odds this season after hatching three chicks from a nest located within feet of a wildfire. The parent birds bravely protected their eggs from the fire and a myriad of other challenges imposed by a busy beach full of visitors and hungry predators. Two of the hatched chicks made it to fledging and we were delighted to see these little miracles take to the skies this August!

The ringed plovers and oystercatchers breeding on the beach at Snettisham and Heacham are monitored and protected by staff and volunteers as part of Plovers in Peril, a project that is being delivered in partnership with Wild Ken Hill and aims to secure a safe future for these two globally declining species.

A fire that affected a small area of Wild Ken Hill close to the beach on the 19^thof July during the hottest day on record in the UK included damage to habitat at the edge of the beach, just feet away from where vulnerable beach nesting birds were incubating their eggs on the sand and shingle.

A ringed plover nest. Image credit Les Bunyan. Taken with a telephoto lens.

Ringed plovers lay their eggs on the exposed upper beach from April through to August. At the time of the fire in late July, most of these vulnerable birds’ eggs had hatched and small chicks were mobile enough to move down to safety of the shoreline. One pair of ringed plover however were still incubating their three precious eggs as the fire raged behind them!

When we returned the following morning to check on them, we were amazed to find the adult bird still sitting on the eggs. We recovered the nest camera in place to monitor the nest and returned to the desk to check the footage.

We were stunned to see the adult ringed plover sitting stoically on its nest as black smoke billowed behind and flames crackled on the camera’s audio. You could see vegetation wilting in front of the camera as the flames scorched the vegetation, but the bird stayed put – determined to protect the precious eggs and only leaving the nest for a brief minute - returning as soon as the worst of it had passed. With the camera recording temperatures over 50 degrees, these birds would have been experiencing excruciating heat: to stay on that nest despite the enormous level of threat shows just how unbelievably committed these birds are.

RSPB trail camera footage showing the adult bird incubating amongst black smoke from the fire. Image credit RSPB. Trail cameras are used for vital monitoring of these nests.

RSPB trail camera footage showing the adult bird incubating the eggs after the fire. Image credit RSPB. Trail cameras are used for vital monitoring of these nests.

In early August, the team couldn’t believe their eyes when they sighted three newly emerged chicks zooming about the nest on the upper shore. Astonishingly, the chicks had hatched!

One of the young chicks after the fire. Image credit Phill Gwilliam. Taken using a telephoto lens to avoid disturbance.

The edge of the nesting site after the fire. Image credit RSPB.

Project staff and volunteers monitor these birds each day through the nesting season, observing nesting activity and following the stories of each bird as they try to raise their families on these beaches. These birds face many threats here with the usual day to day challenges coming largely from off-lead dogs and people entering fenced areas in addition to natural predators looking for an easy meal.

We watched as the chicks grew and navigated the dangers of their world between feeding, rest and play. With all the challenges they face, making it to the end of each day was always met with a huge sigh of relief for both the team and for those who checked in on the chicks’ progress during their daily beach walks.

The two chicks growing bigger and stronger! Image Phill Gwilliam. Taken with a telephoto lens to avoid disturbance.

It is a tough life for these birds and sadly one of the chicks didn’t make it to fledging, but with time, plenty of all important food and a lot of support from mindful visitors, two of these three chicks took flight for the first time at the end of August - just in time for fences to be removed! With hope, these two siblings will be well on their way to exploring new coasts and who knows we may see them return to these beaches next season to start a family of their own!

Almost there! One of the chick's stretching its wings. Image credit Phill Gwilliam. Taken with a telephoto lens to avoid disturbance.

Volunteer and project photographer Phill spoke about seeing the chicks for the first time: "It's always amazing and often emotional to watch and photograph new chicks but these three were even more special given that many of the Team doubted they would hatch. Right from the start they appeared confident and robust despite the circumstances, which is why they came to be fondly known to the team as the miracle chicks. It came as no real surprise to have two fledge."

Ringed plover are red-listed in the UK, having undergone severe declines in recent years due to an ever-growing range of threats. During breeding season, the birds, their eggs and flightless young are vulnerable to natural dangers like predators, tidal flooding and habitat change but conservationists warn that increased pressure from people is also having a big impact on the bird’s ability to raise young successfully. Add to that, a rapidly changing climate where the risk of wildfires is set to increase; without help, these birds are face an uncertain future.

The coastal park is known for its abundant wildlife and diverse habitat of dune, marsh and scrub with rare species such as turtle dove and many ground nesting bird species as well as other wildlife breeding on this important site.

Dominic Buscall, Project Manager at Wild Ken Hill, said “The fire was a shocking event in which much wildlife sadly perished. Even though the area is already recovering, it was heartening to hear this news from the RSPB. Thankfully the fire only affected a small part of the Wild Ken Hill project and we are still open for guided tours for the rest of the year”

We hope visitors will continue to support these birds: Their ability to adapt and survive in such a dynamic and increasingly challenging environment is extraordinary but not limitless – they need time to adapt to the new threats posed by people and planet. They have more than earned their place here – we have a duty to ensure they are present in our future.

If these birds teach us anything, it is that nature is resilient, but more than ever it needs us to notice it and to protect it with everything we have – because it is everything we have. We must do what we can to help nature adapt alongside us as we all balance ourselves in a rapidly changing world.

Find out how many other chicks made it this season and how you have helped make that happen, by checking out our last post. https://bit.ly/3W1nztn

Thank you to our funders

Plovers in Peril is a partnership project between RSPB & Wild Ken Hill and has been generously funded by The Borough Council of Kings Lynn & West Norfolk through their Habitats Monitoring and Mitigation Fund, without which we could not have taken on this vital project.

We have also received generous funding from Natural England to make this work possible.

Thank you for protecting beach nesting birds by supporting us in our work.

Follow us on our journey to protect these amazing birds. Join in the conversation on our Facebook and Twitter pages, share your stories and photos and help us speak out about how we can help vulnerable beach nesting species like the Ringed Plover. Remember to tag us: #PloversinPeril #RSPBSnettisham #WatchYourStep

Inspired by the ringed plovers story and want to help?

For more information about the Plovers in Peril project or to register your interest for volunteering in the 2023 season please contact snettisham@rspb.org.uk

Plovers in Peril: Your support this season has helped make 2022 a success for ringed plover on Snettisham and Heacham South beach!

2022-10-19T07:50:00Z

The support of local communities has given a vital boost to vulnerable beach nesting birds breeding on a stretch of coast from Snettisham to Heacham. With the help of mindful locals and visitors, 36 vulnerable ringed plover chicks have taken flight from these shores this year – almost double the number that fledged last year.

Almost there! A chick stretching its wings. Image credit Phill Gwilliam.

The RSPB led project ‘Plovers in Peril’, delivered in partnership with Wild Ken Hill, aims to halt the worrying declines in breeding numbers of ringed plover and oystercatcher on these two beaches by giving them much needed protection and raising awareness of their plight to visitors. The team of staff and volunteers working on the project want to extend a heartfelt thank you to the local community for supporting these birds by keeping dogs on leads and keeping a safe distance from fenced-off nesting areas during their most vulnerable time of year.

Generous funding from the Borough Council of King’s Lynn & West Norfolk as part of the Habitats Monitoring and Mitigation fund has enabled the project to continue protecting the vulnerable birds on these two busy beaches for another five years; and with local communities, mindful beach goers and a team of dedicated volunteers and staff all watching over them, 36 chicks have taken to the skies this season– that’s almost double last year’s total of 19! A fantastic result for the project after only its second season and a timely boost for a bird in Global decline.

Cllr Paul Kunes, Cabinet member for Environment and CO2 reduction at the borough council, said: “The work undertaken by the RSPB in Snettisham and Heacham, led by enthusiastic Project Officer, Wynona Legg, has protected many vulnerable birds. I’m pleased the borough council can support this through the Habitats Monitoring and Mitigation Fund.”

These two beaches are well loved by both local people and visitors from further afield who come to enjoy the wild open spaces, stunning scenery, and unique wildlife. For perhaps the most iconic feature of this coast – the birds who make their nests on the sand during our great British summer - the challenges appear to be endless (and with a changing climate, this list is set to grow further still).

A ringed plover on its nest on a busy summer beach day. Image credit Phill Gwilliam.

Despite the challenges facing them, these charismatic birds are remarkably tenacious- trying again and again when their eggs or chicks are lost too soon but these birds need the help of their communities if they are to thrive alongside us; and in this case, the support shown by the communities of Snettisham and Heacham has thrown these birds a real lifeline.

A ringed plover nest. Image credit Les Bunyan. (Image taken with a telescopic lens.)

Project Officer Wynona shared her thoughts about the support offered by the community: “We have received so many offers of help from people within our communities, moved by the plight of these birds living on their doorstep, that our volunteer team is always growing! These people are showing up for these birds every day of the week, rain or shine to chat with visitors, explain restrictions and build support for these birds in hope of securing them a brighter future. It is truly inspiring.”

It’s not just volunteers though, local organisations have been pledging their support for the project too and amongst others, the project team have enjoyed working alongside Snettisham Beach Sailing Club to raise awareness of beach nesting birds amongst sailors young and old.

Snettisham Beach Sailing Club shared their support for the project, saying "SBSC are passionate about working closely with the RSPB to help protect the nesting birds here. Our Junior sailors and families have enjoyed a tour of the nesting sites, seeing first-hand the impact we have on their survival and with this knowledge they have helped to design thank you signs to be displayed outside the sailing club. Building links through educating our next generation is paramount and we look forward to continue working with the RSPB!"

Thank you sign made by Snettisham Beach Sailing Club's junior members. Image credit Wynona Legg.

Project Officer Wynona echoes her heartfelt thanks to the community. “It has been moving to see so many people within the local community taking pride in the wildlife that makes this coast so special, taking action to help it thrive and actively inspiring others to do the same. It shows us just how much can be achieved when people pull together to be custodians for nature; and for beach nesting birds- it may just be the key to their success.”

Dominic Buscall, Project Manager at Wild Ken Hill said, “I’d like to join the RSPB in thanking local residents and visitors their help conserving these wonderful beach-nesting birds. By continuing to work together, we can ensure a better future for these species”

Whilst there is still a lot to do to ensure beach nesting birds have a future here, the success of this season brings hope for these iconic birds who love Snettisham and Heacham just as much as we do!

Ringed plover chick. Image credit Phill Gwilliam

Thank you for protecting beach nesting birds by supporting us in our work.

For more information about the Plovers in Peril project or to register your interest for volunteering in the 2023 season please contact snettisham@rspb.org.uk

Plovers in Peril: Working to keep local beaches a safe haven for people and wildlife

2022-09-15T11:16:00Z

The RSPB Plovers in Peril team were pleased to partner with the Borough Council of Kings Lynn and West Norfolk on Friday 2^nd September to run the projects first beach clean to mark the end of nesting season for vulnerable beach nesting birds and to raise awareness of their plight on Norfolk coasts.

It was inspiring to see so many new faces from the local community turn out alongside dedicated RSPB volunteers to support the project and to show their pride for keeping their local wild spaces clean and safe for wildlife. Just over 15 bags of rubbish were collected from the upper shore from Snettisham to Heacham South leaving the beach spotless in time for those autumn beach walks to watch the sunset over the Wash.

Cllr Terry Parish alongside some of the RSPB volunteers and members of the local community removing litter on the upper shore. Image credit: Phill Gwilliam

These beaches provide vital nesting habitat for two species of bird which make their modest nests on the ground in sand and shingle. Ringed plover and oystercatcher are suffering severe declines in recent years, intensified by visitor activity on coastal sites across the UK as they are easily disturbed, and their camouflaged eggs and flightless chicks are incredibly vulnerable to dangers. Litter picking activities though always well intentioned, can cause disturbance to nesting birds if carried out during peak nesting season - March to end of August so where possible it helps to support beach cleans organised outside of these times.

Fragile ringed plover eggs. Image credit Les Bunyan. Ringed plover chick. Image credit Phill Gwilliam.

With the chicks now safely airborne, the team were on site on 31^st August to remove seasonal fencing along with lifting the seasonal restrictions that have offered such vital protection to the birds, eggs and young through the season.

With the upper shore clear, the beach clean offered the perfect opportunity for the team to sweep the beach of any unwanted litter that had collected on the upper shore during the season. It is hoped that the event will be the first of a series of annual events organised by RSPB and partners to clean the upper shore before and after nesting season – limiting disturbance from litter picking activities organised at peak times when the birds are most vulnerable.

Beach clean well underway. Image credits Wynona Legg & Phill Gwilliam.

The RSPB want to thank borough councillor Terry Parish, chairman of the single use plastics working group (SUPWG) who was Instrumental to the organisation of this event.

Project Officer Wynona says, “We are so grateful for the support of our local councillors in raising awareness of the issues facing the wildlife and habitats on the Norfolk coast.”

“Seeing the collective power of people working together to save nature and protecting the places that mean so much to them makes me proud to be a part of this community. We all have our own stories to tell about these places close to our homes and the special wildlife that inhabits them. To see people choosing to be custodians of species that are struggling to hold on in this changing world gives me hope that people and wildlife can share the shores here side by side.”

Ringed plover with chick. Image credit Phill Gwilliam.

Cllr Terry Parish says “On behalf of the residents of Heacham, I would like to thank Wynona and her team of volunteers for their hard work and perseverance in doing something positive for nature on Heacham’s foreshore. It’s wonderful to work with the RSPB who aim to make things better for people and wildlife on our beaches. In the evening, after the litter pick, Wynona provided an excellent talk about ringed plovers which will be repeated in the Spring. I can thoroughly recommend this talk to any group interested in local wildlife and its environment. I thank Heacham Parish Council for providing the venue.”

The RSPB hope to work alongside the borough council again in March 2023 to give Snettisham and Heacham South beach a spring clean before the birds get busy building their unique nests once again. For now though, as wader numbers build and geese start to arrive, why not pause and connect with nature as the sights and sounds of the Wash transition from bustling breeding birds to winter waders and wildfowl filling the skies around us.

With thanks to the Borough Council of King's Lynn and West Norfolk and the Norfolk Coast Partnership for their generous funding and support and to our partners Wild Ken Hill who enable us to carry out our important work.

Thank you for protecting beach nesting birds by supporting us in our work.

Got a question or want to get in touch? Chat to us and have your say about the protection of these birds – your voice matters! Email Wynona.Legg@rspb.org.uk. We would love to hear from you

Titchwell's Recent Sightings - 8 September 2022

2022-09-08T10:56:00Z

This week one of regular visitors manage to record 96 species on their visit to the reserve!

Car park, visitor centre, woodland

The woodlands and willow scrub have been alive with chiffchaffs and blackcaps and the odd willow warbler. A careful search has revealed pied flycatchers on a couple of occasions, plus whitethroats and reed warblers.

Blackcap, Phill Gwilliam

Reedbed

The main highlight has been 2 cattle egrets that are roosting with the cormorants on the dead trees at night and can often be seen early in the morning as they leave the roost. Two great white egrets and several young grey herons are flapping around the reedbed often looking like they can’t fly.

Bearded tits were stealing the show on Monday, showing very well on the new predator fence at the end of the Autumn Trail.

Overhead there has been feeding flocks of house martins, swallows and the odd late swift.

Cattle egret, Phill Gwilliam

Freshmarsh

On the Freshmarsh the variety of waders continue, however the hobby, peregrine and sparrowhawk are stirring things up a bit.

All week there have been curlew sandpiper, dunlin, little stint, greenshanks, common sandpiper, and spotted redshanks in varying numbers. There has also been about 70 avocet, 200+ black-tailed godwit, 40+ ruff and 500+ golden plovers.

Wintering wildfowl numbers are increasing with 28 wigeon and 6 pintails on Freshmarsh along with an increase in teal numbers.

Up to 8 spoonbills have been on the Freshmarsh with similar numbers passing overhead.

Wigeon, Phill Gwilliam

Beach and sea

On the beach there is another selection of waders to scan through, mainly sanderling and bar-tailed godwits.

Down at Thornham Point, there has been up to 4 wheatear and a couple of whinchats, and an osprey has been seen on several occasions this week, mainly on the beach.

A black tern flew east, and an Arctic tern flew west on the 6 September. Also, on the sea there have been gannets, common scoters, sandwich tern and a steady passage of wigeon and teal.

Wheatear, Cliff Gilbert

Report your sightings

You can help us record the wildlife at Titchwell by:

Using Birdtrack for bird sightings: https://www.bto.org/our-science/projects/birdtrack

And iRecord for all other wildlife: irecord.co.uk

Titchwell's Recent Sightings - 2 September 2022

2022-09-02T15:21:00Z

It has been another varied week for sightings at RSPB Titchwell Marsh with action all over the reserve.

Car park, visitor centre and woodland

This week the car park has been alive with birds including willow warblers, chiffchaffs, treecreepers, and the odd lesser whitethroat. On the 28 August a little owl was heard calling in the car park, a scarce bird for the reserve. A common redstart was present on the 30 August and a pied flycatcher was around the visitor centre on the 1 September. Mistle thrust and siskins have been heard flying over the visitor centre and a coal tit has been seen on the feeders, a fairly uncommon bird for the reserve.

Common redstart, Cliff Gilbert

Reedbed

Within the reedbed the bittern has been seen more frequently this past week. A minimum of two great egrets are often seen feeding on the reedbed pool. At the weekend two cattle egrets first appeared on the Freshmarsh before roosting with the cormorants on the dead trees. The female garganey was present until 28 August.

Turtle doves sightings have increased with two birds seen on the tank road and flying over the east bank when along the Autumn Trail.

Above the reeds there have been large flocks of feeding house martins and swallows, building there energy supplies before they migrate southwards for the winter months.

Turtle dove, Cliff Gilbert

Freshmarsh

A large flock of 500+ golden plover has been a regular site this week on the Freshmarsh. On the 28 August there were 3 spotted redshank, 16 spoonbills and 2 cattle egrets with 6+ common sandpipers, a green sandpiper and a brent goose on the 29 August. A little stint and pintail were the highlights on the 31 August and on the 1 September 2 little stint dropped in to the Freshmarsh along with 4 wigeon.

Also present this week include 60+ avocets, 100+ black-tailed godwits, 20+ ringed plovers, redshanks, greenshank, lapwing, dunlin, snipe, turnstone and a wood sandpiper.

In the evening gull roost there are Yellow legged gulls and Caspian gulls.

Curlew sandpiper, Cliff Gilbert

Volunteer and Tidal Marsh

On Tidal marsh 60+ oystercatchers are roosting on here, along with a few turnstones and dunlin. On the 1 September 2 curlew sandpipers dropped in briefly.

Beach and Sea

It has been an interesting week on the sea, on the 27 August highlights included a black tern, 2 dark phase arctic skuas, but bird of the week was a juvenile Sabines gull that flew east on the 29 August.

Also, on the sea this week there have been gannets, common scoters, fulmars, little terns, sandwich terns and common terns.

Wheatears have been present on upper part of the beach this week, whereas on the tideline there have been

Thornham Point is worth a walk down to when the migrants are passing through, on the 31 August there was redstart and 2 wheatear and on the 1 September there were 3 pied flycatchers.

Arctic skua, Cliff Gilbert

Report your sightings

You can help us record the wildlife at Titchwell by

Using Birdtrack for bird sightings https://www.bto.org/our-science/projects/birdtrack
And iRecord for all other wildlife irecord.co.uk

Titchwell's Recent Sightings -25 August 2022

2022-08-25T11:18:00Z

August is flying by, and with that here is a roundup of what has been seen at Titchwell this month.

Car park, visitor centre & woodland

Green woodpeckers have been noticeable in their presence this month, as have great spotted woodpeckers, often moving between willow wood and the visitor centre.

A pied flycatcher was briefly present around the visitor centre on the 5 August and on the tank road on the 9 August, throughout the month there have been varying numbers of willow warblers, chiff chaffs and blackcaps amongst the woodland vegetation.

A spotted flycatcher was in the car park on the 24 August and a bee-eater was heard flying over the reserve on the 23 August and a raven flew through on the same day.

Juvenile green woodpecker, Cliff Gilbert

Reedbed & East Trail

Up to 4 great white egrets can be found within the reedbed on an almost daily basis and in recent weeks bittern sightings have picked up again once more.

As often happens at this time of year the little egret roost is beginning to build, with a count of 34 individuals this week.

Two cattle egrets dropped into the reedbed on the 25/8 and were also seen earlier in the week.

Sedge warblers and reed warblers continue to be fairly active within the reedbed. For the lucky ones, good views of bearded tits are possible along the west bank path and autumn trail.

On Patsy’s reedbed there is a large gathering of teal, gadwall, pochard and coot which has had a female garganey with them since the 15 August.

A few marsh harriers have begun to return to the reserve as we draw to the end of the month.

An osprey flew west over the reserve on the 21 August and on the 24 August a juvenile turtle dove flew over the east trail towards the saltmarsh on the eastern side of the reserve.

The scrub around the tank road has included willow warblers, lesser whitethroats, chiff chaffs, blackcaps and garden warbler.

Cattle egret, Phill Gwilliam

Freshmarsh

Throughout the month waders have continued to pass through the reserve. Specifically, on the Freshmarsh, counts have included 142 avocet, 280 black-tailed godwits, 60+ redshank, 30+ ruff, 4 spotted redshanks, 34 common sandpipers, a wood sandpiper, and greenshank. A little stint was briefly present on the 20/8.

This week golden plover numbers have begun to increase which can bring in other waders, this included a flyover dotterel on the 24/8. Other waders seen daily have included dunlin, turnstone, bar-tailed godwits, whimbrel, curlew, oystercatchers, lapwing, ringed plover.

Spoonbills, great white egrets and grey herons have also been making an appearance on the Freshmarsh.

Wildfowl numbers of teal, gadwall and shoveler are increasing as we progress through the month. A brent goose appeared on the 15 August, an unusual encounter for this time of the year.

The evening gull roost has included Caspian gull and yellow-legged gulls and Mediterranean gulls.

Dotterel, Cliff Gilbert

Volunteer & Tidal Marsh

At the start of the month the water levels were very low on tidal marsh, because of the low tides, lack of rain and the heat. However, the spring high tide in the middle of the month has topped up the water levels considerably.

This has reduced the amount of wader roosting habitat, however there are frequently flocks of oystercatchers and turnstones on there, along with small numbers of redshanks, grey plover, and dunlin.

Amongst the vegetation and the channels at low tide, the volunteer marsh is hosting curlew, redshanks, lapwing and whimbrel.

Beach & Sea

On the 17 August, the winds shifted to the north slightly, allowing for a spot of sea-watching which included sightings of great skua, kittiwakes and sooty shearwater. Other birds on the sea this month, have included fulmar, gannets, eider and red-throated diver.

On the beach there is an assemblage of waders including bar-tailed godwits, sanderling, oystercatchers, turnstones and curlews. A small tern roost is occurring towards Thornham point including common terns, sandwich terns and little terns.

Great skua, Cliff Gilbert

Report your sightings

You can help us record the wildlife at Titchwell by

Using Birdtrack for bird sightings https://www.bto.org/our-science/projects/birdtrack
And iRecord for all other wildlife irecord.co.uk

Plovers in Peril: Join us for an upcoming end of season beach clean & show your support for beach nesting birds!

2022-08-17T14:26:00Z

RSPB and the Borough Council of King’s Lynn and West Norfolk have joined together to organise a beach clean on Snettisham and Heacham South beach to mark the end of this year’s nesting season for ringed plover and oystercatcher- which is fast approaching! The beach clean will take place on Friday 2nd September, by which time seasonal fencing will have been removed (usually 31st of August when the last of the chicks will have fledged). The fencing is vital to protecting vulnerable beach nesting birds during the spring and summer months but once removed at the end of August seasonal restrictions are lifted and we hope to work as a group to remove any litter that has collected on the upper shore.

Beach cleans are a fantastic way to look after your local wild spaces and keep our coasts safe for wildlife and for people but with many declining species sensitive to disturbance at certain times of year, it is important that we make sure we stay mindful of wildlife and plan our litter picks carefully to avoid the nesting season.

Vulnerable beach nesting birds like ringed plover and oystercatcher lay their camouflaged eggs on the ground and spend the spring and summer months keeping their fragile eggs and tiny fluffball chicks from danger. The nests are in fact called “scrapes” and are a simple hollow in the sand or shingle. The birds lay their eggs directly onto the ground, the intricate markings helping them to blend in with the beach. Without a careful eye, it is incredibly easy to miss them as you walk along the upper shore, so protective fences are installed at the start of breeding season (March) to limit disturbance to birds as they build their nests and to keep any eggs from being trampled. Fences remain in place through the season as birds continue to lay eggs (if they fail, they will relay and start over again) and as small chicks start to hatch and explore the beach.

Any disturbance to nesting birds during this critical time can have a big impact on their success and ultimately their survival so by timing our beach cleans and litter picks carefully we can ensure we can continue to keep the beaches safe and litter free whilst helping wildlife when they need it most! Before or after the nesting season is the perfect time to do a beach clean so that ground nesting birds won’t be disturbed.

The ringed plover have so far had a great year and the support of local communities has contributed hugely to that success, with lots of people taking simple actions to help reduce disturbance to them through their most vulnerable time.

So why not join us to celebrate the power of local communities in saving species whilst helping to keep your local beaches clean!

The beach clean is open to everyone – just make sure you arrive for 10am at Snettisham Beach car park (PE31 7PS) to collect your picker and bag. Working in pairs or small groups will mean more people can join in. Litter pickers and bags will kindly be provided by the council. Please bring gloves if you have them. The beaches are exposed and have few facilities so please check the forecast and dress for the weather. Please check our social channels on the day for any cancellations – should the decision be made to cancel the event; this will be shared before 9am. Bring plenty of water and some lunch as well as anything else you might need. We will be walking across shingle and sand so please wear suitable footwear and be prepared to walk on uneven terrain. Please let us know via Titchwell@rspb.org.uk if you have any questions or concerns before you arrive so that we can advise.

Coming along to the litter pick? Why not end the day by joining us for an evening talk from 6:00pm-7:00pm at the Old Friends Hall in Heacham, where our Project Officer Wynona will be uncovering the secret life of a ringed plover and telling us why these beaches are so important for them. There are limited places available, so booking is essential. Email Titchwell@rspb.org.uk to find out more and book your place!

Hope to see you soon!

The Plovers in Peril team

Follow us on our journey to protect these amazing birds. Join in the conversation on our Facebook and Twitter pages, share your stories and photos and help us speak out about how we can help vulnerable beach nesting species like the Ringed Plover.

Tag us: #PloversinPeril #RSPBSnettisham #WatchYourStep

Titchwell sightings - a July summary

2022-08-04T12:49:00Z

It has been a while since we have updated you on what has been seen at Titchwell, so here is a roundup of July.

Car park / visitor centre / east trail

At the start of July a crossbill flew west over the reserve and 3 coal tits were on the feeders. A couple of green woodpeckers have been heard around the willow wood area on a regular basis and a great spotted woodpecker is around the visitor centre.

Whitethroats and lesser whitethroat were along the east trail, along with blackcaps, chiff chaffs, bullfinch and greenfinch. Turtle doves have been recorded occasionally flying through the reserve.

Reedbed

During the early part of the month bittern sightings were regular with lots of feeding flights by the female to the nest. However, since the heatwave, bittern sightings have been rare.

Two great white egrets remain within the reedbed, often being seen on Patsy’s or flying over the reserve. A spoonbill dropped into Patsy’s for the first time to this area at the end of the month.

The marsh harriers finished breeding for the season with at least 6 young fledging. With breeding finished marsh harriers sightings can become less frequent, on the reserve in August. Though there are the odd birds still trying their luck over the Freshmarsh.

Bearded tits are around, but they are elusive. Listen for the ‘ping ping’ call – the best places are along the west bank path early in the morning when there is no wind. Alternatively, as of 1 August the Autumn trail is open, and they can be seen at the end of the trail.

Reed warblers and sedge warblers remained in song throughout July.

On Patsy’s the number of ducks has increased including gadwall, teal, shoveler and mallard. Along the reedbed channels there have been a couple of tufted duck broods sighted. Little grebe and coot have also been present.

Bittern,

Freshmarsh

July and into August are often the best months for waders at Titchwell and this year July was no exception.

A Temminck’s stint was present on the 30 June, providing hazy views in the heat. On the 21 July there was a white-rumped sandpiper, little stint, a wood sandpiper and 2 curlew sandpipers. A lesser yellowlegs was identified on the 23 July, which transpired had been present since the 20 July. This individual remained at Titchwell until Monday 1 August. Throughout July there was also a constant turnover over of other waders, in varying numbers including: 30+ ruff, 4 spotted redshanks, greenshank, common sandpipers, green sandpipers, whimbrel, curlew, knots, little ringed plovers, ringed plovers, dunlin, turnstones, bar-tailed godwits and snipe. Several hundred avocet are still on the reserve and there has been about 150 black-tailed godwits

A pair of wigeon appeared on the 11 July, teal numbers are increasing and there are lots of shelduck with various sized broods of ducklings.

Spoonbills have been seen on the Freshmarsh, tidal marsh, the beach and on the saltmarsh.

Lesser yellowlegs, Phill Gwilliam

Beach and sea

On the beach, July saw the first arctic waders returning with small numbers of bar-tailed godwits, sanderlings and knot. They have joined the non-breeding oystercatchers feeding along the tide line.

At Thornham point, as the tide drops a small gathering of common terns, little terns and sandwich terns is occurring.

On the sea there has been 2 dark phase Arctic skua and 4 Manx shearwater on the 9 July and 3 pale phase Arctic skua later in the month.

Arctic skua, Cliff Gilbert

Dragonflies

July has been a great month for dragonflies with records including Norfolk hawker, Southern migrant hawker and Lesser emperor.

Butterflies

The same can be said for butterflies with plenty of common species including wall and gatekeeper but there has also been a clouded yellow, painted lady, white admiral and silver washed fritillary.

Report your sightings

You can help us record the wildlife at Titchwell by

Using Birdtrack for bird sightings https://www.bto.org/our-science/projects/birdtrack
And iRecord for all other wildlife irecord.co.uk