Opening weekend sightings
Since we reopened our doors on Thursdays there has been plenty seen across the reserve.
On the Freshmarsh there has been a noticeable increase in wader numbers. Dunlin numbers have increased from 30 to 320 bringing with them the first little stint of the year. Other highlights have included a greenshank, a couple of common sandpipers, a green sandpiper, three spotted redshanks, 6 little ringed plovers, 20+ ruff and several hundred knot. Whilst down on the beach 150 sanderlings dropped in on Sunday evening.
Green Sandpiper, RSPB Images
Across the reserve 13 spoonbills have taken up residence, they may do something more than sleep!
On the sea a few gannets have been noted along with plenty of sandwich terns, little terns and a smattering of common terns.
Within the reedbed three great white egrets can be seen on a regular basis, if you are lucky you might spot the bittern that is lurking. A further two marsh harriers have fledged this weekend and are currently sitting on the bushes near to the west bank path. This brings us up to 8 fledged birds for the year.
Other highlights have included a hobby and a peregrine dashing about. Small flocks of crossbill have continued to fly over in the early mornings.
We look forward to seeing you soon
Lizzie Bruce
NW Norfolk Reserves Warden
Hmmmm looks more like a Common Sand to me