In terms of migration, the last few days have been a bit slow. With the high pressure still dominating our weather and bringing in winds from the north-east, the spring migration has taken a break.
There have been a couple of notable exceptions including the massive westerly passage of swifts we have had this week. Due to the weather conditions, large flocks of up to 100 birds have been feeding over the reserve and at times have been flying at head height along the main path. Mixed in amongst the flocks have been smaller numbers of house martin and swallow. Once the wind swings back towards the south, many of the birds will continue north just leaving the local breeding population.
So far the wader passage has been quiet but 2 wood sandpipers were seen heading west, there were 2 'new' greenshanks this morning and a flock of 35 summer plumaged black tailed godwits dropped in briefly on Tuesday. The drake garganey is still on the fresh marsh today and favours the edge of the seawall. If it is not feeding in the open then check to see if it roosting with the teal.
The windy conditions have not been putting off the bearded tits and at times they have been showing very well alongside the main path. Earlier in the week the first fledged juveniles were seen. Barely able to fly and with short stubby tails they were chasing the parents around the small pools near the Island Hide. The youngsters can be identified by their black back and 'highwayman's mask'.