Christmas came early for a couple of birdwatchers on the Wild Coast, two days before santa was expected,when two common cranes were spotted flying over the island.Like so many so-called 'common' species these birds are a rare sight, especially at this time of year. Once common, and giving their name to many places with 'cran' in the title, these magnificent birds became extinct in the 17th century,due to disturbance, shooting and land drainage, but have now regained a small breeding population, circa 6 pairs, in Eastern England.For those hoping to spot a crane, there is a better chance of spotting them passing through in Spring or Autumn. They are larger than a Grey Heron, eat seeds, crops, insects, snails and worms and are more likely to be seen on the east Anglian fens, but can be found as far north as our reserves in the East of Scotland.
For those of us content to be wowed by the more regular visitors to Wallasea, the sheer number of birds to be seen at the moment is quite breath-taking. They seem to favour the far eastern end of the new marsh but it is worth rhe walk! The recent cold weather on the continent has driven many here for respite and brent geese appear to have had a good breeding season and are present in record numbers; up to 6,000 being counted over Christmas. Other birds present in large numbers are wigeon, a very attractive bird with an unusual whistling call,and teal. These small dabbling ducks have a lovely 'teal' green wing patch noticeable in flight and the males also have the same colour eye patch.( check out the main rspb web site for a great video of a male teal walking on ice! Just 'search' teal)
If you would like to join our staff and volunteers for 'Something Wild and Wonderfowl' on Sunday 30th there are still some spaces - take a look at our events section for details. Happy New Year!
I've gone wild on Wallasea!