We are very pleased to announce that we have two new arrivals at the Weymouth Wetlands. They are big, brown and have gorgeous ochre heads. They are, of course, Marsh Harriers. Last year they set up home at Radipole and successfully reared three chicks. This was, as far as we are able to tell, the first time Marsh Harriers had bred in Dorset for nearly 50 years and, as far as west Dorset is concerned, the first time ever, so to have them breed for the second year in a row is brilliant.
Photos: Male to juvenile food pass © Allan Neilson 2010
This year a pair pitched up at Lodmoor, which have us more than a few worries and headaches due to the very nearby road works. Despite the proximity of these works, and the disturbance they caused, these amazing birds stuck with it and the result, two young harriers now flying over the reserve, is fantastic. It's going to be great watching them over the next few weeks as they learn to hunt and we will post pictures as soon as we get them, but, in the meantime,a huge thank you to all who made this possible.