The Bearded Tits have been seen around the reserve, since the last blog a number of sightings of ringed birds have been reported. Two birds, one ringed with white over pink is a female and a male with green over pink rings have been seen frequently together, perhaps courting? Remember to keep a look out for them when you visit and report your sightings to the Discovery Centre, with a photo if possible.
Water levels are high again over Radipole Lake though there have been a number of otter sightings recently. Some of the wildflowers seen coming into bloom a couple of weeks ago are now underwater. An early flowering Primrose has already seen better days, though more buds are waiting to bloom bringing the promise of an early spring. The Violet patch on the Buddleia Loop has many more flowers peeking through the leaves. The Winter Heliotrope on the Buddleia Loop is still blooming well. Alder trees are now flowering, with their male and female catkins appearing before the leaves.
Wading birds have moved over to Lodmoor where they can seek refuge on the islands, notably a high number of Lapwings were seen last Saturday. The Black Swan has also been around on Lodmoor.
RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch 2020
January is the time to get involved with the annual RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch which takes place this year on 25-27th January. Further information is available on the main RSPB website: https://www.rspb.org.uk/get-involved/activities/birdwatch/
Though Radipole Lake is well know for the Bearded Tits, Cetti's Warblers and other reedbed species, it's location in urban Weymouth also attracts garden birds. The Discovery Centre will have recording forms available for visitors to record their sightings around the reserve. You can enter your sightings online when you return to the Discovery Centre.
Some of the garden species you could see around the reserve: Robin, Blackbird, Goldcrest.
Photos of garden birds taken at Radipole Lake by Edmund Mackrill @weymouthbirder
For all the latest sightings and further information about the Big Garden Birdwatch, contact Radipole Lake Discovery Centre, details below or pop in and see us. Hot and cold refreshments and snacks available.
Telephone: 01305 778313
Email: weymouth.reserves@rspb.org.uk
Website: www.rspb.org.uk/radipolelake