August is a normally a quiet time at Radipole Lake. The majority of the Swifts, House Martins and Swallows have left on their migration. Many of our resident birds are moulting their summer feathers and have gone into hiding to stay safe. We still have our Mute Swan families and the island in front of the of the Discovery Centre window is a welcome sanctuary for the Mallards, Gadwalls, Tufted and Shovelers in their eclipse plumage. Black Tailed Godwits are frequent visitors, a recent flock still had one bird in its bright summer plumage. Other regulars still seen on the reserve are Cetti's Warblers, Little Egrets, Grey Herons, Great Crested Grebes, Coots, Moorhens, Cormorants, Canada Geese, Black Headed Gulls and Herring Gulls.
Even during this quiet time there is still plenty to see. Hemp Agrimony, Purple Loosestrife, Water Figwort, Marsh Woundwort and Red Bartsia have brought a reddish-purple hue on the reserve. The Hedge Parsley, Stone Parsley and Wild Angelica are in flower along the hedgerows. The splashes of yellow are brought by Fleabane, Agrimony, Bristly Ox-Tongue and Canadian Goldenrod.
The current sunny spells are bring out butterflies and dragonflies. Still on the wing are Small White, Large White, Speckled Wood, Gatekeeper, Red Admiral, Small Tortoiseshell, Peacock, Painted Lady, Holly Blue butterflies. Day flying moths around are Humming Bird Hawk Moth and Jersey Tiger Moth. Among the dragonflies are the Emperor, Common Darter, Ruddy Darter, Southern Hawker and Black Tailed Skimmer.
Specked Wood and Large White Butterflies
Small White and Scarlet Tiger Moths.
September Events
The Wellbeing Walks are every 1st and 3rd Thursday of every month. The walks are dementia friendly and particularly suitable for anyone wishing to lose weight, recovering from illness or wanting to improve their mental health and wellbeing. The walk is a gentle stroll around the Buddleia Loop at Radipole Lake and is free, no need to pre book. There is a disabled toilet in the Discovery Centre and refreshments are available. Meet in the Centre, contact details below.
The Discover Radipole Walk is the 2nd Thursday of every month and is a great way of discovering the ever changing nature here in the heart of the town. We will guide you on an in depth look at the RSPB Radipole Lake to see what lives here. No need to book, just turn up on the day - loan binoculars available. Contact details below.
Ducklings Toddler Group - next on is Friday morning on 13th September. Advance booking essential. Contact details below.
For all the latest sightings, 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