They are arriving in their droves to Radipole’s reed bed and certainly seem to love playing hide and seek in the reeds! Warblers; can they be a bit confusing or what? There are so many different types, they are small with muted colours, not hugely distinctive plumage and they like to hide away in the undergrowth, moving constantly through it. If you like a challenge then warbler watching is for you! Their one saving grace is their distinctive songs, which is sometimes the only way of working out who’s who. Most have attractive songs hence the name warblers and if not attractive then they are at least powerful!
Two of the most common found in the reeds at Radipole Lake are the reed and sedge warblers. Reed warblers are more uniform in colour than sedge with warm red-brown upper parts and buff white below. Sedge warblers are paler brown above with dark streaks across their back and wings with a white cheek and dark crown and a very distinctive white eye stripe across the side of their head. Sedge warblers have an impatient sounding chatter of harsh and sweet notes in contrast to the reed warblers song which although similar is more relaxed and repetitive.
Sedge warbler; photo credit: Ben Hall (rspb-images.com)
Reed warbler; photo credit: John Bridges (rspb-images.com)
Savi’s warbler, heard and not found have been paying us a visit along with grasshopper warbler, so named as they sing a grasshopper sounding song that is too high for many people to hear. It seems the discovery trail is the place to hang out at the moment as Savi’s warbler was heard along there and our lovely otters have been seen during the day time along there as well. Look out for bubbles in the water and that grey streamlined whiskered head.
Up and coming events
Sat 3 Its the Dawn Chorus at Radipole Lake! 5 am-7.30 am
First light is the best time to come and listen to the birds as they wake up and sing. So kick off the duvet, spring out of bed and come and join us on this early morning walk to catch the sounds of the birds as they wake. Finish it all off with a sausage sandwich in the Discovery Centre as a reward for your early start (vegetarian option available). £10 Non RSPB members, £6 RSPB members and children half-price. Booking required on 01305 778313.
Fri 16 Nightingale Walk at Holworth 6.30-8.30 pm
Have you ever heard a nightingale sing? Not many people know that these shy little birds actually breed here in Dorset. Why not join the RSPB for a summer evening walk along part of the world famous Jurassic Coast, to try and hear one of the most beautiful songs in the bird world. There is a fairly steep hill to climb during the walk. Meet at Holworth National Trust car park above Ringstead village.£6 Non RSPB members, £4 RSPB members, £3 children and WEX members Free. Booking required on 01305 778313.