Bee eaters were heard at Radipole last Sunday, 24th May. It was heard again over on Lodmoor on Tuesday 26th May. Last year they bred successfully on the Isle Wight. In 2002 they bred for the first time in the UK since 1955 in the Durham village of Bishop Middleham, near Sedgefield.
Over on Lodmoor a first summer purple heron was seen on Thursday 7th May. Since 12th May the heron has been consistently seen on most days. Our Purple Heron spends the day in the pools at the Overcombe end of Lodmoor. Late at night it flies to the north of the reserve. The best place to see the heron is in Southdown Avenue.
The Purple Heron bred at RSPB Dungeness in 2010 for the first time: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-kent-10868424
Other bird updates: The Common Terns are back over on Lodmoor. There are currently an estimated 60 pairs. The Marsh Harriers have also been seen hunting on both reserves which is a good sign. Cuckoo and Garganey have both been seen on Lodmoor.
If you see or hear any of our exotic birds, do let us know. The Radipole Lake Discovery Centre can be contacted on 01305 778313 or pop in and see us. You can be sure of a warm welcome.