Just a quick blog to update you on a few recent sightings and to put everyone’s minds at rest with regards to water levels and flooding. I’ll start with flooding which thankfully has been minimal. The reserve is effectively a flood plain so it’s not surprising that the meadows have been underwater for sometime. The ducks and herons are really enjoying their somewhat larger lake at the moment. North Hide has been closed periodically due to the approaching boardwalk being underwater. If your planning a visit and want to know the latest on the North Hide give us a ring at the Discovery Centre on 01305 778313.
Sightings have been somewhat hampered by the high water levels combined with the unseasonal mild weather. Duck numbers are down but the variety is still here. Shoveler, Gadwall, Pochard, Teal, Shelduck and Tufted Duck are all about but just lower numbers than normal. Tomorrow we have the monthly wetlands bird survey so it will be interesting to see how the numbers vary compared to last year. Bittern finally showed itself yesterday which is the first definite sighting this side of Christmas, one showed a couple of times yesterday around the buddleia loop. Marsh Harriers have also been regular both at Radipole and Lodmoor, though Lodmoors in a similar position as Radipole with regards to everything else.
The most exciting thing this week was an Otter that swam right past the Discovery Centre window yesterday morning!! Will be nice if Otters start to make a more regular appearance. This could be a start!
Will you be applying for a grant to have otter houses put in from Natural England to help support them. Im looking foward to comming down and seeing the stunning wildlife down there.