July is the the time when we starting noticing the changes in birds and flowers which signals that we are advancing towards late Summer/Early Autumn. This month has been warm and dry, water levels are slightly lower than normal, therefore more muddy areas have been exposed which means lots of waders visiting Weymouth! Many of the waders are now on passage and juveniles are fledging and exploring.
Our WaderFest began on 7th July with the arrival of 2 Little Ringed Plover juveniles and on the 8th July 29 Black Tailed Godwits were counted. On 14th July Common Sandpipers, Black Tailed Godwits, Dunlin, Lapwings, 7 Redshank and the first Snipe was seen over on Lodmoor. Green Sandpipers arrived on 21st July and a Wood Sandpiper was seen on 25th, 26th and 27th July. The Oystercatcher pairs on both reserves have successfully raised 2 chicks each. The Common Terns on Lodmoor started fledging on 14th July to date, 20+ juveniles have been counted.
The Little Ringed Plovers, Green Sandpipers and Black Tailed Godwits are still regularly being seen at the moment.
Other notable sightings this month:
13th July - 2 Red Kites at Radipole Lake
18th and 19th July - a Great White Egret on Lodmoor
An Otter with 3 cubs has been seen several times at Radipole in the evenings.
For the latest sightings, contact Radipole Lake Discovery Centre, details below or pop in and see us. Hot and cold refreshments, snacks and ice creams available.
Telephone: 01305 778313
E-mail: Weymouth.reserves@rspb.org.uk
Website: www.rspb.org.uk/radipolelake