The last few weeks the weather has been stunningly beautiful here in Mid Wales, marking the return of children to school and the change of season from summer to autumn. Many things happen on the reserve at this time of year – we have said” goodbye” and “bon voyage” to Joe and Christelle, our 6 month summer interns who head off to Lake Vyrnwy reserve, and welcome Roz and Dave who will be with us for the next six months over the Winter.
As our summer visiting birds head off for warmer climates to the south, our winter visitors are beginning to arrive on the estuary saltmarsh and lowland wet grasslands. Already teal numbers are up to over 400, the barnacle geese arrived in early September and flocks of wigeon are on the increase. The next few weeks should see their numbers boosted along with the arrival of wintering lapwing, golden plover and Greenland White fronted geese.
Numbers may not yet be high but our visitors are having wonderful days walking the paths and taking in the autumn hues as the trees begin to turn into a kaleidoscope of oranges, yellows and browns.
Those with both the time and the patience have been rewarded with great views of kingfishers, little egrets and kestrel.
Photo by Keith Roberts
The change in the season also marks the change in focus for the work of the conservation staff. As we move into autumn and winter, management work can begin. This has started with an area of Covert Du having been coppiced to create habitat diversity, whilst the wet scrape in front of Ynys Feurig hide being extended. The hope here is that with a larger wet area nearer the hide, visitors can enjoy closer better views of birds on these wet fields.
Extending Scrape at Ynys Feurig
Are you a member of the RSPB? Nature is amazing, help us keep it that way. To join contact me on roger.whiteway@rspb.org.uk