Those of you who look forward to the return of the pink-footed geese will be happy to know that the first 10 were spotted on the Basin on 5^th September. With numbers already over 800, we are hoping that last year’s peak count of over 60,000 individuals will be matched later in the season.  Of course, we’ll keep you posted on the increase in population size, but it’s well worth going on one of our goose breakfasts, on the 7^th October and 18^th November, to experience the numbers for yourself.  Booking is essential, though, as these events are popular and places are limited.

The pink foots aren’t the only geese spotted so far, with Canada geese already seen at the reserve.  Not native to Britain and generally seen as a pest, the flight patterns and social behaviours between individuals still makes for interesting viewing.  A single barnacle goose has also been spotted amongst the Canadians.

 

 Other interesting birds seen in the last couple of weeks have been a black kite spotted over the Lurgies and a bluethroat at the Visitor Centre’s feeders.  These individuals are likely to be passing visitors, but there is a chance of spotting the little egret at the Lurgies, with it being seen there on a regular basis.

Georgina Bowie, Visitor Centre Assistant