Here’s a quick update on what’s been seen around the reserve so far in July;

Regular Osprey sightings have continued into July, with a maximum count of 4 on the mud at the same time on the 1^st. There were also 3 seen on the 12^th and 2 on the 3^rd, 7^th and 13^th.  There have been almost daily sightings of Great Spotted Woodpeckers at the visitor centre feeders, with an adult male and 2 juveniles regularly feeding on the peanuts.

An adult Water Rail with 2 chicks has been seen on several occasions, including the 11^th, at the Lurgies, with a separate adult and 2 chicks also been seen in front of the visitor centre on the 10^th. Marsh Harriers have also continued to be seen at the Western side of the reserve, with the latest sighting being on the 7^th.

Mute Swans have been increasing in number, as more arrive to moult out of the past year’s feathers. 177 were counted on the 7^th and this number is likely to rise to near 300 by the end of the month.

The last few weeks have also seen the return of the first waders from their breeding grounds further upland, with many species being seen on the reserve for the first time this summer. 12 Common Sandpiper were seen at the Lurgies on the 7^th and 8 on the 12^th. A Green Sandpiper and 5 Greenshank were also seen at the Lurgies on the 12^th. On the 13^th there were recordings of 2 Black-Tailed Godwits, 2 Dunlins and 1 Knot, all in summer plumage. There have also been increased sightings of Redshank, Curlew and Lapwing.

Craig Shepherd,

Visitor Centre Assistant Manager.