As predicted the ring-necked duck didn't get too far. After appearing at High Eske and RAF Leconfield since its stint at Tophill, the nest box team again recorded it back at Watton NR on Tuesday. A quick scan the last couple of days revealed nothing however - so presumably it's still wandering.
Watton NR was the location for the first sighting of red kite this year on the reserve by Margaret Boyd, seen flying north. Kites seldom leave their stronghold on the Wolds, but as the population grows we are seeing more and more visitors. The Hull Valley is still much the domain of the marsh harrier - seen yesterday at the Wilfholme end of the site.
A nice highlight each day this week has been little egrets on Hempholme Meadow. Now receded flood waters have seemingly stranded many fish and inverts in shallow puddles. A peak of six birds was there today, along with a grey heron.
Last Sunday saw the best gull roost of the year. Little, mediterranean, yellow legged and lesser black backed gulls all adding some southern flair to proceedings - for the write up and pictures visit Martin's page here. Alas no arctic white wingers at all and it looks like we'll finish winter without one.
Other highlights of the week have included willow tit on the feeders - hopefully all set for breeding season, loads of great spotted woodpeckers, tawny and barn owls regular, three oystercatchers, kingfisher at Hempholme, woodcock at the centre and lesser redpoll showing extremely well on the road near the lagoons.
No photos today as blogger is playing up!
Remember - reserve walk tomorrow at 10am in which we'll be searching out those little egrets...
