For our most recent meeting the Birdwatching Group paid a return visit to EWT Abberton Reservoir on Thursday 13th February. Although cold, it was good to see quite a large number of visitors and we were pleased to see (and identify) quite a wide range of bird species.
Our visit concentrated on Gwen's Hide and Hide Bay Hide which both provided plenty of bird watching opportunities.
In particular the Hide Bay Hide provided us with excellent views of a wide range wading birds including Spoonbills and Great White Egrets on the near shore.
Another excellent sighting was of both Male and Female Marsh Harriers.
Also, congratulations to John for spotting a sizeable number of 'smallish', 'brownish' birds moving around in the grass. We later came to the conclusion that these were Meadow Pipits.
As usual, we finished our visit in the Discovery Centre discussing our sightings over a warming drink.
We also discussed a range of possible destinations for future visits and I would appreciate any suggestions that members might have.
As usual, thanks to Jane for her recording of observed species. These are listed below, in no particular order:
Grey Heron
Cormorant
Great White Egret
Great crested Grebe
Golden Eye
Teal M+F
Egyptian Goose
Mallard M+F
Kestrel
Spoonbill
Marsh Harrier M+F
Wigeon M+F
Shoveler M+F
Gadwall
Various Gulls
Moorhen
Coot
Pheasant M+F
Blue tit
Great tit
Goldfinch
Lapwing
Pintail
Pied wagtail
Magpie
Meadow Pipit
Goosander M+F
A small gallery of images from our visit is shown below. (Photos provided by Fred, John and Ian).
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If you are interested in joining the group or would like further information, please Click on the 'Coordinator' link on the Birdwatching Group Home page.
