WWT Slimbridge sightings 23 January 2006

23 January 2006 Slightly overcast but at least the fog that enveloped the trust yesterday had gone. The cold weather and ice had an effect on a number of species today. The Pochard flock has increased to 753 and the Tufted Duck still number around 553. The Ferruginous hybrid was on the Rushy as well as a Tufted x Pochard on South Lake. Just two Ruddy Duck were present on South Lake among the diving duck and 158 Shoveler were counted today. The Greater Scaup was apparently frozen out of the European enclosure this morning although it was still present yesterday. Most of the waders had dispersed around the local fields.

The geese spent the morning at least in the road and canal-side fields. The first winter Dark-bellied Brent and adult Pink-footed Goose were with them. Six Black-tailed Godwit and 16 Ruff were on the South Lake this morning. Bewick's Swan's remain stable at around 230, perhaps the cold weather and easterlies may produce another goose species or increase in wildfowl over the next few days. MJM.