WWT Slimbridge sightings 16 February 2006

16 February 2006 As predicted the wader numbers had increased. A flock of 8000 Lapwing, 2400 Golden Plover and 2200 Dunlin also harboured at least one Ruff, one Spotted Redshank, 16 Redshank, 26 Black-tailed Godwit and a single Knot (the first of the year). At least 18,000 birds were on show from the Holden Tower today, I strongly suggest a visit before they disperse in a few weeks or if it freeze, excellent spectacle. The E.White-fronted Geese were in the Severn/Goose House Grounds so were not easy to see or count. The Bar-headed Goose was with the Barnacle Geese again. The three 'continental' Greylag were in the Top New Piece with a few of the re-established flock. It provides a good comparison opportunity. The first winter drake Greater Scaup was back on the European enclosure pond but no sign of the female today. A Tufted x Pochard hybrid male was on the Knott Pool and Long Ground Pools. A small Merlin (probable first winter male) was seen on the Top New Piece and a female Peregrine was on the Dumbles.