WWT Slimbridge sightings 16 March

16 March 2006 The high tide period produced a couple of new sightings. The gull passage continued with 450 gulls heading north upriver in under an hour at 0825 to 0910. The majority were Lesser Black-backed with Herring and Black-headed. The Dunlin numbered around 120 but I heard rumours of 280 from one of the Holden Tower regulars earlier in the day. At least 1 Little Stint, 3 Grey Plover and 20 Curlew were present on the Dumbles. The highlight of the day was a Pink-footed Goose (probably immature) that flew in around midday. The bird was circling the collection as it called to the captive adults. It headed out to the reserve and dropped out of view. Nice bird to see by just stepping out of the office (thanks Leesy). The South Lake held the majority of the Lapwing with 300 present and 1 Ruff. Five Ruff joined c35 Golden Plover on the Tack Piece. A Water Rail was on the pool in front of the Martin Smith hide. Belated news of a pair of Stonechat here on 14 March. It was clear that even more wildfowl and waders had departed overnight. Seven Bewick's Swans remained which include Turmeric and Tarragon, a pair that were caught and ringed on the Russian Tundra in 2004 by Dave Paynter and turned up at WWT following winter. Six Pintail and 2 Teal were caught and ringed at the end of the day.