WWT Slimbridge sightings 20 to 23 November 2006

23 November 2006 The week has been fairly stable, numbers of wildfowl and waders have been consistent and no new birds appear to have arrived. Today there were at least 8 Chiffchaff on site, I saw the grey, pale bird showing features of Siberian at 0830 near the Barclay's Hide. It was in the company of at least five other Chiffchaff with the difference being very obvious when alongside. It's companions were calling regularly but once again it did not call. Later in the afternoon we saw it again, this time with JSL but it was elusive and silent.

A flock of 6 Grey Plover were around over the tide as was a late Ringed Plover. The latest record of Common Darter was noted today at the Barclay's Hide.The birding has been very good with high tides over the mid-morning period and plenty of rain to top up the fields. Daily sightings include 18 Bewick's Swans, 1 Tundra Bean Goose, 2 Peregrine, 3 Buzzard, 1 Little Stint, 6 Black-tailed Godwit, 6 Ruff, 8 Redshank, 1300 Dunlin, 1400 Golden Plover, 2000 Lapwing and up to 127 Great Black-backed Gulls. A Yellow-legged Gull has also been seen most days. Gales are forecast over the weekend, any seabird sighting reports would be welcome as this group of birds are often difficult to catch up with in the county.

22 November 2006 The most notable record was an Oystercatcher over the tide.

21 November 2006 The European White-fronted Geese numbered 74.