WWT Slimbridge sightings 7 May 2007

Grasshopper Warbler at Middle Point images by M.J.McGill

Little Tern at Middle Point

7 May 2007 A strong SW wind and overnight rain mixed things up a little, the scrapes were quiet but the new floods at the Bottom New Piece and the established Top New Piece marsh held a number of common species. I picked up what appears to be a second-summer Caspian Gull (see additional diary post) was with the other immature larids on the latter site and it remained to early afternoon at least. From Middle Point in overcast conditions at 0830 there were 3 Whimbrel and two reeling Grasshopper Warblers performing dueling banjos, one was very showy until the wind picked up. Over the tide a flock of c25 Dunlin, a few Ringed Plover and a single Curlew fed with 2 Curlew North, 2 Whimbrel South and two more feeding on the mud shelf just north of the point, they were joined by a Bar-tailed Godwit and a lingering Little Tern. Mike King reported 2 more out over the river. A dark phase Arctic Skua went through after a glut of them and other sea-birds at Severn Beach. Even Paul Marshall and Neil Smart defected to get some seabird action, I may cave in and join the Beach Boys yet!

The 100/50 Acre held 3 drake Garganey and I am delighted to say the first brood of Lapwing has hatched at the latter site, I hope there will be plenty more. I heard my first Common Whitethroat of the year on the reserve otherwise the passerine interest was poor.