26th December 2023 – WWT Slimbridge, Gloucestershire

It was dull at Slimbridge this morning but quite mild. It was definitely a pleasure to be spared the wind and rain which have plagued us for the last few weeks.

At this time of year the highlights are the Bewick swans which migrate here from  the arctic tundra of Russia.

This year the Bewicks didn’t arrive at Slimbridge until the 16th November which is the latest they have arrived on site since 1965. Experts are linking their delayed arrival to climate change, combined with a mixture of stormy and mild weather in recent weeks.

There were fair numbers of one of my favourite ducks, the northern pintail.

We also had good views of the generally secretive water rail – with two parading very close up.

The wet fields were teeming with lapwing which every now and again were spooked by a predator and took to the skies. Unfortunately, in the the dull conditions they didn’t make the spectacular show that we often see here. We were disappointed also not to see any golden plover which also generally make a great display.

There is always a chance to see common crane here but today they were all very distant.

Slideshow of photos from this morning::