Following a series of storms in recent weeks, many parts of the country are now suffering flooding (in some cases quite severe). We are fortunate not to have been affected by these floods but locally it is very wet and muddy and difficult to get out and about.
However, we had no problems getting to WWT Slimbridge today and enjoyed seeing large flocks of waders taking full advantage of the wetlands.
The light was not always good but we were very thankful to be out enjoying some fresh air and, for a change, there was hardly any wind.
Golden ploverGolden ploverBlack-tailed godwitsWigeonCurlewAvocetRuffSnow gooseTealShelduckRedshankLapwingWigeonAvocetShovelerGadwallBewick swans
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.
Bewick swans
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.
The Bewicks are quite small swans , as can be seen compared to a shelduck
There were fair numbers of one of my favourite ducks, the northern pintail.
Northern pintails Female northern pintail
We also had good views of the generally secretive water rail – with two parading very close up.
Water railWater railTwo Egyptian geese flew in to join the large number of greylag and Canadian geese.Egyptian goose
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.
LapwingLapwing
There is always a chance to see common crane here but today they were all very distant.
Martin's Bird Blog & Nature Photos 