Cliffe Pools 20th July

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I walked from Allen's Hill to the Black Barn Pools. On arrival it was high tide in the river, so waders were numerous on the pools, especially Black-tailed Godwit. There were probably around 1000+ godwits though difficult to accurately assess the number as heat haze and distance was a problem. Several Greenshanks were seen and 30 adult Dunlin, though best of all were two adult Little Stint.

Nearby the Common Lizard found on the previous visit was still present in the same area.

On the Radar Pool the number of fledged Mediterranean Gulls suggested a very good breeding season.  The same did not appear to be the case for Black-headed Gulls, at least for this brood. It is known that Mediterranean Gulls prey on young Black-headed which might account for the low numbers to be seen.

There was a profusion of Buddleia bushes in full flower so it was a disappointment that only moderate numbers of butterflies were present.  Odonata included Ruddy Darter and Common Blue Damselfly.











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