Halstow Marshes 28/04/22

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The main purpose of the visit was to check out the habitat in Salt Bay, a site in the Breeding Waders of Wet Meadows survey.

Walking north from Swigshole I was pleased to hear two singing Greenfinch along the first part of the track. Several Whitethroat were also in song.

Further on, in amongst a herd of cows, were four Cattle Egrets in all their finery.

Near the seawall a Swallow flew north, and about six were eventually seen. My first of the year; at last!

The visit confirmed insufficient habitat in Salt Bay for breeding waders, though feeding waders on the rising tide included 17 Bar-tailed Godwit, many in full summer plumage.

The most promising habitat for breeding waders was on the other side of the seawall, with a Little Ringed Plover and a number of Avocet on the margins of the shallow pool. Several Yellow Wagtail were on the adjacent marsh.

On the way back a Lesser Whitethroat was singing just north of Swigshole.

Swallow

Four Cattle Egrets

Cattle Egrets

Bar-tailed Godwit with Avocet in flight

Bar-tailed Godwit

Dunlin

Shallow pool near Salt Bay

Little Ringed Plover

Yellow Wagtail

 


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