The Stour Valley list for 2018 stands at 110(+1) species so far.
March 25th
A fairly quiet weekend with all much as usual. The 2 Dunlin seen by Sue and Dave last week were still present at Marsh hide alongside 2 Redshanks. On Sunday there were 11 Black-tailed Godwits from the Ramp, perhaps a sign that spring migration is happening. There appears to be 12+ pairs of Lapwings at Marsh hide which, is a vast improvement on last years 4 pairs so, lets hope there is a more successful breeding season this year. Still at least 8 Water Pipits on the reserve with 5 showing well at Marsh hide on Saturday. Finally managed to catch up with Lesser Black-backed Gull in the Valley with eight adults at Collard's (6 Graellsii and 2 Intermedius). The Avocet seen by Bryan during the week eluded us but a call from Neil Burt informed us of one, or it, on the main lake at Stodmarsh. Two Great-white Egrets flew past the Ramp towards Stodmarsh and landed in the Cormorant Trees. The adult male White Stork has been seen in and around the Valley over the past few days but, sadly, as it is a known captive born and raised bird it can not be counted as a wild bird. I have added it to the list as a plus one because of its feral status. Full details and history of this bird on Mark Chidwicks blog here. The 110th bird of the year was added by Brendan Ryan on Sunday afternoon in the shape of a fine drake Scaup at Collard's.