Peter Hewitt
We were delighted that two Bewick’s swans visited Blue House Farm on Sunday 19th January, using one of our key areas of wetland habitat – Round Marsh. Bewick’s swans have possibly only been seen once or twice at Blue House Farm since the 1970s, so we’re privileged that they decided to drop in!
Tricky to tell apart from the similar-looking Whooper Swan, Bewick’s Swans can be distinguished by the less extensive yellow marking on their yellow and black bill.
Photo courtesy of John Lilley
Bird activity is continuing to creep up on the reserve. Our latest winter bird survey revealed climbing numbers of Brent Geese up to 1300+, and regular visitors and volunteers have been watching the Brent Geese ringed at Blue House Farm continuing to use the reserve.
Brent Geese with colour rings at Blue House Farm - Photo courtesy of John Lilley
A flock of 10 Bearded Tits made an appearance during our last survey. They are always a delight and we rarely see them in such numbers at once, so they were a survey highlight. Other species we’ve been seeing large flocks of, both on areas of wet mud (important feeding habitat) and creating impressive swirling displays in flight, include Lapwing, Dunlin, Starling and Redshank.
We’re coming to the end of an in-depth management planning process for Blue House Farm and as a result, we’ll soon be getting started on some exciting new projects.
Hoping everyone is having a great New Year so far. We look forward to sharing details about upcoming work soon!
