Summer update

As we reach the height of Summer everything on the Reserve is bursting with life. The botany in the dunes is coming into full bloom with carpets of Orchids and other wildflowers such as Yellow Rattle and Lady’s Bedstraw. The dune grassland is bounding with Skylark and Meadow Pipit chicks as adults furiously feed them.

Common Butterwort in bloom

Pyrmidal Orchids are now flowering.

On the beaches of the Reserve, shorebirds are also well into nesting season. Ringed Plovers, Oystercatchers, Little, Arctic and Common Terns have all made it to the crucial stage of hatching and now the chicks are roaming around the shoreline. From the time that they arrive and set-up territory they have to navigate their way through multiple close calls and challenges and this season has been no different. Laying eggs on the dry sand on the beach they are extremely vulnerable. Predators from both the air and ground can take eggs and even adults before they have the chance to incubate. Tidal inundation is always a worry but thankfully the nesting sites, by and large, have survived a couple of spring tides. Lastly, they have to navigate disturbance caused by increasing recreational pressure on the coast. This is the area that we, humans can help the most. By reading all signs when entering the Reserve, being aware of birds using the beach and keeping a dog on a short lead or at heel and prevented from disturbing any wildlife or bird at all times on the Reserve as per the byelaw can have huge benefit on the breeding success of these vulnerable birds. 

Litte Tern brooding chicks (Kevin Simmonds)

 We are aware of the large outbreak of Avian Influenza that is ongoing and causing devastation amongst the local seabird colonies. There is an increase in dead birds that are being observed along the coast. Reserve staff are collecting dead birds under strict guidelines and using the correct PPE. The birds are then removed from site and incinerated. The advice is to not approach or touch any sick or dead birds and keep dogs away from them. Please report any dead or dying birds to the DEFRA emergency line on 03459 335577. 

 We have lots of exciting events coming up over the next few months with incredible wildlife experiences from immersive history and geology walks to a spectacular dawn chorus of thousands of Geese flighting from the Reserve. Our full list of events are available to view and download on the events tab on the blog.