Showing the wildside of South Essex

Wallasea Island Wild Coast Project: October 2009 update

2009-10-18T07:21:00.002+01:00

Over 400 visitors went Wild on Wallasea Island!

Our first Wallasea Island Wild Coast community day was held on 27 September. The theme of the event was Take a walk on the Wild Side, offering a chance to view the scale of the project and to discover why Wallasea Island is a true Essex wilderness. Over 400 people came to explore, with many visiting the island for the first time. The free ferry from Burnham was very well used, with 165 people making use of this route via the mini-bus shuttle from Essex Marina. Three walks were offered on the day, with over 100 people taking the longest walk, a three-mile round trip, to see the new conveyor belt route. The minibus provided for those not wishing to walk ran every 20 minutes, allowing people to have a look the new water vole habitat. The RSPB and Crossrail displays in the main marquee were well viewed, with lots of questions, discussion and positive feedback about the project. We think this was a very successful first event on the island and we will certainly be holding similar events in the future. If you’ve got ideas for events or activities you’d like to have at Wallasea Island, then let us know? We’d love to hear from you.

Other news:

The enabling works were completed ahead of schedule on 23 September.
The RSPB acquired 343ha (46%) of the project land on 25 September, the remaining project land will be acquired over the next two years. That’s the same size as 318 football pitches.
The first meeting of the Local Liaison Group was held in Canewdon Village Hall on 14 October. This group will meet throughout the life of the project, with the next meeting scheduled for January.
We expect the unloading facility to be installed from April 2010 and first material to be delivered to the site in June 2010.

Chris Tyas Wallasea Island Project ManagerPlease

contact me: 1, Old Hall Lane, Tolleshunt D’Arcy, Maldon. CM9 8TP chris.tyas@rspb.org.uk

Baby albatrosses fed man-made plastics by their parents

2009-10-17T07:03:00.002+01:00

http://www.chrisjordan.com/current_set2.php?id=11

As if the albatross family have not got enough to worry about. This is absolutely devastating, and proof if it were needed, on the effect dumping such material in our oceans is having on some of our rarest seabirds. Is there really any hope?

Follow this link to help: http://www.rspb.org.uk/supporting/campaigns/albatross/index.asp

Black Brant at Leigh-on-Sea

2009-10-12T19:18:00.002+01:00

Almost 4,000 dark-bellied brent geese showing well all day today from Victoria Wharf, amongst the flock both black brant and adult pale-bellied. A couple of record shots of the black brant below.

RSPB Leigh brent goose watch

2009-10-09T22:20:00.006+01:00

Friday 09 October
Around 3,000 brent geese now present at Leigh-on-Sea, Essex. With new birds arriving almost daily, today we saw our first family groups arrive. Two families one with three and the other pair had four juveniles with them. The RSPB will hve telescopes and a marquee on Victoria Wharf daily until October 22.

See the Essex coast come alive this October! CLICK HERE

2009-10-04T07:34:00.002+01:00

Get ready for a wildlife spectacle on your doorstep as thousands of brent geese fly in to Essex this autumn to spend their winter in the Thames Estuary.

From Saturday 3 – Thursday 22 October, the RSPB will be setting up its annual viewpoint in Leigh-on-Sea, where visitors can catch the spectacular sight of thousands of these wonderful geese feeding on the mudflats or taking to the air.

Each year the geese return from their breeding grounds in Siberia to come and feast on the eelgrass found on the saltmarsh along the Essex coast.

The Essex coast is one of only a few places in the UK to see such huge numbers of brent geese, so-called because of their charcoal black colour; the name brent is derived from an old Norse word meaning ‘burnt’.

Paula de Burgh, Visitor and Publicity Officer said, ‘Saltmarsh such as that found on the Essex coast is one of the most biologically productive habitats on the planet, even rivalling tropical rainforests. It also works as a natural sea defence, absorbing the force of the sea and reducing risk to people as well as birds.’

To watch the geese, visit the RSPB viewpoint on Victoria Wharf, Leigh-on-Sea, near the beach and public toilets. It is open everyday between 10 am – 4 pm from Saturday 3 – Thursday 22 October. Friendly RSPB staff and volunteers will be present with telescopes and binoculars available for use.

To find out more about the viewpoint at Leigh-on-Sea and the work of the RSPB go to http://www.rspb.org.uk/datewithnature/sites/essexcoast/index.asp or phone 01268 498627.

October events

2009-10-04T07:27:00.003+01:00

October 2009

Saturday 3 – Thursday 22 October: A Date with Nature – brent goose watch – Leigh-on-Sea 10 am – 4 pm daily
It’s that time of year again, when the Essex coast comes alive with thousands of brent geese returning for the winter. Be sure to come and see them through our telescopes on the seafront, and find out why the Thames Estuary is so vital to brent geese and other birds. Free event.

Monday 5 October: Healthy Living Walk at Wat Tyler Country Park, Basildon 12.30.

Come for a brisk 30-minute walk around Wat Tyler Country Park on a regular basis to improve your fitness in peaceful surroundings. Free event, no need to book.

Thursday 8 October: Thursday Wildlife walk at Wat Tyler Country Park, Basildon 10.30 am – 12.30 pm
Come for a FREE guided walk each Thursday around Wat Tyler Country Park, discover the wildlife of the park and see the changes that each season brings. Free event, no need to book.

Saturday 10 October: Wildlife walkabout – RSPB West Canvey Marsh, Canvey Island 10 am – 12 noon
This gentle stroll is an ideal introduction to the reserve and its varied wildlife. Join us for an informal nature walk, taking in the seasonal delights and see how we are creating a place for wildlife. Guided walks cost £3.00 for adults and £1.50 for children. RSPB members and RSPB Wildlife Explorers receive £1 discount. Booking essential, call 01268 498627.

Monday 12 October: Healthy Living Walk at Wat Tyler Country Park, Basildon 12.30.

Come for a brisk 30-minute walk around Wat Tyler Country Park on a regular basis to improve your fitness in peaceful surroundings. Free event, no need to book.

Thursday 15 October: Thursday Wildlife walk at Wat Tyler Country Park, Basildon 10.30 am – 12.30 pm
Come for a FREE guided walk each Thursday around Wat Tyler Country Park, discover the wildlife of the park and see the changes that each season brings. Free event, no need to book.

Saturday 17 October: Volunteer day at Wat Tyler Country Park, Basildon 10.00 am – 4 pm
Come and find out why being an RSPB volunteer is so rewarding. Chat with our volunteers, visit a reserve with our wardens and discover how giving just a day each month is a huge benefit to our work. Drop into our visitor centre to find out more. Free event, for more information call 01268 498627

Monday 19 October: Healthy Living Walk at Wat Tyler Country Park, Basildon 12.30.

Come for a brisk 30-minute walk around Wat Tyler Country Park on a regular basis to improve your fitness in peaceful surroundings. Free event, no need to book.

Thursday 22 October: Thursday Wildlife walk at Wat Tyler Country Park, Basildon 10.30 am – 12.30 pm
Come for a FREE guided walk each Thursday around Wat Tyler Country Park, discover the wildlife of the park and see the changes that each season brings. Free event, no need to book.

Saturday 24 – Sunday 25 October: Feed the Birds weekend at Wat Tyler Country Park, Basildon 10.00 am – 4 pm
Don’t forget the birds this winter. Make sure your garden or park is bird-friendly by providing food, water and shelter for your feathered friends. Join us for fun activities and make a bird feeder fat log to take home! Don’t forget to visit our wildlife garden for tips and ideas. Free admission, small charge for some activities.

Monday 26 October: Healthy Living Walk at Wat Tyler Country Park, Basildon 12.30.

Come for a brisk 30-minute walk around Wat Tyler Country Park on a regular basis to improve your fitness in peaceful surroundings. Free event, no need to book.

Tuesday 27 October: Autumn Family Fun Day at Wat Tyler Country Park, Basildon 10.00 am – 4 pm
Follow the autumn trail, collect clues, and enter our free draw to win a funky bird feeder! Free admission, small charge for some activities.

Thursday 29 October: Thursday Wildlife walk at Wat Tyler Country Park, Basildon 10.30 am – 12.30 pm
Come for a FREE guided walk each Thursday around Wat Tyler Country Park, discover the wildlife of the park and see the changes that each season brings. Free event, no need to book.

Thursday 29 October: Let’s go fly a kite! Wat Tyler Country Park, Basildon 10.00 am – 4 pm
The wonder of flight – drop onto our Discovery Zone and find out more. Fun activities include making your own kite. Free admission, small charge for some activities.

Saturday 31 October: Wildlife walkabout – RSPB Bowers Marsh, Bowers Gifford 10 am – 12 noon
This gentle stroll is an ideal introduction to the reserve and its varied wildlife. Join us for an informal nature walk, taking in the seasonal delights and see how we are creating a place for wildlife. Guided walks cost £3.00 for adults and £1.50 for children. RSPB members and RSPB Wildlife Explorers receive £1 discount. Booking essential, call 01268 498627.

Kate Humble is elected RSPB President

2009-10-04T07:22:00.002+01:00

Television presenter Kate Humble has been appointed as the new President of the RSPB, Europe’s largest wildlife conservation charity.

The RSPB and its members hope that Kate’s infectious enthusiasm for wildlife and wild places will inspire millions of people to get closer to nature.

RSPB members at today’s AGM in London’s Queen Elizabeth II conference centre, have just voted for Kate to become their new President (Saturday 3rd October). She is only the second female President since the organisation was founded in 1889 - the first, the Duchess of Portland, served for more than 60 years.

Kate is best known for presenting programmes such as Springwatch, Autumnwatch, Animal Park and The Frankincense Trail, and for her recent appearance on Who Do You Think You Are?

Her interest in wildlife stems from a childhood in the country and travels abroad in her late teens.

Kate says: “I’m not an academic or a specialist, but I do love learning new things and asking questions – I’m never afraid to ask. If I can communicate some of the amazing things I learn about wildlife on an almost daily basis and spark the same interest in others, that would be great.

“I’m extremely proud to be asked to be President of such a highly respected and popular organisation. With over one million members behind it, the work of the RSPB is rightly renowned for making a huge difference for birds, other wildlife and the environment.”

Kate’s TV appearances have made her a hit with everyone from serious naturalists to everyday wildlife enthusiasts, a spread that reflects the RSPB’s own membership.

In her new role, Kate aims to increase support for the RSPB’s work. In particular she aims to get more people enjoying wildlife first hand, whether feeding birds in their back garden, walking in the countryside or visiting nature reserves. She will also be promoting RSPB campaigns to stop the illegal killing of birds of prey, to save albatrosses from extinction and to protect tropical rainforests.

Graham Wynne, RSPB Chief Executive says: “Kate has a long held passion for nature and wildlife, plus a knack for spreading her enthusiasm to others. She is a great choice for RSPB President.

“We are delighted that Kate has taken on this role. I know she’ll make a huge contribution to our conservation efforts over the next five years.”

Kate takes over from Julian Pettifer, who has given outstanding service to the charity, having served two terms as RSPB President. Julian is a distinguished journalist and broadcaster who has written and presented many wildlife, conservation and social history programmes.

Supporters feel the earth move as diggers move in

2009-09-24T16:40:00.002+01:00

West Canvey’s green future starts to take shape

Heavy machinery has begun landscaping a large new nature reserve on Canvey Island in south Essex.

David Hedges, the RSPB’s South Essex Area Manager says, “West Canvey Marsh is the largest single area of green space on Canvey Island. Our commitment is to make this a high quality open green space, where local wildlife can once more find a home and where local people and visitors can enjoy new, enriching access.”

David continued, “The landscaping was made possible with generous financial support, and is part of the Parklands Project that is part-financed by Essex County Council, under the Thames Gateway programme of the Homes and Communities Agency, Biffa and Interreg - allowing us to create a sustainable green space for future generations on Canvey.”

West Canvey Marsh was originally bought in May 2006 from William Morrison Supermarkets Plc. The purchase was made possible by generous financial support from the East of England Development Agency, Veolia ES Cleanaway Pitsea Marshes Trust and the Department for Communities and Local Government’s Thames Gateway Programme.

Work has begun on the RSPB’s 256 hectares (640 acres) of grassland and saltmarsh to create a haven for both wildlife and people. This includes 3km of new multi user/purpose nature trail, viewing points, picnic areas and playground to open the landscape up to discover the wildlife secrets of the marshes.

Once the works are completed, this new nature area is set to open to the public in summer 2010. The RSPB will encourage wildlife to flourish allowing visitors to enjoy the flocks of wetland birds, butterflies and wildflowers and discover the rich historical heritage of how local communities have shaped the landscape of Canvey Island.

The RSPB is fully committed to Greengrid, an initiative to provide new green spaces connected to each other in a network accessible to people and filled with wildlife. This is a foundation for sustainable development, securing a healthy and attractive place to live in and to visit. West Canvey Marsh will directly benefit the 650,000 people living in the area of south Essex close to the Thames Gateway.

Doug Benjafield, Chairman of Veolia ES Cleanaway Pitsea Marshes Trust, one of the funders for the original purchase, added: “To make this land available to the local community to enjoy in perpetuity was the main reason why the Trust originally supported the land purchase. Out of our £2½ million support of the RSPB in south Essex, £750,000 has gone to West Canvey Marshes. Having been involved with this project right from the start, it’s very exciting now to see the reserve really starting to take shape providing an accessible green lung for people and wildlife on the edge of the urban fringe”.

John Meehan, Project Manager for Parklands said: “The Parklands Programme has been made possible by Essex County Council preparing a Parklands Business Plan which won Essex £11.5 million. The fruits of all this effort are now starting to show themselves on Canvey Island and will continue to do so for years to come. We are delighted that Canvey Island has now got high quality environmental organisations such as the RSPB helping to look after the natural areas of the island”

Take a walk on the wild side of Essex

2009-09-22T06:48:00.003+01:00

~RSPB lays on free ferry for family day from Burnham to Wallasea Island ~

~ every 20 minutes, Sunday September 27th ~

The RSPB is throwing open the doors of its Wallasea Island Wild Coast Project with its first ever free community open day this Sunday (27 September 2009).

In what promises to be a wild adventure for everyone, local residents, families and day-trippers will be able to learn a little bit more about this magical island, with walks, children’s activities and information on the project on offer between 10am and 4pm on the day.

The RSPB’s Wallasea Island Wild Coast Project is the largest of its kind in Europe, and is soon to be transformed back into a fantastic wildlife-rich marshland similar to how the island would have looked 400 years ago.

It’s a great example of how the RSPB and its project partners, Crossrail, are helping the coast and its wildlife adapt in the face of climate change. Tunnelling material (clay, sand, gravel and chalk) from Crossrail, the new cross-capital rail link, will be transferred by ship to Wallasea Island. This material will be used to raise the land to create 1,500 acres – nearly 2.5 square miles - of tidal wildlife habitat.

Chris Tyas, Wallasea Island Project Manager said: “The scale of this project is immense, and this is an amazing opportunity to see the work that we’ve already begun on the Island. With any luck, we’ll be getting up close to some of the fantastic wildlife on the Island as well.

“We really hope that people can come along and enjoy the wildness of the Island, whilst soaking up the fun of the day. It’s an incredible project to be a part of and we hope the visitors feel the same way.”

For more information on the event taking place on Wallasea Island on Sunday 27 September, 10 am – 4 pm, please contact Chris Tyas on 01621 862621 or email at chris.tyas@rspb.org.uk

There will be free access by ferry to and from the Island (every 20 mins) from Burnham-on-Crouch and mini bus transport from the Essex Marina. For those wishing to come by car the event will be signed from Ashingdon Road in Rochford.

Click here to download NEW Winter Programme

2009-09-06T07:38:00.002+01:00

RSPB South Essex Marshes - Reserves update

2009-08-26T06:23:00.002+01:00

August 2009
On the move! That could be the motto, which describes the state of affairs in South Essex the best. On all our reserves, major landscaping work have and still is taking place in order to turn the plans for the South Essex project into reality.

Reserves Management
The first phase of the habitat creation works on RSPB West Canvey Marshes was completed at the end of March 2009. This work included the excavation of scrapes, these shallow muddy areas will hold water and will provide ideal habitat for a wide variety of wildfowl and wading birds. The soils generated from the scrape creation were then used to build two reservoir dams either end of the fleet area.

After the diggers had finished their work, on Vange Marsh in April, our islands in the saline lagoon shone in new splendour with a fresh cockleshell topping and re-shaped muddy edges for a shallower bank profile providing a greater area of draw-down. This has provided improved feeding conditions for waders on the lagoon. This work caught the interest of various regional newspapers and even brought our warden a live radio interview with BBC Essex! A new interpretation board has been installed on Vange Marsh informing visitors of the importance of the site and its habitats, whilst the map provides details of the trails and viewpoints.

Bowers Marsh, a 270 hectare area of marshland, has been leased from Veolia Environmental Services. This land stretches between Pitsea and Benfleet and connects the easterly Vange Marsh area behind Wat Tyler Country Park with our West Canvey Marshes nature reserve. The Bowers Marsh public consultation is underway; this will provide us with opinions and ideas for the RSPB’s proposal for the area of marshland.

The volunteer work parties have continued to be a success. The volunteers have carried out regular reserves maintenance such as the brush cutting of the footpaths, litter picking and fencing repairs. Some of the volunteers have also been involved in species monitoring, providing valuable data about the avian and non-avian species across the reserves.

Species records
One of the main highlights were the first fledged lapwing young for the South Essex Marshes and with conditions improving across the marshes these should be the first of many. There have been other good bird highlights already this year. Four adult whooper swans were present on Bowers Marsh from the 27th February to the 29th March. Up to three marsh harriers were regularly recorded over Bowers Marsh during winter into spring.

There were a good number of white-winged gulls in the area until early spring, a glaucous gull was seen amongst the large gull flock on Vange Marsh on the 1st of March. Spring passage got under way in early April with the arrival of sedge and reed warblers across the reserve. The next two months saw a period of brief visits from a variety of interesting species. A black redstart was a welcome visitor to Vange Marsh on the 2nd of April. Common, green and wood sandpipers were all recorded in May. A marsh sandpiper dropped into the Vange Marsh freshwater lagoon on the 11th of May. Unfortunately, this rare wader was only present on the marsh for about 30 minutes before black-headed gulls chased it off. It was followed later the same week by a Temminck’s stint that paid a short visit on the 14th of the month. On 24th of June, a spoonbill was seen feeding in the brackish lagoon and one day later, a ruff with most of a gingery ruff was spotted. Other waders on the reserve have included black-tailed godwit, whimbrel, curlew, ringed plover, dunlin, greenshank, redshank and spotted redshank.

Non-avian highlights have included water voles, which have been a common sight when strolling along the ditches. Some of these mammals have been fairly showy and have been seen feeding and swimming across the ditches on Vange Marsh. Adders, slow worm and common lizard have all been recorded basking in the early morning sun across the South Essex Marshes. Butterflies monitoring has continued on the reserve and marbled whites looked to have had a good year. Small tortoiseshell were recorded more regularly than in recent years, but this butterfly continues to struggle on the reserve, mirroring the national trend. A butterfly ‘good news story’ is that wall brown has at least three populations across the reserve. This butterfly has become a rare sight across south Essex so it is a locally important species of Lepidoptera.

September events

2009-08-25T06:49:00.002+01:00

September 2009

Tuesday 1 September: Arrivals and departures walk – Holehaven Creek, Canvey 10 am
Another chance to say goodbye to our summer visitors and look out for birds that are on passage to other parts of the world – who knows what we might see! Guided walks cost £3.00 for adults and £1.50 for children. RSPB members and RSPB Wildlife Explorers receive £1 discount. Booking essential, call 01268 559158.

Thursday 3 September: Thursday Wildlife walk at Wat Tyler Country Park, Basildon 10.30 am – 12.30 pm
Come for a FREE guided walk each Thursday around Wat Tyler Country Park, discover the wildlife of the park and see the changes that each season brings. Free event, no need to book.

Saturday 5 September: Late summer on the Marsh walk – RSPB Vange Marsh 10 am
Join our monthly walk around the reserve to see how we are creating a place for wildlife and for people too. Guided walks cost £3.00 for adults and £1.50 for children. RSPB members and RSPB Wildlife Explorers receive £1 discount. Booking essential, call 01268 559158.

Monday 7 September: Healthy Living Walk at Wat Tyler Country Park, 12.30.Come for a brisk 30-minute walk around Wat Tyler Country Park on a regular basis to improve your fitness in peaceful surroundings. Free event, no need to book.

Tuesday 8 September: Arrivals and departures walk – Wallasea Island 10 am
Another chance to say goodbye to our summer visitors and look out for birds that are on passage to other parts of the world – who knows what we might see! Guided walks cost £3.00 for adults and £1.50 for children. RSPB members and RSPB Wildlife Explorers receive £1 discount. Booking essential, call 01268 559158.

Thursday 10 September: Thursday Wildlife walk at Wat Tyler Country Park, Basildon 10.30 am – 12.30 pm
Come for a FREE guided walk each Thursday around Wat Tyler Country Park, discover the wildlife of the park and see the changes that each season brings. Free event, no need to book.

Sunday 13 September: Blackwater birds at Maldon Promenade Park, 10 am – 4 pm.
Discover which birds and other wildlife you can see on the Blackwater River. There will be telescopes available for close-up views and information to take away. Free admission, small charge for parking

Monday 14 September: Healthy Living Walk at Wat Tyler Country Park, 12.30.Come for a brisk 30-minute walk around Wat Tyler Country Park on a regular basis to improve your fitness in peaceful surroundings. Free event, no need to book.

Tuesday 15 September: Arrivals and departures walk – Coalhouse Fort, East Tilbury 10 am
Another chance to say goodbye to our summer visitors and look out for birds that are on passage to other parts of the world – who knows what we might see! Guided walks cost £3.00 for adults and £1.50 for children. RSPB members and RSPB Wildlife Explorers receive £1 discount. Booking essential, call 01268 559158.

Thursday 17 September: Thursday Wildlife walk at Wat Tyler Country Park, Basildon 10.30 am – 12.30 pm
Come for a FREE guided walk each Thursday around Wat Tyler Country Park, discover the wildlife of the park and see the changes that each season brings. Free event, no need to book.

Saturday 19 September: A wild West Canvey wander – RSPB West Canvey Marsh 10 am
Join our monthly walk around the reserve to see how we are creating a place for wildlife and for people too. Guided walks cost £3.00 for adults and £1.50 for children. RSPB members and RSPB Wildlife Explorers receive £1 discount. Booking essential, call 01268 559158.

Saturday 19 - Sunday 20 September: Magical moth weekend – Wat Tyler Country Park 10 am – 5 pm. Evening moth trap 8.30 pm – Midnight Booking essential
Come along and take part in National Moth Night. Help us set up the light traps and record the species caught on Saturday night. Come along Sunday morning at 9 am and help empty the traps. Free event, small donation appreciated. Booking essential for Saturday evening, call 01268 559158.

Monday 21 September: Healthy Living Walk at Wat Tyler Country Park, 12.30.Come for a brisk 30-minute walk around Wat Tyler Country Park on a regular basis to improve your fitness in peaceful surroundings. Free event, no need to book.

Tuesday 22 September: Arrivals and departures walk – Canvey Heights Country Park 10 am
Another chance to say goodbye to our summer visitors and look out for birds that are on passage to other parts of the world – who knows what we might see! Guided walks cost £3.00 for adults and £1.50 for children. RSPB members and RSPB Wildlife Explorers receive £1 discount. Booking essential, call 01268 559158.

Thursday 24 September: Thursday Wildlife walk at Wat Tyler Country Park, Basildon 10.30 am – 12.30 pm
Come for a FREE guided walk each Thursday around Wat Tyler Country Park, discover the wildlife of the park and see the changes that each season brings. Free event, no need to book.

Saturday 26 September: Discover Bowers Marsh walk – RSPB Bowers Marsh 10 am
Find out more about our exciting plans for this new nature reserve, and look for birds and wildlife already there. Guided walks cost £3.00 for adults and £1.50 for children. RSPB members and RSPB Wildlife Explorers receive £1 discount. Booking essential, call 01268 559158.

Saturday 27 September: Wallasea Island Wild Coast Community Day 10 am – 4 pm
Find out more about our exciting plans for this new nature reserve, guided tours of the island, information, family activities and lots, lots more! FREE EVENT

Monday 28 September: Healthy Living Walk at Wat Tyler Country Park, 12.30.Come for a brisk 30-minute walk around Wat Tyler Country Park on a regular basis to improve your fitness in peaceful surroundings. Free event, no need to book.

Tuesday 29 September: Arrivals and departures walk – Wat Tyler Country Park 10 am
Another chance to say goodbye to our summer visitors and look out for birds that are on passage to other parts of the world – who knows what we might see! Guided walks cost £3.00 for adults and £1.50 for children. RSPB members and RSPB Wildlife Explorers receive £1 discount. Booking essential, call 01268 559158.

Wallasea Island Wild Coast Project: August 2009 update

2009-08-02T06:58:00.006+01:00

Enabling works in progress on 31st July – access bank across Defra site

This project update provides you with information on progress towards delivering this exciting project. We will provide frequent updates throughout the project.

Recent news:

Enabling works started on 27 July following the conclusion of agreements with Crossrail, Defra, and Wallasea Farms and the issue of planning consent on 9 July for the whole project, together with Crouch Harbour Authority Works licence, FEPA and Coastal Protection Act consent for the enabling works.
The Enabling Works involve creating new habitat for water voles and building up the access bank across the Defra land for conveyors that will carry material from ships and onto the island. The inter-tidal portion of these works will be completed by 30th September and the Vole works by 30th October at the latest.
The RSPB plans to acquire the first parts of the project land from Wallasea Farms in September.
The installation of the unloading facility is still planned for spring 2010 and the start of the main works from summer 2010, following further design work and approvals.
A Local Liaison Group is being established with Essex County Council to help inform key stakeholders on the progress of the Project and to discuss any local concerns. Local community, sailing, fisheries and navigation interests will all be represented.
An activity day for local people will be organised on the Island in the autumn – details will follow in the next Project Update.

Chris Tyas Wallasea Island Project Manager
Please contact me: 1, Old Hall Lane, Tolleshunt D’Arcy, Maldon. CM9 8TP chris.tyas@rspb.org.uk

Stop bird of prey slaughter now!

2009-07-03T06:28:00.003+01:00

Dear Supporter

I've had to take dead birds to the vets many times before, but this time I had a real sinking feeling. Minutes after handing over the limp corpse I was staring at an X-ray, which confirmed my worst fears.

I could see 11 pieces of gunshot in what had been a magnificent, female peregrine. She had been slaughtered – most probably on her nest. The inscribed metal ring on her leg gave a tiny insight into her life. She hatched seven years ago in Shropshire and, at the time of her death, was in her prime. Quite probably, she had chicks that depended on her and will now starve.

I felt sick and disgusted. How can people stoop so low?

2009 has been a terrible year for cowardly crimes against birds of prey, including eagles and peregrines.

With your help, we can stop this illegal killing.

Sign a pledge now to save our birds of prey.

I work in the RSPB's Investigations team and this has been one of the worst years I can remember.

In the last few weeks, barely a day has gone by without us getting a call about peregrine persecution and other crimes against birds of prey. It's shocking that in the 21st century, these fabulous birds are still routinely shot, trapped and poisoned.

Only a few days ago, one of my colleagues in Scotland went to investigate a dead golden eagle found in Argyll. The police suspect that it was illegally poisoned, using a bait with a very toxic chemical.

I'm desperate for the peregrine and golden eagle deaths not to be mere grisly statistics.

With your support, we can demonstrate to government that we will not tolerate these crimes and put an end to them.

Please sign the RSPB's birds of prey pledge now and help us stop the killing.

Thank you so much.

Mark Thomas
Investigations Unit

PS For more about peregrine persecution, including a photo of the dead female, see here.

Are you passionate about wildlife and the natural world? Yes! then click here

2009-06-28T06:54:00.005+01:00

Can you switch people onto nature?

The RSPB South Essex People and Wildlife programme is an exciting new project placing wildlife, a healthy environment and active communities at the heart of sustainable living and regeneration in the Thames Gateway.

We have 4 roles available - Community Programme Manager, Education Manager, Education Officer, Visitor & Publicity Officer. All post holders will be required to develop opportunities for and work closely with local volunteers. All posts are full time, three year contracts.

The RSPB South Essex People and Wildlife programme is supported by Natural England through Access to Nature as part of the Big Lottery Fund’s Changing Spaces Programme. For further details, please see our website.

South Essex People and Wildlife Programme
Organisation: RSPB

Location: South Essex
Position Type: Paid/Fixed Term Contract
Part Time/Full Time: Full Time
Closing Date: 10 Jul 09
Website:
www.rspb.org.uk/vacancies

Partnership creates new nature reserve

2009-06-26T06:50:00.014+01:00

A unique partnership between the RSPB and Veolia Environmental Services is delivering a new 270 hectare wetland nature reserve on the south Essex marshes. The two organisations have signed a 150-year peppercorn lease on land adjoining Veolia’s Pitsea landfill site. The RSPB will manage the land to develop a sustainable wetland system with a range of habitats including extensive wet grassland, a tidal lagoon, scrapes and saltmarsh. An existing reedbed will also be extended.

The new habitats will attract birds including bittern, redshank and lapwing as well as large numbers of waterfowl and spectacular wading birds like the black tailed godwit. Water vole, great crested newt and a wide variety of invertebrates will also make their homes on the new marshes where new public access will create opportunities for quiet recreation and exploration of the natural world.

Paul Levett, Deputy Chief Executive of Veolia Environmental Services says,

“We have worked closely with the RSPB in south-east Essex for nearly a decade. Within Basildon and Castle Point, the Veolia ES Cleanaway Pitsea Marshes Trust has contributed over £½ million towards the purchase of nearly 258 hectares of land at West Canvey Marshes, public access and other infrastructure improvements at Vange Marshes and the employment of a full time RSPB Wildlife and People’s Project Officer.

“The land covered by this new lease will form part of the 15 square kilometre ‘green lung’ of the South Essex Marshes. We welcome the active involvement of the RSPB in building on the 20 years of restoration already completed at our Pitsea landfill”.

Chris Corrigan, Regional Director, South East Regional Office, RSPB adds:

“We are extremely excited by our partnership with Veolia and this significant and very welcome opportunity to extend our existing interests in the area at West Canvey and Vange Marshes. 550 hectares of additional land for nature conservation and public access will mean we can make a real difference to the living landscape of south Essex – for wildlife and for people. This is a marvellous contribution to the South Essex Greengrid and Thames Gateway Parklands.

“This is a long-term commitment by Veolia and the RSPB and shows how waste management and nature conservation organisations can work together for the good of our environment, our wildlife and our communities.”

John Baron, Billericay & District MP, Chris Corrigan, RSPB Regional Director, South East Regional Office, Paul Levett, Deputy Chief Executive Veolia Environmental Services

John Baron, MP for Billericay and District also endorses the project:

“Too often we see the over-development of our green spaces, so congratulations to Veolia and the RSPB for conserving the natural environment and encouraging local wildlife. The new project will be a fun resource for the whole family and help to raise awareness of conservation issues. This ambitious scheme will really help to put the Essex Marshes back on the map.”
Veolia is currently working on a restoration master plan for its Pitsea site, with a range of stakeholders including RSPB. The site will be restored for a variety of nature conservation uses including grassland and flower rich meadows, to support diverse invertebrate and reptile communities as well as species such as nationally rare species brown hare and skylark. The restored site will be developed and managed for public access by the RSPB and will provide magnificent views over the entire marshland area.

The elusive bittern - Andy Hay rspbimages.com

Top marks for RSPB Rainham Marshes

2009-06-12T22:37:00.005+01:00

RSPB reserve judged to be one of England’s best for outside learning

Pupils visiting Rainham Marshes to learn about the environment are receiving an outstanding education, according to a Government-sponsored scheme.

The programme, known as the Quality Badge, is the first to provide a national benchmark of teaching standards for out of classroom learning. It ranked the Purfleet reserve’s teaching-scheme as ‘Outstanding’ – the highest grade available.

4000 school children of all ages visit Rainham Marshes each year from across Essex and London, including Thurrock, Havering, Barking and Dagenham, Redbridge, Tower Hamlets and Newham.

The report described Rainham Marshes as “a true oasis and unique wild space”, which has become “a leading centre for environmental education in London”.

It praised the passion and enthusiasm of the reserve’s education team, which visiting teachers said led to better coursework and improved motivation in some pupils.

Rainham Marshes’ innovative Environment and Education Centre was also described as a unique tool in illustrating ways to minimise our impact on the environment. The award-winning centre runs on solar and wind power, and is fitted with other energy saving devices such as self-regulating temperature controls and wool insulation.

Brona Doyle, RSPB Rainham Marshes education officer, said: “Getting top marks in this national scheme shows just how passionately we believe in giving young people an experience with nature they won’t forget.

“Out of classroom learning is one of the most effective forms of education. It broadens children’s outlook, keeps them fit and healthy, and gives them a sense of awe for the world around them.
“I hope our ranking as one of the country’s leading environmental education centres will encourage more schools and families to pay a visit to Rainham Marshes, and discover for themselves what wild wonders live on their doorstep.”

Every year nationwide, the RSPB introduces 60,000 school children to nature through its Living Classrooms field-teaching scheme. This is an exciting programme of school visits, designed to bring learning to life through curriculum-linked, hands-on activities.

Much of it is financed by donations from funding schemes, with the programme at Rainham Marshes generously supported by the City of London’s City Bridge Trust and the Heritage Lottery Fund

For primary schools, activities include re-enacting climate change, pond exploration, building the River Thames, growing like a plant and becoming meteorologists.
For secondary schools, subjects range from water quality studies and land-use mapping, to team skills and confidence building.

Stewart Goshawk, of the City Bridge Trust, said: “We are delighted to be supporting the education programme at Rainham Marshes and congratulate the RSPB on achieving this level of recognition. We are keen to ensure that quality opportunities exist for young Londoners to experience and understand our wildlife heritage and its biodiversity. Rainham is a key part of helping us achieve this aim.”

Robyn Llewellyn, Head of Heritage Lottery Fund East of England, said: “Rainham Marshes offers visitors a wonderful opportunity to learn about and enjoy their natural heritage. With our support, the RSPB created an education programme that really captures the imagination of young people, ensuring that this landscape will be treasured for generations to come. This recognition is well deserved.”

For more information on RSPB Rainham Marshes call 01708 899840 or visit rspb.org.uk/reserves

Image - Andy Hay rspb-images.com

Mass Migration of Pained Lady Butterflies

2009-05-29T08:08:00.005+01:00

We are currently experiencing the largest invasion of Painted Lady butterflies this century. This large, powerfully flying insect is orange-brown in colour, with black-and-white patterning at the wingtips. They are arriving in unprecedented numbers all along the South coast, having originated from their core breeding area around the desert margins of North Africa. They have travelled across Europe and the English Channel and are now heading northwards through Britain.

Painted lady Vanessa Carduip, feeding on buddleia - Grahame Madge (rspb-images.com)

Neil Hulme, Chairman and West Sussex Conservation Officer for the Sussex Branch of the charity Butterfly Conservation, said "this is one of the great spectacles of the natural world and everyone will be able to spot these butterflies whether they live in the middle of a town or in the countryside. I have been watching butterflies for over forty years, but have never seen anything quite on this scale. The species turns up here most years, but numbers have been very low for some while now. A migration on this scale may result in the Painted Ladies reaching as far as the Arctic Circle, a journey of two thousand miles — they have already reached Scotland. The butterflies will be travelling by day and night, often through poor weather conditions, snatching brief periods of rest as they glide."

He added, "on Sunday afternoon East Sussex Conservation Officer Michael Blencowe phoned me in a state of excitement, as he could not believe what he was seeing. I joined him at the end of a woodland ride near Lewes, where he was counting Painted Ladies coming over a five-bar gate. He told me it was like counting sheep and that he had already recorded 133 in an hour. A further hour walking around the wood gave us a total of 250 and literally thousands would have passed through this single wood during the day. We were fascinated by their behaviour, which is typical of a mass butterfly migration. They just wouldn't stop for a rest, only landing here and there for a second or two, just to take on a snack of nectar 'fuel'. All were heading purposefully north — they are on a mission. On Monday evening at 8.45pm Painted Ladies were still coming in off the sea in central Worthing, flying northwards up Chapel Road."

"Many people have already asked me what causes this phenomenon. It seems likely that when the population increases sufficiently in Africa, this triggers a change in their behaviour. They start to swarm and then head off in huge numbers. Painted Ladies will already be here in their millions. They will breed here this summer, so we will have them around until the autumn, but they won't survive the winter in the UK as a temperature below about 5°C is fatal to the species.

Get out and enjoy them while you can."

Those seeing Painted Lady butterflies are urged to send their records to the Butterfly Conservation National Painted Lady Survey page at www.butterfly-conservation.org/migrantwatch where an interactive map is being used to plot the migration.

Neil Hulme, Butterfly ConservationTuesday 26th May 2009

North Norfolk - Saturday 23 May

2009-05-24T18:19:00.015+01:00

A gloriously warm sunny day with little to no wind, although it did cloud over for a while at Titchwell the weather could not have been better.

We left Pitsea at 06.30 arriving at our first site in north Norfolk around 09.30, looking out across a field of rape we were treated to 3 Marsh Harriers and a couple of what were probably Buzzards soaring distantly on a thermal. After thirty minutes one of the birds we were hoping to see appeared along the top of the field, following the hedgerow, a male Montagu's Harrier showed extremely well as it followed the hedgerow down the opposite side of the field, a stunning start to the day!

On to RSPB Titchwell Marsh which as always didn't disappoint, warblers were in full song, Blackcap, Willow, Chiffchaff, Sedge, Reed and Cetti's. Three Marsh Harriers showed well over the reedbeds and a pair of Cuckoos gave us a flypast. A single Turtle Dove showed well in a dead tree and Bearded Tits 'pinged' away in the reedbed occasionally giving brief flight views. On the freshmarsh a few pairs of Avocets now had chicks while many more were still sitting. Around fifty Black-tailed Godwits were still present some of which were now in their breeding plumage as were five Grey Plover.

Five Spoonbills flying over heading east were an unexpected bonus for some, unfortunately I missed them! On the beach summer-plumaged Sanderlings were seen alongside Turnstones and more Grey Plovers while on the sea two drake Eiders were a nice find as were 15 Common Scoter flying past.

We finished the day at Cley Marsh, A lapwing with three very young chicks showed extremely well. Marsh Harriers were constantly mobbed by Avocets and Black-tailed Godwits as they quartered the marsh. Dunlin, Little Ringed and Ringed Plovers were seen well. From the beach and north hide, Common, Little and Sandwich Terns along with another Spoonbill were seen.

We finished the day at 06.30 pm with another Marsh Harrier quartering the field beside the Visitor Centre car park. A great day enjoyed by all.

If you would like information on future trips email: alan.shearman1@btinternet.com

Southern Marsh Orchid - Alan Shearman

The Drinker moth caterpillar - Cley Marsh - Alan Shearman

Goldfinch - Cley Marsh - David Lee

Wren - Cley - Clive Woodward

Lapwing - Cley Marsh - David Lee

Marsh Harrier and Avocets - Cley Marsh - David Lee

SPECIES SEEN 23/05/09

Blackcap, Wood Pigeon, Carrion Crow
Magpie, Wren, Rook,
Jackdaw, Collared Dove, Goldfinch,
Grey Partridge, Swift, Starling,
Chaffinch, Whitethroat, Mallard,
Lapwing, Black-headed Gull, Kestrel,
Pheasant, Marsh Harrier, Common Buzzard,
Skylark, Montague Harrier (male), Blackbird ,
Blue Tit, Chiffchaff, Reed Warbler,
Coot, Sedge Warbler, Ruddy Duck,
Cetti’s Warbler (H), Canada Goose, Avocet,
Shoveler, Gadwall, Shelduck,
Greenfinch, House Sparrow, Moorhen,
Swallow, Cuckoo, Turtle Dove,
Willow Warbler, Mute Swan, Red-crested Pochard (9 young),
Bearded Tit, Black-tailed Godwit, Brent Goose,
Oystercatcher, Redshank, Ringed Plover,
Herring Gull, Spoonbill (5), Sandwich Tern,
Sanderling, Robin, Greylag Goose,
Linnet, Little ringed Plover, Common Tern,
Sand Martin, Tufted Duck, Pochard,
Grey Plover, Common Scoter (c18), Eider Duck (2 male),
Cormorant, Reed Bunting, Pied Wagtail ,
Dunlin, Grey Heron, Meadow Pipit,
Little Tern.
Total of 73 species

New RSPB Visitor Centre at Wat Tyler Country Park to Open This Summer

2009-05-22T07:05:00.006+01:00

An exciting new visitor centre is getting set to open at the heart of Wat Tyler Country Park in Pitsea this summer.

This new RSPB Centre will be the second of it's kind in the park and will include state-of-the-art CCTV putting the secrets of the outside world right in front of your eyes. There will also be informative displays enabling you to discover more about the South Essex marshes and a range of RSPB bird-care products to buy.

The centre will be powered by 100% sustainable energy provided by the same wood-burning boiler that powers the council's new Wat Tyler Centre.

Existing buildings within the park are being refurbished as part of the Parklands Project and are part-financed by Essex County Council, under the Thames Gateway programme of the Department for Communities and Local Government. These new facilities will complement the new Wat Tyler Centre, which is also due to open this summer.

David Hedges, the RSPB's South Essex Area Manager, said, "The new visitor centre will be a great new home for the RSPB in Wat Tyler Country Park allowing us to host bigger and better events and show people what a great place the marshes of south Essex are".

Alongside the new centre, another building will also be refurbished, as a children's Discovery Centre offering a variety of wildlife themed events and activities, and an extensive wildlife garden will be enhanced as an excellent environmental education area.

Cockleshell Islands at RSPB Vange Marsh Reserve

2009-05-11T13:18:00.004+01:00

The RSPB nature reserve at Vange Marsh has recently seen a few changes and the wonderful site that attracts a wide variety of wildlife has been improved for breeding birds.

The islands on the saline lagoon habitat have been re-shaped and topped with cockleshells. These cockleshells are a by-product of the sustainable cockling industry at nearby Leigh-on-sea. The RSPB feels that in using the material from Leigh-on-sea, they are reducing haulage distance, therefore having less of an impact on the environment.

Added to this, the shells provide an excellent nesting area for many types of birds including Avocets. The islands have also been re-shaped so that there is a greater amount of muddy edge around the islands for birds to feed.

Excavator machines started the work at the end of March, taking two weeks to finish the work. The islands where covered in a geo-textile membrane then topped with shells. Capping the islands in this way will help stop vegetation growth allowing the birds to have clear sight lines enabling them to avoid predation.

Marc Outten, the RSPB South Essex Marshes Warden explains, ‘the work is essential for a wide variety of breeding birds, some of which are scarce in the area. This recently completed habitat will compliment the wide range of habitats already on the reserve allowing many species to move between different areas of the site to feed and seek refuge’.

The RSPB organises guided walks on Vange Marsh on the first Saturday of each month. So if you would like to discover more about the RSPB’s work on the reserve and have a chance to see the birds that live there, contact the RSPB South Essex Marshes office on 01268 559158.

Bird Trip to Minsmere 09 May 2009

2009-05-10T08:15:00.016+01:00

Arriving at RSPB Minsmere Nature Reserve the six of us headed off towards the northern footpath, stopping first to look at the sand martin bank, a few sand martins were overhead but none entered any of the nesting holes while we watched. As we approached the first bushes at the start of the trail a nightingale could be heard singing to our left and then another on the righthand side of the path. Both were in quite dense bushes, but moving past and looking back one showed well in the open and everyone had great views through the telescope. As we passed through the reedbeds, both sedge and reed warbler singing along with the loud bursting song of a cetti's warbler. We soon picked up the 'pinging' calls of bearded tits, the north trail is on a higher elevation to the reeds, so viewing was excellent looking down in to the large reedbeds on either side of the trail. A pair of bearded tits showed amazingly well, regularly calling as they crossed the path often between the gathered on-lookers! It appeared that they probably had a nest with young on one side, but were gathering food from the other. The views were down to just a few yards in the edge of the reeds in clear view and often dropping on the ground beside the track gathering food....wonderful!

A second-summer Mediterranean gull was first picked on call as it circled over our heads with the black-headed gulls. Four or five pairs are now breeding at Minsmere along with 1100 pairs of black-headed gulls. Later we found two Mediterranean gulls on the scrape sitting on their nests. As we approached the beach a male stonechat showed well sat on top of a small bush.

On the sea common and little terns were constantly flying backwards and forwards over the shingle beach to the scrape. An adult kittiwake flew past close to the shoreline heading north. From east hide excellent close views of a pair of avocets and a summer plumaged turnstone on a small island close to the hide. Around 40 black-tailed godwits were on the scrape, nearly all still in their winter plumage, these seemed really plain compared to the summer birds still around in South Essex! A good fifty or so dunlin were present, looking very dapper with their black bellies. Among the hundreds of black-headed gulls were good numbers of common terns, many of which were pair-bonding as they nosily offered their partners small fish titbit's.

On to the sluice and a female wheatear showed very well, the swallows were a photographers delight perching on the sluice fences and footpath signs and allowing a close approach. Beyond the sluice a single greenshank. On the footpath between south and west hide, was this large caterpillar, which I later identified as the drinker moth. This very dark, large hairy caterpillar can be seen from April to June and August to September. Cuckoos can eat them but probably no other birds. The caterpillars feed on coarse grass and reed, hibernating from October to April when they resume feeding. Their long-recognised habit of drinking drops of dew from plants gives us the common English name. The caterpillars pupate in June. This large moth is common and widespread in Great Britain, and can be found in gardens where there are stands of coarse and lightly managed grasses.

From west hide the little terns were sitting on the islands alongside common terns offering a great opportunity to compare size and plumage differences. Probably the scarcest bird of the day was picked up in flight as it headed south over the scrape, black-tips to some of the primaries identified it as an immature spoonbill, an impressive sight enjoyed by all.

Lunch was taken back at the visitor centre, where we also found a small copper butterfly before heading off to the woods. Coal tit was heard but remained elusive, but not quite so elusive were great spotted woodpecker and treecreeper, although everyone saw marsh tit, well almost everyone, I couldn't get on it! As we approached island mere hide a bittern could be heard 'booming' and continued to boom while we were in the hide. I never realised just how difficult it was to pin down where the sound was coming from, in fact it was hard to work out which direction it was coming from! Of course the marsh harriers performed beautifully, just as we knew they would, after all this is Minsmere!

Hobby was seen three times but each time we were on the woodland trails and only had views through gaps in the canopy. We moved on to Westleton and Minsmere Heaths which had three dartford warblers singing, none of which showed really well giving only brief perched or flight views. Whereas a pair of stonechats showed very well as did a yellowhammer and flypast green woodpecker. On Westleton two nightingales had a singing competition, one of which showed very well in the open. The last bird but not least bird of the day was a woodlark seen as we were at the cars preparing to leave, it showed fairly well but all too briefly in a gnarled stump of a tree. We finished the day having seen 78 different species and having had a very pleasant relaxed and friendly day.

The next trip is on Saturday 23 May to north Norfolk, visiting RSPB Titchwell Marsh Nature Reserve and a nearby raptor watch point. For more details or to book a place email alan.shearman1@btinternet.com

Out and about in South Essex

2009-05-06T17:33:00.011+01:00

RSPB Vange Marsh

Yesterday 05 May a peregrine flew low over the marsh heading north at 2 pm and also heading north at 3.15 pm was a red kite, the first I have seen in South Essex.

Early on the marsh today were 11 greenshank, 1 spotted redshank in full summer plumage, 2 redshank, 2 oystercatchers and 3 summer plumages dunlins.

One Tree Hill

The green-winged orchids are still looking good.

Coombe Wood, Langdon Hills

Fantastic display of bluebells, photos just never do them justice!

International Dawn Chorus Day Sunday 03 May

2009-05-04T06:33:00.007+01:00

Sixteen people gathered at the RSPB Visitor Centre in Wat Tyler Country Park at 5 am. With the dawn chorus just getting in to full swing a cuckoo was one of the first birds heard and two more were heard during the two hour walk, one of which showed well in flight. Blue and great tits along with robin were heard around the bird feeding area. A whitethroat, it's scratchy song was soon heard as we crossed the road to Holly Cottage, whitethroats were evident throughout the walk with one performing exceptionally well on the perimeter trail often song flighting above our heads. Reed warblers were singing from the reedbeds, even the smallest areas of reed held at least one. A cetti's warbler burst in to song but remained elusive as is often the case with this species. As we continued blackbirds and wrens were in full voice, and then we picked up the gentle 'purring' of a turtle dove, the first recorded in the park this year, the bird was sat on a pylon and every one enjoyed views through a telescope. On to the marina and a pair of oystercatchers made a noisy fly-past while two little egrets fed in the creek. Our first nightingale could be heard singing across the creek on the western end of the former county tip. Further along the trail a second nightingale sang in dense vegetation beside the track, and frustratingly stayed hidden, we stayed and listened to his full repertoire for a while and this was a highlight and new experience for many. Song thrush and blackcap were enjoyed as the walk came to an end, it really is worth getting up early at this time of the year, with no background noise to compete with the dawn chorus is a real experience.

Next Dawn Chorus walks at Wat Tyler.
Thursday 7th May: Up with the lark! at Wat Tyler Country Park, 5am
Come for an early morning wake-up stroll around the park, listening to the magical sounds of birdsong as the sun rises. Its worth the early start, and you can grab a free cuppa on your return. Guided walks cost 3.00 for adults and 1.50 for children. RSPB members and RSPB Wildlife Explorers receive 1 discount. Booking essential, call 01268 559158. Click here to book on-line for this event

Sunday 17th May: Up with the lark! At Wat Tyler Country Park, 5am
Come for an early morning wake-up stroll around the park, listening to the magical sounds of birdsong as the sun rises. Its worth the early start, and you can grab a free cuppa on your return. Guided walks cost 3.00 for adults and 1.50 for children. RSPB members and RSPB Wildlife Explorers receive 1 discount. Booking essential, call 01268 559158. Click here to book on-line for this event

Thursday 21st May: Up with the lark! at Wat Tyler Country Park, 5am
Come for an early morning wake-up stroll around the park, listening to the magical sounds of birdsong as the sun rises. Its worth the early start, and you can grab a free cuppa on your return. Guided walks cost 3.00 for adults and 1.50 for children. RSPB members and RSPB Wildlife Explorers receive 1 discount. Booking essential, call 01268 559158. Click here to book on-line for this event

RSPB Vange Marsh - 28 April

2009-04-28T16:31:00.005+01:00

Spent the morning on the marsh, the first chicks of the year; a pair of canada geese with 8 goslings. A pair of cuckoos showed well on the county tip, three water voles were seen to day, one of which showed well feeding in the moat. A green-veined white butterfly sat still long enough for me to grab a photo.

Other birds seen: Avocet 14, Oystercatcher 2, Common Sandpiper 1, Greenshank 11, Spotted Redshank 1 in summer plumage, Little Egret 2, Grey Heron 9, Blackcap 2, Whitethroat, Lesser Whitethroat, Cetti's Warbler 4, Reed Warbler at least 8 singing, Sedge Warbler at least 5 singing and the female wigeon is still present.