BREEDING BIRDS

In recent years the following notable species have bred on the reserve

Black-headed gull.
The first time breeding occurred on the Reserve was in 1999 - a new breeding record for the county.

Common Tern.
Often about 60 pairs - many of them use the protected islands and floating platforms provided in Lagoons I and II. The low fencing around the islands provides protection from one of the main predators - Coots!

Cormorants
A peak of 65 Nests in 1999.

Barn Owl
Breeding regularly on the reserve in recent years

Redshank and Oystercatcher

Little Ringed Plover
Chicks often visible from the Egleton Visitor Centre

Lapwing

Shelduck
Several nests

Teal
In 2000 the first recorded breeding for over 10 years took place

Pochard, Gadwall and Tufted Duck

Nightingale

Grasshopper Warbler
Usually at least four singing males

Sedge Warbler

Reed Warbler

Kestrels
Regularly use nest boxes

Kingfisher
One pair raised 2 broods in the man-made bank in 2000

Sandmartin
Increasing numbers use the new artificial bank -

Grey Heron
Up to 17 nests in the mature trees near the Fish Ponds

Water Rail
Breeding suspected or proved most years. Very good views from Waderscrape Hide on the Lyndon reserve.