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.
Black-headed gull.