Wild Place Your Space: The Final Countdown

Sunday 5th June saw this venture at EIDB draw to a close. Fifty Four bird species were recorded, with the highlights undoubtably the five records of Mediterranean Gull seen on four different days. Before this there had only been seven records of this species in twelve years. All but one of the records having been during late spring and summer. Another species that was seen more than usual was the Oystercatcher. Usually seen in the area upto early May, there were a number of sigthings suggesting that perhaps a breeding attempt is taking place nearby. The area confirmed its reputation for a lack of Swifts, with just five being recorded in 42 hours of watching!. Overall it was a worthwhile project, during a quiet time for bird sightings. Somewhere around 800 people passed through, who will hopefully now know what an excellent place EIDB is for wildlife, and that can only be good for its future.

Wild Place Your Space Update

Three days into the week of the watchpoint and its producing some interesting sightings. Two Mediterranean Gulls (not sure of the ages) on the 31st May, and a 2nd Summer bird on the 1st June. This could well be the bird thats been reported flying upriver from Crayford. A Litte Egret ( 1st record for 2011) and a House Sparrow (very unusual at the dock). Today aslo saw 2 Oystercatchers, 4 House Martins and a Swift, though the Swift was dead and floating in the river. In 18 hours of watching only one Swift has been recorded, cementing EIDB's reputation as a Swift no fly zone. The 1st Summer Black-headed Gulls have now increased to 80, including one ringed indivual, white ring, black lettering 21C3 on the left leg.
The watchpoint and the RSPB stand are also showing the local residents what a fine place EIDB is for birds and other wildlife, and how watching wildlife can be entertaining and informative. So far 50 bird species have been recordrd.