Cattle Egrets

Dungeness RSPB - cold, dry and sunny, SW5 - A nagging wind whipping across Rye Bay made for difficult viewing for five guests on a guided walk around the circular trail this morning. Most of the seven species of warblers present were only heard, due to the wind, although several Sedge Warblers did eventually oblige and show themselves. The long-staying Long-tailed Duck remained on Burrowes alongside two Goldeneyes and diminishing numbers of diving ducks, while a Ringed Plover was the only wader present. The hayfields held two each of Shoveler, Teal, Shelduck, Lapwing and Redshank. At Dengemarsh two Bitterns `boomed` and there was much activity from several Marsh Harriers over Hookers. Also noted around the circuit: five Little and one Great White Egret, two Buzzards, three Grey Herons, two Lesser Whitethroats, a Barnacle Goose and a flyover Avocet, plus three Cattle Egrets on Cook`s Pool.

                                   Cattle Egrets, Cooks Pool

The re-vamped Visitor Centre will reopen tomorrow, Thursday 17th April, and very smart it looks too. The plan is to have it open for five days a week (Wednesday - Sunday) where you can purchase snacks, ice-creams and drinks (card only payment) and relax in comfort. Well done to all concerned.