Welcome to the LDV NNR ringing blog, this blog is designed to share the experiences, findings and tales from a group of dedicated ringers. We specialise in conservation orientated research projects, largely focusing on wildfowl, waders, owls and birds of conservation concern, in and around the Vale of York NNR's.

NB - Whilst the purpose of this blog was initially designed to cover our nationally important wildfowl ringing activities, it now also features wildlife and work posts, explaining how we manage the NNR for both wildlife and people.

For daily sightings please visit our Twitter account: https://twitter.com/ldv_nnr (@LDV_NNR)

For details of events, volunteer tasks and wildlife images please visit our Facebook account: https://www.facebook.com/Lower-Derwent-Valley-Skipwith-Common-NNR

Wednesday, 11 January 2023

10/01/23 - Winter birding

There has been some great winter birdwatching in and around the NNR recently, with waterfowl providing the ever-present spectacle - over 4000 Pink-footed Geese are currently roosting and feeding on the northern end of the reserve, whilst 150 Whooper Swans and two family parties of Bewick’s have been reported, with three Smew and a single female Scaup adding additional interest.

Smew - East Cottingwith - Adam Firth

Two, or possibly three Hen Harriers have been recorded in the area, with up to 9 Marsh Harriers and 5 Peregrines. Waders have included up to 7000 Lapwing and a lone wintering Green Sandpiper.

Whilst there is a great deal to see on the reserve, can visitors please be aware that the NNR remains extensively flooded at the moment. There is limited access to the hides and paths at Bank Island, with access also limited at Wheldrake Ings (Tower Hide can be reached in wellies - water levels permitting), with no further access to the other two hides on Wheldrake, however both the hides at North Duffield Carrs remain accessible. Please take care when visiting the reserve and let us know what you see, either on our Facebook page or via our Twitter account @LDV_NNR - thank you.

Wheldrake Ings - Stuart Rapson

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