A Ruff Day at Titchwell Marsh

4th August 2019

In the area so a visit to Titchwell Marsh is compulsory. The reserve was looking superb so I popped into the Island Hide to see what was around. Unfortunately, although there were plenty of waders  they were mainly on the central islands with very few birds right outside as is sometimes the case. However, you can normally rely on some dabbling Teal including this one showing off its magnificent green speculum.

In the 1950s Avocets were extremely rare and were only breeding on Havergate Island. However now they are one of the commonest waders and breed at most suitable sites.

However, there are a couple of new species moving in in ever-increasing numbers, the Great White Egret and the Spoonbill, both of which are now breeding in the UK.

Along the path to the beach this Lapwing was showing of its kaleidoscope plumage at the edge of Volunteer's Marsh.

Further along this Little Egret was also showing well against the dark mud background.

Shelducks always seem tamer when they are looking after young and will feed much closer than usual. I always think that the juvenile birds are more photogenic than the adults.

But the stars of the show today were the numerous Ruff, mostly males in various stages of moulting out of their flamboyant breeding plumage.

This bird was in wing moult so if anyone has a moult card on them feel free to fill it in.