Benfleet

202311 - Rainham Marshes

WILDLIFE: Thursday 9 November 2023; Visit to RSPB Rainham Marshes

There were 8 adventurers in today's group. The skies were somewhat overcast and grey but thankfully it didn't rain whilst we were on the reserve. There is an excellent RSPB Centre but the entrance fee for non-members is £6.

The path runs fully round the reserve - about 3 miles. The habitat is mainly wetlands/marshes, so plenty of lakes and little islands, with small areas of scrub and woodland. There are number of well appointed observation points (difficult to call them hides!) giving excellent views and bringing some of the birds within easy range.

The list of sightings is given below. One highlight was that we not only heard the song of the Cetti's Warbler but on this occasion we did see one flying. They are very difficult to find despite the loud song and in our group visits we have frequently heard but not seen them.

Secondly, we had a fleeting glimpse of a Kingfisher flying across the front of a hide. a first for some of our group.

• Ducks: Shoveler; Gadwall; Teal; Mallard; Wigeon; Pintail
• Wading/water birds: Snipe x 5; Curlew; Black Tailed Godwit; Coot; Grey Heron; Little Grebe (Dabchick); Lapwing; Mute Swans
• Birds of Prey: Kestrel; Marsh Harrier x 2
• Geese: Canada; Greylag
• Small Birds: House Sparrow; Cetti's Warbler; Pied Wagtail; Kingfisher; Long Tailed Tits; Blue Tits; Great Tits
• Larger Birds: Wood Pigeon; Starling; Carrion Crows; Fieldfare

Photographs for some of these are on the page but the dull conditions did not enhance the quality of the photos and made identification a little more difficult.

The walk concluded at the RSPB Centre for a well earned snack and drink. As we left the rain started - excellent timing.

Best Wishes, Alan

PS: we discussed the next visit on 14 December 2023 when unfortunately Janet is not available. The decision was to make a visit to the Essex Wildlife Trust site at Bedford's Park, near Havering village. This also has a good centre and many animals including Red Deer, although in an enclosure.