Do Black Tailed Godwits nest on the RSPB reserve the Ouse Washes? (1 Viewer)

[IAN JAMES THOMPSON]

The question I want to ask for anyone living in Cambridgeshire, do Black Tailed Godwits still nest on the RSPB reserve, the Ouse Washes like they did in the 1970's.
Ian.

 

[GWB77]

Hi Ian,

The breeding population of BTGodwits on the Ouse Washes declined during the 90's, with only 1-2 attempts during the 2000's (and this remains similar to date) - this has been mainly due to late-spring and mid-summer flooding, which has forced the birds to fail - recently some prospecting birds have taken to a purpose built 'pilot project' to the west of the main wash, which is an area of marsh specifically controlled for breeding birds (created on former arable fields). They are still present in the summer in small numbers, but this is presumably just a few non-breeding birds. The breeding population of Black-tailed Godwits on the near by Nene Washes remains in good health (although breeding success varies year on year).

 

[IAN JAMES THOMPSON]

Hi Ian,

The breeding population of BTGodwits on the Ouse Washes declined during the 90's, with only 1-2 attempts during the 2000's (and this remains similar to date) - this has been mainly due to late-spring and mid-summer flooding, which has forced the birds to fail - recently some prospecting birds have taken to a purpose built 'pilot project' to the west of the main wash, which is an area of marsh specifically controlled for breeding birds (created on former arable fields). They are still present in the summer in small numbers, but this is presumably just a few non-breeding birds. The breeding population of Black-tailed Godwits on the near by Nene Washes remains in good health (although breeding success varies year on year).

Thanks for that information.|=)|
Ian.