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Overview
Two adjoining sections of the Dee Estuary managed by the RSPB from the Dee Estuary office at Inner Marsh Farm. These two parts of the marsh form arguably the most important area for wintering and passage waders on the entire estuary in particular the Icelandic race of the Black-tailed Godwit where about 6000 can gather on high tides in October.
Birds
Notable Species
Winter and passage are the best times to visit as birds are here in greater numbers. Apart from the aforementioned Black-tailed Godwit roost large numbers of Eurasian Oystercatcher, Dunlin, Shelduck are joined by smaller numbers of Bar-tailed Godwit, Red Knot, Grey Plover, Eurasian Curlew and even the odd Whimbrel.
The massed waders and wildfowl attract Peregrine Falcon and Merlin, whilst Common Kestrel and Raven have been known to nest in the castle itself.
Passerines also feed on the seeds of the marsh tides and along any strand lines and it has recently been discovered that perhaps all of Wales' breeding Twite spend their winter here alongside Eurasian Linnet, European Goldfinch and Eurasian Skylark.
The vantage points also provide closer views of the main river channel and marsh edge so Great Crested Grebe and Red-breasted Merganser are not uncommon. Little Egret hunt the creeks and gullies all year around.
Rarities
Check-list
Birds you can see here include:
To do
Other Wildlife
Site Information
History and Use
Areas of Interest
Access & Facilities
As there is strictly no public access to the marshes the marshes here are best viewed from the car park of Flint Lifeboat Station off Castle Road, Flint (just off the A548 see map) or even from the ruins of Flint Castle itself. A short walk along the embankment will give further views but people are asked and advised not to go onto the marsh due to disturbance to birds and dangers of rising tides, sinking sand/mud and hidden creeks.
Contact Details
For further details phone the RSPB Dee Estuary on 0151 336 7681 or email [email protected]
Recommended Citation
- BirdForum Opus contributors. (2024) Flint and Oakenholt Marsh. In: BirdForum, the forum for wild birds and birding. Retrieved 19 April 2024 from https://www.birdforum.net/opus/Flint_and_Oakenholt_Marsh
