A First!

Greylag Geese visit the reserve in spring.  The first signs of their return is their call as they fly overhead towards the lake and wetland.  They sometimes surprise us as they are disturbed and leave the Scrapes ponds noisily.  Their nests are well hidden, usually.  One year the nest was on the island in a pond next to a pond dipping platform.  It was so well camouflaged very few people noticed it.  She fledged three young.  Sightings of the young are rare as the parents soon walk them off the reserve to the creches out on the training area.

This year was a little different.  Some stayed on the reserve and were caught by Sophie and ringed.  She had her hands and arms full as she prepared to release them.  

This is the first time Greylag Geese chicks have been ringed on the reserve.  Well done Sophie!