Moorhen Colour Ringing Project

Friday, December 23rd 2022

Moorhens are omnivorous waterbirds with blackish-brown plumage, green legs and a red face shield. It is thought that the brightness of the red and yellow bill are indicators of the health of an individual with brighter colours relating to lower levels of bacterial infection. Moorhens are also one of only two cooperatively breeding bird species in the UK with older chicks helping their parents to rear younger ones.

Despite being common birds, relatively little is known about the survival and movement of Moorhens. To better understand this species, and to inform conservation, the Waterbird Colour-Marking Group has set up a colour ringing project across Britain and Ireland. Each bird is fitted with a plastic colour ring in addition to a British Trust for Ornithology metal ring to allow for easier sightings in the field.

Two birds have been colour ringed at Foxglove so far including this juvenile male who has not yet got his red face shield. The long length of his wing allowed ringers to determine that he is a male.

This adult male was also ringed.

Please report any sightings of these individuals on the Waterbird Colour-Marking Group website as this will provide vital information about their movements and survival. Thank you to everyone involved in this important conservation project!

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Upcoming Events

Access to the Reserve: CLOSED Except for Organised Events & Groups

Monday 20th May 2024 |

The reserve is temporarily closed to the public except for organised events or groups. This is due to faults with the Foxglove Covert access gate. Entry and exit must be coordinated and at set times due to these faults.

Please see below for organised events. Booking is essential, as attendees will be contacted with access arrangements ahead of the events.

If you would like to arrange a group visit to the reserve please contact reserve staff.

September Wildlife Wander

Monday 16th September 2024 | 2pm-4pm

Join reserve staff for a guided walk around Foxglove Covert as the reserve transitions from summer to autumn. Spot late flying dragonflies, early emerging fungi, the last of the blooming wildflowers, and more!

2pm-4pm.

Donation of £3 per person. Free for Friends of Foxglove. Booking essential.

Due to faults with the Foxglove Covert access gate, entry and exit will be coordinated and at set times. Booked attendees will be sent access arrangements via email prior to the event.

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