October 2001 Summary

The extremely low water levels of August and September were replaced by a steady inflow of water at the start of the month, resulting in the exposed mud being covered, and consequently fewer waders. However, there were still some interesting birds, with the highlights being one, possibly two, juvenile Little Gulls. An adult Arctic Tern was a good autumn record, and also present were Black Terns on a number of dates. Bird of the month, however, must be awarded to an immature Marsh Harrier, that was present mid-month for an afternoon. Ducks were also well represented with a Scaup and a Garganey. All in all October turned out to be an excellent month.