No new snow fell overnight on Saturday but the freezing temperatures meant that there was barely any thaw. As a result the landscape down on Llanrhidian Marsh, Gower looked more akin to the Arctic tundra than a marsh on the south wales coast. At Penclawdd large numbers of Teal (forty plus) were feeding in the mud along with plenty of Dunlin and Black Tailed Godwits. Further out a pair of Shellduck flew past several hundred Oystercatcher. I would have stayed longer to get a more accurate picture of the numbers and species but it was bitterly cold and I wussed out.

23780 - Llanrhidian Marsh

The main action of the day was again to be found at Kenfig NNR. An early morning find by Neil Donaghy of four Bewick’s Swans had me braving the M4 for the first time since Thursday in an effort to complete seeing all three UK Swan species within twenty five miles of my house. Bewick’s are very rare visitors to this area so to get four on Kenfig pool is pretty special. Fortunately the birds (two adults and two juveniles) stuck around for me to see them.

23758 - Bewicks Swan, Kenfig NNR

For much of my visit the swans kept their heads tucked well under their wings as they dozed away the afternoon. When they did wake up and move it was always around the very middle of the unfrozen section of water. This was probably a wise move on their part as the local dogs were keener than ever to run over the ice. Fantastic birds and I hope they stick around for other people to see.


1 Comment

Springman · December 20, 2010 at 7:55 pm

It's tough conditions out there right now and getting tougher as the ponds freeze over. Great sightings!

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