Winter Birds

Recently, the feeders at Foxglove have been lifting with birds. Large flocks of Lesser Redpoll have been sighted and individuals have been ringed by members of the Swaledale Ringing Group. These small finches are typically found in woodland and scrub, and mostly feed on seeds. They have streaky brown plumage and a distinctive red forehead. 

This beautiful Nuthatch was also ringed. These birds climb up and down tree trunks in search of insects, seeds and nuts. 

Long-Tailed Tits have also been observed around the reserve. These tiny birds have tails longer than their bodies and form gregarious flocks in winter with other tit species.

The Moorhen colour ringing project has also had more success on the reserve. Two more individuals have been ringed including this stunning adult male.

Please let us know if you spot any colour-ringed individuals or report your sightings to the Waterbird Colour-Marking Group who have set up this important conservation project.