The Natural History of Slapton Ley | Nature Diary

Winter

Slapton in winter arguably holds as much interest for the naturalist as the other seasons.  Top of the list has to be the Starling roost in the Ireland Bay reed bed, with numbers swelling to some 75,000 birds around December.  Shortly before dusk the birds congregate after feeding in the surrounding countryside and perform a truly wonderful aerial display before descending 'en masse' into the reeds.  It is worth keeping a sharp look out for raptors, including Sparrowhawks and Peregrine Falcons, as they gather to attack the Starlings in an attempt to pick off their final meal for the day.  

A small yet striking winter visitor to the Reserve is the Firecrest; this diminutive bird has the vivid markings rarely associated with a British bird.  This scarce visitor can be seen on sunny winter days exploring ivy clad trees in search of small insects.

Harsh winter weather in continental Europe and eastern England can often signal the arrival of several interesting bird species, attracted to the warmer climes of South Devon.  Bearded Tits are regular winter visitors, and in 2004 the Reserve was graced with a visit of the extremely rare Penduline Tit, previously ringed in Holland.

The SSSI Notification makes special reference to the assemblage of waterfowl on the Lower Ley; Gadwall, Goldeneye, Pochard, Shoveler, Tufted Duck and Wigeon are usually present in large numbers.

A sea watch looking out from the shingle ridge can be rewarding on a calm winter’s day; Black Throated and Red Throated Divers, various Grebe species and Eider Duck over-winter in Start Bay, as they seek to escape the severe winter conditions of their summer breeding grounds in Scotland and beyond.

The Nature Trail alongside the Lower Ley continues to attract many visitors over the winter weekends; most people agree that there is something rather special about the “Slapton Experience” whatever the time of year!