An eclipse drake Ring-necked Duck was discovered at the Derbyshire Wildlife Trust Reserve at Willington Gravel Pits on Saturday morning (11th August). I made a visit there this morning (12th) and despite no sign of the bird on my arrival, I very quickly re-located the bird preening just in front of the main hide, much to the relief of some visiting birders. The morning was very wet and the rain was certainly causing birds to drop in on the reserve. Ten Dunlin arrived in separate parties and at least 17 Black-tailed Godwit were also present. A single Green Sandpiper, Common Sandpiper and Yellow Wagtail, along with several Little Egret were other highlights.
Ring-necked Duck – eclipse drake – Above 2 images, Willington Gravel Pits, Derbyshire – Tony Davison©
Black-tailed Godwit – Good numbers have been seen during passing through Willington Reserve during the past few weeks – Tony Davison©
Little Egret – Lots of these elegant birds in the county at the moment, due to low water levels at most reservoirs and gravel pits through the Trent Valley. Tony Davison©
