Most people will be aware of the now small breeding population of lapwings on the Exe Estuary RSPB reserve. A team of RSPB staff & volunteers are closely monitoring the birds this year to assess success and evaluate the need for further management measures.
A total of just 12 pairs settled on the reserve and so far they have made 17 nesting attempts on Exminster & Powderham Marshes. Nest cameras have been used to monitor 7 of these attempts, of which 4 have successfully hatched young.
At this point in the season birds may settle elsewhere to make second attempts and young birds can be very mobile. If you do come across apparent nesting activity on the Exe away from Exminster or Powderham Marshes, or if you see any young anywhere on the Reserves do please drop a line to sally.mills@rspb.org.uk. Thanks.