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Gropper and Garganey
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Chew Valley Lake is a semi-natural reservoir ten miles south of Bristol, and is the largest lake in south-west England. This website contains news and information on its birds and wildlife, access, maps, photos, WeBS counts and the definitive Chew bird list.
MAY at Chew Spring migrants will still be arriving well into the month; if conditions locally are good perhaps we may get a small passage of terns or a few waders. As the reeds grow to their full height, the reedbed-nesting species will be breeding. May is a good month to catch up with the odd rarity or two - a fine selection of difficult-to-see and untwitchable birds have been found during this month. Or did we use up all of our luck in April?
You might see these: Garganey - Still a chance of one or two throughout the month Hobby - Keep an eye out as they could be around any time Sanderling - An unusual Chew bird, but the concrete causeways could be worth checking for this species in May Black-tailed Godwit - In recent years small numbers have been seen on Herriott's Pool during the month Whimbrel - There ought to be one or two moving through - best bet is to listen for the call as they fly over Black Tern - The first fortnight might produce a few if the weather conditions are right Common Tern and Arctic Tern - See above! Cuckoo - In recent years these haven't been easy at Chew, but you know the call! Swift - Expect thousands in wet or windy weather
