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Description
Elmley has ideal habitat for wildfowl and waders. In the winter there are thousands of Rață fluierătoare with plenty of Rață mică, Rață pestriță and a good sprinkling of Rață lingurar, Călifar alb, Rață sulițar, Rață pestriță and also geese. Gâscă de vară predominate but there are also Gârliță mare and Gâscă neagră.
At the right time of year it is possible to see 20 species of waders. Bătăuș, Ploier auriu and Fluierar cu picioare roșii are usually present. On passage, look out for Fluierar negru, Fluierar cu picioare verzi, Fluierar de mlaștină, Fluierar de zăvoi and many more.
Naturally this rich diversity of birds attracts predators. On a good day you may see Șoim de iarnă, Șoim călător, Erete vânăt, Ciuf de câmp or even Ciuf de pădure. Erete de stuf are virtually guaranteed. Occasionally a Șorecar încălțat appears but be careful before claiming one as there have been some very pale Șorecar comun, too.
Passerines are more of a feature on migration - Mărăcinar mare, Pietrar sur and others can be found in season. Keep your eyes and ears open and you may well find something unexpected.
Details
Access
The reserve is accessed from the small road (Sheppey Way) that goes over the old road bridge onto the Isle of Sheppey. There is an RSPB sign pointing to the entrance. (With the logo removed!) It's a difficult place to reach by public transport - be prepared for some walking. Swale is the nearest railway station. Some of the best birding is actually along the entrance track. Scan the fence posts for raptors! If you walk you are likely to flush everything within quite some distance of the track - and are likely to upset the many photographers who like to use their cars as 'hides'.
Terrain and Habitat
Reedbeds , Mud flats , Wetland , Grassland , Scattered trees and bushesConditions
FlatCircular trail
NoIs a telescope useful?
Can be usefulGood birding season
All year roundBest time to visit
Winter , Spring migration , Autumn migrationRoute
Unpaved roadDifficulty walking trail
Average walkAccessible by
Foot , CarBirdwatching hide / platform
YesExtra info
Check the website for opening times. There is a £5.00 day charge for entry per car (not per person).