From Opus

Revision as of 12:15, 11 August 2007

Overview

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Birds

Notable Species

Probably best known for wintering waders and wildfowl. Up to 400 Avocets winter on the Exe Estuary and surrounding reserves such as Bowling Green Marsh. Large numbers of other waders include Golden Plover, Grey Plover, Bar-tailed and Black-tailed Godwits, Knot, Sanderling, Greenshank, and numerous commoner species such as Curlew, Lapwing, Ringed Plover and Redshank.

There is a nationally important wintering population of Dark-bellied Brent Goose. Most of these feed towards the estuary mouth at Dawlish Warren. Numerous other wildfowl join the waders on the estuary at low tide. Wigeon, Teal, Shoveler, Shelduck, Pintail, and a handful of diving ducks including Goldeneye can be found. At high tide, many of these are found at Bowling Green Marsh, and Exminster Marshes, on opposite sides of the estuary.

The area regularly attracts rarer species. Spoonbill is often seen, and for several years a Glossy Ibis was resident at Bowling Green Marsh. Rare waders such as Pectoral and Broad-billed Sandpipers have turned up on several occasions, favouring Bowling Green.

The Exe area is surrounded by farmland, and holds many farmland species including the scarce Cirl Bunting. Overall, this spot in south Devon holds a huge number of species.

Rarities

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Check-list

Other Wildlife

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Site Information

Recommend going either just before or just after high tide (forces birds closer to banks).

History and Use

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Areas of Interest

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Access and Facilities

Access to Exminster reserve(west side) in via a car park near the Swans nest pub off the A379 to Dawlish, Access to the bowling green marsh(east side) is via Topsham. Can also stop pretty much anywhere along the estuary bank all the way down to Exmouth(east side) and Dawlish(west side). Toilets on main quay in Topsham.

Contact Details

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External Links

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Content and images originally posted by luke7906