Rare birds recorded in record numbers at Kings Dyke Nature Reserve in Whittlesey

Today is World Nature Conservation Day and it arrives with uplifting biodiversity news from Kings Dyke Nature Reserve in Whittlesey.

The reserve is a former clay extraction site now transformed into a thriving wetland habitat by Northampton-based building products manufacturer Forterra, and it has seen an unprecedented influx of bird species this year.

A total of four new species have been recorded by the site's dedicated volunteers, which is double the usual yearly average and a record for the site.

Among the new arrivals are two red-footed falcons, spotted as part of a wider national influx into the UK, and a Savi’s warbler, an elusive summer visitor rarely encountered in Britain.

A wood sandpiper, a fairly scarce wader, was also recorded in April. Most recently, a purple heron was seen in the reedbeds; once a rarity in the UK, this bird is now slowly becoming more established.

These additions bring the site's identified species of birds to an impressive 170, reflecting the exceptional quality of habitat management at Kings Dyke and the long-standing commitment of local conservationists.

Phil Parker, Forterra’s ecological advisor, said: “This year’s sightings are a powerful reminder of what carefully managed post-industrial land can offer in terms of biodiversity.

“The reedbeds, open water, and scrub mosaics at Kings Dyke are attracting rare birds and sustaining them. The success of the site reflects decades of community effort and a broader industry shift towards ecological restoration.”

Kings Dyke has long been recognised for its biodiversity value. In 2018, the site hosted a 24-hour BioBlitz led by BBC Springwatch’s Chris Packham, recording over 1,100 species in a single day, far more than any other site surveyed that year. Annual BioBlitz events continue to track species diversity across birds, invertebrates, and flora.

World Nature Conservation Day is a global observance held annually on July 28 to highlight the importance of preserving healthy ecosystems and protecting biodiversity for future generations. It serves as a reminder of the urgent need to safeguard natural habitats, combat environmental degradation, and promote sustainable living practices.