BOWLING GREEN MARSH
Excellent estuary birding at an RSPB reserve
Situated at the confluence of the Rivers Exe and Clyst, this well-managed reserve and its environs offer rich birding. A hide adds an element of comfort, in addition to various viewing points. The mudflats of this coastal marshland are a magnet for a wintering waders and wildfowl, with rarities often dropping in, including Long-billed Dowitcher, Snow Goose and Spotted Redshank amongst others. Garden habitat near the hide encourages species such as Brambling and Siskin. SIMONE STANBROOK-BYRNE
WHERE TO WATCH
1 Topsham sits by the River Exe and is imbued by an air of things nautical. Birdlife of the estuary is abundant: Kingfisher may be spotted at waterside steps near The Lighter Inn and the Goat Walk footpath gives good views across a mercurial waterscape. Away from high tide overwintering Avocet browse the mudflats. Shag and Cormorant use any convenient perch. Oystercatcher, Lapwing and Brent Geese are abundant, Little Egret and Grey Heron likely; Great White Egret a possibility.
2 As the tide rises there’s mass movement round to feeding sites on the marshes. A path leads to the viewing platform near the mouth of the Clyst, a vantage point for watching movement into the marsh. Red-breasted Merganser may appear in flight and possibly an Arctic Tern in spring. Reedy water channels offer good cover and may, in summer, yield treats like Purple Heron and Glossy Ibis, if you are very lucky.
3 The hide provides a spectacular view across the marsh and boasts a lengthy species list. Expect good numbers of Greenshank, Redshank, Dunlin, Curlew, Whimbrel, Tufted Duck, Wigeon, Black-tailed, and some Bar-tailed, Godwits. Marsh Harrier and Osprey may be seen and Golden Plover, when massed, can glow as golden as the surrounding reedbeds. The large, comfortable hide’s wildlife garden attracts various common tits, Chaffinch and Brambling. Short-eared Owls may sometimes appear late in the day.
4 A path leads from the railway bridge to Darts Farm, with viewing points along its length. Look out for all the aforementioned species of bird, , plus there’s a chance of Water Rail: listen for the squealing call from the water’s edge.