| Comment: |
The target for total number of non-breeding birds utilising the site is met. Mean winter peak based upon the WeBs combined total for 2002 to 2007 is 37,387, exceeding the target of 37,000 individuals.
Data indicate that the targets for population size of non-breeding birds are exceeded. The only species where data are not currently available is aquatic warbler which has a target of 1 individual. Suitable habitat conditions are present to support this species. For all other species targets for population size are met or exceeded: shoveler, mute swan, Bewick?s swan, white-fronted goose, wigeon, gadwall, teal, pochard, little grebe, great crested grebe, cormorant, bittern, hen harrier, coot, golden plover, ruff, sanderling, whimbrel, common sandpiper.
Analysis of data for the last 15 years indicates that, for the 21 species monitored, the site can be considered favourable with regard to wintering bird numbers. Mute swan, greylag, wigeon, gadwall, teal, mallard, pintail, shoveler, little grebe, great crested grebe, cormorant, golden plover have all increased although some have shown declines in parts of the site. Numbers of pochard, tufted duck and goldeneye have fluctuated but there is no evidence of long-term decline. Lapwing and sanderling have also fluctuated and there are signs of re-distribution within site. But numbers are still significant and the site remains important in a regional context for these species.
Currently available data do not allow for assessment of breeding bird numbers over the whole site. |