MALLARD

Perhaps the most ubiquitous species at all times of the year. Several pairs breed, and family parties can be seen in summer all along the Brook.

GREY HERON

Can be seen in or along the upper reaches of the Brook at any time of year. The nearest breeding colony is along the River Cam near where Vicar’s Brook makes its outfall.

LITTLE EGRET

Increasingly frequent along the upper reaches, with up to six together being seen in the winter months. No local breeding has yet been established, but as this species continues to expand its range, that cannot be far off.

SNIPE

Snipe feed in winter along the muddy edges of the Brook and its feeder ditches. Usually only seen when it flies away with its zig-zag flight and harsh call.

 

MOORHEN

A common species along the Brook at all times of year. Several pairs nest, and adults can be seen feeding young in many places, often along the most public stretches beside the University Botanic Garden and Brookside.

 

KINGFISHER

From August to April several Kingfishers hold winter territories all along the Brook, and can often be seen perching on bankside vegetation or flying, like bright blue bullets, low over the water. Has occasionally nested along what have been, until now, the less disturbed upper reaches.

REED WARBLER

With the growth of Common Reed (Phragmites australis) in sections of the watercourse, Reed Warblers are becoming an increasingly common summer visitor. This poses a management dilemma, as the reed growth, if allowed to continue unabated, becomes a serious obstruction to the necessary flow of water. Hand cutting in winter keeps it in check, though the area of reedbed increases each year.

REED BUNTING

Not as particular about its habitat as the Reed Warbler (above), this species nests in a variety of vegetation both in the stream and along the banks and adjoining ditches. It is present all year round, sometimes in flocks of up to twenty birds in winter.

GREY WAGTAIL

Seen in winter along the faster moving upper reaches of the Brook, this elegant bird is often heard before being seen, with its loud disyllabic “chi-chic” flight call. Has attempted to nest in the past, but human disturbance now makes this unlikely.