Wildlife to look out for in autumn with Lincolnshire expert Ian Misselbrook

Rather than grieve for the passing of summer, I really enjoy the autumn, writes nature columnist Ian Misselbrook.

For me, it is the most exciting season for watching wildlife.

During September bird migration is in full swing with many of the passerine species leaving our shores for the warmer south, but also the possibility of finding species that breed further north passing through. By the end of the month, we should see the arrival of birds that are going to winter here, such as redwings and fieldfares – thrushes that have nested in Scandinavia and central Europe as well as pipits and several species of finches.

On our nearby coasts and inland waters such as Rutland Water, Eyebrook reservoir and Deeping Lakes, autumn wader passage, which commenced as early as July is still evident in September.

In addition to waders, several species of the heron family including three species of egret and even the aptly names spoonbills should be sought.

In general, the lack of insects this summer has led to a poor breeding season for many species of birds.

Birds that feed on insects on the wing such as swallows and swifts seem to have faired particularly badly, but house martins nested later than usual and made the most of the better weather in July and August.

Marshes and bodies of water were the best places to find insects to feed on but for swallows in particular these feeding areas were too far away from the villages and towns where they nest, so productivity was low.

However, sand martins nesting in our gravel pits or in artificial nesting cliffs such as those constructed at Rutland Water, Deeping Lakes and Frampton Marsh, benefited from nesting by a ready source of food.

Bearded tits or bearded reedlings as they should be called, also enjoyed a good breeding season at RSPB Frampton Marsh thanks to the provision of reeded habitats in areas that less than two decades ago were fields of cereals.

September is not too late to look for insects.

Many species of moths and butterflies are still on the wing, especially if we experience an open, sunny autumn.

Some species of dragonflies, such as the migrant hawker are more abundant in early autumn than the summer.

The period between crops being harvested and new crops becoming tall is the perfect time to look for hares and rabbits in the fields and if you are really lucky, maybe a fox or a stoat.

So don’t sit around planning for Christmas but get out and enjoy our bountiful autumn wildlife!