Where can I find a Water Rail?

[ashby_1963]

In forty years of birding I have failed to spot a Water Rail.
Despite many hours spent lurking in the undergrowth in sub-zero conditions beside frozen ponds, ( I was told that this would give me the best chance of seeing one) I have never had a glimpse.
Does anyone know of a place where I might stand a sporting chance of seeing one of these birds?
Many thanks.

[NickCantle]

May I ask where are you geographically positioned?

[AJH748]

There were some at RSPB Blacktoft Sands yesterday.

[Hedge Witch]

Amwell is supposed to be good.

[ashby_1963]

I'm in North Lincolnshire but getting around is no problem.

[AJH748]

Blacktoft sands should be ideal for you then.

[Picidae]

Originally Posted by ashby_1963

In forty years of birding I have failed to spot a Water Rail.
Despite many hours spent lurking in the undergrowth in sub-zero conditions beside frozen ponds, ( I was told that this would give me the best chance of seeing one) I have never had a glimpse.
Does anyone know of a place where I might stand a sporting chance of seeing one of these birds?
Many thanks.

This time of year it should be easier since we have winter influxes and there's more around. Also, contrary to what most people imagine, outside breeding season, water rail can also be seen in habitat away from typical breeding habitat (ie. substantial reed beds and large water expanses). Provided there is mixed vegetation (ie. dry and wet areas) and muddy areas for foraging, winter habitat can include clay pits, damp meadows, flooded blackberry thickits, damp ditches, farm sewage outlets, oxbow rivers etc.

There is a good winter distribution in Eastern England and South Coast if that helps!

[wildlifesnapper]

Hi

I think you can almost guarantee one at rufford park Notts on one of the little man-made islands, and you don't need bins.
PM me if you don't know the place.

neil

[Tracey.A]

I've seen them at my local reserve, but as that's in Scotland it doesn't help much They are very secretive and skulk about in the undergrowth, they like a muddy open area. It's the sound that it makes that alerts you to it's presence (sounds like a squealing piglet), although having said that when I saw it, it was as quiet as a mouse I take it Blacktoft Sands is local to you, if so get yourself down there and look for dense vegetation and an open muddy shore and keep going With a bit of luck you will see one and they are lovely birds Actually, perhaps the best advice is to ask the staff at the reserve where the bird was seen and fingers crossed you too will be lucky enough to see it Good luck AJH

Tracey

[AJH748]

At Blacktoft they post the details of the birds seen from each hide at the entrance to each one so it makes life easy!