Thirty-eight members enjoyed a very interesting talk about the history and development of the Otter Estuary Nature reserve. After a career involving many aspects of wildlife and conservation, Rick began work as the Otter Estuary Ranger three years ago.
He began his talk with a brief history of the area showing us maps and photos of how the course of the river has been altered by man from the early nineteenth century, when Otterton was a major port.
Embankments were built to canalise the river and to reclaim the flood plain for grazing. This proved unsuccessful as the land frequently flooded and remained waterlogged for several weeks as the embankments prevented the water draining away. More recently 55 hectares has been designated as a nature reserve, the embankments have been lowered and sea water can breach into the area, allowing the development of a saltmarsh, which is being closely monitored as it stabilises.
Since the completion of the scheme, many saltmarsh plants have colonised the area and a more diverse array of bird species are taking advantage of this habitat. Shelduck, Oystercatcher and Grey Heron are some of the new breeding birds for the area. The spring migration sees good numbers of Bar-tailed Godwit, Whimbrel, Curlew and a few Yellow-legged Gull. The autumn migration has seen increases in Ringed Plover, Dunlin, Yellow Wagtail and Glossy Ibis. Several Osprey arrive each autumn and a platform has been constructed to encourage them to stay (hopefully). Several rarer birds turn up every year and recent records include Baird’s Sandpiper, Yellow-browed Warbler, Grey Phalarope, Slavonian Grebe, Spotted Redshank and Spoonbill. Many water birds are increasing in numbers including Redshank, Teal, Wigeon, Mallard, Kingfisher, Little Grebe, Water Pipit and Brent Geese.
The reserve also has populations of mammals including Harvest Mouse, Otter and Beaver. Some small mammals also serve as the food source for Kestrel and Barn Owl.
Rick ended his talk by briefly discussing issues with human disturbance on the reserve. Visitors are discouraged from sailing along the river and dog owners are asked to keep animals on leads, though inevitably there are always some who allow their animals to roam free over the area.
Report by Kev Solman
