Rainham Marshes

It is always exciting to visit a new sight for nature watching. Today I visited Rainham Marshes, an RSPB sight that was constructed on an old military firing range. The area was closed for the public for about 100 years ago, during which the military used it for shooting practice. The RSPB acquired the area in 2000 and transformed it into a very accessible and beautiful nature reserve.

The area has a footpath with various hides around the marshes. Many ducks and gees gather around as well as everything else you would expect in this marsh land.

The weather was great today and I had my first flying Wigeon pair (Anas Penelope) on camera. That was just as well, because there were many more grazing on the many islands that were created by the RSPB. I cannot recall having seen so many together; not even in London Wetland Centre.

And since it was actually the first proper day of Spring (albeit that we officially have to wait another two weeks), I was not surprised to see the some butterflies. And all the usual suspects were there: apart from a Peacock (Inachis Io) and a Brimstone (Gonepteryx Rhamni) the first Comma (Polygonia C-Album) this year landed in front of me.

This Common Teal (Anas Crecca) needed some well deserved ablution

I will finish this blog with two pictures of a Little Grebe (Tachybaptus Ruficollis) that found a nice fish. Rainham Marshes is a fantastic sight with lot’s of possibilities for birders, school classes and many other nature lovers. I saw a few visitors in wheelchairs as well. Only 15 minutes walk from Purfleet station, it is worthwhile planning a visit.