Wildgoose Farm & Blaco Pits

(Private Property)

Access to this private farmland and fishery is allowed but view only from the right of way track leading north from Neatholme Fen through Wildgoose Farm (also private property) then turning right at the junction and heading east along the Oak lined track towards the River Idle. The farmland here is managed well for wildlife and the pits here attract many species of bird throughout the year. Breeding birds around Blaco Pits include Oystercatcher, Redshank, Great Crested Grebe, Lapwing, Yellowhammer, Reed Bunting and Tree Sparrow. Spring and Autumn passage sees good numbers of waders and passerines noted nearby including Turnstone, Whimbrel, Curlew and godwits. Winter brings with it large numbers of gulls, swans, geese and duck plus Short-eared Owl, Peregrine, Merlin and Hen Harrier are also seen occasionally.

Rarities

Rarities have included:

• Southern ‘Steppe’ Grey Shrike (2008).

Scarcities

Scarce species have included:

• Raven
• Woodlark
• Hen Harrier
• Tundra Bean Goose
• Long-tailed Duck
• Greater Scaup
• Smew
• Red-necked Grebe.