Russian visitors expected to return to the Axe Estuary in large numbers again this winter

LARGE numbers of Russian visitors are expected to fly in to Seaton next month.

Flocks of wigeon duck will be heading south to take up residence on the Axe Estuary Wetlands again this winter.

Last year the exceptionally low temperatures attracted record numbers of the birds to the reserve - more than 2,000 of them.

Now experts say the area is set to become a winter wigeon wonderland again, as they fly south to escape the harsh winters of Russian and Siberia.

To help budding bird watchers develop their knowledge of winged wildlife on the wetlands, East Devon District council is running Meet the Birds sessions three times a month throughout January, February and March - every first and third Thursday of the month in the bird hide on Black Hole Marsh and the last Saturday of each month in the bird hide on Seaton Marshes.

People can drop in between 10am and 12 noon when an experienced bird watcher will help to identify the birds in view. A selection of binoculars and a telescope will be on hand for visitors to use free of charge.

Meg Knowles, East Devon District Council Education Ranger, said: “I am extremely grateful to the dedicated volunteers who generously contribute their time for Meet the Birds sessions on the Wetlands. Spending time in the company of a more experienced birdwatcher is a fantastic way to learn more about birds. Pictures and information in books are a great place to start, but spending time observing birds in the field is the most valuable time you can spend.”

For more information about Meet the Birds sessions contact Meg Knowles on 07734 56 88 21 or e-mail mknowles@eastdevon.gov.uk.