King’s Dyke Nature Reserve
by George Walthew
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PBC Where to Watch Birds King’s Dyke Nature Reserve by George Walthew |
| Sightings for past week: | All sightings | Excluding Common | Rare & Scarce |
| Sightings for past month: | All sightings | Excluding Common | Rare & Scarce |
| Sightings for past year: | All sightings | Excluding Common | Rare & Scarce |
Originally this was one of a series of quarries for clay just east of Whittlesey. The pit has been excavated to a depth of 16 metres below sea level but the water is still kept to a low level by pumping. Hanson Brick, the owners of the site, restored the pit as a 16 hectare nature reserve and it was officially opened in 1999. It boosts an excellent hide at the waters edge offering superb views of the birds on the water and is comfortable in even the worst weather!
Like all small nature reserves it tends to suffer from it's lack of size as far as birds are concerned. It none-the-less has an impressive list of 92 species recorded at the site including breeding Lapwing and Redshank, which are in decline on agricultural habitats. Although not actually on the site, an important feature is the large colony of Sand Martins which nest in the layer of sand at the rim of the adjacent pit which contains the Kings Dyke Brick Works. The reserve drew the attention this year of the 'bird-race' teams because of a pair of Ruddy Ducks which have been present. This introduced species, which is common enough further west, in rather rare in our area.
Apart from the birds, the site is well worth a visit in the summer months for it's impressive list of butterflies and dragonflies, some of which are very scarce locally.
To visit the site you need a permit (which is free) which includes a key to the hide. It is situated on the A605 from Stanground to Whittlesey. After leaving Stanground continue until you cross the level crossing, pass a row of houses on your left and it is on your left just after the lorry park. It is also the entrance to Hanson Brick's sales office. You will need to keep your eyes open as the entrance is concealed by the tall hedge. Park in the sales office car park and the reserve entrance is to the rear of the car park.
For a permit and membership pack ring Debbie Hassell, Hanson Bricks Estates Manager, on 08705 258258.
Click here for a report on the PBC visit to the King’s Dyke Nature Reserve on 5 September 1999
