Novartis mitigation site

200 curlew first thing this morning, along with 100+ BT Godwits. Most flew off toward Cleethorpes within an hour of being there (9am).
Noticed a ringed BTGt a few days ago, which showed the same set up as one previously seen at Killingholme haven last year. Found to have been ringed at a reserve in France.
Today, noted a curlew sporting a red ring above the knee. Unfortunately, other leg hidden away so not sure if another ring present.

This new photograph reflects how the new 35-acre Novartis Ings wetland reserve is taking shape on the outskirts of Grimsby. Apparently it is already being used as a feeding/roosting area by c 100 curlews. The chief target is to attract breeding waders, chiefly lapwings, but it should also provide an over-wintering habitat for them and other wetland birds. On the downside, some LBC members familiar with the site (in its cereal field form)  have warned that the works will make the land less attractive to golden plovers. The designer is Roger Wardle whose previous credits include the established Cress Marsh mitigation site.

Had a brief walk around the perimeter this morning. Scrapes are built, lots of pipework pointing into the lagoons and the breeze block building I assume will be a new pump house judging from the pipework at the side. Very popular with gulls at the moment.