A variety of Waders - Drawing by Dan Powell

What is WeBS?

‘WeBS’ or the ‘Wetland Birds Survey’ takes place on Tollesbury Wick Marshes, forming a tiny piece in a huge jigsaw. It is part of a national monitoring scheme of the wildfowl and wading birds occurring around all the major coastal and inland wetland sites in the UK.
It continues a tradition begun in 1947 in which over 3000 volunteer counters take part in synchronised monthly counts at wetlands of all habitat types, mainly during the winter months. With this wealth of information going back so many years it is used to provide the principal data to help in the conservation of these bird populations and their wetland habitats. The organisations that co-ordinate this survey are the British Trust for Ornithology, the Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust, the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds and the Joint Nature Conservation Committee.
John Thorogood, who co-ordinates all the counting here on the north side of the Blackwater, has been doing these counts since 1968! Other counters have been doing it since the 70s or early 80s. This dedication in general goes unsung. However, it indicates the incredible commitment of these local birdwatchcrs to the enjoyable task of regularly recording wintering bird numbers on important coastal reserves like Tollesbury Wick. All helping to contribute to the bigger picture.

Porpoise Found

In April there was an interesting but tragic discovery of a dead baby Porpoise at the base of the seawall by the Leavings. It was assumed to be a youngster as it was only 2.5 feet long. It appeared to have been struck by a boat propeller as it had a large gash across and down one side of its head. The Harbour Porpoise is our smallest Cetacean – the group name for all whales and dolphins. Adults grow to only 1.5 metres long and is the species most likely to be seen just offshore, usually in groups of  twos or threes. A small triangular dorsal fin, blunt head and no beak are the typical features to look for.

Any live sightings, particularly by the sailors and fishermen amongst you, of porpoises, whales and dolphins that occasionally occur off the coast of Essex, would be greatly appreciated. By filling in a survey card (obtainable at the Marina Cruising Club or directly from the Warden) you will be helping us to record and map these special marine mammal animals as they move around our coastline. There is so much we still need to find out about them. The Harbour Porpoise has UK and European protection and is believed to have declined in UK waters since the 1940's. Any contributions to this survey will help to reach some of the targets outlined in the Essex Biodiversity Action Plan which aims to safeguard the future of the Harbour Porpoise and other wildlife in the County.
On the other hand, if you find a dead whale, dolphin or porpoise this is just as important for the information that can be gained as seeing a live animal. Please phone The Natural History Museum on 020 7942 5155. If the stranded animal is still alive, then phone the local RSPCA or the Police.