Little Egrets have been hunted to extinction in Europe. Now protected, they are returning. The first Little Egret was seen at the lake in September 2019, two in February last year and up to four this winter. They usually feed in the shallows of the southern arm of the lake and can be seen perched up in old Crack Willow trees there. It will not be too long before this species tries to breed, if only the AELTC would just spare the trees. They plan to destroy them instead.

https://www.savewimbledonpark.org/post/herons-thrive-at-wimbledon-park-lake

In contrast, one could spot one or two Grey Herons on most visits over the last 35 years. Last spring, however, was the first nesting attempt in a tree on the island. This winter there was a pair of Grey Herons at last year's nest and another bird perched up further north in another tree. It is apparent that we now have a heronry on the island, albeit a small one. The AELTC plan to remodel the island, destroying the existing vegetation as they do so.

Like its little cousin, the Great White Egret is protected and recovering, but it is not yet widespread. Dave has seen this species just once, back in August 2017, in a reedbed near to the stadium entrance (photo above left). Doubtless this species will visit more often as its population increases, but the reedbed where it was seen is to be displaced by the AELTC proposed walkway over the lake.

Dr Dave Dawson, our local expert environmentalist and ornithologist, visits the lake at least once a month to record the birds. Here he reports on some of the changes since the AELTC made their planning application in 2021.

Read more about this and other news at https://www.savewimbledonpark.org/our-news

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