Starling Trail

by Jeff Bevan · Published 13th January 2017 · Updated 15th January 2017

I arrived at Ham Wall this evening to watch the starling murmurations. There was some confusion amongst the regulars – a small group of birds had started to go to Shapwick Heath and tonight may be the time the entire flock would follow. This change of location has been expected for several weeks as traditionally the birds move to a new roost every few days.

This season the flock had not moved out of RSPB Ham Wall. Each night they have been spread themselves out over the Waltons Heath and Loxtons Marsh. These are on the southern side of the reserve and are the best locations for visitors as thy are close to the car park and easily over looked from the viewing platform.

So a couple of regulars went off to Shapwick Heath. I headed to Loxtons Marsh with my wife on her annual visit to the starlings.

Loxtons Marsh

A Loxtons the sunset was beautiful but only small groups of starlings arrived. I seemed that birds were going to use Waltons Heath for yet another night.

Starlings arrive at Ham Wall – Somerset, UK. ID 809_2470

Waltons Heath

After running back to Waltons Heath (not very far!) it was not long before large groups dropped down into the Waltons reed beds.

Starlings arrive at Ham Wall – Somerset, UK. ID 809_2500

Starlings arrive at Ham Wall – Somerset, UK. ID 809_2496

The sunset was just as beautiful here.

Sunset at Waltons Heath – Somerset, UK. ID 809_2508

After dropping into reeds the birds started to pour over into Waltons East.

Starlings arrive at Ham Wall – Somerset, UK. ID 809_2556

A continous stream of birds kept going.

Starlings arrive at Ham Wall – Somerset, UK. ID 809_2609

We headed to the path that goes to the Tor View hide to stand under the starling flight path. This is a great experience – provided you have a hat and keep your mouth shut.