Meet the Headstarted Birds

We are using headstarting to boost the breeding population of black-tailed godwits in the Fens. The primary release site is Lady Fen at WWT Welney, a restored wetland adjacent to the Ouse Washes. And in 2018 we also began trialling releasing birds at the RSPB Nene Washes.

Under license from Natural England, 26 birds were released in 2017, 38 in 2018, 48 in 2019 and 43 in 2021 - each has a remarkable story to tell. Here are links to profiles of the birds we've heard from most since they left our care. Help us monitor their survival and movements by reporting all your sightings here.

If you'd like to become a Godwit Guardian for any of the birds click here.

CLICK THE IMAGES TO VIEW FULL PROFILES

Class of 2017

Anouk
Benwick
Delph
Denver
Earith
Glen
Lady
Lil
Manea
March
Nelson
Purl
Ramsey
Remi

Class of 2018

Birch
Budly
Caramel
Chalky
Chip
Chopstick
Cornelia
Desiree
Dill
Estragon
Gerty
Godfrey
Hurricane
Jersey
Maris
Mo
Morgan
Rosti
Scott
Strider
Tom
Wedge

Class of 2019

Barker
Carr
Chiney
Cloud
Cristen
Cuthbert
Doon
Elvet
Hickathrift
Juno
Mitchell
Omaha
Rainbow
Sky
Tam
Worley