In May, ancient oak trees begin to bud, bright green fresh leaves are emerging! It’s an exciting month on the Helford River and there are some lovely wildlife to watch out for.
Xiaobaisheng
Xiaobaisheng
The little egrets seen on the Helford River and Creeks are amazing. It’s great to see their group huddled on the top of the Black Generation Polwheveral Creek. It’s nesting season, and some of them will likely be back from the warm winters of Africa and Southern Europe.
heron
Heron and little egret
Herons can also be seen inhabiting their nests. Although we haven’t seen too many flights on the river, they are obviously busy protecting their nests. As they fly, their huge wing span makes them look like pterosaurs. Their wing span can be 150-195 cm and their width is 59.1 inches – 76.8 inches!
Shelducks
Shelduck
Shelduck was recently seen on the Helford River and the creek. We often find them on French creeks and only started seeing them 2 years ago. Both men and women have green heads, red banknotes and chestnut brown chests. Part of them are ducks, swans and goose families, which are larger than wild ducks and smaller than gooses, and breed in rabbit caves! There are various specifications all over the world. Many people breed in temperate European societies and migrate to subtropical areas in the winter, but the species favors the North Coast of Germany, the British coast and the estuary. Lifespan 5 – 15 years.
wild duck
wild duck
Don’t forget the cute wild ducks we saw on French Creek, who currently have ducklings behind. Male greenheads and females are covered in mottled brown. Compared to Shelduck, the lifespan is only 5-10 years, and the wing span is much smaller. The ducklings sign indicate that spring is here.
Atlantic gray seal
Atlantic gray seal
Maybe last month I found this Atlantic Gray Seal on Highlights and he enjoyed a pretty ther bug for dinner. We often don’t see large mammals in Helford, but due to the tides, we can see some cute Atlantic gray seals and dolphins around the estuary when the oceans flood from Falmouth Bay. They do not live here, but often go down the fish or fishing boats into the river, so keep your eyes peeled!
Join Us Helford River Cruisecontact us to book. Tour time May and June Then Future dates Just contact us.
Private boat rentals and champagne cruises are available! Camera and binoculars are welcome.
