Canvey Point
TQ 825S35
This area is of most interest to birdwatchers and is a very
good spot for impressive wader flocks and brent geese. It
is liable to be cut off at high tide and unless you know
the area it is advisable not to venture out onto it near
high tide (consult tide tables). However, there is quite a
lot to see without venturing all the way out and the birds
will be visible nicely about an hour before high water when
the available area of mud is much reduced. Do not disturb
roosting flocks of birds - they are as entitled to their
sleep as anyone else! Autumn, winter and spring are the
best times as large numbers of grey plover, dunlin, knot,
curlew and Oystercatcher congregate in the area. Sea duck
often include large flocks of eider and unusual gulls are
noted regularly.
Two Tree Island - Leigh-on-Sea TQ 835833
This is a National Nature Reserve and is therefore subject
to statutory regulations. The habitat and bird life is
similar to Canvey Point (and is only just across the creek
from it) but the wader flocks are not usually as large.
Winter is the best time as it can be good for relatively
close views of brent geese and wigeon. (See page 41).
Fobbing Marsh TQ 740843
This area can provide an enjoyable walk at almost any time
of year. It is worth going as far as the creek for birds,
but during the spring migration the marsh itself is visited
by some early migrants such as Wheatear, Whinchat, Whimbrel
and greenshank. Much of the area is grazed and a wide
variety of fungi appear in the autumn. Ungrazed areas
along the dykes hold several localised plants such as grass
Vetchling (Lathyrus nissolia), slender bird's foot trefoil
(Lotus tenuis) and seaside thistle (Carduus tenuiflorus).
Follow the foot-path from Fobbing Church down the hill to the
marsh.
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