Birding sites in Harborough District
Saddington Reservoir
This pleasant little reservoir can at times be quite disturbed by anglers, dog walkers and yachts, so is often lacking in wildfowl. However, as is often the case with sites that sit in the middle of a large otherwise waterless area, several county rarities have been found, including two county firsts: Great White Egret in 1988 and Pallid Harrier in 1993. Other notable species have included Eider, Purple Heron, Manx Shearwater, Great Northern Diver and Red-necked Grebe. Park in the lay-by by the sailing club and view the water from the road.
Launde
The upper Chater Valley between Sauvey Castle and Launde Abbey was one of the last reliable sites for Redstart in the county, but the species now seems to have gone even from here. The area could still be worth checking in spring though – perhaps they will return one year?