Overview
Roxton Lakes is a series of four waterbodies formed by gravel extraction from the Ouse river valley, landscaped to create bird habitat. They hold a flock of Barnacle Geese, various wildfowl, and other species.
For its size, good numbers of wildfowl occur here and, in the summer, these are augmented by a naturalised flock of Barnacle Geese, which breed in considerable numbers and have now spread to breed in nearby sites. In the winter, most of these birds ‘migrate’ to Willington and seem to number around 400. Colour ringing at Roxton has revealed some more extensive movements to neighbouring counties. This self-sustaining population, alongside populations in Norfolk and Suffolk, has resulted in this species being added to the UK list under the category C2.
The pit has two islands. The island in the north east corner is relatively clear of vegetation and can hold nesting Common Terns and a few Barnacle Geese. Oystercatchers also breed here regularly.
Surrounding farmland and hedges support the expected species; Yellowhammer, Bullfinch and warblers. The village itself has nesting Spotted Flycatchers in the churchyard. The oldest (southernmost) pit is also fished, but is surprisingly devoid of birds. That said, two of the site’s best records have come from here – Great White Egret and Great Northern Diver. Cross the river at Roxton lock (great for Grey Wagtail, Kingfisher and Goosander in winter) from the footpath through the farmyard at the north side of Tempsford village or by the longer walk along the river from the end of Ford Lane and around the garden of Lock Keeper’s Cottage.
May 2016
Access
Approach from Roxton village, park near Ford Lane, and follow the track to the lakes. Access may require permission, and some areas are private. The main lake is quick to reach and, at the moment, easy to view. Approach from the village by following the High Street south and over the crossroads. This road bends around to the left and becomes Ford Lane, ending at the entrance to Lock Cottage. About 100 metres after you leave the last few houses of the village, there is a track on the right. At a pinch, there is space to park 3 or so cars around this junction. Note this is a private track but the owner of the land allows access and it is well used by local dog walkers (watch your step!) The main lake is on your left as you walk this track, but tree planting obscures your view for about 100 metres
