500+ Black-tailed Godwit
There is always an 'icelandic theme' to winter sightings at Martin Mere with the presence of Whooper Swan and Pink-footed Geese both of which breed there during the summer. It is also true of the Black-tailed Godwit that visit the reserve. It is a particularly high count of over 500 birds roosting around the Mere this morning. A few of these birds are developing into the rich rufous breeding plumage.
A good selection of waders all round with ~ 1000 Lapwing, 60+ Ruff, 12 Avocet, 20+ Oystercatcher, 10+ Snipe, Redshank and Golden Plover.
The Black-headed Gulls are worth a scan through with a few more Med Gulls starting to turn up in the locality. The regular pairs of Great Black-backed and Lesser Black-backed Gulls are still present mostly around the Mere.
Six species of raptor with 2 Marsh Harrier, 4+ Common Buzzard, Peregrine, Sparrowhawk, Kestrel and Merlin(yesterday). Barn Owls from the Harrier and Ron Barker Hides and occasionally the Kingfisher Hide. Tawny Owl still present, directions from in focus.
Still 1000+ Whooper Swan roosting, 500+ Wigeon on the Mere this morning. Less Pink-footed Geese on for most of the day but the flock has contained 2 adult European White-fronted Geese so any arrivals onto the reserve are worth a scan.
Stonechats out on the fence line along Plover Field. Siskin from the Janet Kear Hide.
A limited number of the brand new Cheshire & Wirral Bird Report (£8) are available at the in focus shop too.
