Hen Harrier
An overcast, cool and moody looking day although no rain until late on. The first Hen Harrier of the autumn/winter, a rintail bird flew North around midday. Other raptors included Marsh Harrier, 2 adult Peregrine, 2 Sparrowhawk and 2 Kestrel.
With the recent count of 27,700 Pink-footed Geese on the reserve numbers are staying high as we go into November. Close by yesterday 3 Tundra Bean Geese were with some of the flock. The Whooper Swan count was 595.
Over 2000 Mallard on the Mere this morning. Like many visitors that also breed in the UK Mallard come in large numbers out of Europe to over winter.
Over 1000 Black-headed Gull regularly on the Mere.
Kingfisher again from the Ron Barker Hide.
As usual it should be possible to see at least 50 species of bird in a day without too much effort, although a telescope is very useful from most of the hides.
If you are visiting the reserve, pop in to the in focus shop (next to the Discovery Hide) where we have a full list of birds, and should be able to point you in the right direction to get the most out of your visit.
