Latest Sightings
A chilly and sunny start with a fairly brisk West South Westerly. Good numbers of Pink-footed Geese around and new skeins coming in from high early on. Locally the single Barnacle Goose is still present in the Pink-foot flocks. Two leucistic Pink-footed Geese seen on the reserve today.
Looking at the weather charts there should be further influxes in the coming days. As more passage occurs we can expect other rarer geese to turn up.
No specific counts of wildfowl. Wigeon numbers are on the up as well as Teal. All the species have individuals showing signs of coming out of eclipse plumage. Shoveler can be seen well on the Mere currently. Small numbers of Pochard and Tufted Duck from the Harrier Hide. Gadwall are present and easily overlooked, and juvenile Shelduck will soon be joined by returning adults.
The Lapwing (600+) were active today due to Marsh Harrier (3+) and Peregrine hunting. Small numbers of Snipe, Black-tailed Godwit and Ruff also present.
At least 5 Buzzard, 2+ Kestrel and 2 Sparrowhawk.
Other sightings included Kingfisher and a small passage of Skylark, Meadow Pipit and wagtails.
It should be possible to see over 60 species in a full days bird watching at Martin Mere. If you would like to know the best spots, up to date info or to report any sightings then please call in at the in focus shop next to the Discovery Hide.
