Raptor-fest
Continuing this winters run of good raptor days with at least 4 Marsh Harrier, Peregrine, 3+ Buzzard, 3 Kestrel, 2 Sparrowhawk and Merlin over the weekend.
At least 3 Barn Owl (two showing well from the Ron Barker Hide) and 2 Tawny Owl today again.
Fifteen species of swan, geese and duck present with upwards of 10,000 birds visiting the reserve; Mute Swan, Whooper Swan(700+), Pink-footed Geese, Greylag, Canada, Shelduck, Mallard, Teal(1000+), Wigeon(800+), Gadwall(2), Pintail (200+), Shoveler(~10), Pochard(50+), Tufted(50+) and Goldeneye(3).
A few more waders turning up with 4 Redshank, Oystercatcher, 800+ Lapwing, 60+ Ruff, 10+ Black-tailed Godwit, Dunlin and Snipe(s).
Some small flocks of Fieldfare seen over the weekend. Mistle Thrushes are regularly on the over flow car park and in trees near the in focus shop. two or three pairs of Stonechat out on the reserve.
Treecreeper from the Janet Kear Hide and Kingfisher from the United Utilities Hide today.
At the feeding stations along nature trail you can expect Tree Sparrow, Reed Bunting, Goldfinch, Greenfinch, Chaffinch, Blue Tit, Great Tit, Coal Tit, Long-tailed Tit, Great-spotted Woodpecker and the possibility of Siskin, Redpoll and Brambling. Goldcrest are present sometimes following the Long-tailed Tit flock.
Check out a few days of the previous sighting to get a fuller picture as to what can be seen on the reserve.
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.
