A late Bewick's Swan
Surprise bird of the day was a single Bewick's Swan mid afternoon on the Mere with ~ 500 Whooper Swan. It's been the quietest winter on record for this Siberian species with only two other sightings on the reserve in 2013.
The adult breeding plumage Mediterranean Gull was present with Black-headed Gulls on the Mere from 12:30 at least.
The family party of 3 Peregrines were in action flushing gulls and waders alike. Other raptors included 3 Common Buzzard, Kestrel and Sparrowhawk. Two Raven again out on Woodend Marsh from the United Utilities Hide.
An increase in Avocet with 20 birds mostly on the Mere. Also present 68 Oystercatcher, 70+ Ruff, 4 Black-tailed Godwit, 3 Golden Plover, 2 Ringed Plover, Common Snipe and ~400 Lapwing.
Kingfisher again from the Ron Barker Hide. A flock of 28 Carrion Crow were seen today. A few Redwing are still present feeding on the grass from the overflow car park.
A report from Rare Bird Alert suggested somebody also saw a Common Crane late afternoon, although as far a I know it wasn't mentioned to anybody on the reserve before 4.30pm. We'll keep you up dated with any news straight away tomorrow if it's present.
