A Slight Thaw
A touch of black ice and fog is never an ideal start to the bird watching day, but by mid afternoon the sun was out, the mist had cleared, and we had hit a barmy 5 degrees centigrade on the reserve. P [...]
A touch of black ice and fog is never an ideal start to the bird watching day, but by mid afternoon the sun was out, the mist had cleared, and we had hit a barmy 5 degrees centigrade on the reserve. Predictably only small numbers of people looking today so fewer reports than of late.
It should be an interesting week to come however as this part of Lancashire is one of the few places free from snow. As a result we may see a influx of birds from areas effected by the recent fall. In fact a Grey Wagtail on the reserve is a classic example of a species pushed down to lower areas by harsh weather.
Around 400 Pink-footed Geese came in early afternoon, although we received no reports of other geese among them.
Some excellent views of Lapwing feeding close by the Hides, and 77 Ruff in front of the Swan Link Hide in the afternoon.
Grey Heron were roving around the reserve. The usual Marsh Harriers and Common Buzzards were active. As were the feeding stations, with Reed Bunting, Tree Sparrow, Chaffinch, Goldfinch, Greenfinch, Long-tailed, Coal, Great, Blue and Willow Tit all present.
Kingfisher again.
AB
https://www.facebook.com/wwtmartinmere
