Blackcap singing
All the hallmarks of a proper spring day with the first Blackcap of the year in song between the Gladstone and Janet Kear Hides. Three species of butterfly seen with the first Brimstone and Red Admirals as well as Small Tortoiseshell.
The downside of the warm and sunny weather (yes there is a downside..) is that visibility into the distance was hazy early on so only Marsh Harrier, 4 Common Buzzard, Sparrowhawk and Kestrel were added to the raptor list for the day. Tawny Owl and Barn Owl seen, the later distantly from the United Utilities Hide, the former is best seen with directions from the in focus shop next to the new Discovery Hide.
Nice to see 10-12 Golden Plover on the reserve, 4 Redshank, plenty of Avocet present as well as Ruff, Lapwing, Oystercatcher and some very showy Black-tailed Godwit.
Bewick's Swan on the Mere early afternoon. A 2nd calendar Med Gull on the Mere. Kingfisher from the Ron Barker Hide.
