Crossbills showing well
A mega species day on the reserve as spring movement gets fully underway. Star birds in reserve rarity terms were the Crossbills with 2 males and 2 females still present this morning near the Raines Hide, showing well in the spring sunshine. These birds represent only the 5th reserve records for this species and the first 'twitchable' ones!
Spoonbill feeding in front of the United Utilities Hide and later showing well from the Harrier Hide. Also Little Egret again.
Garganey reported again from the UU hide this morning but elusive?
Common Sandpiper new for the year from the Harrier Hide. Other waders included 30+ Ruff, 30+ Avocet, 4 Ringed Plover, 8+ Redshank, 20+ Black-tailed Godwit, Dunlin in breeding plumage, Common Snipes, Curlew today but 30+ along Curlew Lane.
Also new for the year White Wagtail from the Ron Barker Hide.
Adult pair of Med Gull from the Ron Barker.
Wheatear on the Reed Bed Walk. A few Sand Martin heading north mid morning and at least 3 Swallow by late afternoon.
Merlin this afternoon, Peregrine, 6+ Common Buzzard. Barn Owl from the Ron Barker Hide this morning. Tawny Owl also showed this morning. Two Raven again.
Chiffchaff singing by the in focus shop this morning, more around the reserve.
Brambling, a female from the Janet Kear Hide.
