Harriers
Not the best of days for viewing, very murky condition until mid afternoon. Apart from Pink-footed Geese which are dropping back in numbers the reserve was looking jam pack, particularly on the Mere w [...]
Not the best of days for viewing, very murky condition until mid afternoon. Apart from Pink-footed Geese which are dropping back in numbers the reserve was looking jam pack, particularly on the Mere with thousands of wildfowl present. As it happens there are around 4000 Pink-feet but most are coming in only to roost.
At least 1500 Lapwing regularly being flushed by Peregrine, Sparrowhawk, Common Buzzard and near the end of the day, ring-tailed Hen Harrier and 3 Marsh Harrier putting on a reasonable show. Barn Owl from the United Utilities Hide late on.
Over 1000 Black-headed Gulls with some birds now coming into summer plumage. The numbers tend to build into early spring and we can expect quite a few Mediterranean Gulls to pass through in the coming months.
A male Sparrowhawk was also in action at the Janet Kear feeding station although it failed to grab a meal. The single female Brambling was seen this morning, Willow Tit this afternoon also male Great-spotted Woodpecker there.
AB
