On the edge of spring
With the Mere packed with Whooper Swan still it's hard to believe that the spring equinox is only 11 days away. The forecasters suggest we are in for some milder conditions towards the end of the week which with the lengthening days will see more of our winter visitors disappear.
The call of a couple of Curlew dropping onto the edge of the Mere was a lovely reminder that spring is close at hand, and it won't be long before the Lapwing can be seen and heard displaying. At least 46 Avocet on the reserve, both Ruff (40+) and Black-tailed Godwit (20+) are developing into breeding plumage.
Hen Harrier again today (and yesterday), Peregrine, at least one Marsh Harrier, 5+ Common Buzzard, 2 Sparrowhawk and 2 Kestrel. Barn and Tawny Owls.
The single Bewick's Swan appeared late afternoon yesterday on Top Mere seen from Raines Observatory/Hale Hide.
Close views of Stonechat from the Ron Barker Hide yesterday. Some Gadwall and Little Grebe from the Harrier Hide. Skylark in song from the United Utilities Hide and else where.
A small flock of Redwing in the car park feeding along the fence line. Corn Bunting singing near the public footpath opposite the reserve.
