Raptors
Upto 2 Marsh Harriers were on the reserve today along with the family of Peregrines (2 adults 1 juv male) showing well along with Sparrowhawk, Kestrel and Buzzard. The Little Egret is still around and briefly visited the Mere late afternoon.
A male Stonechat was seen distantly out on the reserve, both Goldcrest and Treecreepers were seen along with several Redwings. Good numbers of Ruff 80+ were joined by a single Black tailed Godwit on the Mere, Snipe and Lapwing were the other waders seen.
Good numbers of Whooper Swans remain but down on last year due to the mild winter so far, a snowfall in Scotland will probably push some of the rest down this way. A few thousand Pink footed Geese have been roosting overnight on the Mere last few days. A Barn Owl put in an appearance this morning.
