Whooper Return!
An unexpected arrival today in the shape of 4 Whooper Swan which circled low over the Mere before heading off the reserve. Although earlier than average this doesn't beat 2012 16th of Sept. We do have 8 over summering birds still present on the reserve although most of these have great difficulty taking to the air.
The Pink-footed Geese count hit 1400 this morning. Will we hit a 5 figure count before the weekend?
Waders present included 2 Green Sandpiper, 400+ Lapwing, 30+ Ruff, 10+ Common Snipe. Interesting to note the recent jet stream may bring in some of the rare North American into the UK, although apart from Wilson's Phalarope and Pectoral Sandpiper all the others would be reserve firsts.
A Wheatear on the new scrape from the United Utilities Hide was new in. The Grey Wagtails are still regularly being seen inside the Waterfowl Gardens and from the in focus shop.
Today's raptors included 2 Marsh Harrier, Peregrine, 5+ Common Buzzard, 2+ Sparrowhawk and 2 Kestrel.
Chiffchaff and Blackcap present in mixed tit flock along the Nature Trail and in the Waterfowl Gardens. At least 40 Tree Sparrow near the Raines Observatory.
At least 2 Kingfisher from the Ron Barker Hide.
Currently it's possible to top 70 species in a full day's birding on the reserve.
