Woodcock
An icy start but all together a glorious day if a little chilly in the hides early on. A great selection of waders using the reserve at the moment with up to 12 species recently recorded.
A Woodcock was seen in flight from the Janet Kear Hide. Over past winters this hide has been reliable for Woodcock although the higher water levels this winter have meant birds have been less obvious.
A flock of 30+ Golden Plover came in and fed aptly on Plover Field, best viewed from the United Utilities Hide. Some of these birds were developing into breeding plumage. Other waders reported today included 50+ Avocet, 50+ Oystercatcher, 200+ Lapwing, 40+ Ruff, 20+ Black-tailed Godwit and Ringed Plover.
Seven species of raptor with multiple sightings of ringtail Hen Harrier, Merlin (briefly) Peregrine, Marsh Harrier, 4+ Common Buzzard, 2 Sparrowhawk and 2 Kestrel. Barn Owl and Tawny Owl again. Raven eating a Wigeon recently killed by a Peregrine.
Two Chiffchaff (over wintering) still by the Sewage Works at the end of the Reed Bed Walk. Redwing feeding along the fence line on the grassy over flow car park, 2 Mistle Thrush also present and Song Thrush at the start of the Reed Bed Walk.
A few sighting of Brown Hare including some close views from the Ron Barker Hide.
It's possible to see over 60 species of wild bird in a day at WWT Martin Mere.
Adult Mediterranean Gull on the Mere late on, after the map was uploaded!
If you need any directions or have seen something to report do call in at the in focus shop next to the new Discovery Hide.
