Hide closure: Sunday 9 November
No access to Ron Barker, Hale and Mere View Hides
Unfortunately, we have had a recent case of avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu, in our collection birds. To prevent further spread of the disease, we are putting in place some additional protection measures, which includes testing the birds in our duckery. To allow our teams the time and space to do this, we’ve temporarily closed this part of the wetland reserve and will reopen on Monday 10 November.
A single Avocet on the back of the Mere marks the spring return of this breeding species at Martin Mere. It is the earliest record for this species in Lancashire. It joins an excellent selection of waders keeping there heads down on a windy Sunday. At least 3000 Lapwing, 41 Oystercatcher, 70+ Ruff, 10 Black-tailed Godwit, Dunlin and Common Snipe.
The usual raptors included 2 Peregrine, Marsh Harrier, 4 Common Buzzard and Sparrowhawk.
