Migrant arrivals
The first Whinchat and Lesser Whitethroat of the year, both found in the afternoon. The Whinchat, a male, was out on Plover Field and the Lesser Whitethroat was in the hedge between the two Reed Bed Platforms. The Martin Mere reserve year list is now 130 species.
At least 2 drake Garganey present still and the Wood Sandpiper is still out on Woodend Marsh.At least 2 Cuckoo today with birds seen around the Kingfisher/Ron Barker Hides and at the opposite end of the reserve on the Reed Bed.
Another 9 Whimbrel dropped in on the Mere early afternoon, a good passage of this species so far this year. Thursday's Lancashire coordinated roost count produced 1300 Whimbrel.
Above - Drake Garganey with Teal and Whimbrel at the back of the Mere.
At least 4 Little Ringed Plover, 5 Ruff, 60+ Avocet, 6 Oystercatcher, 4 Redshank and 30+ Lapwing.
Pair of Med Gull (below) regularly from the Ron Barker Hide and on the Mere.
Wheatear on Langley's Fields and Corn Bunting singing on territory there. The skies in that area are filled with Skylark.
Two Common Tern around the reserve.
Plenty of Shelduck and Mallard. Smaller numbers of Teal, Gadwall, Shoveler, Tufted Duck and Pochard present and a single Pintail.
Despite the chilly wind Chiffchaff, Willow Warbler, Blackcap, Whitethroat, Sedge and Reed Warbler all in song this morning. Cetti's Warblers on the Reed Bed and in front of the Kingfisher Hide.
Mixed hirundine flock of Swallow, Sand Martin and House Martin feeding around the Reed Bed.
A family party of 4 Whooper Swan is still feeding in fields off Marsh Moss Lane.
Brown Hare very active around the reserve. (pic Andy Bunting)
