Latest Sightings
Over the weekend here at Martin Mere, we took part in the International Swan Census (ISC), a survey of Whooper and Bewick’s Swan populations in the UK and the Republic of Ireland, that takes place every six years!
Although these species are monitored annually in the Wetland Bird Survey (WeBS), the ISC helps develop a more comprehensive record that lets us better understand and assess the size and distribution of their populations. Additionally, we gather data on the habitat types used by our swans, as well as age assessments that help infer breeding success. On site, we recorded 655 Whooper Swans, 20% being juveniles. Further in the fields at the back of the reserve, where they often feed during the day, we saw 1019 Whooper Swans, made up of 23% juveniles. No Bewick’s Swans were seen during the count.
The drake Ring-necked Duck is still showing well on the Mere, often feeding close to Discovery hide. On Saturday, a Barn Owl and the lasting Short-eared Owl were seen out on the reserve from Tomlinson hide. Ron Barker hide had an exciting lunchtime on Sunday with a Ringtail Harrier, Barn Owl, and Water Rail seen around 12 pm. Additionally, a Great Egret was seen flying overhead this morning.
Coinciding with the ISC, we are currently doing our monthly WeBS survey across our grounds and reserve, as part of a continuous monitoring scheme for non-breeding wetland birds such as wildfowl and waders.
Image of Whooper Swans
