Latest Sightings
Despite the recent spell of poor weather, we’re still seeing some exciting birds here at Martin Mere.
First of all, some great news – this breeding season has given us two site records, with the first breeding successes of both Mediterranean Gull and Whooper Swan! The Mediterranean Gull chicks are often showing on the islands towards the left-hand side of the Mere from the viewing screens while the two Whooper cygnets can sometimes be seen from the Ron Barker hide. The parents are thought to be injured birds who aren’t strong enough to make the journey back to Iceland and have settled here instead.
Barn Owl and Marsh Harrier have been seen over our Reserve lately, as well as Buzzard, and a Red Kite was reportedly seen over the car park on Wednesday. The United Utilities and Ron Barker hides are often the best raptor viewpoints, as they offer a view of a large amount of the site.
Redshank, Lapwing and Avocet can all be seen on Woodend Marsh – these waders are all breeding on or around the marsh, and lately, Redshank chicks have been observed exploring the wetland from the Rees Hide.
A female Goosander was seen on the Mere on Wednesday, which is an uncommon species for the site – also watch out for Tufted Duck, Shoveler and the interesting hybrid Mediterranean x Black-headed Gull.
The Bittern has still been performing over the Reedbed Walk, where Cetti’s Warbler, Reed Warbler and Sedge Warbler can be encountered, along with a chance at hearing a Water Rail or seeing a beautiful Reed Bunting.
Photograph of a Sedge Warbler.
