Despite the tumultuous weather over the weekend, we have still had some wonderful sightings across the reserve. The Pink-footed Geese continue to arrive from Iceland, with around 2000 flying in to roost on Ploverfield and Owl Marsh - which can be seen from the United Utilities Hide - on Sunday evening.
On the Mere, many of our duck species have been showing well, including eight Pintail, 10 Gadwall, 16 Wigeon, 46 Shovelers, and 55 Teal. Some other highlights included one Skylark, five Meadow Pipit, seven Snipe, 30+ Linnet.
From the Harrier Hide, one Water Rail and six Little Grebe were also sighted. One Kestrel was also spotted to the delight of our visitors, with many other birds of prey species seen across the reserve, including two more Kestrel at the United Utilities Hide. Other birds of prey from the United Utilities Hide included one Sparrowhawk, two Marsh Harrier, and three Buzzards, alongside one Raven, eight Snipe, and 57 Lapwing. One Peregrine Falcon was also spotted from Gordon Taylor.
Looking out of Ron Barker, one female Kingfisher was spotted sitting on the perch. Our resident Cattle Egret were also seen alongside our herd of English Longhorn Cattle, with up to 58 counted at once across the weekend. Other notable sightings included two Goldcrest, two Stonechat, three Great White Egrets, and three Green Sandpiper.
At Janet Kear, some lovely passerines were seen enjoying our bird feeders, including one Treecreeper, one Long-tailed Tit, two Jay, and three Reed Bunting.
Some lovely moths were also found in our moth trap, including Red Sword-grass, Lunar Underwing, Scarce-bordered Straw, Snout, Pink-barred Sallow, Frosted Orange , Willow Beauty, Chestnut , Canary-shouldered Thorn, and Light Emerald.
Picture of a Snipe.
