As temperatures continue to drop, our winter visitors are making themselves right at home across Martin Mere. Around 250 Whooper Swans have been seen roosting overnight on the Mere. Our evening Starling murmurations have also remained consistent and are continuing to grow, with thousands of birds gathering overhead before settling down for the night. Don't forget that we've extended our closing times until 5pm for the foreseeable future, with Harrier Hide and United Utilities Hide remaining open until then, giving visitors more time to enjoy these incredible displays!
There have been some fantastic sightings across the Mere, with 21 Black-tailed Godwits, two Ruff and five Snipe recorded. Our returning Ring-necked Duck has also continued to show well close to Discovery Hide, alongside an impressive 41 Pochard, 40 Gadwall and 26 Tufted Ducks. Birds of prey have been active too, with a Peregrine Falcon and four Buzzards spotted hunting over the Mere, while a Raven was seen passing overhead.
Woodend Marsh has been particularly busy, with 25 Cattle Egrets and a Little Egret feeding around the marsh alongside good numbers of Shovelers, Teal and Lapwings. Around 20 Reed Buntings were also recorded, while 15 Snipe and two Water Rails in the sluice provided further highlights.
Over at Ron Barker Hide, a Great White Egret, two Kingfishers and three Marsh Harriers were among the highlights. Waders included a Dunlin and five Snipe, while a Stonechat and 10 Fieldfares added to the variety of sightings. With the Starling murmurations continuing to grow, there's certainly plenty of reason to stay a little longer and enjoy the reserve as the light begins to fade!
Photo of a Peregrine.
