Got down to Marshside with Bazzo for an hour or two this afternoon in appalling conditions - a driving rain and a force six south westerly slamming into the site.
Most critters were taking cover, although a Common Sand was in front of Sandgrounders, where the Avocets closed their eyes in the rain, presumably working on the theory that when they open them again, the weather may have improved.
This one was trying to keep newly hatched young dry.
Down at Nels, at least 100 Dunlin were whirring about - good to see them starting to come through in numbers now, with the Little Stint playing hide and seek in the tussocks, and at least one Curlew Sandpiper feeding in the shallows.
Ringed Plover coming through with the Dunlin today too.
Two or three White Wagtails and saturated Meadow Pipits.
The 3 Garganey had been seen earlier, but were out of sight when we arrived, which seemed sensible given the conditions.
No sign of a new Spotted Redshank seen earlier on Marshside One either, but a good few waders had moved south of Nels into that difficult to watch part of M1 between there and Hesketh Road.
At least the Common Swifts are finally back around Dempsey Towers again.
If this lousy weather holds, the tides at the end of the week could be good for seawatching.
Eyes to the skies everyone, eyes to the skies...
- Post to:
del.icio.us
Digg
Newsvine
Nowpublic
Reddit
« Previous | Home | Next »
Hi John I thought I glimpsed the Garganey from the Hesketh Rd platform yesterday but when I managed to get my scope it had disappeared.
I've got a feeling this is going to become my bogey bird !
Any tips on seeing one?
Best bet for Garganey is to sit it out in Nels Hide - they can be very elusive (as you are no doubt aware!), but check the muddy creeks and marshy area behind the reedstand to the south of the hide - they often feed in the narrow channels there, but they do range all over Marshside One.
'Adventures with wildlife' evening meal and talk, Leighton Moss RSPB:
Tues 12 May
7âÂÂ9.30 pm
Ben Hall has gained worldwide recognition as one of BritainâÂÂs foremost wildlife photographers and has developed an intimate understanding of our natural heritage and how best to represent it visually. His images are often surprising, always striking and ever striving to awaken people to the diversity of BritainâÂÂs magnificent natural world. Beforehand, enjoy a two course home-cooked meal (bring your own wine). Booking essential 01524 701601. Cost: ã18 (RSPB members ã16).