...and although the crazy drive north to catch up with the Caerlaverock bird, and the game of sardines in the tower hide before Mr Flappy showed was a hoot three years ago, it would have been sheer rudeness not to pop down to Seaforth this afternoon and catch up with this mega wader again - especially as it was only a few feet away on the inlet to the east of the main hide.
Such a gentle looking wader on those ridiculous Peter Crouch legs, but interesting to see that purplish flush to the chest on this bird, maybe I should get round to calling it White Tailed Lapwing after all.
Only the third time I've seen this species, and certainly the best views, so thanks to finders etc behind the fence...
Lots of folk 'scoping it from outside too, but obviously the views were distant compared to the lucky few behind the screens in the reserve, and the bird was often hidden behind a bank.
At least those outside the perimeter fence got to admire 70+ Swifts feeding low to the water of Crosby Marine Lake at point blank range while the Plover/Lapwing was out of sight.
But really, isn't it about time to scrap the ridiculous permit system now???
Or does Mersey Docks and Harbour Board still fear the threat of birder terrorism so much.
Eyes to the skies everyone, eyes to the skies...
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HereâÂÂs a reminder of our family events that are on this week at RSPB Leighton Moss nature reserve....
Family guided walk: Wildsquare walk
Tuesday 1 June (11 am â 12.30 pm)
Explore our reserveâÂÂs âÂÂWildsquareâ and get to know all the creatures that live here throughout the year. Find out how you can get involved with âÂÂWildsquaresâ at home too. Cost: RSPB members: adults ã2, children ã1, family ã4, non-members: adults ã4.50, children ã2, family ã9. No need to book.
Afternoon tweets: Fun with flowers
Wednesday 2 June (âÂÂDrop inâ at anytime between 12.30 â 3.15 pm)
Come along and take part in a crafty activity lasting about 15 minutes, and then enjoy some storytelling out on the reserve. Cost: Children: ã3 (RSPB members ã1.50) - includes free entry for your family to the nature trails for the rest of the day.
Family activity day: Pond dipping
Thursday 3 June (Choose from 11.30 am â 1 pm or 1.30 â 3 pm)
Explore the underwater world of Leighton Moss after a short walk to see the bird life.
Cost: ã4 per child (RSPB Wildlife Explorer members ã3). Booking and payment in advance essential. Recommended for children over the age of 5, who must be with an adult (adults free). Includes free entry for your family to the nature trails for the rest of the day. Booking and advance payment required tel: 01524 701601
Leighton Moss Wildlife Explorers Club
Saturday 5 June 10 am â 12 noon
Our Leighton Moss Wildlife Explorer Club is a great way to find out more about all that crawls, flutters and even slithers! With games, wild days out and more. So, if youâÂÂre aged from 8 to 12 years old why not join in the fun. To join this group, phone Rachel Hemmings on 01524 63066 or 07968537998 or e-mail: hemmingsrachel@hotmail.com.
Springwatch walk at Leighton Moss
Saturday 5 and Sunday 6 June (11 am â 12.30 pm)
Springwatch with the RSPB! Enjoy a walk around our nature trails and have some fun finding the wildlife that lives here. Free event. No need to book.