Burton Mere Wetlands - 27 November 2012

An early start at Inner Marsh Farm and I found the area completely flooded and almost birdless (2 Moorhen and 1 Oystercatcher). So I made the short journey to BMW and the warmth of the visitor centre. Good call, as the first bird I saw was a Water Rail to the right of the centre. Knowing that the bird frequented that area, the staff had cut down the bank of high grasses the previous day but were amazed that the rail was showing so well, so soon.

There were lots of birds out on the main scrape, including Canada Geese (150+), Greylag Geese (100+) and a flock of 30 Pink-footed Geese flew across from east to west.  Also on view were Tufted Duck (45), Coot (60), Blackwits (50+) Teal (450), Shoveler (25), Wigeon (20) a few Moorhen and a male Hen Harrier.

Outside, feeding on a patch of laid seed at the end of the board-walk, were a number of Chaffinch, a Robin and 2 Brambling.

I had a quick look at Parkgate Donkey Stand on the way home and found Mallard (26), Teal (20), Great Crested Grebe (3), Little Grebe (2), Redshank (25), Lapwing (12), Moorhen (2), a Curlew, a Little Egret and a Kestrel.

Water Rail near BMW visitor centre 

Brambling feeding on nyjer seed

Female Kestrel at Parkgate