Out this morning starting from Lordship Lane by the model aircraft flying field. Walking along the lane and there was a large flock of gulls across the field and a closer look revealed c1000 birds, mostly Black-head Gull but also some Common Gull were resting with Lapwing, Golden Plover and Curlew which were feeding behind them.
A Barn Owl was disturbed from the hawthorn hedge and settled a bit further along the hedgerow.
Walking up the ramp to No.4 tank and a Lesser Redpoll was seen feeding on the weedy seeds and another two were by the ‘Splashing Pool’. There were also several flocks of Linnet and Goldfinch in the general area. A look over Frodsham Score from No. 4 and a Great White Egret and 3 Little Egret were amongst the many Canada Goose which seemed to be ever-present out there. On the Manchester Ship Canal was a small group of Tufted Duck, Mallard and yet more Canada Goose on the water. The ‘Splashing Pool’ had much the same with the addition of a pair of Little Grebe.
Onward to No.3 tank and its mitigation area and a large flock of Lapwing with c1000 Golden Plover some in summer plumage were joined by small number of Dunlin, Ringed Plover and Redshank.
On No.6 tank there were good numbers of waterfowl made up of Common Teal, Common Shelduck, Mallard Common Pochard, Tufted Duck Gadwall and at least 1 pair of Pintail. Raven and a few Great Black-backed Gull feasting on more mutton while Carrion Crow and Magpie waited their turn to tuck in.
Observer: Paul Ralston, Sean O’Hara.
Two adult Mediterranean Gull were on No.6 tank in the large Black-headed Gull flock and 4 Ruff flew from the tank down to Lordship Marsh.
Observer: Alyn Chambers.
Images: Tony Broome
