On my way into work at first light several skiens of 100’s of Pink-footed Goose were heading to the north east over the Weaver Valley per WSM.
I started my walk at Brook Furlong Lane this morning. There were 4 Marsh Harrier in the air together over the reeds flushing a flock of winter thrushes and a couple of Common Snipe. A mass of Northern Lapwing were also spooked and took to the air near to Marsh Farm, but again no Golden Plover were with them.
The 3 Cattle Egret were amongst the cattle at the back of the farm.
On the River Weaver the Tufted Duck flock were on the far side with Common Pochard, Eurasian Teal, Common Goldeneye, Common Shelduck and a female Greater Scaup here and a 1st winter on No.6 tank. A flock of 60 Northern Pintail were disturbed by pheasant shooting taking place along Brook Furlong and left they duly left the water for the estuary followed by several groups of Common Redshank.
On to No.6 tank and 3 Marsh Harrier had made their way to the reed bed with 2 hunting and another perched up. More Tufted Duck, Eurasian Teal, Mallard, Common Pochard, Common Shelduck and more Northern Pintail on the water. The 3 Cattle Egret could be seen from the elevated ramp looking over No.3 tank towards the farm.
The Whooper Swan herd are still close to Lordship Lane with the resident Mute’s for company. I countered several pairs of Stonechat were noted on my walk as were Kestrel, one of which caught a vole along Moorditch Lane.
Observer: Paul Ralston (images1-4 & 6-14).
Image 5 by WSM.
A ringtail Hen Harrier was over Frodsham Score per Dave Craven.
