On Burton Marsh on Thursday (11th) there were 7 Bewick's Swans which are really scarce in Cheshire most winters now, several Mute Swans also fed out in the same gulleys so a scope is needed to pick out the distant Bewick's with certainty. A Merlin was the only other species of note, but Buizzard and Little Egret were also seen.
Roger Baker 3 said
Sat Jan 6 8:12 PM, 2018
Sat 6th Jan. pm.
With Ian Lyth.
Little Neston. From Harp Inn and a walk to sewage works.
Hen Harrier. Grey male + ringtail. Marsh Harrier. At least 5 ... had 3 in one scope view dropping into roost. Peregrine Falcon. Merlin. 2 Sparrowhawk. (M+F) Kestrel. Raven. Short-eared Owl. At least 3. Great White Egret. At least 4. Little Egret. Masses of waders Curlew, Godwit, Oystercatcher, Lapwing and Dunlin. Pink-footed Goose. Redwing. Chiffchaff. Goldcrest.
Roger.
-- Edited by Roger Baker 3 on Saturday 6th of January 2018 08:14:44 PM
Paul Richardson said
Thu Jan 4 9:45 PM, 2018
Another day, another BIG tide. It took a while, but the water reached the sea wall at Parkgate and still further in by about 45 minutes after predicted high tide.
Parkgate southern end of the "prom".
2 Great Egrets showed well together with their Little Egret cousins. a male and a female Hen Harrier gave spectacular views 2 Marsh Harriers. Kestrel Water Rail Hundreds of Canada Geese and seemingly lesser numbers of Pink-Footed Geese. No Short Eared Owls for us but a constant whirring and cavorting of wader and wildfowl species out on the tidal edge.
Captivating sight, mind-blowing.
-- Edited by Paul Richardson on Thursday 4th of January 2018 09:45:26 PM
Ian McKerchar said
Wed Jan 3 7:41 PM, 2018
Originally posted today by Ian Campbell:
Parkgate over today's high tide
today with Malcolm, very high tide right upto the wall, excellent birding with lots of birders present, best was 2 Merlin, 4 Short-eared Owl, 2 Hen Harrier and the supporting cast of waders, totally spectacular. Cheers Ian
Ian Campbell said
Wed Jan 3 7:14 PM, 2018
New Brighton marine lake today had Purple Sandpiper, Turnstone, Dunlin and Redshank. Cheers Ian
Kevin Cook said
Tue Dec 5 8:26 PM, 2017
4/12. After viewing the Snow Buntings at Leasowe my friend and I made a quick stop at Denhall Quay (Harp inn) arriving at 1.40pm. We had to leave at 2.00pm for a school run. After eating our lunch in the car viewing out of the windscreen we made our way into the tree area at about 1.55. I was advised by the sole birder there, that nothing was showing. He then spotted a male Hen harrier. After watching this for a few minutes a female came into view, both visible in the same binocular view. A Short Eared Owl then showed flying low and close to them and almost immediataly it was mobbed by a Peregrine. All 4 birds was then visible for a short time in the same patch of sky with the Short Eared Owl climbing high into the sky and almost hovering up there (as if trying to get away from the others). At that point in a state of disbelief we had to leave, and consolling ourselves with the fact it couldnt get any better than that.
Simon Gough said
Mon Dec 4 6:39 PM, 2017
A decent size predicted high tide tempted me to use some holiday from work and get over to Parkgate today to see what might be about. The day started drizzly and misty but luckily cleared nicely by mid-morning. As it happened the tide never got near a full flood but there was enough water to move a lot of stuff around in the distance. This led to a healthy array of predators lying in wait. From the Old Baths, between about 9.30 and 13.00, the highlights were:
Great White Egret 3 - 2 in flight together quite close in were great to watch Hen Harrier 2 Peregrine 3 Merlin 1 Marsh Harrier 6+
The Marsh Harriers were constantly active and visible, including an adult female bird that came in within 100m a couple of times and was just stunning to watch. There are evidently up to 20 on the marsh at the moment so basically impossible to miss.
The Hen Harriers I saw didn't surface until around 12; they were both ringtails and were close enough in to allow brilliant scope views. One was an adult female, really well-marked on the head, and the other was more buff underneath and a shade darker above; presumably an immature but perhaps in its 2nd or 3rd year. No sign of a male bird but one was reported later on. I was more than happy with my sightings anyway.
John Rayner said
Thu Nov 30 9:17 AM, 2017
I visited a couple of Wirral sites yesterday afternoon. First Leasowe for the Snow Buntings then Denhall Quay, which produced a selection of raptors but no Hen Harriers.
An interesting if windy day today. Started at Burton Mere which was decidedly quiet so didn't stay long before moving up to Parkgate. Although the tide wasn't predicted to be that high, we gambled that the extra water in the river, plus the strong onshore wind might push levels up a bit. It didn't have much of an effect but we still had an enjoyable hour or so with at least three Marsh Harriers, single ring tail and male Hen Harrier, single Merlin, a Greenshank and other usual stuff. There were clearly lots of birds out on the edge of the river but too distant for identification of most of them. The wind was just bearable.
After the peak of the tide we jumped back into the car and and went to New Brighton on the basis that the marine lake might have been offering a bit of shelter. It was (sort of) and there was a nice array of waders on the pontoons, including 11 Purple Sandpipers, a couple of Knot and Dunlin, plenty Redshank and Turnstones and a single Greenshank. The wind was awful and we knocked it on the head after this.
Dave Ousey said
Tue Nov 21 1:16 PM, 2017
Wirral Wanderings 19/11/2017
A full team met at the reasonable time of 8am with myself at the wheel. The weather was freezing in Rochdale but as we got onto the Wirral it was a balmy 7 degrees, maybe the sea air helped. We stopped at a new spot near Heswall and most of the team managed to see a passing female Hen Harrier. At Parkgate old baths we enjoyed the tide coming in and a couple of Marsh Harriers and Water Pipit`s were seen. Chris B also saw a wintering Chiffchaff in a field that had lots of birds feeding in it namely: - Song Thrush, Redwing, Fieldfare, Blackbird, Reed Bunting, Linnet, Robin, and Great Spotted Woodpecker. After a spot of lunch, a lady informed us that a good place to watch from was The Harp Inn in Neston overlooking the marsh from mid-afternoon till dusk.
We headed up towards Hoylake & New Brighton and called at a couple of the places were Leach`s Petrel have been seen by us. A lot of waders were seen: - Oystercatcher, Redshank, Dunlin, Knot, Bar Tailed Godwit, Curlew, Golden Plover but the real star was a Peregrine Falcon with an unrecognisable prey item in its talons. On the sea a few Common Scoter and the more regular species of gull were seen. At Perch Rock, New Brighton (an area that really tested by rock climbing ability whilst watching a Laughing Gull) the hoped for Purple Sandpipers did not materialise but views over the Mersey more than made up for that.
At The Harp Inn, Neston we quickly made camp on one of the picnic tables outside the pub and all the boys decided to have a pint, except myself off course as I was driving! A small crowd of birders watched the marsh and were soon rewarded when a full adult male Hen Harrier was seen at around 150 yards distance, what a cracking bird, only problem was it didnt stay around long enough. Also seen: - 4 Marsh Harriers, female Hen Harrier, Sparrowhawk, Kestrel, Peregrine Falcon and last but not least up to 5 Short Eared Owl`s, that seemed to be on view for most of the time we spent there. As the gloom descended we made our way home and all really enjoyed the spectacle on the Wirral.
Dave O.
-- Edited by Ian McKerchar on Tuesday 21st of November 2017 01:23:29 PM
Mike Chorley said
Mon Nov 20 12:48 AM, 2017
Called in briefly at Burton around 3.30 p.m. to survey the salt marsh en route from Newchurch Common to Parkgate and straight out of the car Karen picked up a distant Short-Eared Owl being mobbed by corvids. Just as we were setting up 'scopes the bird dropped into vegetation well to the North, then repeated the routine just as we'd finished packing to leave.
By the time we got to The Old Baths at Parkgate there was no sign of the Owl but we were straight on to a splendid male Hen Harrier heading north along the outer edge of the marsh, which then tuned back inland and headed back towards us, finally dropping into vegetation north of us. A short time later it took off again and gave us better views with a fly by just beyond the obvious channel parallel to the car park before heading back out towards the shoreline. About 15 minutes later it reversed the route but this time continued north and out of view for us. Karen then found a probable ring-tailed Hen Harrier well south of us towards the factories at Shotwick and at least 2 female Marsh Harriers hunted along shore line. All in all a good day out with 60 species seen and all our hoped-for birds found with ease (for once lol)
Chris Harper said
Sun Nov 12 8:41 PM, 2017
Brief stop at Pakgate from 14:00-14:50:
2 Marsh Harrier, Great White Egret, Peregrine Falcon, 5 Fieldfare, 4 Little Egret were the highlights
Denhall Quay:
2 Short Eared Owl, 2 Stonechat, 5 Little Egret, male Hen Harrier reported yesterday
JOHN TYMON said
Fri Oct 6 5:44 AM, 2017
A Beltin day today at fort Perch rock New Brighton ,with a nice wind blowing ,there was hope for a Leach's Petrel or 2 ,also met up there with Paul Lee and bumped into John Dempsey again ,so got down to some serious watching with the scope for a change ,I was there with Paul from 11.30-16.30 ,and although we saw some Leach's they were on the Liverpool side of the Mersey in the main but we all had one of those good days in good company ,so we were all happy with what we found. Leachs Petrel - up to 15 Guillemot 2 Red Throated Diver 10 all coming out of Mersey,some still in full breeding plumage Great Crested Grebe - 4 Brent Goose 2 Tufted Duck 1 Dunlin 25+ Turnstone - c60 Redshank-c100
New Brighton - Sea watch from lifeguard shelter 11.00 - 12.15 (high tide 11.29)
7 Leach's Petrels (+ 3 more just before I arrived) 1 Guillemot 1 Bar-tailed Godwit 12 Sanderlings
... and very little else.
Cheers John
Mark Jarrett said
Wed Oct 4 6:17 PM, 2017
Had a few hours on the Wirral today, 11.30 until 16.00 hrs but allowing for the rain and travelling time between locations, probably only managed around three hours birding.
First up was New Brighton just after high tide. Very windy, sand blowing all over the place and the Mersey was rough to say the least. No Leach's Petrel, unfortunately, but did manage a Great Skua, a Black Tern and a Guillemot amongst commoner species. Only managed around 45 mins before it came on raining, so departed for Denhall Quay, followed by Parkgate Baths car park, then Denhall Lane. Bits of rain here as well before rain well and truly stopped play at 4pm. Between the three locations we managed at least three Great White Egret, female Peregrine, Kestrel, Merlin, at least three Marsh Harrier and an extremely fleeting view of a ring tail Harrier species. Could have been the Pallid but, as soon as I caught it in the scope, it went to ground. Half a second at the most.
It didn't feel like we'd had too great a day but some decent species were seen.
steven burke said
Tue Oct 3 10:28 PM, 2017
Post for sunday 1st October. Harp inn, denhall quay, 5.45-7pm.
No signs of the pallid harrier for me. 1 hen harrier 2 short-eared owls 1 merlin 3+ marsh harriers Several kestrels 3 great-white egrets Plenty of little egrets 1 stonechat Plus usuals around.
sid ashton said
Tue Oct 3 4:09 PM, 2017
Simon Gough wrote:
Are you sure it's called the Denhall Gutter Sid?
Yes Simon it's referred to in the second para of http://www.deeestuary.co.uk/nestop.htm - among other places
Simon Gough said
Tue Oct 3 9:57 AM, 2017
Are you sure it's called the Denhall Gutter Sid?
sid ashton said
Mon Oct 2 9:42 PM, 2017
Interestingly Denhall Quay was built in 1790's in the days when the sea came in there. It was mainly used to ship coal from the local collieries and is now an excellent viewing point for the birding community to look out over the marsh and the Denhall Gutter.
Doc Brewster said
Mon Oct 2 1:47 PM, 2017
Phil Woollen wrote:
For info where the bird was being watched near the Harp is Denhall Quay. Neston Old Quay is near the sewage works further north.
Ta Phil, yep, I agree Neston Old Quay is N.of here as I said in the post below (quote "(as opposed to Neston Old Quay further north)") Lots of folk at the promontory Saturday & some calling it Neston Quay as in my post, but not Old Quay as I say. I'd never heard it called Neston Quay either, I'm confused too!! Denhall Quay it will be for me now
-- Edited by Doc Brewster on Monday 2nd of October 2017 01:58:52 PM
Phil Woollen said
Mon Oct 2 1:27 PM, 2017
For info where the bird was being watched near the Harp is Denhall Quay. Neston Old Quay is near the sewage works further north.
Doc Brewster said
Mon Oct 2 10:38 AM, 2017
Hearing news of a probable Pallid Harrier on the Wirral and reading that it was a first for Cheshire, I ventured down the motorway to have a look on Saturday afternoon.
As the weather was pretty horrendous as I approached the Dee Marshes area I decided to divert first to Burton Mere Wetlands to sit the torrential rain out, that visit is posted in the appropriate thread! As the weather cleared a little I decided that the best vantage point would be the promontory of land near the Harp Inn, Neston, I see it is being called Neston Quay by some locals (as opposed to Neston Old Quay further north). On arrival I could see a crowd of birders gathered and on asking the first one I met was told the bird was out on the marsh but down in the grass. At first I expected it to be out of view but when directed to where it was I could see it was sat up and showing as well as can be expected given that it was almost in Wales By zooming up over 50x the views weren't bad and the head markings were obvious. The bird had a pronounced collar and distinctive contrasting face markings. Even with these limited views it looked good for Pallid. As it sat in the grass at least one Short-eared Owl passed over it and a Great White Egret landed in a dyke behind it. These species were seen without moving the scope off the harrier, they just flew into view! Eventually after a long wait the bird took to the air and was watched floating effortlessly over the saltmarsh with Connah's Quay Power Station as the backdrop. It came close enough to afford good scoped views and I was surprised that the bird was more brown than rusty coloured on the underparts as it had been reported as a juvenile and all juvs that I have seen have been noticeably rusty underneath. I assumed that someone had had better views than I and had nailed other features to determine age but later a discussion online and close up pictures led to the bird being aged as a female. This I am happier with. All the jizz and the facial pattern pointed were great for Pallid (although a hybrid was mentioned in some circles before better pictures emerged) and so a first for Cheshire had been seen The bird headed off at speed northwards and dropped in the distance so I took that as a cue to leave. News came out later that it had roosted off Parkgate Old Baths car park so signs are that it may stay all winter, which is excellent news. There is an immature Hen Harrier on the marshes too, which also roosted here.
Mark Jarrett said
Sat Sep 30 9:28 PM, 2017
Winds changing to westerlies on Sunday evening and through the night into Monday increasing in speed up to 45 knots. High tide 9.42 am on Monday. Winds west/north west on Tuesday and still around 22 knots, high tide on Tuesday 10.24 am. Looking good.
Rob Creek said
Fri Sep 15 2:44 PM, 2017
Hi Phil, like I stated in my post and like Simon reiterates, we were in no way doubting the Greater Yellowlegs sighting and we were happy with ours being Greenshank as the white rumps did indeed extend up the back. The report came when high tide was in full flow anyway so the bird was already on Hilbre and we had 2 Greenshank in our sights around the Leasowe groyne. Cheers
Simon Gough said
Fri Sep 15 12:08 PM, 2017
Hi Phil,
Rob and I were stood on the front at Hoylake getting soaked when the report of the Greater Yellowlegs came through. Given that we could see the island we were cursing the high tide being in, despite the feast of waders in front of us. So no sour grapes at all then!
Later Doc Brewster posted on here that the sighting was from a reliable source, well he knows everyone in Cheshire so that was good enough for me. But we had noted that the 2 Greenshanks we'd seen at Leasowe were contrasting. I think if anything it serves as a reminder to check birds properly. I saw this week that a Least Sandpiper was being noted as a Little Stint until somebody actually looked at it properly.
I think the really good birders are the ones that check everything properly; I know I often am too casual and it is something I need to improve at. At least Leach's Petrels are fairly easy to ID!
Any updates on the probable Wilson's Petrel that you can share would be interesting by the way.
Phil Woollen said
Fri Sep 15 10:02 AM, 2017
Rob Creek wrote:
Of note... 1 of the Greenshank we saw on the groyne was very different to the other and had very yellowish legs as opposed to the greenish grey legs of the other bird. I'm in no way doubting the Greater Yellowlegs sighting but it was just an observation that could've been overlooked, ours were definitely Greenshank though!
Rob.
Observer reports Greater Yellowlegs seen on Hilbre had square white rump rather than extending up back which rules out Greenshank. He's very conscious of the pitfalls of aberrant greenshank given there was a Greater Yellowlegs reported a few years ago at an inland reservoir that was later re-identifed as a Greenshank.
Cheers
Chris Harper said
Thu Sep 14 8:57 PM, 2017
Couldn't resist a visit to New Brighton after seeing the wonderful images of the Leach's Petrels.
Arrived at 17.20, stayed until 18.40 from the beach neat Perch Rock.
Minimum of 14 Leach's Petrol, some right next to the Rock. Possible European Storm Petrol too.
3 flyby Grey Phalarope together, Black Tern, several Arctic and Common Tern. Distant Skua sp. Gannet, Oystercatcher, Redshank, Kittiwake.
On beach was a dead Guillemot and large gull sp.
A very enjoyable experience.
sid ashton said
Thu Sep 14 5:39 PM, 2017
Had a pleasant couple of hours on the beach at New Brighton this morning (c.08.15 - 10.15) until the rain came in on the ebbing tide. During that time had views of just 4 Leach's Petrels over the river and one giving us a close up flying display over the sand. Also of note, among the many gulls a sparkling Great Black-backed, a lone Gannet and many Oystercatchers over the water.
Mark Jarrett said
Thu Sep 14 4:45 PM, 2017
Another visit to New Brighton today, same spot as yesterday, Perch Rock Lighthouse sands and shoreline. Only a handful of Leach's today in view of lessening winds which were not too strong overnight. Main visit, though, was to try and see one or both of the Grey Phalarope which have hung around for three days but, at times, have been elusive. After arriving this morning at around 9.45, a wait of an hour and a half finally 'produced' one of the Grey Phalarope, sitting on the sea only a few yards out from the tide line. After a brief flight, the confiding bird settled, again on the sea, but this time even closer in. Superb scope views were had and a few photos are attached.
Another after work visit to the Wirral with Simon Gough yesterday and we met up with Chris Chandler later on.
Hoylake...we didn't stay long, only Gulls and a few distant Curlew and Cormorant.
Leasowe Gunsite (approx 30 mins here) - 7 Leach's Storm Petrel (2 in same bins view) - 1 Manx Shearwater - 1 Great Skua harassing the Gulls
...and another large Skua seen doing the same out towards New Brighton, probably a Great Skua but difficult to tell I always think given that juv Pomarine's are quite large and Arctic's can appear large in the right light conditions.
Also a Kestrel hovering right above us at Leasowe and a cracking Hobby flew right infront of us across the M53 on our way there.
-- Edited by Rob Creek on Thursday 14th of September 2017 03:30:45 PM
Chris Chandler said
Thu Sep 14 12:20 AM, 2017
Great few hours on the Wirral this afternoon.
4-8pm
Watched the Leach's Petrels sheltering in the relative calm of the rivermouth at New Brighton for 2 hours. The most I counted at one time was 12 birds, though I reckon there must have been 20+ across the 2 hours. Fantastic birds to watch and delighted to finally see some after unsuccessful trips in previous years. Definitely one of those occasions where the weather conditions and the general atmosphere really add to the birding experience.
Also seen at New Brighton, 2 Black Tern and a Fulmar.
Further along the coast at Leasowe there were several more Leach's Petrels heading south, a Manx Shearwater and a Great Skua harassing the gulls
Craig Higson said
Wed Sep 13 11:04 PM, 2017
Rather than New Brighton I chose to go to the gun site near leasowe after work. I had 8 Leach's between 4.40 and 5.40 and then a further 16 in the next 45 minutes before the movement seemed to die off completely. 24 in 2hrs felt quite good. Some birds very close in whilst others were very distant.
Other birds of note were few and far between - singles of Kittiwake, Fulmar and a Guillemot sat on the sea were just about it.
A kite surfer stopped on his way past to ask what the small black and white birds hovering on the sea were. He was amazed something so small could survive at sea. Frankly I always am too.
Mark Jarrett said
Wed Sep 13 7:03 PM, 2017
Paid a visit to New Brighton this afternoon in view of the continuing strong westerlies. Arrived at 1.15 pm and stayed at the same spot, Perch Rock, for approx three hours. Some decent birds had been seen earlier, two Grey Phalarope and one each of Sabine's Gull and Black Tern. Unfortunately none of them returned!
However, it was great to see good numbers of Leach's Petrel fighting their way out of the Mersey. I saw around twenty five birds during my three hour stay, whilst a Northwich birding friend of mine who was their 'early doors' saw an additional thirty five or so. So a good sixty or so until around 4.15 pm by which time most birders had drifted away.
Also around were Sanderling, Oystercatcher, a Little Gull, Fulmar and a Gannet which flew down the Mersey rather than out of it. Leach's Petrel photos attached.
A fantastic show of 44 Leach's Storm Petrels at New Brighton today plus Little Gull 2 Sandwich Tern
Rob Creek said
Tue Sep 12 1:06 PM, 2017
Late post for Sunday with Simon Gough (not had chance due to work and yesterday's rush on!)
Thought we'd try our luck for the Leach's Storm Petrels but there was hardly any reported on Sunday.
Leasowe. - Razorbill 1 young one stranded (comment on discussion later) - Mediterranean Gull 1 (plus usuals) - Bar-tailed Godwit 1 - Greenshank 2 (see below) - Knot 3 - Lapwing 1 - Little Egret 40+ - Peregrine on beach eating a Redshank - Wheatear on sea wall - Linnets in a large flock - Skykark over Gunsite car park - Common Scoters out to sea - few Gannets around
Waders in big numbers including... Oystercatcher, Curlew, Redshank, Dunlin etc
Of note... 1 of the Greenshank we saw on the groyne was very different to the other and had very yellowish legs as opposed to the greenish grey legs of the other bird. I'm in no way doubting the Greater Yellowlegs sighting but it was just an observation that could've been overlooked, ours were definitely Greenshank though!
Hoylake. - Curlew Sandpiper 2 (3 reported) - Ruff 1 - Large numbers of commoner Waders everywhere constantly being put up by free running 'well trained - NOT' dogs! Bit annoying.
John Watson said
Tue Sep 12 9:37 AM, 2017
Yes, excellent time y'day early afternoon (Mon 11th) for 2+ hours from Wallasey Lifeguards; good company too
1 Sabine's Gull ~3 miles away (!) in shipping channel in front of Crosby, presumably the same as seen from New Brighton an hour earlier; classic 3-tone wing markings, more buoyant jizz & clearly different from the many Kittiwakes (and confirmed by others!) ~40 Leach's Petrels, some very close 1-2 Arctic Skuas 1-5 Gannet ~5 Manx Shearwater along shoreline 1 Sanderling 100 Oystercatcher 1 Fulmar along shoreline ~10 Tern sp
Interesting point (noted y'day & previously) that the rarer species sometimes prefer the deeper water, ie the shipping channel - though not exclusively of course; the Leachs are less fussy
Unfortunately, I didn't see the Wilson's Petrel (wow!), Storm Petrel, Grey Phalaropes, Black Terns observed by others along the peninsular
Well worth keeping an eye on the weather for the next few days, as there could be repeat performances; high tide will be late afternoon
Rob Creek said
Tue Sep 12 9:09 AM, 2017
Absolutely cracking hour or so birding here on the Wirral last night as Simon says!!
Hoylake. - Leach's Storm Petrel 5 (Lifer) Made for quality viewing battling against the strong winds. Bit distant for good record shots but good scope/bins views. - Sabine's Gull 1 Juv How you missed this Simon I'll never know! - Arctic Skua 1 Probable dark phase but it wasn't too close in so could've been affected by the light. - Grey Plover 1 Summer plumaged individual which made for a good marker for locating some of the birds.
Rob Creek and I raced over to Hoylake after work and over 30 mins or so were thrilled to see 5 Leach's Petrels battling the wind to cross the sands on the falling tide. This was a spanking lifer for both of us and a really big sighting for me, a regional speciality that I was wondering when I would ever see, after a series of barren autumns for the right combination of weather and bird passage.
The overall environment was stunning, a setting sun shining brightly on the shallow pools on the beach, with a thrashing line of breakers in the background and gulls wheeling around all over the place, while waders and Shelducks were dotted about. Rob also saw a Sabine's Gull and Arctic Skua in the background while I was jammed on one of the petrels, refusing to be distracted. The birds were moving so slowly across the beach, it was amazing to think they were probably in the middle of the Atlantic a few days ago. I had a really beautiful view of one, showing its plumage features and pattering flight clearly.
We relocated to Leasowe to see if the viewing was better there, and noted another 2 Leach's, again doggedly battling westwards. They were fractionally closer but the light was going. We saw a couple of distant Skuas here, probably Arctics.
All in all 7 birds in an hour was a pretty decent return, we were like little kids at a birthday party! I can't wait to see some more now!
John Rayner said
Mon Sep 11 10:38 PM, 2017
I was tempted out only after seeing a rain-less weather forecast for the Wirral for the afternoon. Hence I arrived rather late, after high tide, and also after the highest numbers of Leach's Petrels had already passed through.
Leasowe Gun Site (15.30 a 17.00): Leach's Petrel 9 (Including a few close individuals with 1 landing exhausted on the sea in front of me) Kittiwake 2 Little Gull 1 Sandwich Tern 1
New Brighton, Mersey estuary (17.15 - 18.00): Leach's Petrel 5
+ usuals
Cheers John
Eugene Dillon-Hooper said
Mon Sep 11 7:53 PM, 2017
About 3 hours at New Brighton with Chris Sutton
Good numbers of Leach's Petrel including 2 very good close in views! 1 Sabine's gull (bird of the day) 1 Sandwich Tern 10-15 redshank 2 Sanderling 1 Mediterranean Gull A few Oystercatchers and Turnstones
an hour stuck in traffic on the m56 had me getting here just after high tide but after just 10 mins picked up a leach's petrel close in being chased by a black headed gull 1 kittiwake 1 guillemot on the groyne, 2 greenshank 32+ little egret redshank dunlin ringed plover wheatear in the paddocks plus usuals
-- Edited by steven burke on Saturday 9th of September 2017 11:57:58 PM
-- Edited by steven burke on Sunday 10th of September 2017 08:21:36 AM
Goldfinch Marsh harrier Short eared owl Kestrel Raven Carrion crow Little egret Buzzard Meadow pipit
Mark Burgess said
Sat Mar 18 11:20 PM, 2017
Burton Marsh, Denhall Lane 8.00 - 9.30am Highlights
Great White Egret 2 Merlin 1m Wheatear 1m
Ian McKerchar said
Mon Feb 27 3:01 PM, 2017
9 Waxwing in the Boathouse pub car park at Parkgate at 3pm; feeding in a berry tree in the car park.
Info thanks to Dave Steel
Chris Harper said
Sun Feb 12 7:32 PM, 2017
A few highlights of the High Peak RSPB group trip to the Wirral today:
West Kirkby marine lake: 2 Red Breasted Merganser, 15 Grey Plover, 1000s of Dunlin
Kings Gap: 17 Pale Bellied Brent Geese, 2 Red Throated Diver, 10 Common Scoter, 30 Grey Plover, 25 Knot, Redwing, 100's of Ringed Plover,Dunlin, Sanderling and Oystercatcher.
Wirral CP at Thurstaston: 50 Black Tailed Godwit, 5 Bullfinch, 5 Knot, Little Egret
Parkgate: 2 ringtail Hen Harrier, 4 Marsh Harrier, Merlin,Peregrine, 5 Little Egret
Harp Inn little Neston: 2 Short Eared Owl, 2 Great White Egret, Marsh Harrier, Stonechat
Mark Burgess said
Sat Feb 11 8:24 PM, 2017
West Kirby Marine Lake, at high tide, Highlights
Red Breasted Merganser Goldeneye Pale Bellied Brent Goose 23 Cormorant c60 on middle eye Large movement of Dunlin and Redshank
Mark Burgess said
Sat Feb 11 8:07 PM, 2017
Heswall gutter on the flooding tide, Highlights
Bar tailed Godwit 21 Redshank c200 Dunlin c600 Lapwing c150 Golden Plover Pintail c25 Peregrine 2 Marsh Harrier Many Teal and Shellduck
Mark Burgess said
Sat Feb 11 7:45 PM, 2017
Neston Sewerage Works 8.15 - 9.45am
Water Pipit 1, On the closest filter bed to the perimeter fence, in a 90 min search I was rewarded with a measley 3 sec view Chiffchaff 3/4 Grey Wagtail Pied Wagtail Goldcrest 2 Linnet 4
John O'Neill said
Sun Feb 5 6:35 PM, 2017
Neston
Marsh opposite Harp Inn
Short Eared Owl 1 (poss 2) showing well, hunting. Flying high and low, putting up waders, ducks, egrets and apparently every other bird in the reeds, even a cock pheasant. Protracted views.
Doc Brewster said
Tue Jan 31 10:24 PM, 2017
After a visit to Burton Mere Wetlands I made my way up and then back down the Wirral, the highlights were as follows.
At Neston Sewage Treatment Works a single Water Pipit showed well on the filter beds and a Chiffchaff was in trees just outside the works with a couple of Goldcrests. Plenty of Little Egrets were on the marsh and Pink-footed Geese flew out along the water line.
At New Brighton at least 6 Purple Sandpipers were easily seen roosting on the Marine Lake Pontoon at high tide along with lots of Dunlin, Turnstone and Redshank. A thorough search of the gulls in the area failed to turn up the hoped for Mediterranean Gull.
Next stop Heswall shore where I joined a few birding mates to scan the wader flocks. Huge Flocks of Knot were seen with large numbers of both Dunlin and Sanderling amongst them. A few Bar-tailed Godwits were picked out on the tideline too. It was amazing just how distant the flocks were so soon after high tide. It goes to show how quickly thetide drops on these flat mudflats/sands. Looking over towards West Kirby a small group of Pale-bellied Brent Geese were seen on 'bird rock', which saved me a trip to the marine lake to look for this species.
With the visibility deteriorating and the drizzle getting heavier I called it a day, but even given the poor weather a fabulous days birding was had, The Wirral never dissappoints
On Burton Marsh on Thursday (11th) there were 7 Bewick's Swans which are really scarce in Cheshire most winters now, several Mute Swans also fed out in the same gulleys so a scope is needed to pick out the distant Bewick's with certainty. A Merlin was the only other species of note, but Buizzard and Little Egret were also seen.
With Ian Lyth.
Little Neston. From Harp Inn and a walk to sewage works.
Hen Harrier. Grey male + ringtail.
Marsh Harrier. At least 5 ... had 3 in one scope view dropping into roost.
Peregrine Falcon.
Merlin. 2
Sparrowhawk. (M+F)
Kestrel.
Raven.
Short-eared Owl. At least 3.
Great White Egret. At least 4.
Little Egret.
Masses of waders Curlew, Godwit, Oystercatcher, Lapwing and Dunlin.
Pink-footed Goose.
Redwing.
Chiffchaff.
Goldcrest.
Roger.
-- Edited by Roger Baker 3 on Saturday 6th of January 2018 08:14:44 PM
Parkgate southern end of the "prom".
2 Great Egrets showed well together with their Little Egret cousins.
a male and a female Hen Harrier gave spectacular views
2 Marsh Harriers.
Kestrel
Water Rail
Hundreds of Canada Geese and seemingly lesser numbers of Pink-Footed Geese.
No Short Eared Owls for us but a constant whirring and cavorting of wader and wildfowl species out on the tidal edge.
Captivating sight, mind-blowing.
-- Edited by Paul Richardson on Thursday 4th of January 2018 09:45:26 PM
Originally posted today by Ian Campbell:
Parkgate over today's high tide
today with Malcolm, very high tide right upto the wall, excellent birding with lots of birders present, best was 2 Merlin, 4 Short-eared Owl, 2 Hen Harrier and the supporting cast of waders, totally spectacular.
Cheers Ian
Cheers Ian
4/12. After viewing the Snow Buntings at Leasowe my friend and I made a quick stop at Denhall Quay (Harp inn) arriving at 1.40pm. We had to leave at 2.00pm for a school run. After eating our lunch in the car viewing out of the windscreen we made our way into the tree area at about 1.55. I was advised by the sole birder there, that nothing was showing. He then spotted a male Hen harrier. After watching this for a few minutes a female came into view, both visible in the same binocular view. A Short Eared Owl then showed flying low and close to them and almost immediataly it was mobbed by a Peregrine. All 4 birds was then visible for a short time in the same patch of sky with the Short Eared Owl climbing high into the sky and almost hovering up there (as if trying to get away from the others). At that point in a state of disbelief we had to leave, and consolling ourselves with the fact it couldnt get any better than that.
Great White Egret 3 - 2 in flight together quite close in were great to watch
Hen Harrier 2
Peregrine 3
Merlin 1
Marsh Harrier 6+
The Marsh Harriers were constantly active and visible, including an adult female bird that came in within 100m a couple of times and was just stunning to watch. There are evidently up to 20 on the marsh at the moment so basically impossible to miss.
The Hen Harriers I saw didn't surface until around 12; they were both ringtails and were close enough in to allow brilliant scope views. One was an adult female, really well-marked on the head, and the other was more buff underneath and a shade darker above; presumably an immature but perhaps in its 2nd or 3rd year. No sign of a male bird but one was reported later on. I was more than happy with my sightings anyway.
Leasowe Bay:
Snow Buntings 2
Denhall Quay:
Marsh Harrier 2
Short-eared Owl 3
Sparrowhawk
Kestrel
Cheers, John
After the peak of the tide we jumped back into the car and and went to New Brighton on the basis that the marine lake might have been offering a bit of shelter. It was (sort of) and there was a nice array of waders on the pontoons, including 11 Purple Sandpipers, a couple of Knot and Dunlin, plenty Redshank and Turnstones and a single Greenshank. The wind was awful and we knocked it on the head after this.
Wirral Wanderings 19/11/2017
A full team met at the reasonable time of 8am with myself at the wheel. The weather was freezing in Rochdale but as we got onto the Wirral it was a balmy 7 degrees, maybe the sea air helped. We stopped at a new spot near Heswall and most of the team managed to see a passing female Hen Harrier. At Parkgate old baths we enjoyed the tide coming in and a couple of Marsh Harriers and Water Pipit`s were seen. Chris B also saw a wintering Chiffchaff in a field that had lots of birds feeding in it namely: - Song Thrush, Redwing, Fieldfare, Blackbird, Reed Bunting, Linnet, Robin, and Great Spotted Woodpecker. After a spot of lunch, a lady informed us that a good place to watch from was The Harp Inn in Neston overlooking the marsh from mid-afternoon till dusk.
We headed up towards Hoylake & New Brighton and called at a couple of the places were Leach`s Petrel have been seen by us. A lot of waders were seen: - Oystercatcher, Redshank, Dunlin, Knot, Bar Tailed Godwit, Curlew, Golden Plover but the real star was a Peregrine Falcon with an unrecognisable prey item in its talons. On the sea a few Common Scoter and the more regular species of gull were seen. At Perch Rock, New Brighton (an area that really tested by rock climbing ability whilst watching a Laughing Gull) the hoped for Purple Sandpipers did not materialise but views over the Mersey more than made up for that.
At The Harp Inn, Neston we quickly made camp on one of the picnic tables outside the pub and all the boys decided to have a pint, except myself off course as I was driving! A small crowd of birders watched the marsh and were soon rewarded when a full adult male Hen Harrier was seen at around 150 yards distance, what a cracking bird, only problem was it didnt stay around long enough. Also seen: - 4 Marsh Harriers, female Hen Harrier, Sparrowhawk, Kestrel, Peregrine Falcon and last but not least up to 5 Short Eared Owl`s, that seemed to be on view for most of the time we spent there. As the gloom descended we made our way home and all really enjoyed the spectacle on the Wirral.
Dave O.
-- Edited by Ian McKerchar on Tuesday 21st of November 2017 01:23:29 PM
By the time we got to The Old Baths at Parkgate there was no sign of the Owl but we were straight on to a splendid male Hen Harrier heading north along the outer edge of the marsh, which then tuned back inland and headed back towards us, finally dropping into vegetation north of us. A short time later it took off again and gave us better views with a fly by just beyond the obvious channel parallel to the car park before heading back out towards the shoreline. About 15 minutes later it reversed the route but this time continued north and out of view for us. Karen then found a probable ring-tailed Hen Harrier well south of us towards the factories at Shotwick and at least 2 female Marsh Harriers hunted along shore line. All in all a good day out with 60 species seen and all our hoped-for birds found with ease (for once lol)
Brief stop at Pakgate from 14:00-14:50:
2 Marsh Harrier, Great White Egret, Peregrine Falcon, 5 Fieldfare, 4 Little Egret were the highlights
Denhall Quay:
2 Short Eared Owl, 2 Stonechat, 5 Little Egret, male Hen Harrier reported yesterday
A Beltin day today at fort Perch rock New Brighton ,with a nice wind blowing ,there was hope for a Leach's Petrel or 2 ,also met up there with Paul Lee and bumped into John Dempsey again ,so got down to some serious watching with the scope for a change ,I was there with Paul from 11.30-16.30 ,and although we saw some Leach's they were on the Liverpool side of the Mersey in the main but we all had one of those good days in good company ,so we were all happy with what we found.
Leachs Petrel - up to 15
Guillemot 2
Red Throated Diver 10 all coming out of Mersey,some still in full breeding plumage
Great Crested Grebe - 4
Brent Goose 2
Tufted Duck 1
Dunlin 25+
Turnstone - c60
Redshank-c100
picture Leach's Petrel
7 Leach's Petrels (+ 3 more just before I arrived)
1 Guillemot
1 Bar-tailed Godwit
12 Sanderlings
... and very little else.
Cheers John
First up was New Brighton just after high tide. Very windy, sand blowing all over the place and the Mersey was rough to say the least. No Leach's Petrel, unfortunately, but did manage a Great Skua, a Black Tern and a Guillemot amongst commoner species. Only managed around 45 mins before it came on raining, so departed for Denhall Quay, followed by Parkgate Baths car park, then Denhall Lane. Bits of rain here as well before rain well and truly stopped play at 4pm. Between the three locations we managed at least three Great White Egret, female Peregrine, Kestrel, Merlin, at least three Marsh Harrier and an extremely fleeting view of a ring tail Harrier species. Could have been the Pallid but, as soon as I caught it in the scope, it went to ground. Half a second at the most.
It didn't feel like we'd had too great a day but some decent species were seen.
No signs of the pallid harrier for me.
1 hen harrier
2 short-eared owls
1 merlin
3+ marsh harriers
Several kestrels
3 great-white egrets
Plenty of little egrets
1 stonechat
Plus usuals around.
Yes Simon it's referred to in the second para of http://www.deeestuary.co.uk/nestop.htm - among other places
Interestingly Denhall Quay was built in 1790's in the days when the sea came in there. It was mainly used to ship coal from the local collieries and is now an excellent viewing point for the birding community to look out over the marsh and the Denhall Gutter.
Ta Phil, yep, I agree Neston Old Quay is N.of here as I said in the post below (quote "(as opposed to Neston Old Quay further north)") Lots of folk at the promontory Saturday & some calling it Neston Quay as in my post, but not Old Quay as I say. I'd never heard it called Neston Quay either, I'm confused too!! Denhall Quay it will be for me now
-- Edited by Doc Brewster on Monday 2nd of October 2017 01:58:52 PM
For info where the bird was being watched near the Harp is Denhall Quay. Neston Old Quay is near the sewage works further north.
Hearing news of a probable Pallid Harrier on the Wirral and reading that it was a first for Cheshire, I ventured down the motorway to have a look on Saturday afternoon.
As the weather was pretty horrendous as I approached the Dee Marshes area I decided to divert first to Burton Mere Wetlands to sit the torrential rain out, that visit is posted in the appropriate thread! As the weather cleared a little I decided that the best vantage point would be the promontory of land near the Harp Inn, Neston, I see it is being called Neston Quay by some locals (as opposed to Neston Old Quay further north). On arrival I could see a crowd of birders gathered and on asking the first one I met was told the bird was out on the marsh but down in the grass. At first I expected it to be out of view but when directed to where it was I could see it was sat up and showing as well as can be expected given that it was almost in Wales By zooming up over 50x the views weren't bad and the head markings were obvious. The bird had a pronounced collar and distinctive contrasting face markings. Even with these limited views it looked good for Pallid. As it sat in the grass at least one Short-eared Owl passed over it and a Great White Egret landed in a dyke behind it. These species were seen without moving the scope off the harrier, they just flew into view! Eventually after a long wait the bird took to the air and was watched floating effortlessly over the saltmarsh with Connah's Quay Power Station as the backdrop. It came close enough to afford good scoped views and I was surprised that the bird was more brown than rusty coloured on the underparts as it had been reported as a juvenile and all juvs that I have seen have been noticeably rusty underneath. I assumed that someone had had better views than I and had nailed other features to determine age but later a discussion online and close up pictures led to the bird being aged as a female. This I am happier with. All the jizz and the facial pattern pointed were great for Pallid (although a hybrid was mentioned in some circles before better pictures emerged) and so a first for Cheshire had been seen The bird headed off at speed northwards and dropped in the distance so I took that as a cue to leave. News came out later that it had roosted off Parkgate Old Baths car park so signs are that it may stay all winter, which is excellent news. There is an immature Hen Harrier on the marshes too, which also roosted here.
like I stated in my post and like Simon reiterates, we were in no way doubting the Greater Yellowlegs sighting and we were happy with ours being Greenshank as the white rumps did indeed extend up the back.
The report came when high tide was in full flow anyway so the bird was already on Hilbre and we had 2 Greenshank in our sights around the Leasowe groyne.
Cheers
Rob and I were stood on the front at Hoylake getting soaked when the report of the Greater Yellowlegs came through. Given that we could see the island we were cursing the high tide being in, despite the feast of waders in front of us. So no sour grapes at all then!
Later Doc Brewster posted on here that the sighting was from a reliable source, well he knows everyone in Cheshire so that was good enough for me. But we had noted that the 2 Greenshanks we'd seen at Leasowe were contrasting. I think if anything it serves as a reminder to check birds properly. I saw this week that a Least Sandpiper was being noted as a Little Stint until somebody actually looked at it properly.
I think the really good birders are the ones that check everything properly; I know I often am too casual and it is something I need to improve at. At least Leach's Petrels are fairly easy to ID!
Any updates on the probable Wilson's Petrel that you can share would be interesting by the way.
Rob.
Observer reports Greater Yellowlegs seen on Hilbre had square white rump rather than extending up back which rules out Greenshank. He's very conscious of the pitfalls of aberrant greenshank given there was a Greater Yellowlegs reported a few years ago at an inland reservoir that was later re-identifed as a Greenshank.
Cheers
Couldn't resist a visit to New Brighton after seeing the wonderful images of the Leach's Petrels.
Arrived at 17.20, stayed until 18.40 from the beach neat Perch Rock.
Minimum of 14 Leach's Petrol, some right next to the Rock. Possible European Storm Petrol too.
3 flyby Grey Phalarope together, Black Tern, several Arctic and Common Tern. Distant Skua sp. Gannet, Oystercatcher, Redshank, Kittiwake.
On beach was a dead Guillemot and large gull sp.
A very enjoyable experience.
Had a pleasant couple of hours on the beach at New Brighton this morning (c.08.15 - 10.15) until the rain came in on the ebbing tide. During that time had views of just 4 Leach's Petrels over the river and one giving us a close up flying display over the sand. Also of note, among the many gulls a sparkling Great Black-backed, a lone Gannet and many Oystercatchers over the water.
Hoylake...we didn't stay long, only Gulls and a few distant Curlew and Cormorant.
Leasowe Gunsite (approx 30 mins here)
- 7 Leach's Storm Petrel (2 in same bins view)
- 1 Manx Shearwater
- 1 Great Skua harassing the Gulls
...and another large Skua seen doing the same out towards New Brighton, probably a Great Skua but difficult to tell I always think given that juv Pomarine's are quite large and Arctic's can appear large in the right light conditions.
Also a Kestrel hovering right above us at Leasowe and a cracking Hobby flew right infront of us across the M53 on our way there.
-- Edited by Rob Creek on Thursday 14th of September 2017 03:30:45 PM
4-8pm
Watched the Leach's Petrels sheltering in the relative calm of the rivermouth at New Brighton for 2 hours. The most I counted at one time was 12 birds, though I reckon there must have been 20+ across the 2 hours.
Fantastic birds to watch and delighted to finally see some after unsuccessful trips in previous years. Definitely one of those occasions where the weather conditions and the general atmosphere really add to the birding experience.
Also seen at New Brighton, 2 Black Tern and a Fulmar.
Further along the coast at Leasowe there were several more Leach's Petrels heading south, a Manx Shearwater and a Great Skua harassing the gulls
Other birds of note were few and far between - singles of Kittiwake, Fulmar and a Guillemot sat on the sea were just about it.
A kite surfer stopped on his way past to ask what the small black and white birds hovering on the sea were. He was amazed something so small could survive at sea. Frankly I always am too.
However, it was great to see good numbers of Leach's Petrel fighting their way out of the Mersey. I saw around twenty five birds during my three hour stay, whilst a Northwich birding friend of mine who was their 'early doors' saw an additional thirty five or so. So a good sixty or so until around 4.15 pm by which time most birders had drifted away.
Also around were Sanderling, Oystercatcher, a Little Gull, Fulmar and a Gannet which flew down the Mersey rather than out of it. Leach's Petrel photos attached.
Little Gull 2
Sandwich Tern
Late post for Sunday with Simon Gough (not had chance due to work and yesterday's rush on!)
Thought we'd try our luck for the Leach's Storm Petrels but there was hardly any reported on Sunday.
Leasowe.
- Razorbill 1 young one stranded (comment on discussion later)
- Mediterranean Gull 1 (plus usuals)
- Bar-tailed Godwit 1
- Greenshank 2 (see below)
- Knot 3
- Lapwing 1
- Little Egret 40+
- Peregrine on beach eating a Redshank
- Wheatear on sea wall
- Linnets in a large flock
- Skykark over Gunsite car park
- Common Scoters out to sea
- few Gannets around
Waders in big numbers including...
Oystercatcher, Curlew, Redshank, Dunlin etc
Of note...
1 of the Greenshank we saw on the groyne was very different to the other and had very yellowish legs as opposed to the greenish grey legs of the other bird. I'm in no way doubting the Greater Yellowlegs sighting but it was just an observation that could've been overlooked, ours were definitely Greenshank though!
Hoylake.
- Curlew Sandpiper 2 (3 reported)
- Ruff 1
- Large numbers of commoner Waders everywhere constantly being put up by free running 'well trained - NOT' dogs! Bit annoying.
1 Sabine's Gull ~3 miles away (!) in shipping channel in front of Crosby, presumably the same as seen from New Brighton an hour earlier; classic 3-tone wing markings, more buoyant jizz & clearly different from the many Kittiwakes (and confirmed by others!)
~40 Leach's Petrels, some very close
1-2 Arctic Skuas
1-5 Gannet
~5 Manx Shearwater along shoreline
1 Sanderling
100 Oystercatcher
1 Fulmar along shoreline
~10 Tern sp
Interesting point (noted y'day & previously) that the rarer species sometimes prefer the deeper water, ie the shipping channel - though not exclusively of course; the Leachs are less fussy
Unfortunately, I didn't see the Wilson's Petrel (wow!), Storm Petrel, Grey Phalaropes, Black Terns observed by others along the peninsular
Well worth keeping an eye on the weather for the next few days, as there could be repeat performances; high tide will be late afternoon
Hoylake.
- Leach's Storm Petrel 5 (Lifer)
Made for quality viewing battling against the strong winds. Bit distant for good record shots but good scope/bins views.
- Sabine's Gull 1 Juv
How you missed this Simon I'll never know!
- Arctic Skua 1
Probable dark phase but it wasn't too close in so could've been affected by the light.
- Grey Plover 1
Summer plumaged individual which made for a good marker for locating some of the birds.
Leasowe.
- Leach's Storm Petrel 2 (Not a Lifer anymore )
- Arctic Skua1 (possibly 2)
-- Edited by Rob Creek on Tuesday 12th of September 2017 10:25:29 PM
-- Edited by Rob Creek on Tuesday 12th of September 2017 10:26:39 PM
The overall environment was stunning, a setting sun shining brightly on the shallow pools on the beach, with a thrashing line of breakers in the background and gulls wheeling around all over the place, while waders and Shelducks were dotted about. Rob also saw a Sabine's Gull and Arctic Skua in the background while I was jammed on one of the petrels, refusing to be distracted. The birds were moving so slowly across the beach, it was amazing to think they were probably in the middle of the Atlantic a few days ago. I had a really beautiful view of one, showing its plumage features and pattering flight clearly.
We relocated to Leasowe to see if the viewing was better there, and noted another 2 Leach's, again doggedly battling westwards. They were fractionally closer but the light was going. We saw a couple of distant Skuas here, probably Arctics.
All in all 7 birds in an hour was a pretty decent return, we were like little kids at a birthday party! I can't wait to see some more now!
Leasowe Gun Site (15.30 a 17.00):
Leach's Petrel 9 (Including a few close individuals with 1 landing exhausted on the sea in front of me)
Kittiwake 2
Little Gull 1
Sandwich Tern 1
New Brighton, Mersey estuary (17.15 - 18.00):
Leach's Petrel 5
+ usuals
Cheers John
Good numbers of Leach's Petrel including 2 very good close in views!
1 Sabine's gull (bird of the day)
1 Sandwich Tern
10-15 redshank
2 Sanderling
1 Mediterranean Gull
A few Oystercatchers and Turnstones
Plus the usuals
an hour stuck in traffic on the m56 had me getting here just after high tide but after just 10 mins picked up a leach's petrel close in being chased by a black headed gull
1 kittiwake
1 guillemot
on the groyne,
2 greenshank
32+ little egret
redshank
dunlin
ringed plover
wheatear in the paddocks
plus usuals
-- Edited by steven burke on Saturday 9th of September 2017 11:57:58 PM
-- Edited by steven burke on Sunday 10th of September 2017 08:21:36 AM
Originally posted today by Kevin Forde
Denhall Quay:
Goldfinch Marsh harrier Short eared owl Kestrel Raven Carrion crow Little egret Buzzard Meadow pipit
Great White Egret 2
Merlin 1m
Wheatear 1m
Info thanks to Dave Steel
A few highlights of the High Peak RSPB group trip to the Wirral today:
West Kirkby marine lake: 2 Red Breasted Merganser, 15 Grey Plover, 1000s of Dunlin
Kings Gap: 17 Pale Bellied Brent Geese, 2 Red Throated Diver, 10 Common Scoter, 30 Grey Plover, 25 Knot, Redwing, 100's of Ringed Plover,Dunlin, Sanderling and Oystercatcher.
Wirral CP at Thurstaston: 50 Black Tailed Godwit, 5 Bullfinch, 5 Knot, Little Egret
Parkgate: 2 ringtail Hen Harrier, 4 Marsh Harrier, Merlin,Peregrine, 5 Little Egret
Harp Inn little Neston: 2 Short Eared Owl, 2 Great White Egret, Marsh Harrier, Stonechat
Red Breasted Merganser
Goldeneye
Pale Bellied Brent Goose 23
Cormorant c60 on middle eye
Large movement of Dunlin and Redshank
Bar tailed Godwit 21
Redshank c200
Dunlin c600
Lapwing c150
Golden Plover
Pintail c25
Peregrine 2
Marsh Harrier
Many Teal and Shellduck
Water Pipit 1, On the closest filter bed to the perimeter fence, in a 90 min search I was rewarded with a measley 3 sec view
Chiffchaff 3/4
Grey Wagtail
Pied Wagtail
Goldcrest 2
Linnet 4
Marsh opposite Harp Inn
Short Eared Owl 1 (poss 2) showing well, hunting. Flying high and low, putting up waders, ducks, egrets and apparently every other bird in the reeds, even a cock pheasant. Protracted views.
After a visit to Burton Mere Wetlands I made my way up and then back down the Wirral, the highlights were as follows.
At Neston Sewage Treatment Works a single Water Pipit showed well on the filter beds and a Chiffchaff was in trees just outside the works with a couple of Goldcrests. Plenty of Little Egrets were on the marsh and Pink-footed Geese flew out along the water line.
At New Brighton at least 6 Purple Sandpipers were easily seen roosting on the Marine Lake Pontoon at high tide along with lots of Dunlin, Turnstone and Redshank. A thorough search of the gulls in the area failed to turn up the hoped for Mediterranean Gull.
Next stop Heswall shore where I joined a few birding mates to scan the wader flocks. Huge Flocks of Knot were seen with large numbers of both Dunlin and Sanderling amongst them. A few Bar-tailed Godwits were picked out on the tideline too. It was amazing just how distant the flocks were so soon after high tide. It goes to show how quickly thetide drops on these flat mudflats/sands. Looking over towards West Kirby a small group of Pale-bellied Brent Geese were seen on 'bird rock', which saved me a trip to the marine lake to look for this species.
With the visibility deteriorating and the drizzle getting heavier I called it a day, but even given the poor weather a fabulous days birding was had, The Wirral never dissappoints