Monday 2 April 2007

"Something old...Something new.."


Pennington flash, near Leigh, close to the East-Lancs road (A580), A typical flash, developed into a Country Park, with some rough scrub reed and rush areas. This week saw the mix of new arrivals, as well as some of the remaining birds from the winter. Earlier in the week, a small passage of Kittiwakes briefly showed, before taking a short-cut across to the east coast - probably? Both Ringed and Little Plovers where in small numbers, but easily viewable from the main hide - now with roof, after being blown off during the February gales. In the woods, if you was lucky, a Long-Eared Owl could be seen. You could not escape the monotonous di-syllabic sounds from the trees. Chiffchaffs announced that they are the years first warblers to arrive in this country. Calling from everywhere it seems. On the lake itself, three Black Necked Grebes, gave distant and close views. This like all the grebes, is absolutely resplendent. With golden plumes as ear coverts, against a black face and deep red eyes. (The picture was borrowed from Olia Roma tours). Also Sand Martins and a Swallow passed through. Long stayers still present Goldeneye and Goosander.
New to the list: Ringed Plover, Little Ringed Plover, Black Neck Grebe, Chiffchaff.
Total :98

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