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Just been out walking today, and spotted these in an hedgerow. I live in Lancashire, North-West England, and this seems early for daffodils to be in flower. Has anybody seen Dafs in flower earlier than this ?
There are 9000 species of bird on earth. Let's keep it that way.
I have to be honest, I am not a fan of Martin Mere. I think there is too much emphasis on the 'caged' birds. Why have flamingoes in a British Wildlife Centre? Today, I walked around the back of the Centre on public footpaths, somewhere I have never been before. There are pools, reedbeds, and great walks without having to pay to get in to Martin Mere. A great day out.
Hi Budgie
My daffs are almost ready to open, but they aren't out yet. :-(
Best wishes Chris
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A B said: I have to be honest, I am not a fan of Martin Mere. I think there is too much emphasis on the 'caged' birds. Why have flamingoes in a British Wildlife Centre? Today, I walked around the back of the Centre on public footpaths, somewhere I have never been before. There are pools, reedbeds, and great walks without having to pay to get in to Martin Mere. A great day out.
I have only once or twice gone to the 'caged' birds area, and usually when I take visitors. The wild walks and hides are unspoilt and give you the chance to see many, many wild species including songbirds, raptors, kingfishers and many butterflies. The thousands of Pink Foot Geese and Swans that arrive there are worth the visit alone. I am a member of WWT so get in free!
However, I totally agree with your comment that the local footpaths are well worth a day out. I was, until recently, a volunteer who walked the footpaths around Burscough through to Southport to check and inspect them.
RSPB Marshside near Southport is well worth a visit and is free entry.
Nice to hear from someone who knows my patch.
Cheers
Pipit
Kezsmum said:Mine aren't out in Mid Devon yet.
I have been to Martin Mere during the winter, and yes I agree the spectacle from the glass fronted hide is amazing. The last time I visited we were lucky enough to see Bill Oddie, as he was filming Autumn Watch.
I have also been to Marshside on many occasions. Avocets are a nice bird to see there.
Next time you are out and about, wear a Pink Carnation in your button hole, then I know it's you LOL.
A Pink Carnation and a big smile. That'll be me. It's a date xx
Pip x
I will remember that 'carnation' as we plan to visit all the WWT's before the end of this year.
We have been to Slimbridge WWT at the end of Decemeber 2010. Now we have a meeting with some people arranged on the 5th March 2011 for a days trip to Welney
Cannot wait now {big smile}
Regards
Kathy and Dave
Hi Blackbird. That sounds like a fun year ahead of you. How many WWT's are there then?
I have only visited Martin Mere here in Lancashire.
Being a member of the RSPB I once thought it would be good to visit all their reserves during my lifetime. I have still got a long way to go. I don't think I am going to live long enough to fulfil that goal.
Best Wishes
Chris
I have counted 9 WWT's...... but there may be more hidden somewhere. I have become a WWT member so it will reduce the visiting fees thank goodness.
I have lost track how many RSPB Reserves I have visited along with the SWT's Reserves etc... I visited a lot of Scottish Wildlife Trust Reserves in Scotland too!
I know what you mean about how many places you could visit in a lifetime - if you are of that mindset it is amazing what you can do - and of course money and time comes into it too - and if you have a young family etc... It is a big trail for anyone to try out.
I think a list or too of the reserves might be a good thing to compile as it is interesting to know all the achievements in ones own life and the wealth of experience is there to share with others here.
That looks like a lot of travelling ahead of you. Please keep us posted with the highs and lows of each Reserve.