After the snow, storms and floods of Nov. and Dec. the year ended with a couple of foggy days, but visibility was not bad enough to stop some good sightings.
The first day of January was a fine day for all those starting their year lists, and so too Jan 2. However, the weather was again to take a turn for the worse, causing the reserve to shut on Sun. 6 Jan due to snow and since then roads around Burton Mere Wetlands have been affected by, snow, flooding and ice. The reserve has been open, but with warnings about the need for “Wellies”.
Sunset. 30 Dec. Cool and calm 2 Jan
Flooded Paths 6 Jan. Frost and Snow 9 Jan
Star Sightings
In addition to our wintering duck species, Teal, Wigeon, Tufted Duck, Pintail, Gadwall, Shoveler, Shelduck, Mallard 1 or 2 Goosander were seen both before and after the new year. All the usual wader species: Black-tailed Godwit, Redshank, Ruff, Snipe, Lapwing, are being seen and Curlew, Knot, Dunlin and Spotted Redshank have also been recorded.
Black-tailed Godwits. J. Hewitt Curlew J. Hewitt
Male Goosander. J. Hewitt Female Goosander J. Rogers
At least 2 Kingfisher are seen in front of the visitor centre most days, and a female Peregrine was spotted chasing the regular Marsh Harriers on the morning of 1 Jan. Hen Harrier and Merlin have been seen out on the Marsh. Other sightings since New Year have included, Water Pipit, Green Woodpecker, Water Rail, Barn Owl. Siskin. Cetti’s Warbler, and Bullfinch.
Kingfisher J. Hewitt Cetti's Warbler J. Hewitt
Events.
Don’t forget the BIG GARDEN BIRDWATCH 24 – 26 January 2025
Big Garden Birdwatch is the world’s largest garden wildlife survey. Every year, hundreds of thousands of nature lovers like you take part, helping to build a picture of how garden birds are faring.
Just go to the main RSPB website and register for the event and you can get your free guide and stock up on supplies, with 20% off and free delivery on food and feeders at the RSPB shop.
Dee Estuary events
Winter Wildlife Wander
Thursday 16th Jan. 09.30 – 12.30
We are continuing into 2025 with our Wildlife Wanders, this week is fully booked but keep an eye on the website for up and coming events.
To book, go to the Burton Mere page on the RSPB website and click the link.
What else?
Our quiz trail “Big Garden Birdwatch” is available to try for Just £1.50 per quiz.
Suitable for all the family, grab a quiz trail sheet and a Burton Mere Wetlands pencil from the Visitor Centre and find the birds you might see in your own garden.
After that treat yourselves to a hot drink and the home-made goodies in our Café.
The reserve opening hours are 9.30am – 4.30pm and the Café opening hours are 10.30 – 4.00pm.
We look forward to seeing you soon.