After the snow in November, it was the weather warnings of Storm Darragh that led to us shutting the reserve entirely on 7 December, but thankfully the damage was minimal and the large tree that came down in the woodland did not block the driveway. So, it was back to normal on 8 December after ensuring all was safe. The rain has meant that water levels became a little high again, but dry weather this week has helped it drop back to an optimum level for the time of year.
Star Sightings
In addition to our wintering duck species, Teal, Wigeon, Tufted Duck, Pintail, Gadwall, Shoveler, Shelduck, Mallard and the usual wader species Black-tailed Godwit, Redshank, Ruff, and Lapwing, Curlew are being seen in the sheep fields and on the muddy islands and Spotted Redshank are occasional visitors.
Curlew on Bridge Pool Photo J. Hewitt
Kingfishers are being seen in several different locations and Marsh Harriers are often seen from the visitor centre. Other regular raptors have included Buzzard, Peregrine and Sparrowhawk, and occasional Merlin. Those visitors who can stay until closing time have been lucky to see up to nine Marsh Harriers coming to roost in the reedbed and the Barn Owl hunting over the scrape, with occasional Hen Harrier and Short-eared Owl too.
Kingfisher (P Chapman) Barn Owl (R Thomas)
Marsh Harrier (J Hewitt) Merlin (C Wells)
The Green Woodpecker can often be spotted in the field as one approaches Burton Point, and Redwing and Fieldfare, in the trees.
Green Woodpecker (J Hewitt)
Siskin are seen most days and Redpoll and Brambling have been spotted by the eagle-eyed visitor.
Siskin (J Hewitt) Redpoll (J Rogers)
Events
Look out for new dates for our informative guided walks early in the New Year, but in the meantime why not get registered to take part in the RSPB's annual BIG GARDEN BIRDWATCH, taking place over the weekend of 24 – 26 January 2025.
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.
Get Involved
This is our last blog before Christmas, when our team have a well-earned break to celebrate festivities with their families. Burton Mere Wetlands will be fully closed from Monday 23 December until Friday 27 December, reopening on Saturday 28 December at 9 am (Visitor Centre 9.30 am). The Café opening hours throughout winter are 10.30 am – 4 pm. Don't forget, there are plenty of other fantastic places around the Dee Estuary reserve to take a walk and go birdwatching whilst Burton Mere Wetlands is closed - try Burton Marsh, Parkgate or Flint foreshore and Point of Ayr if you're over in Wales.
Burton Mere Wetlands will be fully open with normal hours over the whole of the New Year period, so why not come along with the family for a winter walk and some treats in the café. Alternatively, you can make a comfortable start to your 2025 bird list whilst enjoying the warmth of the fire in the Visitor Centre.
Best wishes for the festive season, and see you in 2025.