Recent Sightings
The weather has been somewhat mixed in the last two weeks, and the excitement of the Hudstonian Godwit’s visit to the reserve has passed.
However there have been plenty of other waders visiting on there way south from their breeding areas, and our winter visitors begin to arrive.
Star Sightings
The MEGA rare bird, the “HUDSONIAN GODWIT” revisited Burton Mere Wetlands on Sun 18 and Mon 19 August and then wasn't seen until 21 August on the Welsh side of the Estuary near Flint.
Other waders have included good numbers of Ruff, several Green Sandpipers, Greenshank, Snipe, and the occasional Spotted Redshank and Little Ringed Plover.
Ruff Snipe Photo J. Hewitt
The summer visitors such as Swallows and House Martins have been gathering before their journeys south, feeding on insects over the scrape and Redstarts, Water Rail and Garganey have also been seen towards the far end of the reserve.
Swallow Photo. Paul Jubb
Marsh Harriers , and Peregrine are regular visitors and one lucky photographer was able to take a video of the Sparrowhawk feeding close to the bird feeders!
Away from Burton Mere Wetlands, up to seven Spoonbills are being seen regularly on Boathouse Flash at the Parkgate area of our reserve.
Spoonbill Photo. Ron Thomas
More Wildlife.
Dragonflies are still being seen in great numbers on the sunny days, particularly around the garden pond, and the insect lovers are still finding species that are new to them.
Brown Hawker Slender Groundhopper Sharp-tailed Bee Photos J. Rogers
What’s new?
Recent work has been carried out at the Bunker Hide with the banks of the path re lined and an area in front of the hide cleared to improve visibility. A massive thank you to our brilliant contractors who have carried out huge amounts of work over the many years w have been managing not just Burton Mere Wetlands but the saltmarsh areas too.
Family Fun.
A new Quiz Trail will be out shortly for the Autumn, called “Creatures of the Night”, looking at all those hidden creatures we don't often see.
Suitable for all the family, grab a quiz trail sheet and a special Burton Mere Wetlands pencil from the Visitor Centre and see if you can answer all the questions! Just £1.50 per quiz.
Don't forget we also have our great Backpacks to hire, with Junior binoculars and loads of great activity packs to get exploring the reserve with.
Events.
Our Wildlife Wanders have been such a success that we have decided to hold another two. Following the one on Tues 3 September, the next is Thurs 3 October. Join our friendly and highly experienced guide for an inspiring and informative walk
across the reserve to spot all the wonderful wildlife we have to offer.
See the events section on the website for all booking details.
The latest of our Binocular and Telescope events will be on Sun 8 September, 10.00 – 3.00. So do come along and see what we have in store and speak to our Viking Rep who will be on hand along with our friendly and knowledgeable team for any advice you may need.
The autumn/winter High Tide Bird Watches are starting with an event at Parkgate on Thursday 19September, 10.30 – 2.30, and then we are holding one in conjunction with “Our Dee Estuary” at Flint Castle, Saturday 19 October. (Details to follow). No booking required for these events.
The café is growing from strength to strength and have added even more tasty homemade items to the menu, like inhouse sandwiches and sausage rolls. Still the same great cakes and what seem to be now Famous cheese scones!
We look forward to seeing you soon to enjoy all our brilliant team and reserve have to offer.