Trip report: Leighton Moss RSPB, April 2006

Our third field trip of the year began with the prospect of good weather and the possibility of some early migrants.  We were not to be disappointed with either.  Many had the usual upland birds while crossing the Pennines but the highlight of the crossing had to be a Barn Owl perched on rocks seen by two lucky people. 

Our first call was at Warton Crag where all had very good views of a male Peregrine and most also had Raven and another Common Buzzard.  Of far greater entertainment was the antics of the coach driver as she tried to manoeuvre the coach (the 28 seater having been replaced by a 49 seater at last minute by the coach company) along roads and entrances that it was never designed to negotiate. 

On arrival at the main reserve the group split up to go their own route around the reserve although those new to the reserve were guided where necessary enabling most to see, or hear, the usual species for this great reserve.  Most managed to get Bittern, Bearded Tit and Marsh Harrier along with many early migrants including Whitethroat, Wood Warbler, Grasshopper Warbler and Blackcap.  For one or two, some of these were lifers. 

At 4pm we moved over to the salt-marsh area where some made their first visit to the Eric Morecambe hide etc.  Although the lighting was bad (next year we'll go there first) most managed to see a good range of waders including Spotted Redshank, another lifer for some, good numbers of Black-tailed Godwit in summer plumage and Little Ringed Plover. 

Although, once again, the number of birds was down on normal the species total for the day was 88.  Also seen around the reserve were a few deer, fox and many Brimstone Butterflies. 

Peregrine and Marsh Harrier - both showing well (S Fryer)
	Buzzard and Raven (S Fryer)