What a pleasure, at last getting back to Leighton Moss after nearly 2 years.  Only 6 of us were available but that didn’t spoil the enjoyment of a warm sunny day and not too many human visitors.

The Marsh Tits were on show at the feeders so an early success followed by the sound of a Cetti’s Warbler skulking in the reeds as we headed for the Public hide.  The waters were very quiet, except for the sounds of the Black-headed Gulls, but a pair of Greater Black-backed Gulls had 2 large chicks.

A Marsh Harrier did finally do a flyover for us as we heard Sedge and Reed Warblers but again no visibility.

Leighton Moss - Marsh Harrier

Leighton Moss – Marsh Harrier

Leighton Moss - Spoonbill Family

Leighton Moss – Spoonbill Family

The highlight of the day was 5 Spoonbills seen very easily  from the Morecambe Hide along with several Avocets.  Stella was becoming very adept with her new telescope and was able to confirm Black Tailed Godwits with their summer coloured chests and Redshanks in the distance.

Ornithologists don’t just look at the birds, but also take note of what else is to be seen, including in this case some mating damselflies.

Leighton Moss - Common Blue Damselflies

Leighton Moss – Common Blue Damselflies

A total of 37 species were recorded.

Leader; Josephine Drake

All images by Ian Hughes