This was our Autumn visit in the village bus and we welcomed our new driver, Simon Crane. The weather forecast was not brilliant, but at least it was dry. So it proved to be, a dull day with very little weak sun and temperatures not reaching 20°C. What should have been an insect-fest became a huge disappointment, few insects about and just one butterfly, a Green Veined White (see photo).

Arriving on Deeside we made for Parkgate to look for Spoonbill. A group of 7 were quickly found together with 3 Little Egrets. Swallows, a few House martins and a single Sand martin were hawking insects over the marsh. 2 dabbling Pintails were the only sightings of this most attractive duck.

Moving on to RSPB Burton Mere, lunch was taken before scanning the pools in front of the visitor centre before it closed for the afternoon. Interviews were being held but fortunately the remainder of the reserve was open. Black Tailed Godwits, many having moulted into the grey concolourous plumage of winter, Ruff and Lapwing were the only waders present. Ducks were represented by Mallard, Gadwall, Teal and Shoveler.

Amazingly the 360 hide, overlooking 2 lagoons, featured no birdlife. The walk to the Barton hide passes a viewing screen, and careful scanning was rewarded with the first sighting of Common Snipe and the only Common Sandpiper of the day.

Crossing the bridge, several Common Darter were lounging on the wooden bridge rail, desperately waiting for the sun to come out. Ruddy Darter was the only other dragonfly positively identified. A miserable record for this reserve. Similarly, insects were few and far between.

Whilst making our way towards the Western extremity of the reserve, following a tip-off, we track down a late staying male Wheatear. A Garganey had been reported from the new hide at the end of the trail. It was very elusive and unfortunately not seen by many.

For those getting back to the car park early, a quick venture on the East trail added Whinchat and Green Sandpiper to the bird list.

It is the tradition to stop off on the way home for an evening meal. Our venue for the day was The Cavendish Arms at Doveridge near Uttoxeter. This was a lucky dip, good choice of drinks and food, described as superb by many of the group. An excellent end to a frustrating wilding day attended by Glynne & Carol, Tim & Sarah, David & Veronica, Phil, Richard, Ivan, Graham, Barbara, Liz, Tony and our new driver Simon.

 

Tony Wardell