Dave McCulley Photography : RSPB Burton Mere and Parkgate visit.

Early start today with a visit to 2 RSPB reserve's, first was RSPB Burton mere which used to be an old fishery until the RSPB took it over and created a fantastic wetlands.
We just arrived at Burton Mere and poured a cup of tea, when a Hen Harrier (ringtail) showed up on the scene fantastic start to the day.

Hen Harrier (Ringtail) RSPB Burton Mere.

From the visitor centre Shoveller, Teal, Wigeon, Redshank and Stonechats where all showing well.

Possibly a Merlin but flew to quick to confirm.

After a quick cup of tea we headed out round the reserve and within 200 yards the distinct sound of a Cetti's Warbler, managed to locate it quickly flitting round in the brambles.

Cetti's Warbler RSPB Burton Mere.

We walked around the reserve for a while longer with many Stonechats showing along with Kestrel, Buzzard, Tufted ducks and all the usual garden birds.

Buzzard RSPB Burton Mere.

RSPB Parkgate was the next stop of the day with the first 3 birds being Snipe sitting on the edge of a small island. A lot of Little Egrets also around today, along with another Ringtail, Curlews, Reed Buntings and a solitary Grey Heron.

Due to the many ditches that cover parkgate many birds can be heard but spotting them is another matter.

On a previous trip a Merlin and Peregrine were spotted, hopefully they will return next time we visit.