Sunday 12 December 2021

12th December 2021

 Weather: ESE force 1   fog at first

A foggy morning saw a Marsh Harrier head south west down the Dee at about 9.30 am. Records of Marsh Harrier at Hilbre are more usual at times of passage, but with increasing numbers wintering off the southern end of Wirral, further records are expected in the future. Another bird to recently expand it's winter range in this area is the Pink-footed Goose, twenty four flew passed the island today. An Icelandic colour ringed Brent was among the 288 Brent (plus 1 dark-bellied bird) recorded today around the island. It was ringed in May 2015.

A male Goosander was seen, possibly one of the group that now frequent the marine lake at this time of year. Cormorants numbered 690 leaving the estuary at dawn and a Shag swan about the island today. No less than 5 Song Thrushes were in the gardens etc, also 2 Blackbirds, up to 12 Meadow and 5 Rock Pipits.

Photos AEH

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