This morning was spent working the ploughed fields beside the Mersey at Oglet, Lancashire, where a Shorelark had been present for several weeks in association with a small flock of Skylark. Although birders already on site reported that the Shorelark had shown intermittently before my arrival, the flock was extremely flighty initially. After a short while, however, the birds settled again, and the Shorelark was eventually picked up, moving methodically between the ridges, allowing good views.
With the Shorelark safely observed, I began the walk back towards the car, only to be treated to an unexpected bonus when two Short-eared Owls drifted in and began hunting low over the marsh on the incoming tide—always a thrilling sight.
Oglet shore
On the way home, I stopped at the WSR Recycling Plant near Widnes to collect Jenna, where perfect timing delivered another highlight. A first-winter Caspian Gull was sitting obligingly on the roof of the plant, spotted by my good friend Rob, and offering excellent views.
With Jenna collected, we headed on to Sandbach Flashes, where we quickly connected with the Green-winged Teal that had been present since before Christmas. Also of note on Rosemary’s Flood was a Green Sandpiper, feeding quietly along the margins.
Green-winged Teal
Our final stop of the day was Parkgate Marsh on the Wirral, timed to coincide with dusk in the hope of raptors. It proved a fitting finale. A Merlin shot past shortly after arrival, followed by a male Peregrine perched on a post out on the marsh. As the light began to fade, a male Hen Harrier put on a superb display, quartering the marsh before dropping out of sight—an unforgettable bird.
Parkgate Marsh
Almost as a closing act, a Barn Owl emerged from the nearby fields and began hunting in front of us, rounding off the day in style.
A superb day’s birding, with a fine selection of quality species and several excellent additions to the year list.
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