[Chewbaxter]

Had a great day today looking at these wonderful creatures - they've all recently landed at Martin Mere having flown in from Iceland.

"Whooper swans spend the breeding season in Iceland before flying over to winter in the UK, with Martin Mere welcoming approximately seven percent of the Icelandic population from November to March. Visitors can currently experience a swan spectacular at Martin Mere everyday at 3pm and 3.30pm when the swans have their daily feed."

I kicked myself for not having taken my camera... and then remembered I'd got one on my 'phone, so I did a vid - apologies in advance for the poor quality:

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The second feed - one of the Wardens had a microphone and explained more about the birds as he fed them - everyone else had the comfort of the bird hide to watch this from, away from the wind and the cold. The warden then came inside to further discuss the Swans plus various other birds that could be seen, before answering questions.

I have to say this was great - not only great to watch of course (and to listen - the 'trumpet call' noises these birds make is astounding) bit very informative!

:)

Neil.

P.S. Also whilst there - saw the following Bird species:


Blackbird
Peregrine Falcon
Ruff
Black-headed Gull
Cormorant
Lapwing
Greylag Goose
Pink-footed Goose
Canada Goose
Mallard
Pintail
Pochard
Shelduck
Coot
Moorhen

[Moraybirdlover]

Whoopers are really a majestic bird and I love the sound they make.

[christineredgate]

Thanks,Neil.I see groups of these guys flying across our reserve on their way to MM,have seen 3 groups this week(no cam at the time)

[Chewbaxter]

Originally Posted by christineredgate

Thanks,Neil.I see groups of these guys flying across our reserve on their way to MM,have seen 3 groups this week(no cam at the time)

Cheers Christine - if you do get any pics. let me know I'd love to see.



Neil.

P.S. I did take some photos, but done with the camera on my mobile - not great, but better than nought:

Click Here To View