Martin Mere and Seaforth

Despite the less than perfect conditions for insect watching, there was a fine collection of insects on the wing at Martin Mere today, mostly from the new reed bed walk. We saw three species of dragonfly, Emperor, Black-tailed Skimmers and Common Darters. Butterflies were even more numerous, with 10 species seen.

Pride of place went to Brimstone (left), with upto six individuals, all of which looked newly emerged. Also on the wing, quiet a few Walls (right). This is a species which really seems to have declined in recent years.

Always a spectacular sight, there were many Peacocks (left) and a few Common Blues (right).

Birds at Martin Mere included a juvenile Mediterranean Gull and a Green Sandpiper.

We had started the day at Seaforth LWT at Liverpool, where there was an excellent selection of birds for the time of year. These included two juvenile Med. Gulls, at least 8 Sandwich Terns (4 adult & 4 juveniles), Little Gull, 200+ Common Terns, Whimbrel and a fair selection of waders such as 1500 Dunlin, two Turnstones and 150 Black-tailed Godwits.