Thursday, 31 December 2020

Congratulations Jack

 Congratulations to Jack Swan one of Astbury regulars who as been awarded in the New Years Honours list. For the work he as done towards wildlife in the Cheshire area. Well done Jack from everybody that knows you and from those who don't.  





December 31st

 No sign today of the elusive Dusky Warbler but the Water Rail showed well briefly along the eastern side.  It is only the second record at the site but could be possibly overlooked as they skulk around the undergrowth over hanging the waters edge.  Also present a pair of Shoveler around nine Pochard two little Grebe and four Siskin. A record count of 185 Tufted Duck.






Wednesday, 30 December 2020

December 30th

 Dusky Warbler seen again today along the east bank at 12-30 along with Water Rail. The Dusky is proving very elusive and some days not seen at all. Also a pair Shoveler and nine Pochard  (7 drakes).


Saturday, 26 December 2020

Boxing Day

 The Dusky Warbler was still present this morning after not being seen over the last two days. It was feeding and calling continually along the waters edge on the eastern side of the mere . Also present 5 Pochard , Kingfisher , three Little Grebe , four Siskin and three Shelduck flew over. No sign of the Water Rail that as been very elusive over last few days.

Monday, 21 December 2020

Astbury Mere MEGA

 Late yesterday afternoon Sunday 20th , Mark Stubbs found a Dusky Warbler by the sailing club at Astbury Mere. This rare Phyllosocpus is a leaf Warbler from Asia and is strongly migratory and usually ends up on our east coast.  So to find one this far inland is exceptionally rare. This shows the dedication of Mark who has put many many hours in at Astbury and this time like many others has been duely rewarded. The bird as been seen by around eighty birders today some have travelled long distances to see this inland Warbler.  It is still present today ranging from the water sports centre to north eastern corner and back again. Will all visiting birders please respect the area and do not wander off track. Below is a set of images taken by Marks wife Tracey.

Photo by Tracey Stubbs. 


Photo by Tracey Stubbs. 


Photo by Tracey Stubbs. 


Photo by Tracey Stubbs.