What birds at Martin Mere ??

[demicav]

I'm planning on going to Martin Mere, hopefully in the not too distant future. Even though I live quite close I've never been before but feel compelled to go this year. I'm just wondering what species of birds I can expect to see ? Also are the Raptors quite easy to spot ?

[ChrisJB]

Hi Demi,

Martin Mere is a great reserve and there should be plenty to see. Raptor- wise you have a chance of seeing Marsh Harrier, Peregrine, Buzzard and possibly Barn Owl, with an outside chance of Merlin and Hen Harrier.

Of course, the place is famous for its wildfowl and you will see stacks of Pink Footed Geese, Whooper Swans and other ducks. There are usually plenty of Ruff, and Kingfishers are usually seen. The reserve is also good for Tree Sparrows. A couple of days ago, a Red Breasted Goose was present (but as this wasn't seen in Norfolk it will probably be deemed an escape (!) - but they are still an impressive species and if I see it I'll be counting it as wild!).

There is also the Beaver enclosure to look at, though they rarely show their faces during the day, but you never know.

Anyway, have a great time and let us know how you get on.

Regards, Chris

[jamiewade94]

Autumn Watch went there didn't they this year? They went to see the Red Deer I think

[demicav]

Originally Posted by ChrisJB

Hi Demi,

Martin Mere is a great reserve and there should be plenty to see. Raptor- wise you have a chance of seeing Marsh Harrier, Peregrine, Buzzard and possibly Barn Owl, with an outside chance of Merlin and Hen Harrier.

Of course, the place is famous for its wildfowl and you will see stacks of Pink Footed Geese, Whooper Swans and other ducks. There are usually plenty of Ruff, and Kingfishers are usually seen. The reserve is also good for Tree Sparrows. A couple of days ago, a Red Breasted Goose was present (but as this wasn't seen in Norfolk it will probably be deemed an escape (!) - but they are still an impressive species and if I see it I'll be counting it as wild!).

There is also the Beaver enclosure to look at, though they rarely show their faces during the day, but you never know.

Anyway, have a great time and let us know how you get on.

Regards, Chris

Thank you for your reply, sounds great, can't believe I've never been before. I will hopefully get some pics when I go although not decided exactly when, I hope it's soon.

[demicav]

Originally Posted by jamiewade94

Autumn Watch went there didn't they this year? They went to see the Red Deer I think

Hi Jamie. You're right, some of Autumn watch was filmed there but the Red deer were filmed up in Scotland I think.

[Elizabeth B]

There's lots of information about Martin Mere here - it's a wonderful place.

Martin Mere - Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust (WWT)

[ChrisJB]

A Hen Harrier was seen there today and a reported American Wigeon.

Regards, Chris

[jamiewade94]

oh yes it was filmed on the Isle of Rum. I remember now!

[Elizabeth B]

Originally Posted by ChrisJB

A Hen Harrier was seen there today and a reported American Wigeon.

Regards, Chris

According to the Wildlife sightings on the above site, seven raptors were seen today (and yesterday) - and an American wigeon today, among many other birds.

[demicav]

Originally Posted by Elizabeth B

There's lots of information about Martin Mere here - it's a wonderful place.

Martin Mere - Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust (WWT)

Thanks for that Elizabeth.