Gayton Sands

[Goatboy]

Just returned from a great day out at Gayton Sands. Nearly didn't go because of the heavy rain this morning but by the time we got there it was T-shirt and shorts weather.

We saw around 20 litttle egrets and 2 peregines but missed the short eared owl which put in an early morning appearance.

However with only binoculars and no scope, the majority of stuff was far too distant to get a good look at.

Can anyone advise on the best time to visit the place? One chap I was talking to said it's better in early spring when the high tide comes much closer to the town but not sure how accurate that is.

Thanks in advance.

[Tom Charles]

Hi Goatboy,

I was there yesterday (Parkgate) for the anticipated high tide, but there were no strong north westerlies to encourage it to come in closer. I got good views of a female Hen Harrier, hunting low. Beautiful sight!

The high spring tides are a great time to visit the area; aim for the ones 10m plus. You can purchase a tide table booklet from one of the local shops along the prom at Parkgate, or from somewhere like WH Smiths.

Last Spring when I was there, we saw good numbers of Short Earred Owls hunting the various rodents caught up in the swirling tide (it flushes everything out of the marshes)

We even saw a Water Rail come in to the car park and remain hidden behind a ladys' bag; it was there for a good 20 minutes. We also watched various rodents and shrew climbing up the small wall at viewing area, all in an attempt to escape the rushing waters.

Start planning for the one next Spring and you wont be disappointed. Its a rather eerie experience seeing the water come right up, but a fantastic spectacle, specially for birders (not so much for the scrambling creatures)

Tom

[Goatboy]

Thats great advice Tom, thanks.

To be honest , even though we didn't see that much it was still really enjoyable to be out in the fresh air after a stressful week in the office. I'll pencil in a return trip in the Spring.