Formby in late Feb

photonova · #11 (**permalink**) 04-02-2008, 12:35 PM

Richard,

I visited Formby Point this weekend with a fellow photographer and can confirm that there is indeed significant Red Squirrel activity at this time of year. After a leisurely walk through the woods, seeing the occasional lone squirrels, we stood in one spot, at the edge of a managed section of woodland where we could see at least 7 Red Squirrels at one time. Possibly the same section as beckiscott was talking about in a previous post. This was in stark contrast to the previous June when we'd only seen one for the whole day. Squirrel coats were a deeper red and longer than in the summer months and ears are most definitely more tufty. Also seen, and easily photographed up-close were Blue Tits, Great Tits, Robins and Male & Female Pheasants which seemed quite happy with our company. There is much more wildlife in the area, and your mileage may vary either way.

We came prepared with our own supply of Hazlenuts and Pine Kernels which are never ignored by the Squirrels and help to provide a more varied diet than peanuts and bird food and will look more natural in your photos. We can also report that chopped Apple also works well and has the benefit of not lending itself to being buried and must therefore be eaten on the spot which is great for getting some better photos if you can live with possibility of having some apple in the shot. Bit sticky dishing it out though, so some tissues to wipe your hands are also essential.

We did know about the Red Fox that has been sighted in the area, but unfortunately it didn't cross our path on the day. Looking to go back at the coming weekend for another crack.

Sadly we did spot one Red Squirrel that was suffering from the effects of the Pox Virus. We noted the area we sighted it in and reported the sighting to the park ranger at the gatehouse who was most appreciative of the information. More information on the Virus can be found on the notice board at the entrance to the squirrel walk, across the road from the Toilet block. Every sighting should be reported as it will help them to build up a picture of where and when the individual animals are so that they can be trapped and dealt with accordingly to prevent the further spread of the disease throughout the rest of the squirrel population.

Parking inside the reserve is currently £3.50 per car and from my experience, on fine days it is advisable to arrive as early as possible to ensure a space close to the squirrel walk, even in winter as the reserve is very popular. We usually aim for around 10am and have been fine so far. While there is roadside parking along Victoria Road, the entry fee will save a walk to & from the car to swap gear for sandwiches etc. If you don't drive, the reserve can be reached within reasonable walking distance from the Merseyrail Freshfields station. The only catering available on site is likely to be an ice cream van, so a packed lunch is worthwhile or plan a stop on the way out in Formby where there are some attractive, although probably pricey, cafe's and restaurants.

More info can be found on the National Trust website.

Hope you find this helpful,

Rob.

Richard Costin · #12 (**permalink**) 04-02-2008, 12:50 PM

Many thanks for the info Rob, was getting a little worried (after talking to the NT) that the pox had severely dented the population.

I managed to spend about 15 mins with the fox their last time, he seemed to enjoy putting on a show for the spectators

Great to hear there are still plenty about. I defiantly agree about the sitting in one spot. They'll find you before too long!

Again, many thanks.

Rich.