Hugh’s News – May 2018

So finally we had some warm and sunny weather over the bank holiday weekend! Even if it did not last for long, it put a smile on everyone’s face for a few days at least. This winter seems to have been never-ending, and the cold and wet weather has certainly had an effect on our local birds.  Migrants that come to the Wirral to breed over the summer have been really slow returning from their wintering grounds in southern Europe or Africa.

While I have seen House Martins and Swallows now, I have still to spot a Swift – although some have been reported locally.  All these species rely on insects for food, so bad weather severely limits their ability to find prey items.  All is not lost however, provided we have a settled period soon.  Many other species, primarily the resident birds, are well into the breeding season though.  Blackbirds and Robins have been active in my garden, and Goldfinches have been feasting on sunflower hearts in good numbers.  At Burton Mere Wetlands RSPB reserve, young Lapwings, Canada Geese and a single Tawny Owl have all been spotted.

Wirral was graced with a rarity recently, with an Iberian Chiffchaff present at Thurstaston for a few days.  As the name indicates, this species breeds in Spain and Portugal, but clearly over-shot its normal range.  It is very difficult to tell the difference visually from the more familiar Chiffchaff, but luckily it has a distinctive call.  You will have to come to the AGM to hear it!

Unfortunately the canal trip planned for Thursday this week had to be cancelled at the last minute because of a problem with the boat.  Obviously disappointing news but there is always next year!

I am looking forward to next week’s field meeting to Moelydd – a new location for me.  By then all the summer migrants will surely have returned and we will see some good birds!  Hope to see you there.

Hugh Stewart